Math Problem Statement

The graphs of f, f', and f'' are shown. Identify each one (a, b, c).

Solution

To identify each of the functions ff, ff', and ff'' from the graphs, let’s analyze the relationships between these functions and their graphical behaviors:

  1. Function ff:

    • ff is the original function, which should have relative maxima or minima where its derivative ff' crosses the x-axis (where f=0f' = 0).
    • The concavity of ff (whether it curves upwards or downwards) is determined by ff'', the second derivative.
  2. First Derivative ff':

    • The first derivative ff' gives the slope of the tangent to the curve ff. Where ff' crosses the x-axis, ff has a maximum or minimum (i.e., critical points).
    • ff' will be positive where ff is increasing and negative where ff is decreasing.
  3. Second Derivative ff'':

    • The second derivative ff'' tells us about the concavity of ff. Where ff'' is positive, ff is concave up, and where ff'' is negative, ff is concave down.
    • Points where ff'' crosses the x-axis indicate inflection points of ff, where the concavity changes.

Now, based on the graph:

  • Graph aa (red):

    • This graph looks smooth and shows large changes in its slope. It appears to have a local maximum and minimum, which corresponds to critical points where ff' (the derivative) should be zero.
    • Hence, aa is likely ff, the original function.
  • Graph bb (green):

    • This graph crosses the x-axis at the points where aa (red) has maxima and minima, which suggests that bb represents the derivative ff'.
    • bb is likely ff', the first derivative.
  • Graph cc (blue):

    • This graph crosses the x-axis at the inflection points of aa (red), where the concavity of aa changes. This indicates that cc represents ff'', the second derivative.
    • cc is likely ff'', the second derivative.

Final Identification:

  • aa is ff
  • bb is ff'
  • cc is ff''

Would you like further clarification on any of these points or a deeper explanation? Here are some questions to extend your understanding:

  1. How do we find the critical points of a function using its derivative?
  2. What role does the second derivative play in determining the concavity of a function?
  3. How can inflection points be found using the second derivative?
  4. How does the first derivative test work to classify maxima and minima?
  5. Can you explain the connection between the second derivative and acceleration in physics?

Tip: When analyzing graphs of ff, ff', and ff'', always check where the first derivative equals zero to find the extrema of ff, and where the second derivative changes sign to find inflection points.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Calculus
Derivatives
Graphical Analysis

Formulas

First Derivative f'(x)
Second Derivative f''(x)

Theorems

First Derivative Test
Concavity Test

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12, College