Math Problem Statement

For what value of x does the function f(x) = e^(x^4 / 4 + 10px) have a critical point? Answer with an expression that includes p.

Solution

Let's solve the given problem step-by-step.

Problem:

For what value of xx does the function f(x)=ex4/4+10pxf(x) = e^{x^4 / 4 + 10px} have a critical point?
Answer with an expression that includes pp.


Solution:

Step 1: Find the critical points.

Critical points occur where the derivative of the function is zero or undefined. We need to compute the derivative f(x)f'(x) with respect to xx and set it equal to zero.

Given: f(x)=ex4/4+10pxf(x) = e^{x^4 / 4 + 10px}

We will use the chain rule for differentiation.

Step 2: Differentiate f(x)f(x).

Since f(x)=eg(x)f(x) = e^{g(x)}, where g(x)=x44+10pxg(x) = \frac{x^4}{4} + 10px, the derivative is:

f(x)=eg(x)g(x)f'(x) = e^{g(x)} \cdot g'(x)

Now, we need to compute g(x)g'(x).

Step 3: Differentiate g(x)=x44+10pxg(x) = \frac{x^4}{4} + 10px.

= x^3 + 10p$$ #### **Step 4: Set $$f'(x) = 0$$.** Since $$e^{g(x)} \neq 0$$ for any real $$x$$, the equation $$f'(x) = 0$$ simplifies to: $$x^3 + 10p = 0$$ #### **Step 5: Solve for $$x$$.** $$x^3 = -10p$$ $$x = \sqrt[3]{-10p}$$ --- ### **Answer:** The function $$f(x) = e^{x^4 / 4 + 10px}$$ has a critical point at: $$x = \sqrt[3]{-10p}.$$ --- Do you have any questions, or would you like further details? Here are 5 related questions you might explore: 1. What is the significance of critical points in function analysis? 2. How does the chain rule apply to exponential functions? 3. What if the derivative was undefined at some points—how would that affect critical points? 4. How would the answer change if $$p$$ were a function of $$x$$? 5. What happens if $$p = 0$$? Where are the critical points then? **Tip:** Remember, functions involving exponentials often require careful use of the chain rule when differentiating.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Calculus
Differentiation
Exponential Functions

Formulas

Chain Rule
Derivative of Exponential Functions

Theorems

Critical Points Theorem
Chain Rule

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12