Math Problem Statement

Let g(x) be a continuous and differentiable function on [-7, 0]. Suppose that g(-7)=-3 and g’(x) <= 2, what is the maximum value of g(0)?

Solution

To find the maximum possible value of g(0)g(0) given that g(x)g(x) is continuous and differentiable on [7,0][-7, 0] with the information provided, we can use the Mean Value Theorem (MVT).

Step-by-Step Solution:

  1. Mean Value Theorem (MVT): Since g(x)g(x) is continuous on [7,0][-7, 0] and differentiable on (7,0)(-7, 0), the Mean Value Theorem applies. According to the MVT, there exists a point c(7,0)c \in (-7, 0) such that: g(c)=g(0)g(7)0(7)=g(0)+37.g'(c) = \frac{g(0) - g(-7)}{0 - (-7)} = \frac{g(0) + 3}{7}.

  2. Applying the Derivative Condition: We are given that g(x)2g'(x) \leq 2 for all x[7,0]x \in [-7, 0]. Therefore, g(0)+372.\frac{g(0) + 3}{7} \leq 2.

  3. Solving the Inequality: Multiply both sides by 7 to solve for g(0)g(0): g(0)+314.g(0) + 3 \leq 14. g(0)11.g(0) \leq 11.

Conclusion:

The maximum possible value of g(0)g(0) is 11\boxed{11}.

Would you like further details or have any questions about this problem?


Here are some related questions to deepen your understanding:

  1. How would the solution change if g(x)3g' (x) \leq 3 instead of 2?
  2. Why is the Mean Value Theorem applicable to this problem?
  3. What if g(7)=5g(-7) = -5 instead of g(7)=3g(-7) = -3?
  4. How does continuity and differentiability of g(x)g(x) affect the application of MVT here?
  5. Could g(0)g(0) exceed 11 if g(x)g(x) had discontinuities?

Tip: In problems involving maximum values and derivatives, always consider if the Mean Value Theorem or other derivative-based inequalities apply.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Calculus
Mean Value Theorem
Inequalities

Formulas

Mean Value Theorem: g'(c) = (g(b) - g(a)) / (b - a)
Inequality application: g(0) + 3 <= 14

Theorems

Mean Value Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12