Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Function and Derivative Relationship
The relationship between a function and its derivative is fundamental in calculus. The derivative of a function, denoted as ƒ'(x), represents the rate of change of the function ƒ(x) at any given point. When analyzing graphs, the behavior of the derivative graph can indicate where the original function is increasing or decreasing, as well as where it has local maxima or minima.
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Derivatives of Other Trig Functions
Critical Points and Inflection Points
Critical points occur where the derivative ƒ'(x) is zero or undefined, indicating potential local maxima, minima, or points of inflection in the function ƒ(x). Inflection points are where the concavity of the function changes, which can be identified by changes in the sign of the derivative. Understanding these points helps in distinguishing between the graphs of a function and its derivative.
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Graphical Interpretation of Derivatives
Graphically, the derivative of a function can be interpreted as the slope of the tangent line to the function's graph at any point. If the graph of ƒ(x) is increasing, ƒ'(x) will be positive, and if it is decreasing, ƒ'(x) will be negative. Additionally, where the derivative graph crosses the x-axis indicates where the original function has horizontal tangents, aiding in identifying the correct graphs.
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Graphical Applications of Exponential & Logarithmic Derivatives: Example 8