Math Problem Statement

A particle moves along the x-axis so that its position at time 0 < t < 18 is given by x(t), whose graph is shown in the figure below. The inflection points of the graph are marked with green circles. Find all intervals of time when the particle is moving to the left.

Solution

To determine the intervals during which the particle is moving to the left, we analyze the graph of x(t)x(t). The particle moves left when its velocity, x(t)x'(t), is negative. The velocity corresponds to the slope of the graph x(t)x(t).

From the graph:

  1. The slope is negative in the following intervals:
    • From t=4t = 4 to t=6t = 6 (descending from a local maximum).
    • From t=9t = 9 to t=14t = 14 (descending from a local maximum to a local minimum).

Answer:

The particle is moving to the left during the intervals: (4,6) and (9,14).(4, 6) \text{ and } (9, 14).

Would you like a more detailed explanation or have any questions?
Here are some related questions to explore:

  1. How do we mathematically identify intervals of increasing or decreasing behavior for a function?
  2. What is the role of inflection points in analyzing motion along a curve?
  3. How can we determine intervals of acceleration or deceleration for the particle?
  4. Can we derive the velocity and acceleration graph from this position graph?
  5. How would the result change if the graph included more complex features like vertical tangents?

Tip: Always check the graph's slope carefully to interpret velocity changes correctly!

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Calculus
Graph Analysis
Velocity and Position Relationship

Formulas

The velocity of a particle is the derivative of its position: v(t) = x'(t).

Theorems

Relationship between the slope of a curve and its derivative

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12 (High School Calculus)