Introduction

In algebra, rate of change is introduced in its most basic form, the slope of a line. In this section we will expand this definition to find the slope of the tangent line to any point on a curve using the limit of a difference quotient.

Let's look at a real-life example. Go to Average and Instantaneous Rate of Change and complete the activity.

At the end of this lesson, student will be able to:

  • Find a difference quotient
  • Evaluate the limit of a difference quotient
  • Find the slope of the tangent line to a curve at a given point
  • Find the equation of the tangent line to a curve at a given point
  • Find the average rate of change for a function on a given interval

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