Math Problem Statement

Find the intervals where the function f(x), whose graph is given below, is increasing and where it is decreasing, and identify the local maximum and local minimum.

Solution

From the graph you have provided, we can analyze the intervals where the function f(x)f(x) is increasing, decreasing, and determine the local maximum and minimum values.

Step-by-Step Analysis:

  1. Increasing Intervals: The function is increasing when the slope of the graph is positive. Observing the graph:

    • The function increases from x10x \approx -10 to x1x \approx -1 (before reaching a local maximum).
    • It also increases from x2x \approx 2 onward.

    Increasing Intervals:

    • (10,1)(-10, -1)
    • (2,)(2, \infty)
  2. Decreasing Intervals: The function is decreasing when the slope is negative. From the graph:

    • The function decreases from x1x \approx -1 to x2x \approx 2 (after the local maximum but before the local minimum).

    Decreasing Interval:

    • (1,2)(-1, 2)
  3. Local Maximum: A local maximum occurs where the function changes from increasing to decreasing. This happens at x1x \approx -1.

    Local Maximum:

    • The value of f(x)f(x) at x1x \approx -1 appears to be around f(x)=8f(x) = 8.
  4. Local Minimum: A local minimum occurs where the function changes from decreasing to increasing. This happens at x2x \approx 2.

    Local Minimum:

    • The value of f(x)f(x) at x2x \approx 2 is around f(x)=8f(x) = -8.

Summary:

  • Increasing Intervals: (10,1)(-10, -1) and (2,)(2, \infty)
  • Decreasing Interval: (1,2)(-1, 2)
  • Local Maximum: At x=1x = -1, f(x)=8f(x) = 8
  • Local Minimum: At x=2x = 2, f(x)=8f(x) = -8

Would you like further details or explanations?

Here are some related questions you might consider:

  1. How do we find the exact coordinates of a local maximum or minimum using calculus?
  2. What does the first derivative test tell us about increasing and decreasing intervals?
  3. How do we classify critical points based on the second derivative?
  4. Can a function have more than one local maximum or minimum in a given interval?
  5. How would a vertical shift affect the local extrema of the graph?

Tip: Always check where the derivative of a function is zero or undefined to find potential local maxima and minima!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Calculus
Functions
Derivatives
Maxima and Minima

Formulas

Increasing/Decreasing intervals: Use the derivative f'(x) > 0 for increasing, f'(x) < 0 for decreasing.
Local Maximum: Occurs where the function changes from increasing to decreasing (f'(x) = 0 and f''(x) < 0).
Local Minimum: Occurs where the function changes from decreasing to increasing (f'(x) = 0 and f''(x) > 0).

Theorems

First Derivative Test
Second Derivative Test

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12 or early university level (Calculus)