A derivative in math is a way of measuring how a function changes when its input

changes. It can be interpreted as the slope of the curve of the function, or the rate of
change of the output with respect to the input. For example, the derivative of the
function f(x) = x^2 is f’(x) = 2x, which means that the slope of the curve at any point x is
2x.

To find the derivative of a function, we can use different methods and rules, such as the
limit definition, the power rule, the product rule, the quotient rule, the chain rule, and
others. These rules help us simplify the process of differentiation and apply it to various
types of functions, such as polynomials, trigonometric, exponential, logarithmic, and
more.

Derivatives have many applications and uses in mathematics, science, engineering, and
other fields. They can help us analyze and optimize the behavior and performance of
systems, models, and phenomena. They can also help us solve problems involving rates
of change, such as motion, growth, decay, optimization, approximation, and more.