Partial Derivatives

Definition

Partial derivatives are derivatives taken with respect to one variable while holding other variables constant. They measure how much a function changes when only one variable changes at a time.

Related terms

Total Derivative: A derivative that takes into account changes in all variables simultaneously.

Chain Rule:

A rule used to find the derivative of a composite function by multiplying the derivatives of its individual components.

Gradient Vector: A vector that points in the direction of steepest increase of a function and whose magnitude represents the rate of change.