Definition of Gradient (Edexcel AS Maths): Revision Note

Definition of Gradient

What is the gradient of a curve?

• At a given point the gradient of a curve is defined as the gradient of the tangent to the curve at that point

• A tangent to a curve is a line that just touches the curve at one point but doesn't cut the curve at that point

• A tangent may cut the curve somewhere else on the curve

• It is only possible to draw one tangent to a curve at any given point

• Note that unlike the gradient of a straight line, the gradient of a curve is constantly changing