Integral calculus is a branch of mathematics that deals with integrals and their properties. The spelling of this term is based on its phonetic transcription in IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet): ['ɪn.tɪ.ɡrəl ˈkæl.kjʊ.ləs]. The first syllable "in" is pronounced as in "hint," the second syllable "tegral" rhymes with "legal," and the stress is on the third syllable "cal." The "u" in "culus" is pronounced as "yoo" and the "s" is pronounced as "z." Overall, the pronunciation of "integral calculus" is fairly straightforward once the IPA transcription is understood.
Integral calculus is a branch of mathematics that deals with finding and analyzing the accumulative effect of change. It focuses on the study of integrals, which are mathematical expressions representing the total accumulation or area underneath a curve. This branch of calculus complements differential calculus, emphasizing the relationship between rates of change and the accumulation of quantities.
Integral calculus involves the process of integrating functions to determine their antiderivatives. A function's antiderivative represents the original function from which it was derived, with the process of integration essentially being the reverse of differentiation. The antiderivative can be graphically interpreted as the accumulated quantity over a given interval, representing the total area between a curve and the x-axis.
The fundamental theorem of calculus is a key concept in integral calculus, linking the processes of differentiation and integration. It states that if a function is continuous on a closed interval, then the area under the curve can be accurately determined by evaluating its antiderivative at the limits of integration.
Integral calculus finds practical applications in various fields, including physics, engineering, economics, and computer science. It enables the determination of quantities such as area, volume, position, mass, and accumulated change over time. By providing a systematic framework for analyzing accumulated change, integral calculus plays a vital role in modeling and understanding complex phenomena in the physical and social sciences.
A branch of the higher mathematics.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "integral" comes from the Latin term "integralis", which means "intact" or "whole". It is derived from the word "integer", meaning "whole number". In mathematics, "integral" refers to the concept of finding the area under a curve, representing the whole or complete result.
The term "calculus" comes from the Latin word "calculus", meaning "a small stone or pebble used for counting". It was originally used in reference to counting and calculating with stones or pebbles. Over time, it evolved to refer to a method of mathematical calculation.
Therefore, the term "integral calculus" combines these two words to describe a branch of mathematics that deals with determining the complete or whole result, specifically in relation to calculations involving area under curves.