Difference Quotients: Can They Be Interchanged?

  • Thread starter Thread starter Apost8
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Difference
Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the interchangeability of two expressions related to difference quotients in calculus. Participants explore whether the expressions can be used interchangeably under certain conditions.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Some participants attempt to clarify the relationship between the two expressions by suggesting substitutions. Others raise concerns about the validity of the original post's formulation, questioning the absence of equality signs in the expressions provided.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes attempts to clarify the interchangeability of the expressions, with some participants providing insights on substitutions. However, there is also a critique regarding the formulation of the expressions, indicating a lack of consensus on their validity.

Contextual Notes

One participant notes that the original post is not a homework question, which may influence the nature of the discussion. There are also reminders about posting etiquette within the thread.

Apost8
Messages
48
Reaction score
0
This isn't a homework question, but I'm wondering if the following two equations can always be used interchangeably (thanks in advance):

f(x)-f(c)/(x-c)

and

f(a+h)-f(a)/h
 
Physics news on Phys.org
yes, it's just substituting x for a+h and c for a, so then h = x-c.
 
Do not double post!
 
Data said:
yes, it's just substituting x for a+h and c for a, so then h = x-c.

Thanks for your help.

arildno said:
Do not double post!

No need to get upset. I accidentally posted in the wrong section, I apologize. Thanks for your help as well.
 
The problem I have with your post is that neither of the "equations" you give is an equation! (The lack of and "= " is a sure sign!)
 

Similar threads

Is this a valid representation of a derivative?
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
1K
Lagrange multipliers understanding
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
Determining domain for C^1 function
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
If f is undefined at x=a, can f' exist at x=a?
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
Please help me understand a definition of a covariance function
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Assume that if the real-valued function h(x) is Lipschitz continuous...
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
2K
Trying To Use Squeeze Theorem To Prove Derivatives Are Equal
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Need help showing this difference quotient is a derivative
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
What is the ''difference quotient'' of d/dx[ln (x+3)] ?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
Limit Definition of Derivative as n Approaches Infinity
  • · Replies 20 ·
Replies
20
Views
3K