Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The limit definition of the derivative is a mathematical expression used to find the instantaneous rate of change (slope) of a curve at a specific point. It involves taking the limit as the change in x approaches zero.
The derivative measures how quickly a quantity changes with respect to another quantity. It gives us information about rates of change and slopes.
Tangent line: A tangent line is a straight line that touches a curve at only one point. It represents the instantaneous rate of change (slope) of the curve at that point.
Differentiation is the process of finding derivatives. It involves applying rules and formulas to determine how a function changes with respect to its input variable.
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