Stage 36 · Limits, Derivatives & Their Applications

36.3.3 Finding the Equation of a Tangent

36.3 What a Derivative Really Is: Concept and Geometry

Point 3 of 5

36.3.3 Finding the Equation of a Tangent

Core idea

Once you know the point of contact and the slope f′(x₀), the point-slope form hands you the tangent in one step.

Module goal. Promote the derivative from "a number at one point" to "a brand-new function," and nail down its geometric meaning once and for all: the slope of the tangent.
eastmath.com · 36.3 What a Derivative Really Is: Concept and Geometry · 36.3.3 Finding the Equation of a Tangent