Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Increasing Functions
A function is considered increasing on an interval if, for any two points within that interval, the function's value at the second point is greater than or equal to its value at the first point. This means that as the input values increase, the output values also increase. Understanding how to identify these intervals is crucial for analyzing the behavior of functions.
Recommended video:
Graphs of Common Functions
Domain of a Function
The domain of a function refers to the set of all possible input values (x-values) for which the function is defined. Identifying the domain is essential because it determines the intervals over which we can analyze the function's behavior, including where it is increasing or decreasing. Restrictions on the domain can arise from factors like division by zero or square roots of negative numbers.
Recommended video:
Finding the Domain of an Equation
Critical Points
Critical points are values in the domain of a function where the derivative is either zero or undefined. These points are significant because they can indicate potential local maxima, minima, or points of inflection, which are essential for determining intervals of increase or decrease. Analyzing critical points helps in understanding the overall shape and behavior of the function.
Recommended video:
Convert Points from Rectangular to Polar