Math Problem Statement

Based on the graph below, which of the following statements is true?

Solution

To analyze this question, let’s examine the graph of f(x)f(x):

The graph shows:

  1. A peak around x0.5x \approx 0.5, indicating a local maximum where the derivative f(x)=0f'(x) = 0.
  2. A valley around x2x \approx 2, indicating a local minimum where f(x)=0f'(x) = 0.
  3. Another point where the curve flattens around x3.5x \approx 3.5, but it’s neither a maximum nor a minimum, suggesting it’s an inflection point where f(x)=0f'(x) = 0.

Option Analysis

  1. Option 1: "The derivative is zero at two values of xx, one is a local maximum while the other is a local minimum."

    • This is correct because at x0.5x \approx 0.5, there's a local maximum, and at x2x \approx 2, there's a local minimum.
  2. Option 2: "The derivative is zero only at one value of xx where it is a local minimum."

    • This is incorrect as the derivative is zero at more than one point.
  3. Option 3: "The derivative is zero at two values of xx, one is a local maximum on the interval while the other is neither a local maximum nor a minimum."

    • This is incorrect since one of the points where the derivative is zero is indeed a local minimum.
  4. Option 4: "The derivative is zero at two values of xx, one is a local minimum on the interval while the other is neither a local maximum nor a minimum."

    • This option is incorrect because one point is a local maximum.
  5. Option 5: "The derivative is zero at two values of xx, both being local maxima."

    • This is incorrect as one is a local maximum and the other is a local minimum.

Conclusion

The correct answer is Option 1: "The derivative is zero at two values of xx, one is a local maximum while the other is a local minimum."

Would you like further details on this? Here are some related questions that might help deepen your understanding:

  1. What defines a critical point, and how does it differ from an inflection point?
  2. How do we determine whether a point is a local maximum, minimum, or neither?
  3. What are the implications of a zero derivative in a function's graph?
  4. How can we identify inflection points in a function?
  5. Why might the second derivative test be useful for confirming maxima and minima?

Tip: To confirm whether a point is a maximum, minimum, or inflection point, consider using both the first and second derivative tests.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Calculus
Critical Points
Local Maximum
Local Minimum
Inflection Point

Formulas

Derivative f'(x)

Theorems

First Derivative Test

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12 or College Level