Unit 5: Rules of Differentiation

Lesson 5.4
Differentiation Rules for Trigonometric Functions
Contents
Introduction 1

Learning Objectives 2

Warm Up 2

Learn about It! 3

Derivatives of Trigonometric Functions 3
Derivative of a Sine Function 5
Derivative of a Cosine Function 6
Derivative of a Tangent Function 7
Derivative of a Cotangent Function 8
Derivative of a Secant Function 10
Derivative of a Cosecant Function 11

Key Points 20

Key Formulas 21

Check Your Understanding 22

Challenge Yourself 23

Bibliography 23

Key to Try It! 24

Unit 5: Rules of Differentiation
Lesson 5.4

Differentiation Rules for

Trigonometric Functions

Introduction
Waves are significant in human lives. We can see because of visible light, which is an example
of a wave. Our mobile phones, televisions, and radios would not work without microwaves
and radio waves. Some medical professionals need the help of x-rays to be able to see the
condition of our bodies inside. These waves can be mathematically represented on a
coordinate plane using trigonometric functions like the sine function.

5.4. Differentiation Rules for Trigonometric Functions 1

Unit 5: Rules of Differentiation
In this lesson, we will learn how to derive the differentiation rules for trigonometric functions
and how these rules are applied to differentiate functions involving trigonometric functions.

Learning Objectives
DepEd Competencies
In this lesson, you should be able to do the
Apply the differentiation rules in
following:
computing the derivative of
● Derive the differentiation rules for
trigonometric functions
trigonometric functions. (STEM_BC11D-IIIf-3).
● Apply the differentiation rules in
computing the derivative of trigonometric
functions.

Warm Up
Identity Identified 10 minutes
In this activity, the students will be able to review the trigonometric identities, which will be
essential in this lesson.

Material
● device with an internet connection

5.4. Differentiation Rules for Trigonometric Functions 2

Unit 5: Rules of Differentiation
Procedure
1. Access the following website.

Basic Trigonometric Identities

Andersson, David, “Basic Trigonometric identities,”
PurposeGames,
https://www.purposegames.com/game/937ea535, last
accessed on March 31, 2020.

2. Play the game with your partner.

3. Answer the guide questions that follow.

Guide Questions
1. What trigonometric identities have you encountered by playing the game?
2. Why are these expressions called identities?
3. What is the use of trigonometric identities?
4. Do you think trigonometric identities are useful in getting the derivative of a
trigonometric function? Why do you say so?

Learn about It!

Derivatives of Trigonometric Functions

The differentiation rules for some of the trigonometric functions can also be derived using
the limit definition of derivative, which is given by

𝑓(𝑥 + ℎ) − 𝑓(𝑥)
𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = lim .
ℎ→0 ℎ

The special limits discussed in Unit 2 will come in handy when some of the differentiation
rules of the six trigonometric functions are derived. The following equations are some of the
special limits.

5.4. Differentiation Rules for Trigonometric Functions 3

Unit 5: Rules of Differentiation
sin 𝑥
lim =1
𝑥→0 𝑥

1 − cos 𝑥
lim =0
𝑥→0 𝑥

How will you solve for the derivative of

trigonometric functions?

In the Warm Up activity, we were able to review the basic trigonometric identities. In some of

the derivation process, we will use these identities to help us derive the differentiation rules.

Remember
We can use trigonometric identities to derive the derivative rules for
some of the trigonometric functions. We can also use these identities
to simplify the derivatives of trigonometric functions.

Reciprocal Identities
1 1
sin 𝑥 = cot 𝑥 =
csc 𝑥 tan 𝑥
1 1
cos 𝑥 = sec 𝑥 =
sec 𝑥 cos 𝑥
1 1
tan 𝑥 = csc 𝑥 =
cot 𝑥 sin 𝑥

Quotient Identities
sin 𝑥 cos 𝑥
tan 𝑥 = cot 𝑥 =
cos 𝑥 sin 𝑥

Pythagorean Identities
sin2 𝑥 + cos2 𝑥 = 1 1 + tan2 𝑥 = sec 2 𝑥 1 + cot 2 𝑥 = csc 2 𝑥

5.4. Differentiation Rules for Trigonometric Functions 4

Unit 5: Rules of Differentiation
Other forms: Other form: Other form:
sin2 𝑥 = 1 − cos2 𝑥 tan2 𝑥 = sec 2 𝑥 − 1 cot 2 𝑥 = csc 2 𝑥 − 1
cos 2 𝑥 = 1 − sin2 𝑥

Sum or Difference Identities

sin(𝑥 ± 𝑦) = sin 𝑥 cos 𝑦 ± cos 𝑥 sin 𝑦

cos(𝑥 ± 𝑦) = cos 𝑥 cos 𝑦 ∓ sin 𝑥 sin 𝑦

tan 𝑥 ± tan 𝑦
tan(𝑥 ± 𝑦) =
1 ∓ tan 𝑥 tan 𝑦

Derivative of a Sine Function

The derivative of the sine function 𝑓(𝑥) = sin 𝑥 is given by

𝒅
(𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝒙) = 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝒙.
𝒅𝒙

Proof:
𝑑 sin(𝑥 + ℎ) − sin 𝑥
(sin 𝑥) = lim Limit Definition of Derivative
𝑑𝑥 ℎ→0 ℎ
sin 𝑥 cos ℎ + cos 𝑥 sin ℎ − sin 𝑥
= lim Sum or Difference Identities
ℎ→0 ℎ
sin 𝑥 cos ℎ − sin 𝑥 + cos 𝑥 sin ℎ
= lim Commutative Property
ℎ→0 ℎ
sin 𝑥 cos ℎ − sin 𝑥 cos 𝑥 sin ℎ Sum or Difference Rule for Limits
= lim + lim
ℎ→0 ℎ ℎ→0 ℎ
− sin 𝑥 (− cos ℎ + 1) cos 𝑥 sin ℎ Distributive Property
= lim + lim
ℎ→0 ℎ ℎ→0 ℎ
1 − cos ℎ sin ℎ Product Rule for Limits
= lim (− sin 𝑥) ∙ lim + lim cos 𝑥 ∙ lim
ℎ→0 ℎ→0 ℎ ℎ→0 ℎ→0 ℎ
Limit of a Constant, Special Limits
= − sin 𝑥 ∙ 0 + cos 𝑥 ∙ 1
= cos 𝑥 Multiplication and Addition

5.4. Differentiation Rules for Trigonometric Functions 5

Unit 5: Rules of Differentiation
𝑑
Therefore, (sin 𝑥) = cos 𝑥.
𝑑𝑥

Example:
Find the derivative of 𝑓(𝑥) = 4 sin 𝑥.

To find the derivative of 𝑓, we simply apply the Constant Multiple Rule.

𝑓 (𝑥) = 4 sin 𝑥
𝒅
𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 4 ∙ (𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝒙)
𝒅𝒙
= 4 ∙ (𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝒙)
= 4 cos 𝑥

Therefore, the derivative of 𝑓(𝑥) = 4 sin 𝑥 is 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 4 cos 𝑥.

Derivative of a Cosine Function

The derivative of the cosine function 𝑓(𝑥) = cos 𝑥 is given by

𝒅
(𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝒙) = − 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝒙.
𝒅𝒙

Proof:
𝑑 cos(𝑥 + ℎ) − cos 𝑥
(cos 𝑥) = lim Limit Definition of Derivative
𝑑𝑥 ℎ→0 ℎ
cos 𝑥 cos ℎ − sin 𝑥 sin ℎ − cos 𝑥 Sum or Difference Identities
= lim
ℎ→0 ℎ
cos 𝑥 cos ℎ − cos 𝑥 − sin 𝑥 sin ℎ Commutative Property
= lim
ℎ→0 ℎ
cos 𝑥 cos ℎ − cos 𝑥 sin 𝑥 sin ℎ Sum or Difference Rule for Limits
= lim − lim
ℎ→0 ℎ ℎ→0 ℎ
Distributive Property
− cos 𝑥 (− cos ℎ + 1) sin 𝑥 sin ℎ
= lim − lim
ℎ→0 ℎ ℎ→0 ℎ
Product Rule for Limits

5.4. Differentiation Rules for Trigonometric Functions 6

Unit 5: Rules of Differentiation
1 − cos ℎ sin ℎ Special Limits
= lim (− cos 𝑥) ∙ lim − lim sin 𝑥 ∙ lim
ℎ→0 ℎ→0 ℎ ℎ→0 ℎ→0 ℎ

= − cos 𝑥 ∙ 0 − sin 𝑥 ∙ 1 Multiplication and Division

= − sin 𝑥

𝑑
Therefore, 𝑑𝑥 (cos 𝑥) = − sin 𝑥.

Example:
Find the derivative of the function 𝑓 (𝑥) = 10 cos 𝑥.

To find the derivative of 𝑓, we simply apply the Constant Multiple Rule.

𝑓(𝑥) = 10 cos 𝑥
𝒅
𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 10 ∙ (𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝒙)
𝒅𝒙
= 10 ∙ (− 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝒙)
= −10 sin 𝑥

Therefore, the derivative of the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 10 cos 𝑥 is 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = −10 sin 𝑥.

Derivative of a Tangent Function

The derivative of the tangent function 𝑓(𝑥) = tan 𝑥 is given by

𝒅
(𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝒙) = 𝐬𝐞𝐜 𝟐 𝒙.
𝒅𝒙

Proof:
To prove that the derivative of the tangent function is sec 2 𝑥, we have to rewrite the tangent
sin 𝑥
function using the identity tan 𝑥 = cos 𝑥, and use the Quotient Rule to determine its

derivative.

5.4. Differentiation Rules for Trigonometric Functions 7

Unit 5: Rules of Differentiation
𝑑 𝑑 sin 𝑥
(tan 𝑥) = ( ) Quotient Identity
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 cos 𝑥
𝑑 𝑑
cos 𝑥 ∙
𝑑𝑥
(sin 𝑥) − sin 𝑥 ∙
𝑑𝑥
(cos 𝑥) Quotient Rule for Derivative
=
(cos 𝑥)2
cos 𝑥 ∙ cos 𝑥 − sin 𝑥 ∙ (− sin 𝑥) Derivative of Sine and Cosine Function
=
cos2 𝑥
cos2 𝑥 + sin2 𝑥 Multiplication
=
cos2 𝑥
1
=
cos2 𝑥 Pythagorean Identity
= sec 2 𝑥
Reciprocal Identity

𝑑
Therefore, 𝑑𝑥 (tan 𝑥) = sec 2 𝑥.

Example:
Find the derivative of the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 3 tan 𝑥 + 4.

To find the derivative of 𝑓, we apply the Sum or Difference Rule.

𝑓(𝑥) = 3 tan 𝑥 + 4
𝒅 𝒅
𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 3 ∙ (𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝒙) + (𝟒)
𝒅𝒙 𝒅𝒙
= 3 ∙ (𝐬𝐞𝐜 𝟐 𝒙) + 𝟎
= 3 sec 2 𝑥

Therefore, the derivative of the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 3 tan 𝑥 + 4 is 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 3 sec 2 𝑥.

Derivative of a Cotangent Function

The derivative of the cotangent function 𝑓(𝑥) = cot 𝑥 is given by

𝒅
(𝐜𝐨𝐭 𝒙) = − 𝐜𝐬𝐜 𝟐 𝒙.
𝒅𝒙

5.4. Differentiation Rules for Trigonometric Functions 8

Unit 5: Rules of Differentiation
Proof:
To prove that the derivative of the cotangent function is − csc 2 𝑥, we use a similar proof to
the derivative of the tangent function. We have to write the cotangent function using the
cos 𝑥
identity cot 𝑥 = , and find its derivative using the Quotient Rule.
sin 𝑥

𝑑 𝑑 cos 𝑥
(cot 𝑥) = ( ) Quotient Identity
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 sin 𝑥
𝑑 𝑑
sin 𝑥 ∙
𝑑𝑥
(cos 𝑥) − cos 𝑥 ∙
𝑑𝑥
(sin 𝑥) Quotient Rule for Derivative
=
(sin 𝑥)2
sin 𝑥 ∙ (− sin 𝑥) − cos 𝑥 ∙ (cos 𝑥) Derivative of Cosine and Sine Function
=
sin2 𝑥
− sin2 𝑥 − cos2 𝑥
= Multiplication
sin2 𝑥
−(sin2 𝑥 + cos2 𝑥)
= Distributive Property
sin2 𝑥
−1
= Pythagorean Identity
sin2 𝑥
= − csc 2 𝑥 Reciprocal Identity

𝑑
Therefore, 𝑑𝑥 (cot 𝑥) = − csc 2 𝑥.

Example:
Find the derivative of the function 𝑓(𝑥) = −6 cot 𝑥 − 12.

To find the derivative of 𝑓, we apply the Sum or Difference Rule.

𝑓(𝑥) = −6 cot 𝑥 − 12
𝒅 𝒅
𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = −6 ∙ (𝐜𝐨𝐭 𝒙) − (𝟏𝟐)
𝒅𝒙 𝒅𝒙
= −6 ∙ (− 𝐜𝐬𝐜 𝟐 𝒙) − 𝟎
= 6 csc 2 𝑥

Therefore, the derivative of the function 𝑓(𝑥) = −6 cot 𝑥 − 12 is 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 6 csc 2 𝑥.

5.4. Differentiation Rules for Trigonometric Functions 9

Unit 5: Rules of Differentiation
Derivative of a Secant Function
The derivative of the secant function 𝑓(𝑥) = sec 𝑥 is given by

𝒅
(𝐬𝐞𝐜 𝒙) = 𝐬𝐞𝐜 𝒙 𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝒙.
𝒅𝒙

Proof:
To prove the derivative of the secant function, we have to rewrite the function using the
1
identity sec 𝑥 = , and use the Quotient Rule to determine its derivative.
cos 𝑥

𝑑 𝑑 1
(sec 𝑥) = ( ) Reciprocal Identity
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 cos 𝑥
𝑑 𝑑
cos 𝑥 ∙ (1) − 1 ∙ (cos 𝑥) Quotient Rule for Derivative
= 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥
(cos 𝑥)2
cos 𝑥 ∙ 0 − 1 ∙ (− sin 𝑥) Derivative of a Constant and Cosine Function
=
cos2 𝑥
sin 𝑥 Multiplication
=
cos2 𝑥
1 sin 𝑥
= ∙ Factoring
cos 𝑥 cos 𝑥
= sec 𝑥 tan 𝑥 Reciprocal and Quotient Identities

𝑑
Therefore, 𝑑𝑥 (sec 𝑥) = sec 𝑥 tan 𝑥.

5.4. Differentiation Rules for Trigonometric Functions 10

Unit 5: Rules of Differentiation
Example:
Find the derivative of the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 2 sec 𝑥.

To find the derivative of 𝑓, we apply the Constant Multiple Rule.

𝑓(𝑥) = 2 sec 𝑥
𝒅
𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 2 ∙ (𝐬𝐞𝐜 𝒙)
𝒅𝒙
= 2 ∙ (𝐬𝐞𝐜 𝒙 𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝒙)
= 2 sec 𝑥 tan 𝑥

Therefore, the derivative of the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 2 sec 𝑥 is 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 2 sec 𝑥 tan 𝑥.

Derivative of a Cosecant Function

The derivative of the cosecant function 𝑓(𝑥) = csc 𝑥 is given by

𝒅
(𝐜𝐬𝐜 𝒙) = − 𝐜𝐬𝐜 𝒙 𝐜𝐨𝐭 𝒙.
𝒅𝒙

Proof:
To prove the derivative of the cosecant function, we have to rewrite the function using the
1
identity csc 𝑥 = sin 𝑥, and use the Quotient Rule to determine its derivative.

𝑑 𝑑 1
(csc 𝑥) = ( ) Reciprocal Identity
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 sin 𝑥
𝑑 𝑑
sin 𝑥 ∙ (1) − 1 ∙ (sin 𝑥) Quotient Rule for Derivative
= 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥
(sin 𝑥)2
sin 𝑥 ∙ 0 − 1 ∙ (cos 𝑥) Derivative of a Constant and Sine Function
=
sin2 𝑥
−cos 𝑥
= Multiplication
sin2 𝑥
Factoring

5.4. Differentiation Rules for Trigonometric Functions 11

Unit 5: Rules of Differentiation
1 cos 𝑥
=− ∙
sin 𝑥 sin 𝑥 Reciprocal and Quotient Identities
= − csc 𝑥 cot 𝑥

𝑑
Therefore, 𝑑𝑥 (csc 𝑥) = − csc 𝑥 cot 𝑥.

Example:
Find the derivative of the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 3 csc 𝑥.

To find the derivative of 𝑓, we apply the Constant Multiple Rule.

𝑓(𝑥) = 3 csc 𝑥
𝒅
𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 3 ∙ (𝐜𝐬𝐜 𝒙)
𝒅𝒙
= 3 ∙ (− 𝐜𝐬𝐜 𝒙 𝐜𝐨𝐭 𝒙)
= −3 csc 𝑥 cot 𝑥

Therefore, the derivative of 𝑓(𝑥) = 3 csc 𝑥 is 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = −3 csc 𝑥 cot 𝑥.

How will you find the derivative of the function

𝒇(𝒙) = 𝟏𝟓 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝒙 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝒙 + 𝟒 𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝒙?

Let’s Practice!
Example 1
What is the derivative of the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 12 sin 𝑥 − 26 cos 𝑥?

Solution
To find the derivative of 𝑓, we apply the Sum or Difference Rule.

5.4. Differentiation Rules for Trigonometric Functions 12

Unit 5: Rules of Differentiation
𝑓(𝑥) = 12 sin 𝑥 − 26 cos 𝑥
𝑑 𝑑
𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = (12 sin 𝑥) − (26 cos 𝑥)
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝒅 𝒅
= 12 ∙ (𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝒙) − 26 ∙ (𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝒙)
𝒅𝒙 𝒅𝒙
= 12(𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝒙) − 26(− 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝒙)
= 12 cos 𝑥 + 26 sin 𝑥

Therefore, the derivative of the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 12 sin 𝑥 − 26 cos 𝑥 is

𝒇′ (𝒙) = 𝟏𝟐 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝒙 + 𝟐𝟔 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝒙.

1 Try It!
What is the derivative of the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 5 cos 𝑥 + 3 sin 𝑥?

Example 2
Find the derivative of the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 4𝑥 2 tan 𝑥.

Solution
To find the derivative of 𝑓, we apply the Product Rule since the given function is a product of
two expressions: 4𝑥 2 and tan 𝑥.

𝑓(𝑥) = 4𝑥 2 tan 𝑥
𝒅 𝒅
𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 4𝑥 2 ∙ (𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝒙) + tan 𝑥 ∙ (𝟒𝒙𝟐 )
𝒅𝒙 𝒅𝒙
= 4𝑥 2 (𝐬𝐞𝐜 𝟐 𝒙) + (tan 𝑥)(𝟖𝒙)
= 4𝑥 2 sec 2 𝑥 + 8𝑥 tan 𝑥

Therefore, the derivative of the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 4𝑥 2 tan 𝑥 is 𝒇′ (𝒙) = 𝟒𝒙𝟐 𝐬𝐞𝐜 𝟐 𝒙 + 𝟖𝒙 𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝒙.

5.4. Differentiation Rules for Trigonometric Functions 13

Unit 5: Rules of Differentiation

2 Try It!
Find the derivative of the function 𝑓(𝑥) = −2𝑥 2 cot 𝑥.

Example 3
Find the derivative of the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 2 sin 𝑥 cos 𝑥.

Solution
To find the derivative of the function 𝑓, we apply the Product Rule.

𝑓(𝑥) = 2 sin 𝑥 cos 𝑥

𝑑
𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 2 ∙ (sin 𝑥 cos 𝑥)
𝑑𝑥
𝒅 𝒅
= 2 [sin 𝑥 ∙ (𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝒙) + cos 𝑥 ∙ (𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝒙)]
𝒅𝒙 𝒅𝒙
= 2[sin 𝑥 (− 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝒙) + cos 𝑥 (𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝒙)]
= 2(− sin2 𝑥 + cos2 𝑥)
= −2 sin2 𝑥 + 2 cos2 𝑥

Therefore, the derivative of the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 2 sin 𝑥 cos 𝑥 is 𝒇′ (𝒙) = −𝟐 𝐬𝐢𝐧𝟐 𝒙 + 𝟐 𝐜𝐨𝐬𝟐 𝒙.

3 Try It!
Find the derivative of the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 3 tan 𝑥 sin 𝑥.

5.4. Differentiation Rules for Trigonometric Functions 14

Unit 5: Rules of Differentiation
Example 4
Determine 𝑔′ (𝑥) if 𝑔(𝑥) = 3 sec 𝑥 tan 𝑥. Express your answer using one trigonometric function.

Solution
Step 1: Apply the Product Rule to determine the derivative of 𝑔(𝑥).

𝑔(𝑥) = 3 sec 𝑥 tan 𝑥

𝑑
𝑔′ (𝑥) = 3 ∙ (sec 𝑥 tan 𝑥)
𝑑𝑥
𝒅 𝒅
= 3 [sec 𝑥 ∙ (𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝒙) + tan 𝑥 ∙ (𝐬𝐞𝐜 𝒙)]
𝒅𝒙 𝒅𝒙
= 3[sec 𝑥 (𝐬𝐞𝐜 𝟐 𝒙) + tan 𝑥 (𝐬𝐞𝐜 𝒙 𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝒙)]
= 3(sec 3 𝑥 + sec 𝑥 tan2 𝑥)

Step 2: Simplify 𝑔’(𝑥) using the appropriate trigonometric identity.

In this case, let us rewrite tan2 𝑥 in terms of sec 𝑥 so that we can express 𝑔′(𝑥)
using one trigonometric function. Let us use the identity tan2 𝑥 = sec 2 𝑥 − 1.

𝑔′ (𝑥) = 3(sec 3 𝑥 + sec 𝑥 𝐭𝐚𝐧𝟐 𝒙)

= 3[sec 3 𝑥 + sec 𝑥 (𝐬𝐞𝐜 𝟐 𝒙 − 𝟏)]
= 3(sec 3 𝑥 + sec 3 𝑥 − sec 𝑥)
= 3(2 sec 3 𝑥 − sec 𝑥)
= 6 sec 3 𝑥 − 3 sec 𝑥

Therefore, 𝒈′ (𝒙) = 𝟔 𝐬𝐞𝐜 𝟑 𝒙 − 𝟑 𝐬𝐞𝐜 𝒙.

4 Try It!
Determine 𝑔′ (𝑥) if 𝑔(𝑥) = −6 csc 𝑥 cot 𝑥. Express your answer using one trigonometric
function.

5.4. Differentiation Rules for Trigonometric Functions 15

Unit 5: Rules of Differentiation
Example 5
2 sin 𝑥
What is 𝑦′ given that 𝑦 = cos 𝑥+1?

Solution
Step 1: Apply the Quotient Rule to find 𝑦′.

2 sin 𝑥
𝑦=
cos 𝑥 + 1
𝒅 𝒅
(cos 𝑥 + 1) ∙ (𝟐 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝒙) − 2 sin 𝑥 ∙ (𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝒙 + 𝟏)
𝑦′ = 𝒅𝒙 𝒅𝒙
(cos 𝑥 + 1)2
(cos 𝑥 + 1)(𝟐 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝒙) − 2 sin 𝑥 (− 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝒙)
=
(cos 𝑥 + 1)2
2 cos2 𝑥 + 2 cos 𝑥 + 2 sin2 𝑥
=
(cos 𝑥 + 1)2

Step 2: Simplify 𝑦′ using the appropriate trigonometric identity.

Observe that by simplifying the numerator, we can come up with the expression
cos2 𝑥 + sin2 𝑥. We can simplify this expression using the identify
sin2 𝑥 + cos2 𝑥 = 1.

2 cos2 𝑥 + 2 cos 𝑥 + 2 sin2 𝑥

𝑦′ =
(cos 𝑥 + 1)2
2 cos2 𝑥 + 2 sin2 𝑥 + 2 cos 𝑥
=
(cos 𝑥 + 1)2
2(𝐜𝐨𝐬𝟐 𝒙 + 𝐬𝐢𝐧𝟐 𝒙) + 2 cos 𝑥
=
(cos 𝑥 + 1)2
2(𝟏) + 2 cos 𝑥
=
(cos 𝑥 + 1)2
2 + 2 cos 𝑥
=
(cos 𝑥 + 1)2
2(1 + cos 𝑥)
=
(cos 𝑥 + 1)(cos 𝑥 + 1)
2
=
cos 𝑥 + 1

5.4. Differentiation Rules for Trigonometric Functions 16

Unit 5: Rules of Differentiation
𝟐
Therefore, 𝒚′ = .
𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝒙+𝟏

5 Try It!
2 cos 𝑥
What is 𝑦′ given that 𝑦 = ?
sin 𝑥+1

Example 6
cos 𝑥−2𝑥
What is the derivative of the function 𝑦 = ?
cos 𝑥+2𝑥

Solution
Apply the Quotient Rule to find the derivative of 𝑦′.

cos 𝑥 − 2𝑥
𝑦=
cos 𝑥 + 2𝑥
𝒅 𝒅
(cos 𝑥 + 2𝑥) ∙ (𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝒙 − 𝟐𝒙) − (cos 𝑥 − 2𝑥) ∙ (𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝒙 + 𝟐𝒙)
𝑦′ = 𝒅𝒙 𝒅𝒙
(cos 𝑥 + 2𝑥)2
(cos 𝑥 + 2𝑥)(− 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝒙 − 𝟐) − (cos 𝑥 − 2𝑥)(− 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝒙 + 𝟐)
=
(cos 𝑥 + 2𝑥)2
(− cos 𝑥 sin 𝑥 − 2𝑥 sin 𝑥 − 2 cos 𝑥 − 4𝑥) − (− cos 𝑥 sin 𝑥 + 2𝑥 sin 𝑥 + 2 cos 𝑥 − 4𝑥)
=
(cos 𝑥 + 2𝑥)2
− cos 𝑥 sin 𝑥 − 2𝑥 sin 𝑥 − 2 cos 𝑥 − 4𝑥 + cos 𝑥 sin 𝑥 − 2𝑥 sin 𝑥 − 2 cos 𝑥 + 4𝑥
=
(cos 𝑥 + 2𝑥)2
−4𝑥 sin 𝑥 − 4 cos 𝑥
=
(cos 𝑥 + 2𝑥)2

−𝟒𝒙 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝒙−𝟒 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝒙

Therefore, 𝒚′ = (𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝒙+𝟐𝒙)𝟐
.

6 Try It!
sec 𝑥+3𝑥
What is the derivative of the function 𝑦 = sec 𝑥−3𝑥?

5.4. Differentiation Rules for Trigonometric Functions 17

Unit 5: Rules of Differentiation
Example 7
𝜋 cos 𝑥−1
What is the value of 𝑓 ′ ( 3 ) if 𝑓(𝑥) = ?
sin 𝑥

Solution
Step 1: Solve for 𝑓 ′ (𝑥).

cos 𝑥 − 1
𝑓(𝑥) =
sin 𝑥
𝒅 𝒅
sin 𝑥 ∙ (𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝒙 − 𝟏) − (cos 𝑥 − 1) ∙ (𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝒙)
′
𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝒅𝒙 𝒅𝒙
(sin 𝑥)2
sin 𝑥 (− 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝒙) − (cos 𝑥 − 1)(𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝒙)
=
sin2 𝑥
− sin2 𝑥 − (cos2 𝑥 − cos 𝑥)
=
sin2 𝑥
− sin2 𝑥 − cos2 𝑥 + cos 𝑥
=
sin2 𝑥
−(𝐬𝐢𝐧𝟐 𝒙 + 𝐜𝐨𝐬𝟐 𝒙) + cos 𝑥
=
sin2 𝑥
−(𝟏) + cos 𝑥
=
sin2 𝑥
−1 + cos 𝑥
=
1 − cos2 𝑥
−(1 − cos 𝑥)
=
(1 − cos 𝑥)(1 + cos 𝑥)
1
= −
1 + cos 𝑥

5.4. Differentiation Rules for Trigonometric Functions 18

Unit 5: Rules of Differentiation
𝜋
Step 2: Evaluate 𝑓 ′ ( ).
3

1
𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = −
1 + cos 𝑥
𝜋 1
𝑓′ ( ) = − 𝜋
3 1 + cos ( 3 )
1
=−
1
1+2
1
=−
3
2
2
=−
3

𝝅 𝟐
Therefore, 𝒇′ ( 𝟑 ) = − 𝟑.

7 Try It!
2𝜋 2 cos 𝑥+1
What is the value of 𝑓 ′ ( 3 ) if 𝑓(𝑥) = ?
sin 𝑥−1

5.4. Differentiation Rules for Trigonometric Functions 19

Unit 5: Rules of Differentiation
Key Points
___________________________________________________________________________________________

The following are the derivatives of the trigonometric functions derived from the limit
definition of a derivative and some of the previously discussed rules of differentiation.

● Derivative of a Sine Function

𝑑
(sin 𝑥 ) = cos 𝑥
𝑑𝑥

● Derivative of a Cosine Function

𝑑
(cos 𝑥) = − sin 𝑥
𝑑𝑥

● Derivative of a Tangent Function

𝑑
(tan 𝑥) = sec 2 𝑥
𝑑𝑥

● Derivative of a Cotangent Function

𝑑
(cot 𝑥) = − csc 2 𝑥
𝑑𝑥

● Derivative of a Secant Function

𝑑
(sec 𝑥) = sec 𝑥 tan 𝑥
𝑑𝑥

● Derivative of a Cosecant Function

𝑑
(csc 𝑥) = − csc 𝑥 cot 𝑥
𝑑𝑥
___________________________________________________________________________________________

5.4. Differentiation Rules for Trigonometric Functions 20

Unit 5: Rules of Differentiation
Key Formulas
___________________________________________________________________________________________

Concept Formula Description

𝑑 Use this formula to solve for

Derivative of a Sine (sin 𝑥) = cos 𝑥
𝑑𝑥 the derivative of a function
Function
that involves a sine function.

Use this formula to solve for

Derivative of a 𝑑 the derivative of a function
(cos 𝑥) = − sin 𝑥
Cosine Function 𝑑𝑥 that involves a cosine
function.

Use this formula to solve for

Derivative of a 𝑑 the derivative of a function
(tan 𝑥) = sec 2 𝑥
Tangent Function 𝑑𝑥 that involves a tangent
function.

Use this formula to solve for

Derivative of a 𝑑 the derivative of a function
(cot 𝑥) = − csc 2 𝑥
Cotangent Function 𝑑𝑥 that involves a cotangent
function.

Use this formula to solve for

Derivative of a 𝑑 the derivative of a function
(sec 𝑥) = sec 𝑥 tan 𝑥
Secant Function 𝑑𝑥 that involves a secant
function.

Use this formula to solve for

Derivative of a 𝑑 the derivative of a function
(csc 𝑥) = − csc 𝑥 cot 𝑥
Cosecant Function 𝑑𝑥 that involves a cosecant
function.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

5.4. Differentiation Rules for Trigonometric Functions 21

Unit 5: Rules of Differentiation

Check Your Understanding

A. Solve for the derivative of each function.

1. 𝑓(𝑥) = 8 sin 𝑥
2. 𝑓(𝑥) = −7 tan 𝑥
3. 𝑦 = 2 csc 𝑥
4. 𝑦 = 4𝑥 cos 𝑥
5. 𝑔(𝑥) = 2 cot 𝑥 + 6𝑥 2
6. 𝑡(𝑥) = 𝑒 𝑥 sec 𝑥
7. 𝑦 = 3𝑒 𝑥 − 5𝑥 cos 𝑥
8. 𝑓(𝑥) = 7𝑥 4 tan 𝑥
9. 𝑓(𝑥) = 3 sin2 𝑥
sin 𝑥
10. 𝑦 = 𝑒𝑥
cos 𝑥+2
11. ℎ(𝑥) = sin 𝑥
2 tan 𝑥
12. 𝑦 = csc 𝑥
cos 𝑥−1
13. 𝑦 = cos 𝑥+1
tan 𝑥
14. ℎ(𝑥) = sec 𝑥−1
cot 𝑥+2
15. 𝑓(𝑥) = csc 𝑥

B. Solve the following problems.

𝜋
1. Determine the value of 𝑓 ′ ( 4 ) if 𝑓(𝑥) = 3 sin 𝑥.
2𝜋 2 cos 𝑥
2. What is the value of 𝑔′ ( 3 ) if 𝑔(𝑥) = sin 𝑥−2?
6 𝜋
3. What is the slope of the line tangent to the curve 𝑦 = sin 𝑥 at 𝑥 = 3 ?
𝜋
4. Find the equation of the line tangent to the curve 𝑦 = −4 cos 𝑥 at 𝑥 = 2 .

5. At what 𝑥 value/s does the curve 𝑦 = −4 sin 𝑥 reach its maximum and minimum values?

5.4. Differentiation Rules for Trigonometric Functions 22

Unit 5: Rules of Differentiation

Challenge Yourself

Answer the following questions.

1. Are the derivatives of the functions 𝑓(𝑥) = sin2 𝑥 and 𝑔(𝑥) = 1 − cos2 𝑥 the same? Why
do you say so?
2. Explain why the derivative of the function 𝑦 = sin2 𝑥 + cos2 𝑥 is equal to zero.
3. Explain how you will obtain the derivative of the function 𝑦 = (cos 𝑥 + 2)2 .
𝑑
4. Using the limit definition of a derivative, prove that (sec 𝑥) = sec 𝑥 tan 𝑥.
𝑑𝑥
𝑑
5. Using the limit definition of a derivative, prove that (csc 𝑥) = − csc 𝑥 cot 𝑥.
𝑑𝑥

Bibliography
Edwards, C.H., and David E. Penney. Calculus: Early Transcendentals. 7th ed. Upper Saddle
River, New Jersey: Pearson/Prentice Hall, 2008.

Larson, Ron H., and Bruce H. Edwards. Essential Calculus: Early Transcendental Functions.
Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 2008.

Leithold, Louis. The Calculus 7. New York: HarperCollins College Publ., 1997.

Smith, Robert T., and Roland B. Milton. Calculus. New York: McGraw Hill, 2012.

Tan, Soo T. Applied Calculus for the Managerial, Life, and Social Sciences: A Brief Approach.
Australia: Brooks/Cole Cengage Learning, 2012.

5.4. Differentiation Rules for Trigonometric Functions 23

Unit 5: Rules of Differentiation

Key to Try It!

1. 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = −5 sin 𝑥 + 3 cos 𝑥
2. 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 2𝑥 2 csc 2 𝑥 − 4𝑥 cot 𝑥
3. 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 3 sin 𝑥 (1 + sec 2 𝑥)
4. 𝑔′ (𝑥) = 12 csc 3 𝑥 − 6 csc 𝑥
2
5. 𝑦 ′ = − sin 𝑥+1
6 sec 𝑥−6𝑥 sec 𝑥 tan 𝑥
6. 𝑦 ′ = (sec 𝑥−3𝑥)2

7. 6 + 4√3

5.4. Differentiation Rules for Trigonometric Functions 24