Calculus and change

Derivative

The instantaneous rate of change of a function, defined as a limit of average rates where that limit exists.

Common notation f′(x) = lim[h→0] (f(x+h)−f(x))/h

In one sentence

What does Derivative mean?

The instantaneous rate of change of a function, defined as a limit of average rates where that limit exists.

How it is written

f′(x) = lim[h→0] (f(x+h)−f(x))/h

A compact example

If f(x)=x², then f′(x)=2x.

Other names and search terms

differentiation, rate of change.

Clear answers

Questions about Derivative

What does Derivative mean in mathematics?

The instantaneous rate of change of a function, defined as a limit of average rates where that limit exists.

How is Derivative written?

A common notation is f′(x) = lim[h→0] (f(x+h)−f(x))/h.

What is an example of Derivative?

If f(x)=x², then f′(x)=2x.