Modelling with Differentiation (Optimisation) (Edexcel International A Level Maths): Revision Note
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Modelling with Differentiation inc. Optimisation
How can I use differentiation to solve modelling questions?
Derivatives can be calculated for any variables – not just y and x
In every case the derivative is a formula giving the rate of change of one variable with respect to the other variable

Differentiation can be used to find maximum and minimum points of a function (see Stationary Points)
Therefore it can be used to solve maximisation and minimisation problems in modelling questions

Examiner Tips and Tricks
Exam questions on this topic will often be divided into two parts:
First a 'Show that...' part where you derive a given formula from the information in the question
And then a 'Find...' part where you use differentiation to answer a question about the formula
Even if you can't answer the first part you can still use the formula to answer the second part.
Worked Example


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