On-line Math 21

2  The derivative

2.1  Definition and first examples

This section presents first the definition of the derivative as a limit, then applies that definition in a number of different contexts to explain what information the derivative provides.

2.2  Differentiation rules

There are a number of steps needed to compute the derivative of a complex expression in terms of the pieces of the expression.

2.3  Higher derivatives

The derivative of a function is just another function, and it, too, may have a derivative. The derivative of the derivative, called the second derivative of the original function, measures finer features of the original function.

2.4  Uses for the derivative

Velocity-acceleration problems, linear approximation. Related-rates problems

Copyright (c) 2000 by David L. Johnson.