Math Problem Statement

At the point (3, 0), the function transitions from one domain to another. Complete the sentence: The function is ______ to the right of the point and ______ to the left of the point.

Solution

The given function is:

f(x)=2x(x1)(x3)2f(x) = 2x(x - 1)(x - 3)^2

Additionally, the derived function l(x)=f(x)(x+1)3l(x) = f(x) \cdot (x + 1)^3 is mentioned.

The question asks:

At the point (3,0)(3,0), the function changes its behavior in terms of monotonicity (increasing or decreasing). You are asked to determine the correct behavior of the function around this point.

Solution approach:

1. Analyze f(x)f(x):

The function f(x)=2x(x1)(x3)2f(x) = 2x(x-1)(x-3)^2 is a product of a cubic and quadratic polynomial. The point (3,0)(3,0) is a root where x=3x = 3, and the term (x3)2(x - 3)^2 ensures this is a repeated root, meaning that at x=3x = 3, the derivative of f(x)f(x) will vanish (no sign change occurs here for f(x)f(x)).

  • The function doesn't cross the x-axis at x=3x = 3, but rather it just touches it because (x3)(x - 3) is squared.

2. Monotonicity:

At x=3x = 3, since the function doesn't cross the axis but touches it and changes its concavity, it is likely that the function exhibits a local extremum (a minimum or maximum). The function is positive to the left of 3 and non-positive to the right.

Thus, the behavior near x=3x = 3 would indicate that the function is decreasing before reaching 3 and increasing after passing through it, implying that the point is likely a minimum.

Conclusion:

The correct answer should be that the function undergoes a monotonic minimum at x=3x = 3, indicating a change from decreasing to increasing.

Do you need further details or have any questions?


Here are 5 follow-up questions:

  1. How do you find the critical points of a function?
  2. What is the significance of a repeated root in a polynomial?
  3. How does the derivative help in determining the monotonicity of a function?
  4. What is the difference between local maxima and minima?
  5. How do you determine concavity at a point?

Tip: When analyzing the behavior of a function at a given point, always check the derivative and second derivative to assess monotonicity and concavity.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Polynomial Functions
Monotonicity
Roots and Extrema

Formulas

f(x) = 2x(x - 1)(x - 3)^2

Theorems

Behavior of polynomials at repeated roots

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12