Finite difference comparison calculator
Check the step size in a finite-difference derivative approximation.
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Use comma-separated finite numbers on two lines. Magnitudes must be at most 1e9 and at least 1e-12, or zero.
The starting values are hypothetical. Results update as you edit. Use aggregate or synthetic inputs only.
Calculation results
- Backward slope
- 3.9
- Forward slope
- 4.1
- Centered slope
- 4
How to interpret the output
Compares backward, forward and centered differences at equally spaced locations. Repeat with several step sizes. Small steps amplify rounding or evaluation noise; large steps introduce approximation error. This does not estimate sampling uncertainty. Source checked 14 November 2026.
Method reference