Find Absolute Maxima and Minima of f(x) on [-2,2]

In summary, the conversation discusses finding the absolute maxima and minima of a function, specifically f(x)=(2x)/(x^2+1) on the interval [-2,2]. The derivative is found to be (2x^2-2)/(x^2+1)^2 and it is explained that a maximum point occurs when the derivative changes from positive to negative and a minimum point occurs when the derivative changes from negative to positive. To find these points, the derivative is set equal to zero and solved for the x coordinates, also known as critical points. Additional resources are recommended for better understanding of the assignment.
  • #1
the_ace
7
0
1. Find the absolute maxima and the absolute minima of the following function

f(x)=(2x)/(x^2+1) on [-2,2]
 
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  • #2
i found the derivative = (2x^2-2)/(x^2+1)^2
 
  • #3
Okay, what will the derivative be at a maximum point?
 
  • #4
I can't solve it
 
  • #5
A maximum would occur if the derivative exists and changes sign from positive to negative at a certain point.

A minimum would occur if the derivative exists and changes sign from negative to positive at a certain point.

This means the derivative must pass through zero to change the sign. So, equate your derivative to zero and solve for the x coordinates of these points. In Calculus, these points are called critical points.

Just in case you don't understand, I'd recommend the following resources:

http://ltcconline.net/greenl/courses/115/applications/frsttst.htm
http://www.math.wvu.edu/~hjlai/Teaching/Tip-Pdf/Tip1-21.pdf
http://www.math.ucdavis.edu/~xiaoh/16a/extrema.pdf

It's important to understand what the assignment is on before attempting it.
 
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1. What is the definition of absolute maximum and minimum?

Absolute maximum and minimum refer to the highest and lowest values that a function can attain over a given interval. They represent the global extremes of the function and are often referred to as the overall maximum and minimum.

2. How do you find the absolute maximum and minimum of a function?

To find the absolute maximum and minimum of a function, you need to first find the critical points by taking the derivative of the function and setting it equal to zero. Then, evaluate the function at these points as well as at the endpoints of the given interval. The highest and lowest values obtained from these evaluations will be the absolute maximum and minimum of the function.

3. What is the difference between local and absolute maxima and minima?

Local maxima and minima refer to the highest and lowest values within a small interval around a specific point on the function. They represent the highest or lowest point in that particular region but may not be the overall highest or lowest point of the function. Absolute maxima and minima, on the other hand, refer to the highest and lowest values of the entire function over a given interval.

4. Can a function have multiple absolute maxima or minima?

Yes, a function can have multiple absolute maxima or minima. This can occur when the function has multiple peaks or valleys within the given interval. In this case, each peak and valley would represent an absolute maximum or minimum.

5. What is the significance of finding the absolute maxima and minima of a function?

Finding the absolute maxima and minima of a function is important because it helps us understand the behavior of the function and identify its extreme values. This information can be useful in various applications, such as optimizing a process or determining the maximum or minimum value of a quantity.

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