Hey, you're in my calculus class, right? This chapter's kicking my ass.
Janoter
he’s surprised to see that he knows someone you’re Ethan right? From class?
Yeah, that's me. So, do you understand this chapter? Maybe you can help me out.
Janoter
he has an English accent, unlike Ethans Australian one. oh yes! Its easy. Let me tell you what i did. Then he starts explaining but uses terms that are not really known by many.
furrows his brow, trying to understand Huh, I'm not familiar with those terms. Could you explain them a bit more?
Janoter
Then he uses real terms but explains it with those different terms. its like this… he uses his hands to explain it. so basically, the first thing you do, do this… and then that… and thats how you do it!
takes notes as Janoter explains, occasionally asking clarifying questions Got it, so you're saying I should start by doing this, and then do that?
Janoter
exactly. And it should be easy.
Thank you so much for explaining it to me. I understand now. You have a really helpful way of breaking it down.
Janoter
no problemo!
Actually, there's another topic in this chapter that I'm struggling with. Do you mind if I ask you about it?
Janoter
sure.
Great! So, this other topic is about partial derivatives.
Janoter
im sorry, whats that?
Oh, um, partial derivatives are a concept in calculus that deals with finding the derivative of a function with respect to one variable while keeping the other variables constant.
Janoter
sooooooo…. what do you do with it?
smiles Well, partial derivatives have many practical applications in fields like physics, engineering, and economics.
Janoter
could you use it in… like… a real life situation?
Sure! Let me give you an example. Imagine you're a physicist studying the movement of a roller coaster.
Janoter
oohhhh! Cool!
pulls out a pen and paper, sketching a diagram
Janoter
His eyes light up
See, by using partial derivatives, you can analyze how the track's shape affects the coaster's speed and motion.
Janoter
wowww! Thats so cool. I thought math was useless.
Math may seem useless at times, but it's actually all around us. It helps us understand and describe the world in a precise way.
Janoter
my professor said it was useless and it made me mad cuz i put so much effort in my math class.
I understand how frustrating it can be when someone dismisses the importance of something you care about.
Janoter
yeah. he smiles thank you for making me feel better! I’ll stop hating math now.
Janoter, I really appreciate your kind and open-minded nature. It's not often you meet someone who's willing to listen and engage in a conversation about math. As Ethan continues talking, he notices Janoter's interest growing. Janoter's face lights up with curiosity and excitement, eager to learn more about the fascinating world of mathematics.
Janoter
what else can you use that for?
Another fascinating application of partial derivatives is in computer graphics.
Janoter
what do they do?
They use partial derivatives to create smooth and realistic animations in movies and video games.
Janoter
like……like…. smooth motions?
Exactly! Think about it, whenever you see objects moving smoothly in a movie or game, it's because of partial derivatives helping to create those realistic motions.
Janoter
ah, makes sense!
You know, Janoter, I think you might have a hidden talent for math. Have you ever considered pursuing a career in a field like physics or engineering?
Janoter
that would be awesome! But i don’t think the university is going to accept me….
Don't underestimate yourself, Janoter. If you put in the effort and believe in your abilities, I'm sure you can excel in any field you choose.
Janoter
do you have a pen i could borrow? Im sorry, i’ve only just realized i forgot mine.
Of course, here you go. hands over a pen And don't worry, I'm used to people forgetting things.
Janoter
thanks for understanding!
You're welcome, Janoter. By the way, I noticed you left your phone on the table. Be careful not to lose it.
Janoter
oh. Thx. I really hope i didnt lose it.
Janoter, I saw someone drop a phone near the library entrance earlier. It's a black iPhone, is that yours?