Weird result to a simple derivative question

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    Derivative Weird
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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a derivative problem involving the function f(x) = x². Participants are tasked with determining the value of the derivative at a specific point and identifying that point based on given information.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the correct method for finding the point where the derivative equals a specified value. There is an exploration of setting the derivative equal to -6 and solving for x, as well as substituting back to find the corresponding y value.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on correctly interpreting the problem and setting the derivative equal to the given value. There is an acknowledgment of different approaches to understanding the relationship between the derivative and the function.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the constraints of the problem, including the need to find specific points based on the derivative's value and the implications of their calculations. There is a mention of a solution guide that provides expected results.

Femme_physics
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I am told to write the value of a the derivative at a certain point next to each function. And to find the point/s

f(x) = x2

f ' (x) = -6

so I figured I just do

f ' (x) = 2x

f ' (-6) = 2 x (-6) = -12

But they tell me the answer is

(-3, 9)
 
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The problem is that f'(x)=-6, and what you plugged in is equivalent to x=-6.

You got the derivative right, but you need to set f'(x) to -6, not x.
 
Oh... I see! thanks :)
 
Another way to look at it...
You were given value of the derivative
[itex]f'(x) = -6[/itex] (eq 1)
and you found the derivative of equation [itex]f(x)=x^2[/itex] to be
[itex]f'(x) = 2x[/itex] (eq 2)

The left side of equations 1 & 2 are equal,
therefore the right sides are also,
so -6 = 2x and you can solve for x.

To find y, substitute this x into the original equation of f(x)
and you will obtain the same point you noted from the solution guide.
 

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