What are the possible values of g'(a) at a differentiable point (a, g(a))?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between two differentiable functions, f and g, particularly focusing on their derivatives and the implications for their graphs. Participants explore the conditions under which the graphs of these functions intersect and the validity of different limit expressions for the derivative of g at a point.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants consider the implications of the condition f'(x) = g'(x) and discuss the potential intersections of the graphs of f and g. They also analyze different limit expressions for g'(a) and question the correctness of these expressions.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing examination of the limit expressions for the derivative, with some participants questioning the accuracy of specific terms and the conditions under which these limits are evaluated. The discussion reflects a collaborative effort to clarify definitions and assumptions related to derivatives.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the limits are to be taken as h approaches 0, and there is a focus on ensuring the correct application of the definition of the derivative. There is also a mention of potential errors in the expressions being discussed.

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Homework Statement


If the functions f and g are defined so that f'(x) = g'(x) for all real numbers x with f(1)=2 and g(1)=3, then the graph of f ad the graph of g:

Is the answer that they do not intersect?
The other choices are:
  • intersect exactly 1 time
  • intersect no more than 1 time
  • could intersect more than 1 time
  • have a common tangent at each pt. of tangency.
How would I be able to prove this?

#2)
If the function g is differentiable at the point (a, g(a)), then which of the following are true?

g'(a) = lim g(a+h) - f(a)
h
g'(a) = lim g(a)-g(a-h)
h
g'(a) = lim g(a+h)-g(a-h)
h

I think that it is only the first one can be correct. Can any of the others be correct?

(Above, the h is on the end, but the h should be under the numerator.
 
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1. Think about the function h(x) = f(x) - g(x). What can you say about h?
 
Loppyfoot said:

Homework Statement


If the functions f and g are defined so that f'(x) = g'(x) for all real numbers x with f(1)=2 and g(1)=3, then the graph of f ad the graph of g:

Is the answer that they do not intersect?
The other choices are:
  • intersect exactly 1 time
  • intersect no more than 1 time
  • could intersect more than 1 time
  • have a common tangent at each pt. of tangency.
How would I be able to prove this?

#2)
If the function g is differentiable at the point (a, g(a)), then which of the following are true?

g'(a) = lim g(a+h) - f(a)
h
g'(a) = lim g(a)-g(a-h)
h
g'(a) = lim g(a+h)-g(a-h)
h

I think that it is only the first one can be correct. Can any of the others be correct?

(Above, the h is on the end, but the h should be under the numerator.

I'm assuming that #2 limits are taken as h -> 0, and that the first option should have g(a) in it, not f(a). To answer this question, all you need to know is the definition of the derivative.
 
Yes, it is the limits as h approaches 0. I made an error however, would the 3rd equation in E2 be correct if there is a 2h in the denominator?
 
Loppyfoot said:
Yes, it is the limits as h approaches 0. I made an error however, would the 3rd equation in E2 be correct if there is a 2h in the denominator?

What about the first option? Is that f(a) supposed to be there? Once again, you need to know the definition of the derivative.
 
Yea I think it is supposed to be f(a).
 

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