Can we write Rolle's Theorem this way?

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In summary, Rolle's theorem states that if a real-valued function of a real variable meets the conditions of being continuous on [a,b], differentiable on (a,b), and having the same output at the endpoints (a and b), then there exists a real number c between a and b where the derivative of the function is equal to 0. This also applies to cases where the output at the endpoints may not be equal, as long as there exists a point c between them where the output is equal to the output at one of the endpoints.
  • #1
nil1996
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Rolle's theorem:

Statements:
If y =f(x) is a real valued function of a real variable such that:

1) f(x) is continuous on [a,b]
2) f(x) is differentiable on (a,b)
3) f(a) = f(b)

then there exists a real number c[itex]\in[/itex](a,b) such that f'(c)=0

what if the the f(x) is like the following graph:
attachment.php?attachmentid=66149&stc=1&d=1391078080.png


here there is a point 'c' for which f'(c) =0 but f(a) [itex]\neq[/itex] f(b)

So to take such cases in consideration can we make a change to the last statement of Rolle's theorem as:
3)f(c) > [f(a),f(b)] Or f(c)<[f(a),f(b)]

are there any exceptions to the above statement?
 

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  • #2
Yes, that statement works. The easiest way to prove this is to notice that if f(c.) > f(b) > f(a) (for example), then there exists some d such that a<d<c and f(d) = f(b) by the intermediate value theorem. Then applying Rolle's theorem to the interval [d,c] completes the proof.

This computer seems to insist on writing f(c.) without the period as f©, hence the strange notation.
 
  • #3
Office_Shredder said:
Then applying Rolle's theorem to the interval [d,c] completes the proof.

Do you mean interval[d,b]
 
  • #4
Yeah good catch
 
  • #5
Thanks :smile:
 
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1. What is Rolle's Theorem?

Rolle's Theorem is a mathematical theorem that states that if a function is continuous on a closed interval and differentiable on the open interval, and the function's values at the endpoints of the interval are equal, then there exists at least one point within the interval where the derivative of the function is equal to zero.

2. How is Rolle's Theorem typically written?

Rolle's Theorem is typically written in the form of "If f is continuous on [a, b] and differentiable on (a, b) with f(a) = f(b), then there exists at least one c in (a, b) such that f'(c) = 0."

3. Why is Rolle's Theorem important?

Rolle's Theorem is important because it is a fundamental theorem in calculus that is used to prove other theorems, such as the Mean Value Theorem. It also has practical applications in real-world problems, such as optimizing functions in economics and physics.

4. Can Rolle's Theorem be written in different ways?

Yes, Rolle's Theorem can be written in various forms, such as using different variable names or rearranging the components of the theorem. However, the underlying concept and meaning remain the same.

5. Are there any limitations to using Rolle's Theorem?

Yes, Rolle's Theorem has certain conditions that must be met in order for it to be applicable. The function must be continuous and differentiable on specific intervals, and the values at the endpoints of the interval must be equal. If these conditions are not met, then Rolle's Theorem cannot be used.

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