Calculus formula reference

Derivative of Cosine

Gives the derivative of the cosine function.

Open in editor
LaTeX\frac{d}{dx}\cos x=-\sin x

Variables

  • x: angle in radians

How to use this formula

Gives the derivative of the cosine function.

Important notes

  • Remember the negative sign.

Quick example

At x=π/2 the derivative is −1.

Applicability, worked calculation, and verification

Assumptions and domain checks

  • Remember the negative sign.
  • For the Derivative of Cosine, every denominator must be nonzero, and the numerator and denominator must remain correctly grouped.
  • The angle unit and the domain or branch of any inverse trigonometric function must be explicit.
  • The function must satisfy the differentiability, continuity, or integrability conditions required by the operation being used.

Worked example

Input

Output

At x=π/2 the derivative is −1.

Common mistakes

  • When copying Derivative of Cosine, keep the complete numerator and denominator grouped; a missing brace or parenthesis changes the result.
  • Do not apply a differentiation or integration rule outside its domain or omit endpoint, continuity, or constant-of-integration checks.

Continue the workflow

Use Derivative of Cosine in your own work

  1. Check the domainMatch the variables and assumptions to the problem before substituting values.
  2. Copy the exact notationPreserve grouping, signs, and exponents in \frac{d}{dx}\cos x=-\sin x.
  3. Edit or convertOpen the expression in the LaTeX editor, then export it for your document or web page.

Review and verification

Last reviewed: 2026-07-23

Automated quality check: Kept noindex until the missing evidence is supplied.

Formula references

  • Calculus Volume 1OpenStax, Rice University — Reviewed limits, derivatives, integrals, and foundational calculus formulas.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Derivative of Cosine used for?

Gives the derivative of the cosine function.

Can I copy this formula as LaTeX?

Yes. Copy \frac{d}{dx}\cos x=-\sin x or open it in the LaTeX editor.

What should I check before using it?

Confirm that each variable, unit, domain restriction, and assumption matches the problem.

Reuse, attribution, and correction

Share this reference without losing its source

Copy a citation, permanent link, Markdown link, or self-contained embed card. Each reusable format points readers back to the maintained canonical page.

Report an issue

Search the whole reference

Symbols, formulas, guides, tools and commands

Start typing to search.

move · Enter open · Esc close