Math 121

 

Section 2.1

 

Derivatives

 

The derivative is the slope tangent line to the curve

 

Limit Definition of a Derivative

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Examples

 

1) using the limit definition of a derivative.

 

 

2) using the limit definition of a derivative.

 

 

3) using the limit definition of a derivative.

 

 

 

4) using the limit definition of a derivative.

 

 

Power Rule

 

Function

Derivative

 

 

 

 

 

When looking at the changes between the function and the derivative, it can be observed that the power decreases by a power one and the leading coefficient is multiplied by the exponent.  Using this relationship, the power rule for derivative can be developed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Power Rule

 

 

Examples

 

1)

 

 

 

2)

 

 

3)

 

 

 

Rule

 

 where c is a constant, then

 

 

4)