Math Problem Statement

Determine the intervals where the graph of f is concave upward and where it is concave downward. Find the inflection point of f, if it exists.

Solution

To determine the intervals of concavity and the inflection point for the graph of ff, let's analyze the given information in the image.

Step-by-Step Solution:

  1. Identify Concave Upward and Downward Sections:

    • Concave Upward: A graph is concave upward on intervals where it "curves upwards," resembling the shape of a cup. This occurs when the second derivative f(x)>0f''(x) > 0.
    • Concave Downward: A graph is concave downward on intervals where it "curves downwards," resembling an upside-down cup. This occurs when f(x)<0f''(x) < 0.

    From the graph:

    • The function appears concave downward from x=0x = 0 to x=1x = 1, as the graph curves downward.
    • It changes to concave upward from x=1x = 1 onward, as the curve starts bending upwards.

    Therefore:

    • Concave Downward Interval: (0,1)(0, 1)
    • Concave Upward Interval: (1,)(1, \infty)
  2. Determine the Inflection Point:

    • An inflection point is where the concavity changes, which typically occurs where f(x)=0f''(x) = 0 or f(x)f''(x) is undefined.
    • In this case, the graph changes concavity at x=1x = 1, so there is an inflection point at x=1x = 1.
    • The yy-value at x=1x = 1 appears to be y=1y = 1.

    Therefore, the inflection point is at (1,1)(1, 1).

Final Answer:

  • Concave Upward Interval: (1,)(1, \infty)
  • Concave Downward Interval: (0,1)(0, 1)
  • Inflection Point: (1,1)(1, 1)

Would you like a more detailed explanation, or do you have any further questions?

Further Questions:

  1. How do we determine concavity using the second derivative?
  2. Can a function have more than one inflection point?
  3. Why does concavity change at an inflection point?
  4. How does the concavity of a function affect its graph shape?
  5. What are the practical applications of concavity in real-world problems?

Tip:

Remember that concavity changes at points where the second derivative changes sign, which is typically where inflection points are located.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Calculus
Concavity
Inflection Points

Formulas

Second derivative test for concavity

Theorems

Concavity and Inflection Point Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12 or introductory college-level calculus