Math Problem Statement

Given the following information about the functions g and h, if f(x) = g(h(x)), what is the value of f'(3)?

Solution

We are tasked with finding f(3)f'(3) given that f(x)=g(h(x))f(x) = g(h(x)).

To solve this, we apply the chain rule:

f(x)=g(h(x))h(x)f'(x) = g'(h(x)) \cdot h'(x)

From the table, when x=3x = 3:

  • h(3)=2h(3) = 2,
  • g(h(3))=g(2)g'(h(3)) = g'(2), and g(2)=0g'(2) = 0 from the table,
  • h(3)=2h'(3) = 2.

Using the chain rule: f(3)=g(h(3))h(3)=g(2)h(3)=02=0f'(3) = g'(h(3)) \cdot h'(3) = g'(2) \cdot h'(3) = 0 \cdot 2 = 0

Thus, f(3)=0f'(3) = 0.

Would you like further explanation, or do you have additional questions?

Here are 5 related questions to expand your understanding:

  1. What is the chain rule, and how is it applied in general?
  2. Can you find f(x)f'(x) for a different value of xx using the same table?
  3. Why does g(2)=0g'(2) = 0 cause f(3)f'(3) to be zero, regardless of h(3)h'(3)?
  4. How does the composition of functions affect their derivatives?
  5. Could we extend this process to three or more nested functions?

Tip: Always identify intermediate values, like h(x)h(x), before applying derivative rules for composite functions.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Differentiation
Composite Functions
Chain Rule

Formulas

f'(x) = g'(h(x)) * h'(x)

Theorems

Chain Rule

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12 (Advanced High School Calculus)