Calculus : a powerful mathematical tool

Abstract

Man has always been fascinated by the wealth Of nature around him, and intrigued by the complexity of the heavens. His never-ending study of the universe has led him to improve techniques and open up new fields of study. Until the seventeenth century the predominant school of thought laid down the foundations for a static and immutable universe. This theory did not explain exactly the facts, collected over the centuries, which advocated the idea of a dynamic and developing world. This necessitated a review of the mathematics available at the time, to enable it to deal with problems of change and growth. The chief credit for the development of such a powerful mathematical tool - the Calculus -- is due to Sir Isaac Newton and Baron von Leibniz. Calculus -- Latin for pebble, since calculating two thousand years ago was largely a matter of counting pebbles) -- was invented in the first place to deal with slopes of curves and the areas 'under' them. It has since proved an invaluable aid to science and engineering.