Derivatives and their applications

Derivatives measure how a quantity changes over time or in response to other variables, essentially capturing its rate of change. Think of speed as the derivative of position—indicating how quickly you’re moving. In finance, derivatives like options help manage risk by predicting how asset prices might change. Engineers use derivatives to optimize systems, such as minimizing fuel consumption. In science, they track how things like temperature or population change, enabling better decision-making. Overall, derivatives are fundamental tools that help us understand and anticipate dynamic changes across various fields.