Math Problem Statement

The graph of the second derivative f'' of a function f is shown. State the x-coordinates of the inflection points of f.

Solution

The graph you provided represents the second derivative f(x)f''(x) of a function f(x)f(x). To find the inflection points of f(x)f(x), we need to look for the points where f(x)=0f''(x) = 0 and where the sign of f(x)f''(x) changes, indicating a transition from concave up to concave down, or vice versa.

Observations:

From the graph:

  • f(x)=0f''(x) = 0 at approximately x=2x = 2, x=4x = 4, and x=6x = 6.
  • Around these points, the graph shows a sign change:
    • At x=2x = 2, f(x)f''(x) changes from positive to negative (indicating a concave up to concave down transition).
    • At x=6x = 6, f(x)f''(x) changes from negative to positive (indicating a concave down to concave up transition).
    • At x=4x = 4, there seems to be no sign change, meaning this point is not an inflection point.

Conclusion:

The inflection points of f(x)f(x) are at: x=2,6x = 2, 6

Let me know if you'd like more details!

Here are some related questions for deeper understanding:

  1. What is the difference between an inflection point and a critical point?
  2. How is the concavity of a function determined using the second derivative?
  3. Can a point be an inflection point if the second derivative does not exist at that point?
  4. How does the second derivative test relate to the first derivative test in finding local extrema?
  5. What are the practical applications of identifying inflection points in real-world scenarios?

Tip: Always verify inflection points by checking for a sign change in f(x)f''(x) to confirm the concavity change.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Calculus
Inflection Points
Concavity
Second Derivative

Formulas

f''(x) = 0 (for inflection points)
Sign change in f''(x) determines concavity change

Theorems

Inflection Point Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12 (Pre-Calculus/Calculus)