## 17Calculus Derivatives - Differentials

Using Limits

### Derivatives

Graphing

Related Rates

Optimization

Other Applications

### Integrals

Improper Integrals

Trig Integrals

Length-Area-Volume

Applications - Tools

Applications

Tools

### Practice

Calculus 1 Practice

Calculus 2 Practice

Practice Exams

### Articles

The basic idea of differentials is based in notation. By now you know that, given a function $$y=f(x)$$, we write the derivative with respect to x as $$\displaystyle{ \frac{dy}{dx} = f'(x) }$$. Remember that the notation $$\displaystyle{ \frac{dy}{dx} }$$ does NOT mean dy divided by dx. The notation is actually shorthand for $$\displaystyle{ \frac{d}{dx}[y] }$$.

HOWEVER, that said, we can actually write this a bit differently as $$\displaystyle{ \frac{dy}{dx} = f'(x) \to dy = f'(x)~dx }$$. This notation gives the impression that we are dividing dy by dx but it takes a lot of math to make this transition. So please don't take this for granted.

This new form of the derivative is called the differential form. For examples see Paul's Online Notes Differentials page.

Note - There are other details about differentials that we do not yet cover here. Paul's Online Notes Differentials page has some explanation and examples. Also, here is a playlist with some videos that may help you.

When using the material on this site, check with your instructor to see what they require. Their requirements come first, so make sure your notation and work follow their specifications.

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