1. In calculus,
the slope of a function at a point. It is found by taking the limit of (f(x + h) - f(x)) / ((x + h) - x) where h (also seen as
delta x) approaches 0.
Notations for a derivative include
dy/dx and f'(x) (f prime of x)
2. The mathematical incarnation of Satan Himself
Example:
1.
f(x) = 3x^3 - 4x^2 + 2x -6 //function
f'(x) = 9x^2 -
8x + 2 //first derivative
f''(x) = 18x - 8 //second derivative
f'''(x) = 18 //
third derivative
2. Teacher: Today, we're going to do derivatives
Math book, as ceiling clouds over and turns red: MAY THE DEMONIC ARMIES OF HELL MARCH ACROSS YOUR MORTAL PLANE, CREATION CHAOS AND DESTRUCTION AND DRINKING THE BLOOD OF THE INNOCENT AND-
Math teacher: Change of plans! We're going to rock out to Zeppelin and have a LAN party on the school's sweet new laptops for the next hour!
Students: Hooray!