36
Lectures
30
minutes/lecture
1.
An Introduction to Precalculus—Functions
Precalculus is important preparation for calculus, but it’s also a useful set of skills in its own right, drawing on algebra, trigonometry, and other topics. As an introduction, review the essential concept of the function, try your hand at simple problems, and hear Professor Edwards’s recommendations for approaching the course.
1.
An Introduction to Precalculus—Functions
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19.
Trigonometric Equations
In calculus, the difficult part is often not the steps of a problem that use calculus but the equation that’s left when you’re finished, which takes precalculus to solve. Hone your skills for this challenge by identifying all the values of the variable that satisfy a given trigonometric equation.
19.
Trigonometric Equations
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2.
Polynomial Functions and Zeros
The most common type of algebraic function is a polynomial function. As examples, investigate linear and quadratic functions, probing different techniques for finding roots, or “zeros.” A valuable tool in this search is the intermediate value theorem, which identifies real-number roots for polynomial functions.
2.
Polynomial Functions and Zeros
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20.
Sum and Difference Formulas
Study the important formulas for the sum and difference of sines, cosines, and tangents. Then use these tools to get a preview of calculus by finding the slope of a tangent line on the cosine graph. In the process, you discover the derivative of the cosine function.
20.
Sum and Difference Formulas
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3.
Complex Numbers
Step into the strange and fascinating world of complex numbers, also known as imaginary numbers, where i is defined as the square root of -1. Learn how to calculate and find roots of polynomials using complex numbers, and how certain complex expressions produce beautiful fractal patterns when graphed.
3.
Complex Numbers
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21.
Law of Sines
Return to the subject of triangles to investigate the law of sines, which allows the sides and angles of any triangle to be determined, given the value of two angles and one side, or two sides and one opposite angle. Also learn a sine-based formula for the area of a triangle.
21.
Law of Sines
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4.
Rational Functions
Investigate rational functions, which are quotients of polynomials. First, find the domain of the function. Then, learn how to recognize the vertical and horizontal asymptotes, both by graphing and comparing the values of the numerator and denominator. Finally, look at some applications of rational functions.
4.
Rational Functions
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22.
Law of Cosines
Given three sides of a triangle, can you find the three angles? Use a generalized form of the Pythagorean theorem called the law of cosines to succeed. This formula also allows the determination of all sides and angles of a triangle when you know any two sides and their included angle.
22.
Law of Cosines
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5.
Inverse Functions
Discover how functions can be combined in various ways, including addition, multiplication, and composition. A special case of composition is the inverse function, which has important applications. One way to recognize inverse functions is on a graph, where the function and its inverse form mirror images across the line y = x.
5.
Inverse Functions
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23.
Introduction to Vectors
Vectors symbolize quantities that have both magnitude and direction, such as force, velocity, and acceleration. They are depicted by a directed line segment on a graph. Experiment with finding equivalent vectors, adding vectors, and multiplying vectors by scalars.
23.
Introduction to Vectors
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6.
Solving Inequalities
You have already used inequalities to express the set of values in the domain of a function. Now study the notation for inequalities, how to represent inequalities on graphs, and techniques for solving inequalities, including those involving absolute value, which occur frequently in calculus.
6.
Solving Inequalities
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24.
Trigonometric Form of a Complex Number
Apply your trigonometric skills to the abstract realm of complex numbers, seeing how to represent complex numbers in a trigonometric form that allows easy multiplication and division. Also investigate De Moivre’s theorem, a shortcut for raising complex numbers to any power.
24.
Trigonometric Form of a Complex Number
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7.
Exponential Functions
Explore exponential functions—functions that have a base greater than 1 and a variable as the exponent. Survey the properties of exponents, the graphs of exponential functions, and the unique properties of the natural base e. Then sample a typical problem in compound interest.
7.
Exponential Functions
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25.
Systems of Linear Equations and Matrices
Embark on the first of four lectures on systems of linear equations and matrices. Begin by using the method of substitution to solve a simple system of two equations and two unknowns. Then practice the technique of Gaussian elimination, and get a taste of matrix representation of a linear system.
25.
Systems of Linear Equations and Matrices
|
8.
Logarithmic Functions
A logarithmic function is the inverse of the exponential function, with all the characteristics of inverse functions covered in Lecture 5. Examine common logarithms (those with base 10) and natural logarithms (those with base e), and study such applications as the “rule of 70” in banking.
8.
Logarithmic Functions
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26.
Operations with Matrices
Deepen your understanding of matrices by learning how to do simple operations: addition, scalar multiplication, and matrix multiplication. After looking at several examples, apply matrix arithmetic to a commonly encountered problem by finding the parabola that passes through three given points.
26.
Operations with Matrices
|
9.
Properties of Logarithms
Learn the secret of converting logarithms to any base. Then review the three major properties of logarithms, which allow simplification or expansion of logarithmic expressions—methods widely used in calculus. Close by focusing on applications, including the pH system in chemistry and the Richter scale in geology.
9.
Properties of Logarithms
|
27.
Inverses and Determinants of Matrices
Get ready for applications involving matrices by exploring two additional concepts: the inverse of a matrix and the determinant. The algorithm for calculating the inverse of a matrix relies on Gaussian elimination, while the determinant is a scalar value associated with every square matrix.
27.
Inverses and Determinants of Matrices
|
10.
Exponential and Logarithmic Equations
Practice solving a range of equations involving logarithms and exponents, seeing how logarithms are used to bring exponents “down to earth” for easier calculation. Then try your hand at a problem that models the heights of males and females, analyzing how the models are put together.
10.
Exponential and Logarithmic Equations
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28.
Applications of Linear Systems and Matrices
Use linear systems and matrices to analyze such questions as these: How can the stopping distance of a car be estimated based on three data points? How does computer graphics perform transformations and rotations? How can traffic flow along a network of roads be modeled?
28.
Applications of Linear Systems and Matrices
|
11.
Exponential and Logarithmic Models
Finish the algebra portion of the course by delving deeper into exponential and logarithmic equations, using them to model real-life phenomena, including population growth, radioactive decay, SAT math scores, the spread of a virus, and the cooling rate of a cup of coffee.
11.
Exponential and Logarithmic Models
|
29.
Circles and Parabolas
In the first of two lectures on conic sections, examine the properties of circles and parabolas. Learn the formal definition and standard equation for each, and solve a real-life problem involving the reflector found in a typical car headlight.
29.
Circles and Parabolas
|
12.
Introduction to Trigonometry and Angles
Trigonometry is a key topic in applied math and calculus with uses in a wide range of applications. Begin your investigation with the two techniques for measuring angles: degrees and radians. Typically used in calculus, the radian system makes calculations with angles easier.
12.
Introduction to Trigonometry and Angles
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30.
Ellipses and Hyperbolas
Continue your survey of conic sections by looking at ellipses and hyperbolas, studying their standard equations and probing a few of their many applications. For example, calculate the dimensions of the U.S. Capitol’s “whispering gallery,” an ellipse-shaped room with fascinating acoustical properties.
30.
Ellipses and Hyperbolas
|
13.
Trigonometric Functions—Right Triangle Definition
The Pythagorean theorem, which deals with the relationship of the sides of a right triangle, is the starting point for the six trigonometric functions. Discover the close connection of sine, cosine, tangent, cosecant, secant, and cotangent, and focus on some simple formulas that are well worth memorizing.
13.
Trigonometric Functions—Right Triangle Definition
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31.
Parametric Equations
How do you model a situation involving three variables, such as a motion problem that introduces time as a third variable in addition to position and velocity? Discover that parametric equations are an efficient technique for solving such problems. In one application, you calculate whether a baseball hit at a certain angle and speed will be a home run.
31.
Parametric Equations
|
14.
Trigonometric Functions—Arbitrary Angle Definition
Trigonometric functions need not be confined to acute angles in right triangles; they apply to virtually any angle. Using the coordinate plane, learn to calculate trigonometric values for arbitrary angles. Also see how a table of common angles and their trigonometric values has wide application.
14.
Trigonometric Functions—Arbitrary Angle Definition
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32.
Polar Coordinates
Take a different mathematical approach to graphing: polar coordinates. With this system, a point’s location is specified by its distance from the origin and the angle it makes with the positive x axis. Polar coordinates are surprisingly useful for many applications, including writing the formula for a valentine heart!
32.
Polar Coordinates
|
15.
Graphs of Sine and Cosine Functions
The graphs of sine and cosine functions form a distinctive wave-like pattern. Experiment with functions that have additional terms, and see how these change the period, amplitude, and phase of the waves. Such behavior occurs throughout nature and led to the discovery of rapidly rotating stars called pulsars in 1967.
15.
Graphs of Sine and Cosine Functions
|
33.
Sequences and Series
Get a taste of calculus by probing infinite sequences and series—topics that lead to the concept of limits, the summation notation using the Greek letter sigma, and the solution to such problems as Zeno’s famous paradox. Also investigate Fibonacci numbers and an infinite series that produces the number e.
33.
Sequences and Series
|
16.
Graphs of Other Trigonometric Functions
Continue your study of the graphs of trigonometric functions by looking at the curves made by tangent, cosecant, secant, and cotangent expressions. Then bring several precalculus skills together by using a decaying exponential term in a sine function to model damped harmonic motion.
16.
Graphs of Other Trigonometric Functions
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34.
Counting Principles
Counting problems occur frequently in real life, from the possible batting lineups on a baseball team to the different ways of organizing a committee. Use concepts you’ve learned in the course to distinguish between permutations and combinations and provide precise counts for each.
34.
Counting Principles
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17.
Inverse Trigonometric Functions
For a given trigonometric function, only a small part of its graph qualifies as an inverse function as defined in Lecture 5. However, these inverse trigonometric functions are very important in calculus. Test your skill at identifying and working with them, and try a problem involving a rocket launch.
17.
Inverse Trigonometric Functions
|
35.
Elementary Probability
What are your chances of winning the lottery? Of rolling a seven with two dice? Of guessing your ATM PIN number when you’ve forgotten it? Delve into the rudiments of probability, learning basic vocabulary and formulas so that you know the odds.
35.
Elementary Probability
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18.
Trigonometric Identities
An equation that is true for every possible value of a variable is called an identity. Review several trigonometric identities, seeing how they can be proved by choosing one side of the equation and then simplifying it until a true statement remains. Such identities are crucial for solving complicated trigonometric equations.
18.
Trigonometric Identities
|
36.
GPS Devices and Looking Forward to Calculus
In a final application, locate a position on the surface of the earth with a two-dimensional version of GPS technology. Then close by finding the tangent line to a parabola, thereby solving a problem in differential calculus and witnessing how precalculus paves the way for the next big mathematical adventure.
36.
GPS Devices and Looking Forward to Calculus
|
36
Lectures
30
minutes/lecture
1.
A Preview of Calculus
Calculus is the mathematics of change, a field with many important applications in science, engineering, medicine, business, and other disciplines. Begin by surveying the goals of the course. Then get your feet wet by investigating the classic tangent line problem, which illustrates the concept of limits.
1.
A Preview of Calculus
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19.
The Area Problem and the Definite Integral
One of the classic problems of integral calculus is finding areas bounded by curves. This was solved for simple curves by the ancient Greeks. See how a more powerful method was later developed that produces a number called the definite integral, and learn the relevant notation.
19.
The Area Problem and the Definite Integral
|
2.
Review—Graphs, Models, and Functions
In the first of two review lectures on precalculus, examine graphs of equations and properties such as symmetry and intercepts. Also explore the use of equations to model real life and begin your study of functions, which Professor Edwards calls the most important concept in mathematics.
2.
Review—Graphs, Models, and Functions
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20.
The Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, Part 1
The two essential ideas of this course—derivatives and integrals—are connected by the fundamental theorem of calculus, one of the most important theorems in mathematics. Get an intuitive grasp of this deep relationship by working several problems and surveying a proof.
20.
The Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, Part 1
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3.
Review—Functions and Trigonometry
Continue your review of precalculus by looking at different types of functions and how they can be identified by their distinctive shapes when graphed. Then review trigonometric functions, using both the right triangle definition as well as the unit circle definition, which measures angles in radians rather than degrees.
3.
Review—Functions and Trigonometry
|
21.
The Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, Part 2
Try examples using the second fundamental theorem of calculus, which allows you to let the upper limit of integration be a variable. In the process, explore more relationships between differentiation and integration, and discover how they are almost inverses of each other.
21.
The Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, Part 2
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4.
Finding Limits
Jump into real calculus by going deeper into the concept of limits introduced in Lecture 1. Learn the informal, working definition of limits and how to determine a limit in three different ways: numerically, graphically, and analytically. Also discover how to recognize when a given function does not have a limit.
4.
Finding Limits
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22.
Integration by Substitution
Investigate a straightforward technique for finding antiderivatives, called integration by substitution. Based on the chain rule, it enables you to convert a difficult problem into one that's easier to solve by using the variable u to represent a more complicated expression.
22.
Integration by Substitution
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5.
An Introduction to Continuity
Broadly speaking, a function is continuous if there is no interruption in the curve when its graph is drawn. Explore the three conditions that must be met for continuity—along with applications of associated ideas, such as the greatest integer function and the intermediate value theorem.
5.
An Introduction to Continuity
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23.
Numerical Integration
When calculating a definite integral, the first step of finding the antiderivative can be difficult or even impossible. Learn the trapezoid rule, one of several techniques that yield a close approximation to the definite integral. Then do a problem involving a plot of land bounded by a river.
23.
Numerical Integration
|
6.
Infinite Limits and Limits at Infinity
Infinite limits describe the behavior of functions that increase or decrease without bound, in which the asymptote is the specific value that the function approaches without ever reaching it. Learn how to analyze these functions, and try some examples from relativity theory and biology.
6.
Infinite Limits and Limits at Infinity
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24.
Natural Logarithmic Function—Differentiation
Review the properties of logarithms in base 10. Then see how the so-called natural base for logarithms, e, has important uses in calculus and is one of the most significant numbers in mathematics. Learn how such natural logarithms help to simplify derivative calculations.
24.
Natural Logarithmic Function—Differentiation
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7.
The Derivative and the Tangent Line Problem
Building on what you have learned about limits and continuity, investigate derivatives, which are the foundation of differential calculus. Develop the formula for defining a derivative, and survey the history of the concept and its different forms of notation.
7.
The Derivative and the Tangent Line Problem
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25.
Natural Logarithmic Function—Integration
Continue your investigation of logarithms by looking at some of the consequences of the integral formula developed in the previous lecture. Next, change gears and review inverse functions at the precalculus level, preparing the way for a deeper exploration of the subject in coming lectures.
25.
Natural Logarithmic Function—Integration
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8.
Basic Differentiation Rules
Practice several techniques that make finding derivatives relatively easy: the power rule, the constant multiple rule, sum and difference rules, plus a shortcut to use when sine and cosine functions are involved. Then see how derivatives are the key to determining the rate of change in problems involving objects in motion.
8.
Basic Differentiation Rules
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26.
Exponential Function
The inverse of the natural logarithmic function is the exponential function, perhaps the most important function in all of calculus. Discover that this function has an amazing property: It is its own derivative! Also see the connection between the exponential function and the bell-shaped curve in probability.
26.
Exponential Function
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9.
Product and Quotient Rules
Learn the formulas for finding derivatives of products and quotients of functions. Then use the quotient rule to derive formulas for the trigonometric functions not covered in the previous lecture. Also investigate higher-order derivatives, differential equations, and horizontal tangents.
9.
Product and Quotient Rules
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27.
Bases other than e
Extend the use of the logarithmic and exponential functions to bases other than e, exploiting this approach to solve a problem in radioactive decay. Also learn to find the derivatives of such functions, and see how e emerges in other mathematical contexts, including the formula for continuous compound interest.
27.
Bases other than e
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10.
The Chain Rule
Discover one of the most useful of the differentiation rules, the chain rule, which allows you to find the derivative of a composite of two functions. Explore different examples of this technique, including a problem from physics that involves the motion of a pendulum.
10.
The Chain Rule
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28.
Inverse Trigonometric Functions
Turn to the last set of functions you will need in your study of calculus, inverse trigonometric functions. Practice using some of the formulas for differentiating these functions. Then do an entertaining problem involving how fast the rotating light on a police car sweeps across a wall and whether you can evade it.
28.
Inverse Trigonometric Functions
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11.
Implicit Differentiation and Related Rates
Conquer the final strategy for finding derivatives: implicit differentiation, used when it's difficult to solve a function for y. Apply this rule to problems in related rates—for example, the rate at which a camera must move to track the space shuttle at a specified time after launch.
11.
Implicit Differentiation and Related Rates
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29.
Area of a Region between 2 Curves
Revisit the area problem and discover how to find the area of a region bounded by two curves. First imagine that the region is divided into representative rectangles. Then add up an infinite number of these rectangles, which corresponds to a definite integral.
29.
Area of a Region between 2 Curves
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12.
Extrema on an Interval
Having covered the rules for finding derivatives, embark on the first of five lectures dealing with applications of these techniques. Derivatives can be used to find the absolute maximum and minimum values of functions, known as extrema, a vital tool for analyzing many real-life situations.
12.
Extrema on an Interval
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30.
Volume—The Disk Method
Learn how to calculate the volume of a solid of revolution—an object that is symmetrical around its axis of rotation. As in the area problem in the previous lecture, you imagine adding up an infinite number of slices—in this case, of disks rather than rectangles—which yields a definite integral.
30.
Volume—The Disk Method
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13.
Increasing and Decreasing Functions
Use the first derivative to determine where graphs are increasing or decreasing. Next, investigate Rolle's theorem and the mean value theorem, one of whose consequences is that during a car trip, your actual speed must correspond to your average speed during at least one point of your journey.
13.
Increasing and Decreasing Functions
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31.
Volume—The Shell Method
Apply the shell method for measuring volumes, comparing it with the disk method on the same shape. Then find the volume of a doughnut-shaped object called a torus, along with the volume for a figure called Gabriel's Horn, which is infinitely long but has finite volume.
31.
Volume—The Shell Method
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14.
Concavity and Points of Inflection
What does the second derivative reveal about a graph? It describes how the curve bends—whether it is concave upward or downward. You determine concavity much as you found the intervals where a graph was increasing or decreasing, except this time you use the second derivative.
14.
Concavity and Points of Inflection
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32.
Applications—Arc Length and Surface Area
Investigate two applications of calculus that are at the heart of engineering: measuring arc length and surface area. One of your problems is to determine the length of a cable hung between two towers, a shape known as a catenary. Then examine a peculiar paradox of Gabriel's Horn.
32.
Applications—Arc Length and Surface Area
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15.
Curve Sketching and Linear Approximations
By using calculus, you can be certain that you have discovered all the properties of the graph of a function. After learning how this is done, focus on the tangent line to a graph, which is a convenient approximation for values of the function that lie close to the point of tangency.
15.
Curve Sketching and Linear Approximations
|
33.
Basic Integration Rules
Review integration formulas studied so far, and see how to apply them in various examples. Then explore cases in which a calculator gives different answers from the ones obtained by hand calculation, learning why this occurs. Finally, Professor Edwards gives advice on how to succeed in introductory calculus.
33.
Basic Integration Rules
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16.
Applications—Optimization Problems, Part 1
Attack real-life problems in optimization, which requires finding the relative extrema of different functions by differentiation. Calculate the optimum size for a box, and the largest area that can be enclosed by a circle and a square made from a given length of wire.
16.
Applications—Optimization Problems, Part 1
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34.
Other Techniques of Integration
Closing your study of integration techniques, explore a powerful method for finding antiderivatives: integration by parts, which is based on the product rule for derivatives. Use this technique to calculate area and volume. Then focus on integrals involving products of trigonometric functions.
34.
Other Techniques of Integration
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17.
Applications—Optimization Problems, Part 2
Conclude your investigation of differential calculus with additional problems in optimization. For success with such word problems, Professor Edwards stresses the importance of first framing the problem with precalculus, reducing the equation to one independent variable, and then using calculus to find and verify the answer.
17.
Applications—Optimization Problems, Part 2
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35.
Differential Equations and Slope Fields
Explore slope fields as a method for getting a picture of possible solutions to a differential equation without having to solve it, examining several problems of the type that appear on the Advanced Placement exam. Also look at a solution technique for differential equations called separation of variables.
35.
Differential Equations and Slope Fields
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18.
Antiderivatives and Basic Integration Rules
Up until now, you've calculated a derivative based on a given function. Discover how to reverse the procedure and determine the function based on the derivative. This approach is known as obtaining the antiderivative, or integration. Also learn the notation for integration.
18.
Antiderivatives and Basic Integration Rules
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36.
Applications of Differential Equations
Use your calculus skills in three applications of differential equations: first, calculate the radioactive decay of a quantity of plutonium; second, determine the initial population of a colony of fruit flies; and third, solve one of Professor Edwards's favorite problems by using Newton's law of cooling to predict the cooling time for a cup of coffee.
36.
Applications of Differential Equations
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