Math Problem Statement

Suppose f(x) is continuous on [3,7] and -2 ≤ f'(x) ≤ 3 for all x in (3,7). Use the Mean Value Theorem to estimate f(7) - f(3).

Solution

To solve this problem, we will apply the Mean Value Theorem (MVT).

The Mean Value Theorem states that if f(x)f(x) is continuous on the closed interval [3,7][3,7] and differentiable on the open interval (3,7)(3,7), then there exists some c(3,7)c \in (3,7) such that:

f(c)=f(7)f(3)73f'(c) = \frac{f(7) - f(3)}{7 - 3}

This simplifies to:

f(c)=f(7)f(3)4f'(c) = \frac{f(7) - f(3)}{4}

From the problem, we are given that:

2f(x)3for allx(3,7)-2 \leq f'(x) \leq 3 \quad \text{for all} \quad x \in (3,7)

Thus, applying this to the Mean Value Theorem:

2f(7)f(3)43-2 \leq \frac{f(7) - f(3)}{4} \leq 3

Now, multiply the entire inequality by 4 to estimate f(7)f(3)f(7) - f(3):

8f(7)f(3)12-8 \leq f(7) - f(3) \leq 12

Final Answer:

8f(7)f(3)12-8 \leq f(7) - f(3) \leq 12

Would you like more details or have any further questions?

Here are 5 related questions you might find helpful:

  1. How does the Mean Value Theorem apply to non-linear functions?
  2. Can the bounds on f(x)f'(x) ever affect the continuity of f(x)f(x)?
  3. What other theorems are similar to the Mean Value Theorem?
  4. How can we generalize this result for any interval [a,b][a,b]?
  5. How does the MVT help in estimating the maximum and minimum values of a function?

Tip: The Mean Value Theorem is a powerful tool to connect the values of a function to its derivative and is often used in estimating bounds on function values.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Calculus
Differential Calculus
Inequalities

Formulas

Mean Value Theorem: f'(c) = (f(b) - f(a)) / (b - a)

Theorems

Mean Value Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

College level Calculus or Advanced High School Calculus