Math Problem Statement

solve

Based on the graph, order the given values of the derivatives f'(-4), f'(-2), f'(0), f'(2), and f'(4) from least to greatest.

Solution

To solve this problem, we need to analyze the graph and determine the relative values of the derivatives f(4)f'(-4), f(2)f'(-2), f(0)f'(0), f(2)f'(2), and f(4)f'(4).

Approach:

  1. Understanding the graph: The graph shows the function f(x)f(x). The derivative values at specific points tell us the slope of the tangent line at those points.

  2. Find slopes at specific points:

    • f(4)f'(-4): At x=4x = -4, the slope appears to be positive since the line is increasing.
    • f(2)f'(-2): At x=2x = -2, the graph is a peak, meaning the slope is zero here because it's a local maximum.
    • f(0)f'(0): At x=0x = 0, the graph is flat (horizontal), meaning the slope is zero again.
    • f(2)f'(2): At x=2x = 2, the graph is still increasing but flatter than at x=4x = -4. The slope is slightly positive.
    • f(4)f'(4): At x=4x = 4, the graph is decreasing sharply, so the slope is negative.

Comparing the slopes:

  • f(4)f'(-4): Positive and relatively steep.
  • f(2)f'(-2): Zero (local maximum).
  • f(0)f'(0): Zero (flat section).
  • f(2)f'(2): Positive but not as steep as at x=4x = -4.
  • f(4)f'(4): Negative and quite steep.

Ordering from least to greatest:

  • The smallest slope is f(4)f'(4) (negative value).
  • Then we have f(2)f'(-2) and f(0)f'(0), both equal to zero.
  • Next is f(2)f'(2), a positive slope, but not as steep.
  • Finally, the largest slope is f(4)f'(-4), which is the steepest positive slope.

Thus, the order is: f(4)<f(2)=f(0)<f(2)<f(4)f'(4) < f'(-2) = f'(0) < f'(2) < f'(-4)

Let me know if you need any further clarification or details!

Here are five related questions you could explore:

  1. What is the definition of the derivative and how does it relate to the slope of a graph?
  2. What are critical points, and why do they occur at x=2x = -2 and x=0x = 0 on this graph?
  3. How do you interpret increasing and decreasing intervals from a graph of a function?
  4. How can you determine concavity from the graph of a function, and what does it say about the second derivative?
  5. What is the significance of points where the derivative equals zero?

Tip: The derivative gives you the rate of change of a function. When analyzing graphs, local maximum and minimum points often correspond to where the derivative is zero, meaning the slope is flat.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Calculus
Derivatives
Graph Interpretation

Formulas

Derivative of a function, f'(x) represents the slope of the tangent line to the graph of f(x) at x

Theorems

First Derivative Test
Critical Points

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12 (AP Calculus or equivalent)