The ⋆-Function

Calculus as the study of the variation and behaviour of functions is an immensely powerful tool with which we can model and understand many real world phenomena. In fact, historically its origins in the 1600's and onwards were strongly rooted in the scientific desire to understand problems of speed, time, acceleration and forces. Unfortunately, calculus is often nowadays taught somewhat divorced from these historical roots. Such real world applications, however, could be a strong source for motivating students and gaining their interest.