Discrete Memes

Perfect visual representation of mathematical operations in 3D modeling. The summation symbol (Σ) represents discrete, chunky polygonal rendering—basically counting individual faces. Meanwhile, the integral symbol (∫) gives us those smooth, continuous curves that make calculus professors swoon. It's the difference between counting stairs and sliding down a ramp. Next time someone asks why calculus matters, just point to their unnaturally smooth video game character.

The staircase perfectly captures the fundamental difference between summation and integration. The left side with discrete steps represents summation (Σ) - counting each individual step as you climb. Meanwhile, the ramp on the right represents integration (∫) - a smooth, continuous path covering the same vertical distance. Mathematicians will tell you they're equivalent in the limit, but engineers know which one is wheelchair accessible. The real question: would calculus have been invented sooner if Newton had mobility issues?