Linearization
Use this interactive figure to explore the concept of linearization. As you "zoom in" on a graph, the graph begins to look like a straight line.
In the left pane, drag the center of the magnifying square and observe the magnified view of the function in the pane on the right.
Use the slider at the bottom of the left pane to increase the magnification (by a factor of 2n).
When you zoom in on the tangent line, the function and the line will become almost indistinguishable.
Developed for use with Thomas' Calculus, published by Pearson.