Machine

Life
Leader: Beltran, Jerome

MATH 108A Calculus I

Members: Aguilar, Kazvin

Ballesteros, Nicolo
Ortega, Jose Miguel
Padilla, Shem

Introduction

Mr. Jonathan B. Cabero

The concept of Derivative is at the core of Calculus and modern mathematics. The
definition of the derivative can be approached in two different ways. One is geometrical (as a
slope of a curve) and the other one is physical (as a rate of change). Historically there was (and
maybe still is) a fight between mathematicians which of the two illustrates the concept of the
derivative best and which one is more useful. We will not dwell on this and will introduce both
concepts. Our emphasis will be on the use of the derivative as a tool.

A machine converts the force provided from an input energy into motion that changes
the magnitude or direction of that force. This motion against a resistive force is the work
done by the machine. According to the Law of Conservation of Energy, the total input energy
must equal the total output energy. However, some of the output energy does not contribute
to the output work and is lost to such things as friction and heat.

The Differential Coefficient or Derivative

The differential coefficient of

y f (x)

is from the consideration of the fraction

where represents the increase in y due to a small increase

x

in x. The limiting value of

y
x

y
x

as

becomes smaller and smaller is called the derivative or differential coefficient of y. It is

denoted by the symbol

y
x

and is written as:

dy
y
lim
dx x 0 x

In mathematics, the differential coefficient of a function f(x) is what is now called its derivative

y
x

, the (not necessarily constant) multiplicative factor or coefficient of the differential dx in the

differential df(x).
A coefficient is usually a constant quantity, but the differential coefficient of f is a constant
function only if f is a linear function. When f is not linear, its differential coefficient is a function,
call it f, derived by the differentiation of f, hence, the modern term, derivative.
Then, The Derivative or Differential Coefficient of the function f at a point x or with respect to x
is the limiting value of:

f ( x x ) f ( x )
x

Thus the derivative may be defined as

dy
f ( x x ) f ( x )
lim
dx x 0
x

The process of finding the derivative of a function is called differentiation. Notice that
unless f(x) is continuous the limit could not exist.

Definition of a Machine

A machine is a tool containing one or more parts that uses energy to perform an
intended action. Machines are usually powered by mechanical, chemical, thermal, or
electrical means, and are often motorized. Historically, a power tool also required moving
parts to classify as a machine. However, the advent of electronics has led to the development
of power tools without moving parts that are considered machines. (Houghton Mifflin Co.,
1985.)