Why is the slope of a curve at a point equivalent to the slope of the tangent line at that point?

• A. Because the tangent line represents the instantaneous rate of change of the curve at that point.
• B. Because the tangent line is the only line that can touch the curve at that point.
• C. Because the tangent line is always horizontal.
• D. Because the tangent line is always vertical.

Answer: (A)