A few quick questions with derivatives using limit def.

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding derivatives using the limit definition for various functions, including rational and polynomial functions, as well as a square root function. Participants are exploring the application of the limit process to determine derivatives at specific points.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster expresses uncertainty about how to start the problem and seeks guidance. Some participants provide the limit definition of the derivative and suggest specific forms for the functions in question. Others emphasize the importance of showing work and understanding the process rather than just receiving answers.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the original poster's questions, offering insights into the limit definition of derivatives and prompting the poster to clarify their attempts. There is a focus on ensuring that the original poster understands the steps involved in the process.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted expectation for the original poster to show their work in future posts, indicating a homework policy that encourages individual effort and understanding.

Precal_Chris
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Homework Statement


The first one says use the limit definition to find the derivative of the function.
F(x)= 1/(2x-4)

the second one is use the limit definition to find the derivative at the indicated point..
f(x)= -x^3 + 4x^2, at (-1,5)

the last one is use the limit process to find the slope of the graph of the function at the specified point.
f(x)= sqrt of (x + 10), at (-1,3)


Homework Equations


i know that this equation is used to help find it..
F(x + P)- f(x)/ P
p=the change in x..or delta x



The Attempt at a Solution


i don't even know where to begin ...but any help at all is welcomed and thanked.
 
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Precal_Chris said:

Homework Statement


The first one says use the limit definition to find the derivative of the function.
F(x)= 1/(2x-4)

the second one is use the limit definition to find the derivative at the indicated point..
f(x)= -x^3 + 4x^2, at (-1,5)

the last one is use the limit process to find the slope of the graph of the function at the specified point.
f(x)= sqrt of (x + 10), at (-1,3)


Homework Equations


i know that this equation is used to help find it..
F(x + P)- f(x)/ P
p=the change in x..or delta x



The Attempt at a Solution


i don't even know where to begin ...but any help at all is welcomed and thanked.

Well, first of all the definition of the derivative, as you may know is:

[tex]f'(x)=\lim_{h\rightarrow 0}\frac{f(x+h)-f(x)}{h},f'(a)=\lim_{x\rightarrow a}\frac{f(x)-f(a)}{x-a}[/tex]


For your first function it would be

[tex]f'(x)=\lim_{h\rightarrow 0}\frac{\frac{1}{2(x+h)-4}-\frac{1}{2x-4}}{h}[/tex] Now you can go from here, right?

Second one:

[tex]f'(-1)=\lim_{x\rightarrow -1}\frac{-x^{3}+4x^{2} -f(-1)}{x-(-1)}[/tex]

Third one

[tex]slope=m=f'(-1)=\lim_{x\rightarrow -1}\frac{\sqrt{x+10}-\sqrt{-1+10}}{x-(-1)}[/tex]

Now all you need to do is evaluate those limits. DO u know how to do it?
 
Blah, i forgot: You NEED to show your work next time, before anyone here can help you.
 
For example, if I wanted to find the derivative of the function 2x^2 + 5 using the definition of a limit, I would use the formula:

[tex]\lim_{\substack{h\rightarrow 0}}\frac{f(x+h)-f(x)}{h}=\lim_{\substack{h\rightarrow 0}}\frac{2(x+h)^2+5-(2x^2+5)}{h}[/tex]


[tex]=\lim_{\substack{h\rightarrow 0}}\frac{2x^2+4xh+2h^2+5-2x^2-5}{h}=\lim_{\substack{h\rightarrow 0}}\frac{4xh+2h^2}{h}[/tex]


[tex]=\lim_{\substack{h\rightarrow 0}}4x+2h=4x[/tex]

See how f(x) = 2x^2 + 5 and f(x+h) = 2(x+h)^2 + 5?
 
Last edited:
To the OP:In order to receive further help, please show us what you have tried so far, and point out where are u stuck. Remember you are supposed to do your own homework not us.!
 
ok i didnt know that
 

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