Mean Value Theorem: Estimating f(0.1)

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In summary, the question asks to estimate the value of f(.1) using the given inequality and information about the function f and its derivative f'. By applying the mean value theorem and using a calculator, we can find a lower and upper bound for f(.1) based on the minimum and maximum values of f' on the interval [0, .1].
  • #1
cheezeitz
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Homework Statement



Let f be a function defined on an interval [a,b]. min f' <= f(b) - f(a) / b -a <= max f' where min f' and max f' refer to the mininmum and maximum values of f' on [a,b]

Then the question is
Using that inequality; estimate f(.1) if f'(x) = 1 / (1 + x^4 cos x) for 0 <= x <= .1 and f(0) = 1


The Attempt at a Solution



I really don't know where to start with this, I have min f'(x) <= f'(c) <= max f'.
The book says to use a calculator too.
 
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  • #2
For your interval, a = 0 and b = .1. You are given that f'(x) = 1/(1 + x^4 cos x). Clearly f'(0) = 1, and this will be the maximum value of f' on the interval in question. Use your calculator to get an approximate value for f'(.1).

In the following inequality, min f' and max f' refer to the minimum and maximum of f' on the interval [0, .1].
min f' <= (f(.1) - f(0))/.1 <= max f'
==> .1*(min f') <= f(.1) - f(0) <= .1*(max f')

Now add f(0), which is given, to all members of this inequality to get a lower bound and an upper bound on f(.1).
 
  • #3
Hint: State the mean value theorem if a = 0 and b = .1 and use what you are given.
 

1. What is the Mean Value Theorem?

The Mean Value Theorem is a fundamental theorem in calculus that states that if a function is continuous on a closed interval and differentiable on the open interval, then there exists at least one point within the interval where the instantaneous rate of change (derivative) of the function is equal to the average rate of change (slope) of the function over the interval. In other words, there is a point where the tangent line is parallel to the secant line.

2. How is the Mean Value Theorem used to estimate f(0.1)?

The Mean Value Theorem can be used to estimate f(0.1) by finding the average rate of change of the function over the interval [0,0.1] and then finding the point within the interval where the instantaneous rate of change (derivative) of the function is equal to the average rate of change. This point will be the estimated value of f(0.1).

3. Why is estimating f(0.1) important?

Estimating f(0.1) can be important in many real-world applications, such as in physics, economics, and engineering. It allows us to approximate the value of a function at a specific point, which can be useful for making predictions and solving problems.

4. What are the limitations of using the Mean Value Theorem to estimate f(0.1)?

The Mean Value Theorem can only be used to estimate f(0.1) if the function is continuous on the interval [0,0.1] and differentiable on the open interval (0,0.1). Additionally, the estimated value may not be exact, as it is based on the average rate of change and assumes that the function is changing at a constant rate over the interval.

5. Can the Mean Value Theorem be used to estimate f(x) at any point other than 0.1?

Yes, the Mean Value Theorem can be used to estimate f(x) at any point within the interval where the function is continuous and differentiable. The process is the same as estimating f(0.1) - finding the average rate of change and then finding the point where the instantaneous rate of change is equal to the average rate of change.

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