Can You Solve for a+b/2 in the Continuity Problem f(x)=((x-a)^2)*((x-b)^2) + x?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves the function f(x)=((x-a)^2)*((x-b)^2) + x and seeks to demonstrate that it can take on the value of (a+b)/2 for some x. The context is rooted in continuity and potentially the application of relevant theorems.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to evaluate f(a) and f(b) to understand their implications. Questions about theorems related to continuity and the relationship between f(a), f(b), and (a+b)/2 are being raised.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of the function's values at specific points, with some participants expressing confusion about the relationship to (a+b)/2. Hints about the intermediate value theorem have been introduced, suggesting a potential direction for the discussion.

Contextual Notes

Participants are grappling with the definitions and implications of the function's values at a and b, as well as the continuity of the function. There is a noted lack of clarity regarding how these relate to the desired outcome of (a+b)/2.

fastblue
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Homework Statement



Show the problem f(x)=((x-a)^2)*((x-b)^2) + x take on a value of a+b/2
for some x?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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What are f(a) and f(b)?? Can you think of a theorem that might apply??
 
Dick said:
What are f(a) and f(b)?? Can you think of a theorem that might apply??

Have no idea...
 
fastblue said:
Have no idea...

What are f(a) and f(b)? Work it out!
 
Dick said:
What are f(a) and f(b)? Work it out!
How do I do that, can you show me.
Thanks
 
fastblue said:
How do I do that, can you show me.
Thanks

Put 'a' in for 'x' into your expression for f(x). The result is f(a). What is it? Start DOING SOMETHING, ok?
 
ok, what does that do for you, as get two different answers
 
so that gives you (a-b)^2 + a and (b-a)^2 + b
so what do u do next.
 
a^2+b^2 - 2ab and b^2+a^2-2ab +b
 
  • #10
fastblue said:
so that gives you (a-b)^2 + a and (b-a)^2 + b
so what do u do next.

That's not right. Show me how you got those and I'll show you what you did wrong.
 
  • #11
I just put in a for x and b for x, its obvious, what is wrong with it...?
 
  • #12
Could you show me the reasoning, as have no clue how to do the problem, just spinning my wheels.
 
  • #13
fastblue said:
I just put in a for x and b for x, its obvious, what is wrong with it...?

f(a)=(a-a)^2*(a-b)^2+a. What's (a-a)^2?
 
  • #14
0 I guess?
 
  • #15
so how do you solve the remainder of the problem then??
 
  • #16
fastblue said:
0 I guess?

So what does that give for f(a) and f(b)? How are they related to (a+b)/2? To finish it get your book out and look for a theorem about continuous functions that might help. I'll give you a hint. The name of the theorem has the word 'intermediate' in it.
 
  • #17
Sorry still don't get the relationship thing between a+b/2, can you explain further
 

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