Is this function differentiable at c=1?

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In summary, the function f'(x) is equal to the limit of x approaches to c of the (f(x)-f(c))/(x-c), and c=1. The function is a piece wise function and is not differentiable at 1 because the limit from the left is 1 but the limit from the right is 2. The function is continuous at a point if the function is defined at that point, and also the left hand and right hand limits are both equal to that function value. The function is differentiable at a point if the function is continuous at that point, and also if the derivative is continuous at that point.
  • #1
cbarker1
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f'(x) is equal to the limit of x approaches to c of the (f(x)-f(c))/(x-c), and c=1.

f(x)=\begin{array}{cc}x,&\mbox{ if }
x\leq 1\\x^2, & \mbox{ if } x>1\end{array}The function is a piece wise function.Thanks

CBarker1
 
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  • #2
You need to investigate two one-sided limits. Can you state these two limits?
 
  • #3
Cbarker1 said:
f'(x) is equal to the limit of x approaches to c of the (f(x)-f(c))/(x-c), and c=1.

f(x)=\begin{array}{cc}x,&\mbox{ if }
x\leq 1\\x^2, & \mbox{ if } x>1\end{array}The function is a piece wise function.Thanks

CBarker1

The function is not differentiable at 1 because the limit from the left is 1 but the limit from the right is 2.
 
  • #4
Fermat said:
The function is not differentiable at 1 because the limit from the left is 1 but the limit from the right is 2.

(Wait) I was actually hoping the OP could state the two one-sided limits and then discover these values on their own. (Nod)
 
  • #5
I have worked out the problem. I see the limits are not equal to each other. Thank you.
 
  • #6
For future reference:

A function is continuous at a point if the function is defined at that point, and also the left hand and right hand limits are both equal to that function value.

A function is differentiable at a point if the function is continuous at that point, and also if the derivative is continuous at that point.
 

FAQ: Is this function differentiable at c=1?

What is a derivative?

A derivative is a mathematical concept that represents the rate of change of a function at a specific point. It is the slope of the tangent line to the function at that point.

Why do we need to find the derivative?

Finding the derivative allows us to analyze the behavior of a function and make predictions about its future values. It is also useful in solving optimization problems and understanding the relationship between different variables.

How do you find the derivative?

The derivative can be found using various methods, such as the limit definition of a derivative, the power rule, the product rule, and the chain rule. It involves using algebraic and calculus techniques to calculate the slope of the tangent line to the function at a specific point.

What is the notation used for derivatives?

The most common notation for derivatives is f'(x) or dy/dx, which represents the derivative of the function f with respect to x. Other notations include Df(x) and ∂f/∂x.

What are some real-world applications of derivatives?

Derivatives have many real-world applications, such as in physics to calculate velocity and acceleration, in economics to analyze supply and demand curves, in engineering to optimize designs, and in statistics to find the rate of change of data trends.

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