Notation for the Second Derivative

Key Questions

  • What is notation for the Second Derivative?

    If you prefer Leibniz notation, second derivative is denoted #(d^2y)/(dx^2)#.

    Example:

    #y = x^2#

    #dy/dx = 2x#

    #(d^2y)/(dx^2) = 2#

    If you like the primes notation, then second derivative is denoted with two prime marks, as opposed to the one mark with first derivatives:

    #y = x^2#
    #y' = 2x#
    #y'' = 2#

    Similarly, if the function is in function notation:

    #f(x) = x^2#
    #f'(x) = 2x#
    #f''(x) = 2#

    Most people are familiar with both notations, so it doesn't usually matter which notation you choose, so long as people can understand what you're writing. I myself prefer the Leibniz notation, because otherwise I tend to confuse the apostrophes with exponents of one or eleven. Though the primes notation is more shorthand and quicker to write, so many people prefer it.

    Jacob F. · · Aug 1 2014

Questions

Graphing with the Second Derivative