Does the Intermediate Value Theorem Apply If h(a) and h(b) Have Opposite Signs?

In summary, the conversation discusses the application of the Intermediate Value Theorem (IVT) on a continuous function h(x) with the inequality h(b)<=0<=h(a). The questioner asks about the hypotheses of the IVT and whether they are satisfied in this case. The respondent explains that the hypotheses are satisfied and that there exists a c value between a and b where h(c)=0.
  • #1
TheDougheyMan
2
0
I have a continuous function h(x) and the inequality h(b)<=0<=h(a). Can I apply IVT?
 
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  • #2
Well, what are the hypotheses of the IVT? Are they satisfied in your case?
 
  • #3
Ackbach said:
Well, what are the hypotheses of the IVT? Are they satisfied in your case?
Isn't it just that h(x) is continuous and if u is a number between h(b) and h(a),
h(b) < u < h(a), then etc etc. I didn't think I could, but I just wanted to see a variation of it.
 
  • #4
TheDougheyMan said:
Isn't it just that h(x) is continuous and if u is a number between h(b) and h(a),
h(b) < u < h(a), then etc etc. I didn't think I could, but I just wanted to see a variation of it.

Exactly right. So you can conclude that there is a $c \in (a,b)$ (I'm assuming $a<b$) such that $h(c)=0$.
 
  • #5


Yes, you can apply the Intermediate Value Theorem (IVT) in this scenario. The IVT states that if a function h(x) is continuous on the closed interval [a,b] and takes on values of opposite signs at the endpoints (h(a) and h(b)), then there exists at least one value c in the interval [a,b] where h(c) = 0. In this case, h(a) and h(b) have opposite signs (one is less than or equal to 0 and the other is greater than or equal to 0), indicating that there is a change in sign within the interval. Therefore, by the IVT, there must exist at least one value c in the interval where h(c) = 0.
 

FAQ: Does the Intermediate Value Theorem Apply If h(a) and h(b) Have Opposite Signs?

What is the Intermediate Value Theorem?

The Intermediate Value Theorem is a mathematical theorem that states that if a continuous function has different values at two points, then it must also take on all values in between those two points. This means that there is no "jumping" or "skipping" of values in a continuous function.

Why is the Intermediate Value Theorem important?

The Intermediate Value Theorem is important because it allows us to make conclusions about the existence of solutions to equations or inequalities. It also helps us understand the behavior of continuous functions and can be used to prove other theorems in mathematics.

How is the Intermediate Value Theorem used?

The Intermediate Value Theorem is used in a variety of mathematical fields, including calculus, real analysis, and topology. It is often used to prove the existence of solutions to equations or inequalities, and to show that certain functions have specific properties.

What are the conditions for the Intermediate Value Theorem to hold?

The conditions for the Intermediate Value Theorem to hold are that the function must be continuous on a closed interval, and the function must have different values at the endpoints of the interval. Additionally, the function must not have any "jumps" or "skips" between the endpoints.

Can the Intermediate Value Theorem be generalized to higher dimensions?

Yes, the Intermediate Value Theorem can be generalized to higher dimensions. In multiple dimensions, the theorem states that if a continuous function has different values at two points, then it must also take on all values in a certain region between those two points. This is known as the Intermediate Value Theorem for multivariable functions.

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