Finding three Constants given only relative Max, and y intercept

In summary: If you plug in (a, b) = (0.12, -1.2) you'll see that your point (5, 12) is on the graph. In summary, the constants a, b, and c for the function f(x) = ax2 + bx + c that has a relative maximum at (5, 12) and crosses the y-axis at (0, 3) are a = 0.12, b = -1.2, and c = 3.
  • #1
Hypnos_16
153
1

Homework Statement



Find constants a, b, and c such that the graph of f(x) = ax2 + bx + c has a relative maximum at (5 , 12) and crosses the the y - axis at (0 , 3).

Homework Equations



Not sure what to use

The Attempt at a Solution



-- i don't have one --
 
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  • #2
Since you're given the y-intercept (0, 3), you know that when x = 0, f(x) = 3. Plug in these values into
f(x) = ax2 + bx + c
and you should be able to find one of the 3 constants.

You were given the hint in your other thread that the derivative at an extrenum is 0. Find the derivative of
f(x) = ax2 + bx + c
and plug in some values. Plug in some more values into f(x) and you'll find yourself with 2 equations and 2 unknowns.
 
  • #3
so after plugging in (0,3) i got that c = 3.
f'(x) = 2ax + b
after plugging in (5,12) being the max i got that

f'(5) = 2(a)(5) + b
f'(5) = 10a + b

but i don't see where i can really go from there.
 
  • #4
Hypnos_16 said:
so after plugging in (0,3) i got that c = 3.
f'(x) = 2ax + b
after plugging in (5,12) being the max i got that

f'(5) = 2(a)(5) + b
f'(5) = 10a + b

but i don't see where i can really go from there.

You missed this:
eumyang said:
You were given the hint in your other thread that the derivative at an extrenum is 0.
So
f'(5) = 10a + b = 0.

You also need to plug in (5, 12) into
f(x) = ax2 + bx + c
and you'll have two equations with two unknowns.
 
  • #5
So since i know that (5,12) i know that when x is 5 y is 12
soooooo
f'(x) = 2ax + b
f'(x) = 10a + b = 0
b = 10a

f(5) = 25a + 5b + 3
f(5) = 25a + 5(10a) + 3
f(5) = 25a + 50a + 3
f(5) = 75a + 3
12 = 75a + 3
9 = 75a
a = 0.12
?

something like that?
then just fill in what i know to find b

b = 10a
b = 1.2
?
 
  • #6
That's the idea, but you have one sign error...

Hypnos_16 said:
So since i know that (5,12) i know that when x is 5 y is 12
soooooo
f'(x) = 2ax + b
f'(x) = 10a + b = 0
b = 10a
Here. Should be b = -10a.
 

1. What is the significance of finding three constants given relative max and y intercept?

Finding three constants allows us to accurately model a function and make predictions about its behavior. It also helps us understand the relationship between the variables involved.

2. How do I find the constants if I only have the relative max and y intercept?

To find the constants, we need to set up a system of equations using the known values of the relative max and y intercept. We can then solve for the constants using algebraic methods.

3. Can I find the constants using a graph of the function?

Yes, you can estimate the values of the constants by plotting the function and using the known points of the relative max and y intercept. However, this method may not be as accurate as solving the equations algebraically.

4. What if the function is not a polynomial?

In this case, finding three constants may not be possible. Some functions cannot be accurately modeled using three constants. However, we can still use other methods to analyze and understand the behavior of the function.

5. Are the constants unique for every function?

Yes, the constants are unique for every function. Even if two functions have the same relative max and y intercept, their constants may be different. This is because the constants represent the specific characteristics of each individual function.

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