Math Problem Statement

Solve the inequality f(x) ≤ 0, where f(x) = -2(x + 2)(x - 3)^3, by using the graph of the function.

Solution

To solve the inequality f(x)0f(x) \leq 0 using the graph, let's analyze the behavior of the function f(x)=2(x+2)(x3)3f(x) = -2(x + 2)(x - 3)^3.

Step-by-Step Analysis

  1. Identify the Zeros of f(x)f(x):

    • The function is zero when x+2=0x + 2 = 0 or (x3)3=0(x - 3)^3 = 0.
    • Solving these:
      • x+2=0x=2x + 2 = 0 \Rightarrow x = -2
      • (x3)3=0x=3(x - 3)^3 = 0 \Rightarrow x = 3

    So, f(x)=0f(x) = 0 at x=2x = -2 and x=3x = 3.

  2. Determine Where f(x)0f(x) \leq 0 by Observing the Graph:

    • The graph crosses the x-axis at x=2x = -2 and x=3x = 3.
    • For xx values between 2-2 and 33, the function f(x)f(x) is below the x-axis, indicating f(x)<0f(x) < 0 in this interval.
    • Outside this interval (i.e., x<2x < -2 and x>3x > 3), the graph shows f(x)>0f(x) > 0.
  3. Solution in Interval Notation:

    • Since we are looking for f(x)0f(x) \leq 0, we include the points where f(x)=0f(x) = 0, which are x=2x = -2 and x=3x = 3.
    • Therefore, the solution set is: [2,3][-2, 3]

Final Answer

The solution set for f(x)0f(x) \leq 0 is [2,3]\boxed{[-2, 3]}.

Would you like further details on any step?

Here are some related questions for further exploration:

  1. What are the implications of the cubic term (x3)3(x - 3)^3 on the shape of the graph?
  2. How does the negative coefficient 2-2 affect the direction of the graph?
  3. How can we verify the solution by analyzing the derivative of f(x)f(x)?
  4. What happens to the solution if the inequality changes to f(x)<0f(x) < 0?
  5. How would the solution set change if f(x)0f(x) \geq 0 were the inequality?

Tip: When working with inequalities involving polynomial functions, the zeros of the function help divide the number line into intervals where the function keeps a consistent sign. Analyzing each interval then gives the solution.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Inequalities
Polynomial Functions
Graphical Analysis

Formulas

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

Theorems

Zero Product Property

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12