How Does Calculus Appear in Physics?

Calculus is everywhere in physics! It describes how things move, how forces act, and how energy changes.

• Velocity and Acceleration: The derivative of position is velocity; the derivative of velocity is acceleration.
• Work and Energy: Integrals calculate total work done by a force.
• Motion Under Gravity: Predict how objects fall or move in space.

Why Is This Useful?

Calculus lets scientists and engineers predict and control the physical world, from rollercoasters to rocket launches!

Everyday Example

Dropping an apple? Calculus tells you how fast it’s going at any split second as it falls.