introductory differential calculus
Differential calculus is a branch of calculus that focuses on studying rates of change and instantaneous rates of change. It involves the use of derivatives to describe and analyze these rates in various mathematical functions.
Introductory differential calculus typically covers fundamental concepts such as limits, continuity, and differentiation. These concepts are essential in understanding the behavior of functions and their derivatives. The goal is to find the derivative of a function, which represents the rate at which the function is changing at any given point.
In introductory differential calculus, students learn how to calculate derivatives using various rules, such as the power rule, product rule, quotient rule, and chain rule. They also learn about the applications of derivatives in real-world scenarios, such as finding the slope of a tangent line, determining maximum and minimum points, and solving optimization problems.
Through introductory differential calculus, students develop a deeper understanding of how functions change over time. This mathematical foundation plays a crucial role in many areas of science, engineering, economics, and other fields where rates of change are significant.