Antiderivative of a Quartic Function

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on finding the antiderivative of a quartic function with specified roots and characteristics. The derivative, labeled f', has roots at (-5,0), a double root at (-2,0), and (2,0), with local maximums at (0,3) and (-3.5,3), and a local minimum at (-2,0). The correct approach to derive the quintic function f involves recognizing that the double root indicates a local maximum or minimum in the antiderivative, which should also exhibit inflection points at the corresponding locations. The equation for the quartic function is established as f'(x)=(x+5)(x+2)^2(x-2).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of polynomial functions and their derivatives
  • Knowledge of local maxima and minima in calculus
  • Familiarity with the power rule for differentiation
  • Ability to expand polynomial expressions
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to derive quintic functions from quartic derivatives
  • Study the behavior of inflection points in polynomial functions
  • Practice expanding polynomial equations using the power rule
  • Explore graphical representations of polynomial functions and their derivatives
USEFUL FOR

Students studying calculus, particularly those focusing on polynomial functions, derivatives, and antiderivatives. This discussion is beneficial for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of local extrema and inflection points in the context of higher-degree polynomials.

ohlhauc1
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Homework Statement


I need to find information pertaining to the antiderivative of a function. At the moment, I just need help in finding part of the derivative: what is happening at the double root (on the derivative)

I am given a quartic function labelled f' with roots at: (-5,0), a double root at (-2,0), and (2,0). There are two local maximums at (0,3) and (-3.5, 3). There is a local minimum at (-2, 0). I need to find f, which I know must be a quintic function. The picture of the quartic that I am given looks like an upside down W.

Homework Equations



I am not given the equation of the quartic function.

The Attempt at a Solution



I know that for f (the quintic function), there is a minimum at x=-5 because of the root (on the quartic) and that there is a maximum at x=2 because of the root. I also know that there are two inflection points at x=-3.5 and x=0 because the derivative (quartic) has a maximum there.

I just need to determine what is present on the antiderivative at the double root at (-2,0) which is also a local maximum. According to the principles that I know, there should be a local maximum or minimum, and that it should be an inflection point on the antiderivative. However, whenever I attempt to draw the antiderivative I can fit both of those criteria on the graph. Could you help me determine what exactly the antiderivative looks like or behaves like at the point?
 
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ohlhauc1 said:


Homework Equations



I am not given the equation of the quartic function.

Yes actually, you are. You are told all 4 roots of a polynomial degree 4.

EG [tex]x^2+2x+1=(x+1)(x+1)[/tex] Hence a double root at -1. We have the roots, work backwards. The equation is

[tex]f'(x)=(x+5)(x+2)^2(x-2)[/tex]. Expand and use the power rule.
 

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