Math Problem Statement

f(x)=2x^3-5x^2-19x+42

Solution

To analyze the function f(x)=2x35x219x+42f(x) = 2x^3 - 5x^2 - 19x + 42, we can discuss its key features such as critical points, behavior, and roots:

  1. Critical Points: These occur where the first derivative f(x)f'(x) is equal to zero. f(x)=ddx(2x35x219x+42)=6x210x19f'(x) = \frac{d}{dx}(2x^3 - 5x^2 - 19x + 42) = 6x^2 - 10x - 19 Now, solve 6x210x19=06x^2 - 10x - 19 = 0 to find the critical points.

  2. Inflection Points: These occur where the second derivative f(x)f''(x) is equal to zero. f(x)=ddx(6x210x19)=12x10f''(x) = \frac{d}{dx}(6x^2 - 10x - 19) = 12x - 10 Solve 12x10=012x - 10 = 0 to find the inflection point.

  3. Roots: The roots of the function are the values of xx for which f(x)=0f(x) = 0. To find these, solve the cubic equation: 2x35x219x+42=02x^3 - 5x^2 - 19x + 42 = 0

  4. End Behavior: Since the leading term is 2x32x^3, the function behaves like a cubic function at extreme values of xx. As xx \to \infty, f(x)f(x) \to \infty, and as xx \to -\infty, f(x)f(x) \to -\infty.

Would you like me to calculate any specific features, such as the roots or critical points?


Here are 5 related questions:

  1. How do we find the maximum or minimum values of the function?
  2. What is the behavior of the function at the critical points?
  3. Can you graph this cubic function based on its roots and critical points?
  4. How do you solve cubic equations like 2x35x219x+42=02x^3 - 5x^2 - 19x + 42 = 0?
  5. How do inflection points affect the graph of a function?

Tip: When analyzing polynomial functions, always consider derivatives to find critical and inflection points, as they reveal much about the graph's shape.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Calculus
Cubic Functions
Derivatives
Critical Points
Inflection Points

Formulas

First derivative: f'(x) = 6x^2 - 10x - 19
Second derivative: f''(x) = 12x - 10
Cubic equation: 2x^3 - 5x^2 - 19x + 42 = 0

Theorems

Critical points occur where f'(x) = 0
Inflection points occur where f''(x) = 0
End behavior of cubic functions as x approaches infinity or negative infinity

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12