What is calculus?
“Calculus is that branch of mathematics whose primary purpose is the study of motion and change. It is an indispensable tool of thought in almost every field of pure and applied science-physics, chemistry, biology, astronomy, geology, engineering, and even some of the social sciences. It also has many important uses in other parts of mathematics, especially geometry. By any standard, the methods and applications of calculus constitute one of the greatest intellectual achievements of civilization, and to become acquainted with these ideas is to open many doors that lead to a broader and richer life of the mind.” George F. Simmons
More information about the significance of calculus can be found in our textbook.
Read pages 42-44.
Additional answers to these questions can be found at the following links.
Ask Dr. Math: Why should I study calculus?
MIT's Professor Kleitzman: What is calculus and why do we study it?
“Calculus is that branch of mathematics whose primary purpose is the study of motion and change. It is an indispensable tool of thought in almost every field of pure and applied science-physics, chemistry, biology, astronomy, geology, engineering, and even some of the social sciences. It also has many important uses in other parts of mathematics, especially geometry. By any standard, the methods and applications of calculus constitute one of the greatest intellectual achievements of civilization, and to become acquainted with these ideas is to open many doors that lead to a broader and richer life of the mind.” George F. Simmons
More information about the significance of calculus can be found in our textbook.
Read pages 42-44.
Additional answers to these questions can be found at the following links.
Ask Dr. Math: Why should I study calculus?
MIT's Professor Kleitzman: What is calculus and why do we study it?