Function Reference
derivative()
Symbolically differentiates an expression with respect to x.
Syntax
derivative(expression)
Alias:
differentiate(expression)
Arguments
| Argument | Description |
|---|---|
expression |
The expression to differentiate. SumWise currently differentiates with respect to x. |
Return Value
Returns a symbolic expression in the supported form SumWise can produce for the derivative.
Examples
derivative(x^2)
Returns 2*x.
derivative(x^3 + 2*x)
Returns 3*x^2 + 2.
derivative(sin(x))
Returns cos(x).
graph sin(x), derivative(sin(x)) from -6.28 to 6.28
Graphs a function and its symbolic derivative together.
Notes
- Differentiation is currently with respect to
x. - Other variables are treated as constants.
- Supported rules include constants, sums, products, quotients, powers with constant real exponents, trig functions, exp, ln, and sqrt where supported.
- Unsupported symbolic forms should report a clear error rather than producing misleading output.
Related Functions
In SumWise 2.2
The Windows app includes a searchable Function Reference with richer details, examples, argument notes, return information, and related learning material where metadata exists. This web page is a concise reference for one commonly used symbolic-calculus function.