Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!
Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a possible turning point for the continuous function ?
A
A point where is not defined
B
A point where ≠ and =
C
A point where = and ≠
D
A point where = and =
0 Comments
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the concept of a turning point. A turning point is a point on the graph of a function where the function changes direction, such as transitioning from increasing to decreasing or vice versa. Mathematically, this occurs when the first derivative f'(x) equals zero.
Step 2: Analyze the role of the second derivative f''(x). The second derivative provides information about the concavity of the function. If f''(x) ≠ 0 at a point where f'(x) = 0, it indicates a change in concavity, confirming a turning point.
Step 3: Consider the case where f''(x) = 0. If f''(x) = 0 at a point where f'(x) = 0, this does not necessarily indicate a turning point. It could be an inflection point or a flat region, depending on higher-order derivatives.
Step 4: Evaluate the other options provided in the problem. A point where f(x) is not defined cannot be a turning point because the function must be continuous and differentiable at the turning point. Similarly, a point where f'(x) ≠ 0 cannot be a turning point because the slope is not zero.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct condition for a turning point is when f'(x) = 0 and f''(x) ≠ 0, as this ensures the function changes direction and the concavity shifts.