Decreasing Functions: S Correct, R Doubtful

In summary, the conversation discusses the statements S and R about the decreasing nature of sinx and cosx in the interval (π/2,π) and the relationship between a differentiable function's decrease in an interval and its derivative's decrease in that same interval. The conclusion is that both statements are true, but R is not the correct explanation of S. The conversation also explores the difference between a function's derivative being less than 0 and the function itself decreasing. The correct answers to the given question are c) and d).
  • #1
zorro
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0

Homework Statement



Consider the following statements S and R
S : Both sinx and cosx are decreasing functions in the interval (π/2,π)
R : If a differentiable function decreases in an interval (a,b), then its derivative also decreases in (a,b)

Which of the following is/are true?
a) Both S and R are wrong
b) Both S and R are correct but R is not the correct explanation of S
c) R is wrong
d) S is correct



The Attempt at a Solution



S is correct.
I have doubt regarding R.
A function is decreasing iff its derivative is less than 0. I am confused between the 'decreasing of derivative' and 'derivative being less than 0'. Are both same?

I think b and d are correct.
 
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  • #2
S is indeed correct.
Now, you said that a function decreases iff it's derivative is less than 0. Now, can you find a function which is less than 0, but increases nonetheless?
 
  • #3
Consider [itex]f(x)= x^2[/itex] on [-1, 0]. It is decreasing. What is its derivative. Is it decreasing also?
 
  • #4
I got it. Thanks
The answers are c) and d)
 

1. What is a decreasing function?

A decreasing function is a mathematical function in which the output values decrease as the input values increase.

2. How do you determine if a function is decreasing?

To determine if a function is decreasing, you can graph the function and observe if the graph moves downward from left to right. Another way is to calculate the slope of the function at different points and see if the slope is negative.

3. What is the significance of a decreasing function?

Decreasing functions are important in mathematics and in real-world applications. They are used to model relationships between variables in fields such as economics, physics, and biology. They also help in analyzing trends and making predictions.

4. Can a decreasing function have a positive slope?

No, a decreasing function cannot have a positive slope. By definition, a decreasing function has a negative slope, meaning that the output values decrease as the input values increase.

5. What is the difference between an S-correct and an R-doubtful decreasing function?

An S-correct decreasing function is a function that is strictly decreasing, meaning that the output values decrease at a constant rate as the input values increase. An R-doubtful decreasing function is a function that is decreasing, but not strictly decreasing. This means that the output values may decrease at a varying rate or may have some flat regions.

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