1 definition by MikeNolan

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.
by MikeNolan October 20, 2003
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