Solving f(x), Slope & Tangent Line: Help Me Find Answers!

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the slope and tangent line for the function f(x) = 3x^2 - 1 at the point (3,8), as well as determining the instantaneous rate of change for the function y = x^2 - 4 between the points [3,5].

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need to find the derivative of the first function to determine the slope, with some confusion about the correct value. There are questions about how to approach the instantaneous rate of change using two points, and whether there are alternative methods beyond limits.

Discussion Status

Some participants are attempting to clarify the process of finding the slope and tangent line, while others are exploring the concept of instantaneous rate of change and its calculation. There is a mix of understanding and confusion, with no clear consensus on the methods being discussed.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the terminology used, such as "gradient" and "instantaneous rate of change," and mention that they have not yet learned certain concepts in class.

VBoy336
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can you guys help me how to do this problem?

f(x) = 3x^2 - 1 (3,8)
Find slope and tangent line,

I have answer 6, is that right? and can you guys show the step to get the answer, thanks =) (tangent line i already know how to do)

oh and this one,

y = x^2 - 4
Find instantaneous rate of change [3,5]

(if there was one point, i could do it, but i don't know how to do with 2 point,) can you show steps too,


thanks a lot
 
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For the first one, you find the derivative first.
[tex]f(x) = 3x^2-1 \ \longrightarrow \ f'(x) = 6x[/tex] then you substitude for x. That doesn't give 6. Now that you have the slope you can find the tangent line.

For the second line, I think that would be the gradient of the secant line through those points.
 
for this one,
y = x^2 - 4
Find instantaneous rate of change [3,5]

i don't really get what you are saying, sorry,

so how do I solve it

urg
 
VBoy336 said:
for this one,
y = x^2 - 4
Find instantaneous rate of change [3,5]

i don't really get what you are saying, sorry,

so how do I solve it

urg

@3, y = 5
@5, y = 11

Now you have 2 points, P1(3,5) & P2(5,11).
What is the gradient of the line that passes through these points ?
 
@5 , do you mean 21 ?

and i don't think i learn gradient yet,

in class, when we finding instantaneous rate of change, we use limit x approaching a number, then solve it,

is there another way to find the instantaneous rate of change in this problem?
 
yeah i mean 21, lol sry. Gradient = slope
 
so the instant.. rate of change is 8 ?

aha
 

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