Math Problem Statement

If the graph shows the derivative y = f'(x), how many critical points does the original function f(x) have on the interval shown?

Solution

To solve this problem, let's analyze the graph provided:

The graph represents the derivative y=f(x)y = f'(x) of a function f(x)f(x). To find the critical points of the original function f(x)f(x), we need to identify where f(x)=0f'(x) = 0 because critical points occur where the derivative of f(x)f(x) is zero or undefined. These points correspond to where the graph of f(x)f'(x) intersects the x-axis.

Upon examining the graph:

  1. The graph of f(x)f'(x) intersects the x-axis in two places, indicating two points where f(x)=0f'(x) = 0.
  2. Each of these intersections represents a critical point for the function f(x)f(x), as the slope of f(x)f(x) is zero at these points.

Therefore, the original function f(x)f(x) has 2 critical points on the interval shown.

Would you like further details or have any questions?


Here are five related questions that expand on this concept:

  1. What is the significance of the sign of f(x)f'(x) in determining the behavior of f(x)f(x)?
  2. How do you determine whether each critical point is a maximum, minimum, or saddle point?
  3. What would be the effect if f(x)f'(x) had a vertical asymptote instead of crossing the x-axis?
  4. How do we find inflection points of f(x)f(x) using its second derivative f(x)f''(x)?
  5. What information about f(x)f(x) can be derived from the regions where f(x)f'(x) is positive or negative?

Tip: Remember, the critical points are where the derivative equals zero or is undefined. Always check these points to understand the behavior of the function.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Calculus
Critical Points
Derivatives

Formulas

f'(x) = 0 to find critical points

Theorems

Critical points theorem for differentiable functions

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12