Math Problem Statement

Use the given graph of the function to find the x-values for which f is not differentiable.

Solution

To determine where the function is not differentiable, we need to look for certain characteristics in the graph. A function is not differentiable at points where:

  1. There is a sharp corner or cusp.
  2. The function is discontinuous (a jump or a hole in the graph).
  3. The slope is vertical (the tangent line has an infinite slope).

From the graph:

  • At x=4x = -4: There is a sharp corner, which means the function is not differentiable at this point.
  • At x=2x = -2: There is a jump discontinuity (a gap in the function), so the function is not differentiable here.
  • At x=0x = 0: There is a hole in the graph, indicating a discontinuity, so the function is not differentiable at this point.
  • At x=2x = 2: There is a sharp corner, so the function is not differentiable at this point.

Conclusion:

The function is not differentiable at x=4,2,0,2x = -4, -2, 0, 2.

Would you like further explanation or details on why differentiability fails at these points?

Here are 5 related questions to expand on this topic:

  1. What is the formal definition of differentiability at a point?
  2. How do continuous functions differ from differentiable functions?
  3. Can a function be continuous but not differentiable at certain points?
  4. What are the implications of having vertical tangents on differentiability?
  5. How do limits play a role in determining differentiability?

Tip: If a function has a sharp corner or cusp, it's an indication that the left-hand and right-hand slopes do not match, hence it's not differentiable at that point.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Differentiability
Continuity
Sharp Corners
Jump Discontinuity
Vertical Tangents

Formulas

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Theorems

A function is not differentiable at points where it has sharp corners, vertical tangents, or discontinuities.

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12