limit

Arguably, the exponential function crops up more than any other when using mathematics to describe the physical world. In the first of two articles on physical phenomena which obey exponential laws, Ian Garbett discusses light attenuation - the way in which light decreases in intensity as it passes through a medium.

Tags: mathematical modelling : exponential law : logarithmic decay : radiation attenuation : light attenuation : Lambert Law of Absorption : limit

Tags: geometric series : convergence : limit : Zeno's paradoxes : Achilles Paradox : Arrow Paradox : worldline : relativity

Calculus is a collection of tools, such as differentiation and integration, for solving problems in mathematics which involve "rates of change" and "areas". In the first of two articles aimed specially at students meeting calculus for the first time, Chris Sangwin tells us about these tools - without doubt, the some of the most important in all of mathematics.

Tags: limit : calculus : differentiation : gradient : slope : derivative

Calculus is a collection of tools, such as differentiation and integration, for solving problems in mathematics which involve "rates of change" and "areas". In the second of two articles aimed specially at students meeting calculus for the first time, Chris Sangwin tells us how to move on from first principles to differentiation as we know and love it!

Tags: limit : calculus : differentiation : gradient : slope : derivative : linearity : product rule : chain rule : quotient rule

Fibonacci, famous for the Fibonacci sequence, also introduced the decimal system into Europe.

Tags: history of mathematics : Fibonacci number : limit : golden ratio : sequence