Compute Difference Quotient

[nycmath]

Precalculus
David Cohen
Edition 3
Chapter 3, Srction 3.1

Compute the difference quotient for the function.

See attachment.

What does -2 represent?

[Eigenvalue]

The -2 represents the average slope between 2 points on the line. As h approaches 0, it is the derivative

[nycmath]

The -2 represents the average slope between 2 points on the line. As h approaches 0, it is the derivative

In other words, average rate of change = slope = derivative. Yes? Can we safely say that (delta y)/(delta x) = m = slope = derivative = average rate of change?