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Re: Defining the derivative
Posted:
Jun 7, 2000 10:57 AM
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Hi Lisa,
I have found using the (f(a+h)-f(a))/h quotient a bit easier
for one main reason: When you want to move from the slope of a
tangent line to the general idea of the derivative of a function,
you can replace the a by an x. If you use the (f(x)-f(a))/(x-a)
quotient, some students find the notational devices that must be
used when the general derivative is defined to be a bit confusing.
Dick Maher
Richard J. Maher
Mathematical and Computer Sciences
Loyola University Chicago
6525 N. Sheridan Rd.
Chicago, Illinois 60626
1-773-508-3565
rjm@math.luc.edu
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