Difference between Calculus and Statistics
Calculus and Statistics mean only one thing for many people, and that is long hours of study! Aside from the complexity associated with both subjects, they have a lot more to them, as you will see in this comparison article.
Definition
The term calculus literally translates into Latin for “small stone used for counting”. The study itself is a form of mathematics that concerns itself with limits, functions, derivatives, integrals, and infinite series. Calculus is currently a major component of most modern mathematics courses, and is divided into differential calculus and integral calculus.
Statistics is the term used to refer to data collection, organization, and interpretation. In addition, the science may also the process of planning the collection of data with regard to setting up surveys as well as experiments. The study of Statistics is often closely linked to probability theory.
Implications
Calculus is generally concerned with the study of change, in the same manner that geometry and algebra involve the study of shape and operations respectively. Studying Calculus is an essential step in the further study of various mathematics courses that deal with the study of functions and limits. These disciplines are grouped into the subjects known as mathematical analysis. Calculus itself is an essential component of science, economics, and even engineering.
Aside from its applications in terms of the scientific collection, analysis, interpretation, and presentation of data, Statistics may also be seen as a mathematical discipline. However, proponents of the scientific nature of Statistics point to its empirical origins and its focus on applications, which make it more a science than a field of mathematics.
Usage
Calculus is an essential part of many branches of science, including physical science, computer science, engineering, economics, medicine, and even Statistics. Calculus is basically useful for any purpose wherein a mathematically modeled solution is required. Even Physics makes use of Calculus in some form, since the fields of classical mechanics and electromagnetism are often linked via Calculus.
Statistics on the other hand can be used for purposes of summarizing or describing collated data, in a field of study known as descriptive statistics. This is a particularly useful discipline for purposes of research. Statistics is also used in order to derive inferences about certain processes or populations in a discipline known as inferential statistics. Inference itself is an essential component of science, in that it provides a data-based prediction that forms the basis of a logical theory.
Similarities and Differences
Calculus
- Literally translates into the Latin for “small stone used for counting”
- A form of mathematics that concerns itself with limits, functions, derivatives, integrals, and infinite series
- A major component of most modern mathematics courses
- Divided into differential calculus and integral calculus
Statistics
- Refers to data collection, organization, and interpretation
- Often closely linked to probability theory
- May also be seen as a mathematical discipline
- Can be used for purposes of summarizing or describing collated data
- Also used in order to derive inferences about certain processes or populations
