How to use the derivative calculator
Type a polynomial expression using standard notation: coefficients followed by x^power. Use + and - to combine terms. Examples: x^3 - 4x^2 + 7, 0.5x^4 + 3x - 1. The calculator applies the power rule to each term.
The power rule
The derivative of ax^n is n*a*x^(n-1). The derivative of a constant is 0. The derivative of ax is a. These rules apply term-by-term to polynomial sums.
FAQ
What expressions are supported?
Polynomial expressions with non-negative integer or decimal exponents: terms like 3x^2, x^5, 4x, -2x^0.5, or constants. Expressions with negative exponents, parentheses, trigonometric, or logarithmic functions are not supported.
Why does the tool show an error?
The parser expects standard polynomial notation. Check that you use ^ for exponents, don't include multiplication signs (*), and avoid unsupported functions or negative exponents like x^-2.