Form of math derived by Isaac Newton consisting mainly of derivatives and integrals. Allows one to get the slope of the tangent line of a curve or the area under the curve, respectively. Extremely useful in almost all areas of science. Newton wrote it in two weeks, and often takes us about a year to learn.
From calculus, we know that the derivative of position is velocity, and the velocity is acceleration. A third derivative, the jerk (what you feel when a car suddenly stops), can be found, but is not seen as often. These relationships are crucial to the physical sciences.
From calculus, we know that the derivative of position is velocity, and the velocity is acceleration. A third derivative, the jerk (what you feel when a car suddenly stops), can be found, but is not seen as often. These relationships are crucial to the physical sciences.
by MikeNolan October 20, 2003