Mathematics A-Level
derivative sign analysis
What derivative sign analysis means in Mathematics A-Level, as defined for WJEC.
Definition of derivative sign analysis
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Reference: WJEC
To find intervals, differentiate f(x), solve f'(x) ≥ 0 or f'(x) ≤ 0, factorise where possible, and analyse the sign of f'(x) across critical boundary points.
Topics that use derivative sign analysis
- Differentiation (AS Unit 1: Pure Mathematics A) (WJEC A-Level)
Related terms
- algebraic preparation
- Derivative
- differentiation from first principles
- linear operator
- Normal
- second derivative
- sketching gradient functions
- Stationary point
Using derivative sign analysis in the exam
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