Math Problem Statement

Estimate the average rate of change from x = 4 to x = 7 based on the graph of f(x).

Solution

To solve the problem of estimating the average rate of change from x=4x = 4 to x=7x = 7, we can follow these steps:

Step 1: Recall the Formula for Average Rate of Change

The average rate of change of a function f(x)f(x) over an interval [a,b][a, b] is given by:

Average Rate of Change=f(b)f(a)ba\text{Average Rate of Change} = \frac{f(b) - f(a)}{b - a}

Where:

  • a=4a = 4
  • b=7b = 7

Step 2: Estimate f(4)f(4) and f(7)f(7)

From the graph:

  • At x=4x = 4, the corresponding yy-value (or f(4)f(4)) appears to be approximately f(4)=2f(4) = 2.
  • At x=7x = 7, the corresponding yy-value (or f(7)f(7)) is approximately f(7)=5f(7) = 5.

Step 3: Apply the Formula

Now, applying the formula for the average rate of change:

Average Rate of Change=f(7)f(4)74=5274=33=1\text{Average Rate of Change} = \frac{f(7) - f(4)}{7 - 4} = \frac{5 - 2}{7 - 4} = \frac{3}{3} = 1

Conclusion:

The estimated average rate of change from x=4x = 4 to x=7x = 7 is 1.


Would you like more details or have any further questions?

Here are some related questions to deepen your understanding:

  1. What is the significance of the average rate of change in a real-world context?
  2. How does the average rate of change relate to the slope of a secant line?
  3. Can you estimate the instantaneous rate of change at x=5x = 5 from the graph?
  4. How would you calculate the average rate of change for a different interval, such as from x=1x = 1 to x=4x = 4?
  5. What does it mean if the average rate of change is negative over an interval?

Tip: When working with graphs, approximate the values carefully by identifying exact points or using interpolation for better accuracy.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Calculus
Rate of Change
Slope
Function Analysis

Formulas

Average Rate of Change = (f(b) - f(a)) / (b - a)

Theorems

Secant Line Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12