Math Problem Statement

Suppose that f(x+h) - f(x) = -5hx^2 - 8hx + 6h^2x - 3h^2 + 7h^3. Find f'(x).

Solution

To find f(x)f'(x), we will use the definition of the derivative:

f(x)=limh0f(x+h)f(x)h.f'(x) = \lim_{h \to 0} \frac{f(x+h) - f(x)}{h}.

Given that f(x+h)f(x)=5hx28hx+6h2x3h2+7h3f(x+h) - f(x) = -5hx^2 - 8hx + 6h^2x - 3h^2 + 7h^3, we can plug this into the formula:

f(x)=limh05hx28hx+6h2x3h2+7h3h.f'(x) = \lim_{h \to 0} \frac{-5hx^2 - 8hx + 6h^2x - 3h^2 + 7h^3}{h}.

Now, simplify the expression by dividing each term by hh:

f(x)=limh0(5x28x+6hx3h+7h2).f'(x) = \lim_{h \to 0} (-5x^2 - 8x + 6hx - 3h + 7h^2).

As h0h \to 0, the terms involving hh, h2h^2, and h3h^3 vanish, leaving us with:

f(x)=5x28x.f'(x) = -5x^2 - 8x.

So, the derivative is:

f(x)=5x28x.f'(x) = -5x^2 - 8x.

Would you like further details or have any questions? Here are five related questions to explore:

  1. What is the general process of finding a derivative using the limit definition?
  2. How do higher powers of hh disappear as h0h \to 0?
  3. Can you find the second derivative f(x)f''(x) from the expression we derived?
  4. How does this method compare to using basic differentiation rules (like the power rule)?
  5. How does the behavior of f(x)f'(x) change as xx increases or decreases?

Tip: When simplifying a derivative expression, always carefully consider which terms will vanish as h0h \to 0 to avoid unnecessary complexity.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Calculus
Derivatives
Limits

Formulas

f'(x) = lim(h -> 0) [f(x+h) - f(x)] / h

Theorems

Limit Definition of Derivative

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12 or Introductory College Level