Derivative Calculator
Calculates the derivative of an expression
specified using a simple expression syntax.
How to use
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Examples
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Other Notes
How to use
- Enter an expression
for evaluation and computation
into the text input field
(Example: cos x).
- Apply the derivative operator
"D[...]" -- there are two ways to do this:
- Click the "Apply" button to apply the
derivative operator "D[...]" to the entire
expression previously entered into the text input field; or
- Include the derivative operator "D[...]"
in the expression when entering it into the text input field
(Example:
D[cos x]).
- Click the "Compute" button.
The result of one derivative evaluation step will be entered back into
the text input field.
- If necessary, repeat the previous step to continue evaluating the
derivative.
(Example:
D[x cos(x2)],
takes three clicks).
- To erase the text input field, click
the "Clear" button.
The text input field can accept
a wide variety of expressions, including many transcendental functions,
such as exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions.
Examples
Other Notes
The label under the text input field indicates the
derivative rule used
for evaluation each time the "Compute" button
is clicked.
The button next to the "Variable" label displays a pop-up menu which can
be used to select a variable for partial
derivatives. The selected variable is displayed inside the button.
With a variable selected, the "Apply" button applies the derivative operator
with respect to the selected variable (e.g. with "y" selected, the operator
"Dy[...]" is applied). With no variable selected (the default setting),
the standard operator "D[...]" is applied -- this operator is equivalent
to "Dx[...]". The pop-up menu shows all available free variables.
The applet can also compute multiple derivatives --
for example,
D[D[cos x]]
(the second derivative of cos x), which requires
three steps to complete.