directional derivative

American  

noun

Mathematics.

1. the limit, as a function of several variables moving along a given line from one specified point to another on the line, of the difference in the functional values at the two points divided by the distance between the points.

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Example Sentences

We can calculate the directional derivative of a function of three variables by using the gradient, leading to a formula that is analogous to Equation 4.38.

From Textbooks • Mar. 30, 2016

The gradient can be used in a formula to calculate the directional derivative.

From Textbooks • Mar. 30, 2016

Figure 4.41 The gradient indicates the maximum and minimum values of the directional derivative at a point.

From Textbooks • Mar. 30, 2016

Equation 4.36 provides a formal definition of the directional derivative that can be used in many cases to calculate a directional derivative.

From Textbooks • Mar. 30, 2016

Another approach to calculating a directional derivative involves partial derivatives, as outlined in the following theorem.

From Textbooks • Mar. 30, 2016