Finding the derivative of a function is a fundamental concept in calculus. Derivatives represent the rate of change of a function with respect to its variable. In our example, we have the function, \( f(x) = \frac{x^2}{1 + \sin^2 x} \), and we are tasked to compute its derivative.
The derivative is found using specific rules and techniques. For simple functions, basic derivative rules like the power rule, product rule, or chain rule are used. In more complex cases like our function, the quotient rule is helpful.
To start, identify the functions \( u(x) \) and \( v(x) \), which are \( u(x) = x^2 \) and \( v(x) = 1 + \sin^2(x) \) respectively. Next, compute their derivatives:
- \( u'(x) = 2x \)
- \( v'(x) = 2\sin(x)\cos(x) \)
These derivatives are the building blocks to apply further calculus techniques.