Chain rule
What Chain rule means in Mathematics A-Level, as defined for AQA, Pearson Edexcel, WJEC.
Definitions of Chain rule
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Chain rule in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: WJEC
Differentiates composites as dy/dx = (dy/du) × (du/dx), and gives the inverse-function derivative dy/dx = 1/(dx/dy), provided dx/dy ≠ 0.
The rule whose inverse process is integration by substitution.
Differentiates composite functions: dy/dx = dy/du × du/dx.
For y = f(g(x)), dy/dx = f'(g(x))g'(x): differentiate the outer function and multiply by the derivative of the inner function.
Topics that use Chain rule
- G: Differentiation (AQA A-Level)
- H: Integration (AQA A-Level)
- Differentiation (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
- Differentiation (A2 Unit 3: Pure Mathematics B) (WJEC A-Level)
Related terms
- Product rule
- Implicit differentiation
- Parametric differentiation
- Quotient rule
- connected rates of change
- Derivative
- differentiation from first principles
- Point of inflection
Using Chain rule in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Mathematics questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge