What is Gradient? Simple, Short and Straightforward Explanation!

Gradient

Before reading this post, you must have basic knowledge of:

• Partial Derivative

• Scalars and Vectors 

Before we explain what the gradient is, we have to define what is the nabla operator (∇).

Basics:

• Gradient is a vector quantity.

• Gradient is applied only on scalar quantities.

• 
  
  

Meaning: 

• It explains the variation of the function in x, y and z directions.

• Ex: The variation of temperature in a room due to AC.

Example:

Find the gradient of function F at point (1, 2, 3)

Where:

  

Solution:

     

That means the change is 4 in the direction of x, 31 in the direction of y and 54 in the direction of z.

Thank you very much for reading and I hope you get the meaning of gradient by now!