6. The Chain Rule

Use the chain rule to differentiate composite functions, including nested powers, radicals, and trigonometric expressions. Combine the chain rule with product and quotient rules in more complicated derivatives.

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Lecture Video

The Chain Rule

Supporting Videos

Proof

Proof of the Chain Rule

Optional: see why this derivative rule works rather than only memorizing the formula.

Additional Example

Extra Examples of Derivatives using the Chain Rule

Additional Example

Extra Examples of using the Chain Rule within the Chain Rule

Power, Product, Quotient, Chain Rule with Trig Functions

Assignment Answer Key

More Chain Rule

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Even More Chain Rule

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Derivatives from Tables

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Finding Derivatives at a Point with Power, Product, Quotient, Trig, and Chain Rules

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Nested Chain Rule Derivatives

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The Chain Rule Practice Chain Rule Derivative at a Point Practice Nested Chain Rule Practice