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Glossary Math & Statistics

Derivative

A derivative measures how fast a function changes at a point; it is the slope of the curve there.

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In more detail

The power rule says d/dx xⁿ = n × xⁿ⁻¹, so the derivative of x³ is 3x². Where the derivative is zero the function has a peak, a trough or a flat spot.

Try these tools

Derivative Calculator

Differentiate polynomials, trigonometric, exponential and logarithmic functions symbolically, get the second and third derivative.

Graphing Calculator

Plot up to three functions of x, pan and zoom the graph, and get the roots, y-intercepts, intersections and a table of values.

See also

  • Glossary Slope
    Slope is the steepness of a line: the change in y divided by the change in x between two points.
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