Critical Points of f(x)=\frac{\sqrt[3]{x-4}}{x-1} - Max/Min Value

In summary, the conversation was about finding the critical points and maximum and minimum values of the function f(x)=\frac{\sqrt[3]{x-4}}{x-1} in the given interval [2; 12]. The attempt at a solution involved finding the derivative of the function and identifying the critical points, with one being x=1. The conversation ended with a suggestion to simplify the expression further to find any additional critical points.
  • #1
Lynne
12
0

Homework Statement


Determine function [tex] f(x)=\frac{\sqrt[3]{x-4}}{x-1}[/tex] critical points and find max and min value in given interval [tex] [2; 12] [/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



1) I've to find derivative:

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

2)Critical points are:

a) 2 and 12

b) [tex] \neg f'(x)[/tex] if x=1

c) [tex]\dfrac{\dfrac{1}{3} (x-4)^{\frac{-2}{3}}(x-1) - (x-4)^{\frac{1}{3}}}{(x-1)^2}=0[/tex]

here I stopped
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
You are missing a critical point. You have to keep simplifying that expression to see it. Try multiplying numerator and denominator by (x-4)^(2/3).
 

1. What are critical points?

Critical points are points on a graph where the function's derivative is equal to zero or undefined. They are important because they can indicate the location of maximum or minimum values for a function.

2. How do you find the critical points of a function?

To find the critical points of a function, you need to take the derivative of the function and set it equal to zero. Then, solve for the variable to find the critical point(s).

3. What is the maximum or minimum value of a function at a critical point?

The maximum or minimum value of a function at a critical point can be determined by using the second derivative test. If the second derivative is positive, the critical point is a local minimum. If the second derivative is negative, the critical point is a local maximum.

4. Can a critical point also be an inflection point?

Yes, a critical point can also be an inflection point. An inflection point is a point on a graph where the concavity of the function changes. This can occur at a critical point if the second derivative of the function is equal to zero.

5. How can critical points be used to optimize a function?

Critical points can be used to optimize a function by identifying the maximum or minimum values of the function. This can be useful in real-world applications, such as finding the optimal production level for a business or the maximum profit for a company.

Similar threads

  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
508
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
847
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
599
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
191
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
543
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
24
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
306
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
548
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
2K
Back
Top