Using derivatives to determine the increase and decrease of functions

In summary, the conversation discusses the process of finding the derivative of a function and using it to determine the monotony of the function. This involves finding the values of x for which the first derivative is zero, positive, or negative, and using the monotonicity theorems to determine where the function is increasing or decreasing.
  • #1
samuelfarley
2
0
Homework Statement
Given the function, f (x) = 4x^6 - 3x^5

show, using interval notation, where the function is decreasing and increasing.

Please give step-by-step details on using derivatives to analyze functions.
Relevant Equations
f (x) = 4x^6 - 3x^5
many attemps made
 
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  • #2
What's ##f'(x)##?
 
  • #3
samuelfarley said:
many attemps made
But to see where you are going wrong or getting stuck we need to see at least one of them.
 
  • #4
First step is to find the derivative of the function ##f'(x)##. Then to find for which x is ##f'(x)=0##, for which x is ##f'(x)>0## and for which x is ##f'(x)<0##. Then using the monotonicity theorems that relate the monotony of a function to where the first derivative is positive or negative , you can find for which x the function is increasing and for which x the function is decreasing.
 

FAQ: Using derivatives to determine the increase and decrease of functions

What are derivatives and how are they used to determine the increase and decrease of functions?

Derivatives are mathematical tools used to measure the rate of change of a function. They can be used to determine the increase or decrease of a function by finding the slope of the tangent line at a specific point on the function's graph.

Why are derivatives important in determining the behavior of functions?

Derivatives allow us to analyze the behavior of a function at a specific point, such as whether it is increasing or decreasing, and the steepness of the curve at that point. This information can help us understand the overall behavior of the function.

What is the difference between a positive and negative derivative?

A positive derivative indicates that the function is increasing at a given point, while a negative derivative indicates that the function is decreasing. This information can help us determine the direction of the function's graph at that point.

How can derivatives be used to find the maximum and minimum points of a function?

The maximum and minimum points of a function occur where the derivative is equal to 0. This is because the derivative measures the slope of the tangent line, and at these points, the tangent line is horizontal (has a slope of 0). By finding the points where the derivative is 0, we can determine the maximum and minimum values of the function.

What are some real-life applications of using derivatives to determine the increase and decrease of functions?

Derivatives are used in various fields such as physics, economics, and engineering to analyze and predict the behavior of systems and processes. For example, in economics, derivatives can be used to determine the marginal cost and revenue of a business, while in physics, they can be used to analyze the velocity and acceleration of an object.

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