Math Problem Statement

The graph of the derivative of a function is given.

The x y-coordinate plane is given. The curve enters the window in the third quadrant, goes up and right, crosses the x-axis at x = −1, changes direction at the approximate point (−0.58, 0.4), goes down and right, crosses the x-axis at the origin, changes direction at the approximate point (0.58, −0.4), goes up and right, crosses the x-axis at x = 1, and exits the window in the first quadrant.

For which x is the (original) function increasing? For which x is the (original) function decreasing?

The function is increasing for −1 < x <  and x  ? < >  , and decreasing for x  ? < >  and 0 < x <  .

Solution

To determine when the original function is increasing or decreasing, we need to analyze the behavior of its derivative.

Key Concept:

  • A function is increasing when its derivative is positive.
  • A function is decreasing when its derivative is negative.

From the description, the derivative function crosses the xx-axis at:

  • x=1x = -1,
  • x=0x = 0,
  • x=1x = 1.

Additionally, there are turning points (changes in direction) at approximately:

  • (0.58,0.4)(-0.58, 0.4),
  • (0.58,0.4)(0.58, -0.4).

Step-by-Step Analysis:

  1. For x<1x < -1:

    • The derivative is below the xx-axis (negative).
    • Thus, the original function is decreasing.
  2. For 1<x<0-1 < x < 0:

    • The derivative is above the xx-axis (positive).
    • Thus, the original function is increasing.
  3. For 0<x<10 < x < 1:

    • The derivative is below the xx-axis (negative).
    • Thus, the original function is decreasing.
  4. For x>1x > 1:

    • The derivative is above the xx-axis (positive).
    • Thus, the original function is increasing.

Final Answer:

  • The function is increasing for 1<x<0-1 < x < 0 and 1<x1 < x.
  • The function is decreasing for x<1x < -1 and 0<x<10 < x < 1.

Let me know if you'd like more details or have any questions!

Here are 5 related questions:

  1. How do you find the critical points of a function given its derivative?
  2. What is the relationship between concavity and the second derivative?
  3. How does the behavior of the derivative at turning points affect the original function?
  4. Can a function be increasing or decreasing if its derivative is zero?
  5. How can we determine if the original function has a maximum or minimum at a given point?

Tip: Remember, the sign of the derivative indicates the slope of the original function: positive means increasing, negative means decreasing.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Calculus
Derivatives
Increasing and Decreasing Functions

Formulas

f'(x) > 0 implies function is increasing
f'(x) < 0 implies function is decreasing

Theorems

First Derivative Test

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12