AP test problems, Derivatives and Tangent lines

In summary, the function f given by f(x) = (2x-5)/(x^2-4) has a domain of all real numbers except for x = 2 and x = -2, and has a vertical asymptote at x = 2 and x = -2 and a horizontal asymptote at y = 0. The derivative of f, f'(x), is given by -2(x-4)(x-1)/(x^2-4)^2 and the equation for the tangent line at the point (0,f(0)) is y = (-1/2)x + 5/4.
  • #1
chris40256
5
0

Homework Statement


Let f be the function given by f(x) = (2x-5)/(x^2-4).
a.Find the domain of f.
b.Write an equation for each vertical and each horizontal asymptote for the graph of f.
c.Find f'(x).
d.Write an equation for the line tangent to the graph of f at the point (0,f(0)).

The Attempt at a Solution


Note: Just checking answers!
a.domain: x does not equal 2 or -2 because those values of x make the denominator 0
b. vertical asymptote
x = 2, x = -2
horizontal asymptote
as x goes to positive or negative infinity
f(x) goes to 0
y = 0

c. f'(x) = (2(x^2 - 4) - (2x - 5)(2x))/(x^2-4)^2
= (2x^2 - 8 - 4x^2 + 10x)/(x^2-4)^2
= -2(x^2 - 5x + 4)/(x^2-4)^2
= -2(x-4)(x-1)/(x^2-4)^2
f(0) = -5/(-4) = 5/4

d. y - 5/4 = slope (x - 0)
slope = f'(0) = -2(-4)(-1)/(-4)^2 = -8/16 = -1/2
y - 5/4 = (-1/2)x
y = (-1/2)x + 5/4
 
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  • #2
This is all correct.
1656786939227.png


https://www.wolframalpha.com/input?i=f(x)+=+(2x-5)/(x^2-4)
 

1. What are derivatives and why are they important in AP test problems?

Derivatives are mathematical tools used to calculate the rate of change of a function at a specific point. They are important in AP test problems because they help students understand the behavior of functions and solve problems involving rates of change, optimization, and graph analysis.

2. How do you find the derivative of a function?

The derivative of a function is found by taking the limit of the difference quotient as the change in x approaches 0. This can also be written using the derivative notation of f'(x) or dy/dx. In some cases, rules such as the power rule, product rule, and chain rule can be used to find the derivative.

3. How do you use derivatives to find tangent lines?

The derivative of a function at a specific point represents the slope of the tangent line at that point. To find the equation of a tangent line, you can use the point-slope form with the given point and slope (the derivative). Alternatively, you can also use the slope-intercept form with the given point and the function value at that point.

4. What are some common mistakes students make when solving AP test problems involving derivatives and tangent lines?

Some common mistakes students make include using the wrong derivative rules, not simplifying their answers, and forgetting to include units or labels in their final answer. Additionally, students may struggle with setting up the correct equations or making arithmetic errors. It is important to double check all work and show all steps in solving these problems.

5. Can you give an example of an AP test problem involving derivatives and tangent lines?

Sure, here is an example: Find the equation of the tangent line to the curve y = x^2 at the point (2,4).
The derivative of y = x^2 is y' = 2x.
At x = 2, y' = 2(2) = 4.
Using the point-slope form with the given point (2,4) and slope (4), the equation of the tangent line is y - 4 = 4(x - 2).
Simplifying, the equation becomes y = 4x - 4.
Therefore, the equation of the tangent line is y = 4x - 4.

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