Related rates
Learning intention
Model linked changing quantities with an equation, differentiate with respect to time and interpret the resulting rate.
The core idea
A related-rates problem describes two or more quantities that change with time while remaining connected by an equation. The equation is the model; implicit differentiation turns that model into a relationship between rates.
Differentiate before substituting the instant values. Quantities such as radius and height usually vary with time even when the notation is compact, so the chain rule introduces dr/dt, dh/dt and similar factors.
Key definitions and formulas
- Rate: a derivative with respect to time, including units.
- Implicit time differentiation: d(r²)/dt = 2r·dr/dt.
- Sign: increasing rates are positive and decreasing rates are negative.
- Instant: substitute the given dimensions only after differentiating.
Worked example 1 — foundation
A circle radius increases at 3 cm/s. Find the area rate when r = 5 cm.
- Model A = πr².
- Differentiate: dA/dt = 2πr·dr/dt.
- Substitute r = 5 and dr/dt = 3.
dA/dt = 30π cm²/s.
Worked example 2 — exam-style
Water leaves a cylinder of fixed radius 2 m at 0.6 m³/min. Find dh/dt.
- Model V = πr²h = 4πh.
- Outflow means dV/dt = −0.6.
- Differentiate: dV/dt = 4π·dh/dt.
- Solve dh/dt = −0.6/(4π).
The water level falls at 0.15/π m/min.
Worked example 3 — HL reasoning
A 10 m ladder has foot distance x and height y. The foot moves out at 0.8 m/s. Find dy/dt when x = 6.
- Model x² + y² = 100; when x = 6, y = 8.
- Differentiate: 2x·dx/dt + 2y·dy/dt = 0.
- Substitute x = 6, y = 8 and dx/dt = 0.8.
- Solve 9.6 + 16·dy/dt = 0.
dy/dt = −0.6 m/s; the top moves downward.
GDC checkpoint
Common IB mistake
Substituting fixed-looking values before differentiating can erase a changing quantity. Keep variables in the model until the rate equation has been formed.
Practice checks
Use the feedback to refine your method, not only your final answer.
Summary
- Define variables and units.
- Write one equation connecting the changing quantities.
- Differentiate with respect to time before substituting.
- Interpret the sign and units of the final rate.
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