Derivative of Trigonometric Function

The Rules of Trigonometric Functions

Finding the derivative of a trigonometric function is not much different from an algebraic function. We still use the familiar derivative properties, such as the product and quotient rules.

However, before that, we need to know the basic derivatives of the main trigonometric functions like sine and cosine. These basic rules are the foundation for solving more complex derivatives.

Basic Trigonometric Derivatives

Just like the derivative of a power function, the derivative for a trigonometric function also has its basic pattern. The derivatives for sine and cosine, for example, can be proven directly from the limit definition of a derivative.

Here are the basic derivatives of the six trigonometric functions that we need to memorize: