Understanding the Mean Theorem: Evaluating h'(c) = f'(c) - g'(c)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the application of the Mean Value Theorem in the context of differentiating the function h(x) = f(x) - g(x). Participants are exploring the relationship between the derivatives of h, f, and g, particularly questioning the validity of the expression h'(c) = f'(c) - g'(c).

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning the reasoning behind the derivative relationship h'(c) = f'(c) - g'(c) and discussing the implications of functions being equal at all points. Some are attempting to clarify the definitions and limits involved in differentiation.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants expressing confusion over notation and the implications of function equality. Some guidance has been offered regarding the definitions of derivatives, but there is no explicit consensus on the interpretation of the functions involved.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted concern about the differences between the functions f(x) and g(x), as well as their graphical representations, which may affect the understanding of their derivatives. Participants are also reflecting on the implications of the functions being the same versus different.

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i know that h(x)=f(x)-g(x)
but on what basis they conclude that

h'(c)=f'(c)-g'(c)


http://img356.imageshack.us/img356/5427/69700925ii7.gif

??
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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If h(x) = f(x) for all x then h'(x) = f'(x).
 
Last edited:
for a fact
??
 
Yes; consider the definition [tex]h'(x) = \lim_{t\to 0}\frac{h(x+t)-h(x)}{t}[/tex].
 
If f(x)=g(x) for all x, then the two functions are the same. And for this very reason they have the same derivative.
 
but f(x) is a curve and g(x) is a line
f(x) is not g(x)
and so is h(x) differs them all
look at the link

http://img356.imageshack.us/img356/5427/69700925ii7.gif

all the lines are different

h(c)=f(x)-g(x)

how they came to
h'(c)=f'(x)-g'(x)
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Now you're just confused by notation. Let's use some neutral letters.

If A and B are differentiable functions on [a,b] such that A(x) = B(x) for all x in [a,b], then A'(x) = B'(x).

Why? [tex]A'(x) = \lim_{t\to 0}\frac{A(x+t)-A(x)}{t} = \lim_{t\to 0}\frac{B(x+t)-B(x)}{t} = B'(x)[/tex].

Also, they said "h'(c)=f'(c)-g'(c)" NOT "h'(c)=f'(x)-g'(x)".
 
when you say "A(x) = B(x) for all x in [a,b]"

that mean that they share each one of their points
which means that A(x) and B(x) are the same function then of course A'(x) = B'(x) (its the same function)

which is not true in the graph
 
Last edited:
transgalactic said:
when you say "A(x) = B(x) for all x in [a,b]"

that mean that they share each one of their points
which means that A(x) and B(x) are the same function then of course A'(x) = B'(x) (its the same function)

which is not true in the graph

Take A(x)=h(x) and B(x)=f(x)-g(x)
 
  • #10
ahhhh thanks
 

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