Methods for calculating (usually) accurate numerical first and second order derivatives. Accurate calculations are done using 'Richardson''s' extrapolation or, when applicable, a complex step derivative is available. A simple difference method is also provided. Simple difference is (usually) less accurate but is much quicker than 'Richardson''s' extrapolation and provides a useful cross-check. Methods are provided for real scalar and vector valued functions.
copied from cf-post-staging / r-numderiv