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Omniguides
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Reciprocal rule

This original textbook reading covers part of the AP topic. Follow the AP course outline for complete topic instruction and practice.

Reciprocal rule

For any function F(x)=1g(x)

F′(x)=-g′(x)g(x)2

Example: f(x)=e-x=1ex

f′(x)=-exe2x=-1ex=-e-x

Related Glossary Terms

Derivative, Quotient rule

Index

Chapter 4 - The Quotient Rule

Chapter 4 - The Quotient Rule

Glossary and deeper reading · 1 refreshers

These editorial refreshers supplement the reading. Definitions and examples are added guidance; original source wording and recorded answers remain in their original context.

  • Reciprocal derivative rule

    The reciprocal derivative rule differentiates 1/f(x) wherever f is differentiable and nonzero. It gives −f′(x)/[f(x)]². For example, the derivative of 1/(x²+1) is −2x/(x²+1)². This is a special case of the quotient rule and can also be derived with the chain rule.

    Read more: 2.9 · Reciprocal derivative rule →

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