derivative: see calculus calculus, branch of mathematics that studies continuously changing quantities. The calculus is characterized by the use of infinite processes, involving passage to a limit —the notion of tending toward, or approaching, an ultimate value.
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derivative

In mathematics, a fundamental concept of differential calculus representing the instantaneous rate of change of a function. The first derivative of a function is a function whose values can be interpreted as slopes of tangent lines to the graph of the original function at a given point. The derivative of a derivative (known as the second derivative) describes the rate of change of the rate of change, and can be thought of physically as acceleration. The process of finding a derivative is called differentiation.

derivative

1. Chem a compound that is formed from, or can be regarded as formed from, a structurally related compound

2. Maths

a. the change of a function, f(x), with respect to an infinitesimally small change in the independent variable, x; the limit of [f(a + Δx)--f(a)]/Δx, at x = a, as the increment, Δx, tends to 0. Symbols: df(x)/dx, fʹ(x), Df(x)

b. the rate of change of one quantity with respect to another

3. Psychoanal an activity that represents the expression of hidden impulses and desires by channelling them into socially acceptable forms

derivative (redirected from Fifth derivative)

derivative

derivative
(redirected from Fifth derivative)