Calculus

How to solve

The second derivative differentiates the first derivative again — measuring how the slope itself changes.

Steps

  1. Find f' with the power rule.
  2. Differentiate f' again.
  3. Keep track of falling exponents.

Example

f(x) = x³ + 4x². Find f''(x).

  1. f' = 3x² + 8x.
  2. f'' = 6x + 8.

Answer: 6x+8

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