If f''(x)=0, how do you find the convexity of the function?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding the convexity of a function given that its second derivative is zero, specifically in the context of functions with vertical asymptotes and constant first derivatives.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking, Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the implications of having a second derivative equal to zero and question the conditions under which a function can be considered convex or concave. They discuss specific examples and the behavior of functions near vertical asymptotes.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants examining various interpretations of the problem. Some have provided examples to illustrate points, while others are questioning the validity of certain assumptions regarding continuity and the nature of asymptotes.

Contextual Notes

There is a focus on the behavior of functions around critical points, particularly where vertical asymptotes are present. Participants are also considering the definitions of convexity and concavity in relation to straight lines and the implications of constant derivatives.

  • #31
Getting to your original question where ##f''(x) = 0## can the function be convex. Others have pointed out if you have this equation holding in an interval, the function is linear there. But if you just have ##f''(c)=0## for a single point, that just tells you that the function may be concave up, down, or neither depending on higher derivatives at that point. Think about ##y = x^4## at ##x=0##. It is obviously concave up at ##x=0## but ##f''(0) = f'''(0) = 0## and ## f^{4}(0)=24##. But ##x^3## has neither concavity at ##0##. And for ##x^n## for larger values of ##n## it's the same story, only more so.
 
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  • #32
If ##f''(c)=0## but doesn't change sign before and after, then the concavity also doesn't change. If it changes its sign, then the concavity changes and ##c## is called an inflection point.
A linear function is both concave up and down, though.
 
  • #33
LCKurtz said:
or neither
How?
EDIT : Oh, you mean an inflection point.
 
  • #34
It could literally be neither without being an inflection point. Perhaps the graph has a straight line segment at ##c##. Unless you want to consider a straight line to be both concave up and down, which I don't think is standard convention. Nor would you consider such a point an inflection point since there is not a change of concavity at ##c##.
 

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