Math Problem Statement

Given the graph of f(x), determine all values of c guaranteed by Rolle's Theorem using the interval [-4,6].

Solution

The question asks to determine the values of cc that are guaranteed by Rolle's Theorem for the given function f(x)f(x) over the interval [4,6][-4, 6].

Rolle's Theorem Conditions:

For Rolle's Theorem to apply, the function f(x)f(x) must meet three conditions:

  1. Continuity: f(x)f(x) is continuous on the closed interval [4,6][-4, 6].
  2. Differentiability: f(x)f(x) is differentiable on the open interval (4,6)(-4, 6).
  3. Equal End Values: f(4)=f(6)f(-4) = f(6).

Once these conditions are met, Rolle's Theorem guarantees that there exists at least one cc in the interval (4,6)(-4, 6) such that f(c)=0f'(c) = 0, i.e., a point where the tangent line is horizontal.

Step-by-Step:

  1. Check for continuity and differentiability: The graph appears to be smooth (no breaks or sharp turns), indicating that the function is continuous and differentiable over the given interval.
  2. Equal End Values: From the graph, we need to check whether f(4)=f(6)f(-4) = f(6). Both f(4)f(-4) and f(6)f(6) are equal to 0, so the third condition is met.

Thus, Rolle's Theorem applies, and we need to find the values of cc where f(c)=0f'(c) = 0 (these are the points where the graph has horizontal tangents, or the critical points).

Critical Points (where slope is zero):

By visually inspecting the graph, the critical points where the slope of the graph is zero (i.e., horizontal tangent lines) occur approximately at:

  • c=2c = -2
  • c=2c = 2

These are the points where the function reaches local maxima or minima.

Final Answer:

The values of cc that satisfy Rolle's Theorem are c=2,2c = -2, 2.

Do you have any questions or would you like further details?

Here are 5 related questions for practice:

  1. How is Rolle's Theorem different from the Mean Value Theorem?
  2. What are the necessary conditions for the Mean Value Theorem to apply?
  3. Can a function be continuous but not differentiable? Provide an example.
  4. What is the geometric interpretation of Rolle's Theorem?
  5. How do we find the derivative of a function from its graph?

Tip: Always ensure that the function satisfies all three conditions of Rolle's Theorem before applying it to find the critical points.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Rolle's Theorem
Differentiability
Continuity
Critical Points

Formulas

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Theorems

Rolle's Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12 or early university