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Integration

Definition

Integration is a mathematical operation that calculates the area under a curve or finds the antiderivative of a function. It allows us to find total quantities or accumulated values from rates of change.

Analogy

Think of integration as adding up all the little pieces of something to find the whole. Just like when you add up all your test scores throughout the semester to calculate your final grade.

Related terms

Derivative: A derivative measures how a function changes as its input changes and represents its rate of change.

Definite integral: A definite integral gives us a specific value by finding the area under a curve between two points.

Indefinite integral: An indefinite integral gives us a family of functions (with +C) that have the same derivative as our original function.



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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.