Can a function really have no critical points?

In summary, complex numbers are introduced in algebra 2 but are not heavily emphasized until later years. This is to avoid confusion and strain on students when working with real roots and real-world applications. In these cases, complex numbers are often disregarded and understood as having no solution.
  • #1
GreenPrint
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why is it that in algebra 2 people are told about complex numbers then they magically disappear for like 5 years and there not suppose to exist... sorry for wrong title I can't change it =(
 
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  • #2
I don't quite understand what you're asking. What magically disappears? The complex numbers?

Say when you work with quadratics, the teachers don't want to start confusing you with complex roots when it's already enough strain on the student to understand everything there is to know about real roots. When real world applications are involved in the problems at hand, complex numbers are going to be ignored and just understood as "There is no solution".
 

FAQ: Can a function really have no critical points?

Can a function have no critical points?

Yes, it is possible for a function to have no critical points. This means that the function does not have any points where the derivative is equal to zero or undefined.

What does it mean for a function to have no critical points?

If a function has no critical points, it means that the function is either constantly increasing or constantly decreasing on its entire domain. This also means that the function does not have any local maximum or minimum points.

Can a continuous function have no critical points?

Yes, a continuous function can have no critical points. The continuity of a function does not guarantee the existence of critical points. A function can be continuous and still have a constant slope, resulting in no critical points.

How do you determine if a function has no critical points?

To determine if a function has no critical points, you can take the derivative of the function and set it equal to zero. If the equation has no solutions or if the derivative is undefined for all values, then the function has no critical points.

Is it possible for a function to have no critical points but still have a global maximum or minimum?

Yes, it is possible for a function to have no critical points but still have a global maximum or minimum. This can occur if the function is bounded or has an asymptote, such as in the case of a rational function. In these cases, the function may have a global maximum or minimum, but no critical points.

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