Math Problem Statement

Find the interval of values of x for which the function is decreasing.

Solution

To find the interval where the function f(x)=3x26x+2f(x) = 3x^2 - 6x + 2 is decreasing, we need to follow these steps:

  1. Find the derivative f(x)f'(x): The first derivative of the function will give us the rate of change of f(x)f(x) with respect to xx. The function is decreasing where this derivative is negative.

    f(x)=ddx(3x26x+2)f'(x) = \frac{d}{dx} \left( 3x^2 - 6x + 2 \right)

    f(x)=6x6f'(x) = 6x - 6

  2. Determine where f(x)<0f'(x) < 0: The function is decreasing where the derivative is less than zero.

    6x6<06x - 6 < 0

    6x<66x < 6

    x<1x < 1

Thus, the function f(x)=3x26x+2f(x) = 3x^2 - 6x + 2 is decreasing on the interval (,1)(-\infty, 1).

Would you like any further details or have any questions?

Here are some related questions you might consider:

  1. What is the interval where the function is increasing?
  2. How do you find the critical points of a function?
  3. What is the second derivative of f(x)f(x) and what does it indicate?
  4. How do you determine the local minimum and maximum points of a function?
  5. How can you find the vertex of the quadratic function f(x)=3x26x+2f(x) = 3x^2 - 6x + 2?

Tip: When analyzing the behavior of functions, always start by finding the derivative. The sign of the derivative helps determine if the function is increasing or decreasing.