
The Derivative from First Principles
Deriving the formula for the derivative using the limit definition (first principles).
About This Topic
Deriving the formula for the derivative using the limit definition (first principles).
Key Questions
- Explain how the 'first principles' approach connects average rate of change to instantaneous rate of change.
- Analyze the role of the limit in transforming the slope of a secant into the slope of a tangent.
- Construct the derivative of a simple polynomial function using the definition.
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