Graphing Function: (x^2 + x -12)/(x-4)

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The discussion centers on sketching the function (x^2 + x - 12)/(x - 4) and understanding its critical points. The first derivative was calculated, revealing local maximum and minimum points at 4 - 2√2 and 4 + 2√2, respectively. However, confusion arose when the minimum value (16.47) was greater than the maximum value (3.32). It was clarified that these points are local extrema, and the function is discontinuous at x = 4, leading to two separate graphs. The conclusion emphasizes that local maxima and minima can occur without the maximum being greater than the minimum due to the function's behavior around the undefined point.
Government$
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Homework Statement



I should sketch function (x^2 + x -12)/(x-4).




The Attempt at a Solution


I have problem with first derivative i find it to be (x^2 - 8x +8)/(x-4)^2 with roots at 4 - 2√2, 4 + 2√2, and 4(we lose four because f is not defined at 4). Where at 4 - 2√2 f is at max and at 4 + 2√2 f is at min. But when i plug those two roots in f i find that when x 4 - 2√2 f is = 3.32 and when i plug 4 + 2√2 i find f to be 16.47. How come min is greater then max? Is that even possible?
 
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Government$ said:

Homework Statement



I should sketch function (x^2 + x -12)/(x-4).

The Attempt at a Solution


I have problem with first derivative i find it to be (x^2 - 8x +8)/(x-4)^2 with roots at 4 - 2√2, 4 + 2√2, and 4(we lose four because f is not defined at 4). Where at 4 - 2√2 f is at max and at 4 + 2√2 f is at min. But when i plug those two roots in f i find that when x 4 - 2√2 f is = 3.32 and when i plug 4 + 2√2 i find f to be 16.47. How come min is greater then max? Is that even possible?

Sure it is possible. They are only a local max and a local min. Start filling in your sketch of the rest of the function. You'll see what's happening.
 
I figured it out by myself when i sketched graph. My professor didn't mention local max and min, he only talked about absolute. Thank you anyway.
 
Hi Government$! :smile:
Government$ said:
… But when i plug those two roots in f i find that when x 4 - 2√2 f is = 3.32 and when i plug 4 + 2√2 i find f to be 16.47. How come min is greater then max? Is that even possible?

At x = 4 it goes off to infinity.

The graph is effectively two unconnected graphs either side of x = 4, one with a maximum and one with a minimum …

since they're unconnected, there's no reason why the maximum should be more than the minimum! :wink:
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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