Revision NotesExam QuestionsPast Papers
IGCSEAdditional MathsCIERevision NotesCalculusDifferentiationConnected Rates of Change

Connected Rates of Change (CIE IGCSE Additional Maths)

Revision Note

Amber

Author

Amber

Last updated

Did this video help you?

Connected Rates of Change

What are connected rates of change?

  • In situations involving more than two variables you can use the chain rule to connect multiple rates of change into a single equation
  • Look out for the word "rate"
    • This implies a derivative is involved
    • e.g. The height is increasing at a rate of 4 cm per second means fraction numerator d h over denominator d t end fraction equals 4
  • If the variable is decreasing then the rate will be negative
    • e.g. The height is decreasing at a rate of 4 cm per second means fraction numerator d h over denominator d t end fraction equals negative 4

 Example of a connected rates of change problem

Examiner Tip

  • These problems can involve a lot of letters
    • be sure to keep track of what they all refer to
  • Be especially sure that you are clear about which letters are variables and which are constants
    • these behave very differently when differentiation is involved!

Worked example

Conn Rates of Ch Example, A Level & AS Level Pure Maths Revision Notes

You've read 0 of your 5 free revision notes this week

Sign up now. It’s free!

Join the 100,000+ Students that ❤️ Save My Exams

the (exam) results speak for themselves:

    Test yourself

    Did this page help you?

    Previous:Modelling with DifferentiationNext:Introduction to Integration
    Amber

    Author: Amber

    Expertise: Maths

    Amber gained a first class degree in Mathematics & Meteorology from the University of Reading before training to become a teacher. She is passionate about teaching, having spent 8 years teaching GCSE and A Level Mathematics both in the UK and internationally. Amber loves creating bright and informative resources to help students reach their potential.