We use a method called “linear approximation” to estimate the value of a (complicated) function at a given point.

Given a function, a linear approximation is a fancy phrase for something you already know:

The line tangent to the graph of a function at a point is very close to the graph of the function near that point.

This tangent line is the graph of a linear function, called the linear approximation.

Note that the graph of is just the tangent line to at .

A linear approximation of is a “good” approximation as long as is “not too far” from . If one “zooms in” on sufficiently, then and the linear approximation are nearly indistinguishable. As a first example, we will see how linear approximations allow us to make approximate “difficult” computations.

With modern calculators and computing software it may not appear necessary to use linear approximations. In fact they are quite useful. In cases requiring an explicit numerical approximation, they allow us to get a quick rough estimate which can be used as a “reality check” on a more complex calculation. In some complex calculations involving functions, the linear approximation makes an otherwise intractable calculation possible, without serious loss of accuracy.

Differentials

The graph of a function and the graph of , the linear approximation of at , are shown in the figure below. Also, two quantities, and , and a point are marked in the figure. Look carefully at the figure when answering the questions below.

Select all the correct expressions for the quantity .
You can see that .
Select all the correct expressions for the quantity .
You can see that .
Recall: .
Based on the figure and the expression for , select all the correct expressions for .
Recall: .

So, we can write and call it a differential of at . Notice, that is a constant, therefore is a linear function of a variable . Notice that we can define a differential at any point of the domain of , provided that exists. We will do that in our next definition.

We should not be surprised, since the slope of the tangent line in the figure is , and this slope is also given by .
The differential is:
times . A single variable.
The differential is:
times . A single variable that is dependent on .

Essentially, differentials allow us to solve the problems presented in the previous examples from a slightly different point of view. Recall, when is near but not equal zero, hence, Since is simply a variable, and is simply a variable, we can replace with to write

Adding to both sides we see or, equivalently While this is something of a “sleight of hand” with variables, there are contexts where the language of differentials is common. Here is the basic strategy:

We will repeat our previous examples using differentials.

The upshot is that linear approximations and differentials are simply two slightly different ways of doing the exact same thing.

Error approximation

Differentials also help us estimate error in real life settings.

New and old friends

You might be wondering, given a plot ,

What’s the difference between and ? What about and ?

Regardless, it is now a pressing question. Here’s the deal: is the average rate of change of with respect to . On the other hand: is the instantaneous rate of change of with respect to . Essentially, and are the same type of thing, they are (usually small) changes in . However, and are very different things.

  • ; it is the change in associated to .
  • , it is the change in associated to . Note: .

    So, the change

Suppose . If we are at the point and , what is ? What is ?
Differentials can be confusing at first. However, when you master them, you will have a powerful tool at your disposal.