Derivative Rules
Definition
Derivative rules are a set of formulas and guidelines used to find the derivative of a function. They provide shortcuts for calculating derivatives without having to use the limit definition.
Analogy
Think of derivative rules as a toolbox filled with different tools. Each tool represents a specific rule that you can use to quickly find the derivative of a function, just like how you would choose the right tool from your toolbox for different tasks around the house.
Related terms
Power Rule: The power rule is a derivative rule used to find the derivative of functions in the form f(x) = x^n, where n is any real number. It states that if you have a term with an exponent, you can bring down that exponent as a coefficient and decrease it by 1.
Chain Rule: The chain rule is another important derivative rule used when dealing with composite functions. It allows us to find the derivative of two or more functions combined together by taking into account how changes in one function affect changes in another.
Product Rule: The product rule is a derivative rule used when finding the derivative of two functions multiplied together. It provides a formula for finding this derivative without having to expand and simplify the expression first.
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