Infinitesimal (Noun)
Meaning
(mathematics) a variable that has zero as its limit.
Classification
Nouns denoting cognitive processes and contents.
Examples
- The function approached a minimum at the infinitesimal point where the derivative was zero.
- In calculus, an infinitesimal represents a quantity that is smaller than any positive real number but not exactly zero.
- He struggled to visualize the infinitesimal gaps in the function where it was not continuous.
- The more precise definition using infinitesimals was replaced by the limit approach to avoid confusion among students.
- In non-standard analysis, infinitesimals are used as actual numbers to develop a more intuitive understanding of mathematical concepts.