What is calculus i: Definition and 52 Discussions

Calculus is the mathematical study of continuous change, in the same way that geometry is the study of shape, and algebra is the study of generalizations of arithmetic operations.
It has two major branches, differential calculus and integral calculus; the former concerns instantaneous rates of change, and the slopes of curves, while the latter concerns accumulation of quantities, and areas under or between curves. These two branches are related to each other by the fundamental theorem of calculus, and they make use of the fundamental notions of convergence of infinite sequences and infinite series to a well-defined limit.Infinitesimal calculus was developed independently in the late 17th century by Isaac Newton and Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz. Later work, including codifying the idea of limits, put these developments on a more solid conceptual footing. Today, calculus has widespread uses in science, engineering, and social science.

View More On Wikipedia.org
  1. T

    Finding Maximum Area of Inscribed Rectangle in a Triangle Using Differentiation

    I recently had a calculus midterm, but was baffled at how to even start this question. Can anyone point me in the direction to start it? It deals with the maximum/minimum section using differentiation. What is the maximum area of a rectangle inscribed within a triangle with sides 12, 16 and 20?
  2. brum

    Calculus I & II (BC, roughly) - can it be done in 8 weeks?

    Calculus I & II (BC, roughly) --- can it be done in 8 weeks? I was recently accepted to the http://www.ssp.harvard.edu , where I will take either two 4-unit courses, or one 8-unit course over the 8 week period during the summer. I am now at the stage of choosing a course (or 2, if I do two...
Back
Top