Parametric differentiation
What Parametric differentiation means in Mathematics A-Level, as defined for AQA, Pearson Edexcel, WJEC.
Definitions of Parametric differentiation
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 Parametric differentiation in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: Pearson Edexcel
For parametric curves, x and y are given in terms of a parameter t, and the first derivative is dy/dx = (dy/dt)/(dx/dt), provided dx/dt ≠ 0.
For parametric equations x = x(t), y = y(t), forming the first derivative as dy/dx = (dy/dt)/(dx/dt), provided dx/dt ≠ 0.
For parametric curves x = f(t) and y = g(t), the first derivative is evaluated using the parametric chain rule.
Topics that use Parametric differentiation
- G: Differentiation (AQA A-Level)
- Differentiation (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
- Differentiation (A2 Unit 3: Pure Mathematics B) (WJEC A-Level)
Related terms
- Chain rule
- Implicit differentiation
- Product rule
- Quotient rule
- connected rates of change
- Derivative
- differentiation from first principles
- Point of inflection
Using Parametric differentiation 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