Let function ƒ be Differentiable

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of the Intermediate Value Theorem to solve a problem involving a differentiable function and its derivative. It is noted that although continuity is typically required to apply the theorem, in this case, Darboux's theorem can be used because the function is differentiable.
  • #1
sergey_le
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Homework Statement
Let function ƒ be Differentiable in the interval [0,1] so that 0≤f'(x)≤1 for all x in the interval [0,1].
Prove that there is a point x in [0,1] so that f'(x)=x.
Relevant Equations
Intermediate value theorem
What I've tried is:
I have defined a function g(x)=f(x)-x^2/2. g Differentiable in the interval [0,1] As a difference of function in the interval.
so -x≤g'(x)≤1-x for all x∈[0,1] than -1≤g'(x)≤0 or 0≤g'(x)≤1 .
Then use the Intermediate value theorem .
The problem is I am not given that f' is continuous
 
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  • #2
Interesting problem. First, it looks like you need continuity to apply the intermediate value theorem, but in fact you don't. Here you know that ##f## is differentiable, so ##f'## is still 'sufficiently nice', in the following sense:

##f'## may be discontinuous, but it still satisfies the intermediate value theorem. This is known as Darboux's theorem. See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darboux's_theorem_(analysis) for two short elementary proofs.
 
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  • #3
Math_QED said:
Interesting problem. First, it looks like you need continuity to apply the intermediate value theorem, but in fact you don't. Here you know that ##f## is differentiable, so ##f'## is still 'sufficiently nice', in the following sense:

##f'## may be discontinuous, but it still satisfies the intermediate value theorem. This is known as Darboux's theorem. See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darboux's_theorem_(analysis) for two short elementary proofs.
Thanks
 

1. What does it mean for a function to be differentiable?

When a function is differentiable, it means that it has a well-defined derivative at every point within its domain. This means that the function is smooth and continuous, and its rate of change can be calculated at every point.

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

A function is differentiable if it meets certain criteria, such as being continuous and having a defined derivative at every point within its domain. This can be determined using mathematical techniques, such as the limit definition of a derivative.

3. What is the difference between a differentiable function and a non-differentiable function?

A differentiable function is smooth and continuous, meaning it has a well-defined derivative at every point. A non-differentiable function, on the other hand, may have sharp corners, discontinuities, or undefined derivatives at certain points within its domain.

4. Why is it important for a function to be differentiable?

Differentiable functions have a well-defined rate of change at every point, making them useful in modeling and analyzing various real-world phenomena. They also play a crucial role in many mathematical concepts, such as optimization and differential equations.

5. Can a function be differentiable at some points but not others?

Yes, a function can be differentiable at some points within its domain but not others. This typically occurs at points where the function is not continuous or has a sharp corner. In these cases, the derivative may exist but be undefined, making the function non-differentiable at that specific point.

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