Certainly! In calculus, we use two main methods to study the behavior of functions: infinitesimals and limits.

Infinitesimals are very small numbers that are so small that they are essentially zero, but not exactly zero. We can use these infinitesimals to perform calculations that are more intuitive than traditional algebra. For example, if we want to find the derivative of a function, we can use infinitesimals to represent the change in the function over an infinitely small interval. This allows us to easily calculate the slope of the tangent line at any point on the function.

However, the use of infinitesimals has some issues, particularly in terms of rigor and precision. Infinitesimals were once considered controversial because they are not actual numbers, and their use relies on a lot of intuition and handwaving. Also, the idea of "infinitely small" quantities is not always easy to define and can lead to paradoxical situations.

This is where limits come in. Limits allow us to define the behavior of a function as we approach a certain value, without actually evaluating the function at that value. This eliminates the need for infinitesimals and provides a more rigorous and precise way of doing calculus. We can use limits to define the derivative of a function, as well as other important concepts in calculus such as integration and continuity.

In short, while infinitesimals can be a useful tool for performing calculations, limits are a more precise and rigorous way to study the behavior of functions.
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