Calculus: Early Transcendental Functions, 8e

Unlock the mysteries of Calculus with a fresh approach rooted in simplicity and historical insight. This book reintroduces a nearly forgotten idea from René Descartes (1596–1650), showing how the fundamental concepts of Calculus can be understood using just basic algebra. Starting with rational functions — the core of early Calculus — this method allows the reader to grasp the rules for derivatives without the intimidating concepts of limits or real numbers, making the subject more accessible than ever. But the journey doesn’t stop there. While attempting to apply this algebraic approach to exponential functions, the reader will encounter the limitations of simple methods, revealing the necessity for more advanced mathematical tools. This natural progression leads to the discovery of continuity, the approximation process, and ultimately, the introduction of real numbers and limits. These deeper concepts pave the way for understanding differentiable functions, seamlessly bridging the gap between elementary algebra and the profound ideas that underpin Calculus. Whether you’re a student, educator, or math enthusiast, this book offers a unique pathway to mastering Calculus. By connecting historical context with modern mathematical practice, it provides a richer, more motivating learning experience. For those looking to dive even deeper, the author’s 2015 book, What is Calculus? From Simple Algebra to Deep Analysis, is the perfect next step.