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Multiple Choice
Suppose the graph of the derivative of a function is shown. At which of the following points does the function have a local maximum?
A
At a point where is positive
B
At a point where is negative
C
At a point where crosses from negative to positive
D
At a point where crosses from positive to negative
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Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the relationship between the derivative f' and the behavior of the function f. The derivative f' represents the slope of the tangent line to the graph of f. When f' changes sign, it indicates a change in the direction of the slope of f.
Recall the definition of a local maximum. A function f has a local maximum at a point if the function value at that point is greater than the values of f in a small interval around it.
Analyze the behavior of f' at a local maximum. For f to have a local maximum, the slope of f must change from positive (increasing) to negative (decreasing). This corresponds to f' crossing from positive to negative.
Identify the key condition for a local maximum. At a point where f' crosses from positive to negative, the slope of f transitions from increasing to decreasing, creating a peak in the graph of f.
Conclude that the correct answer is: At a point where f' crosses from positive to negative. This is the critical condition for identifying a local maximum in the graph of f.