Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Mean Value Theorem
The Mean Value Theorem (MVT) states that for a continuous function on a closed interval [a, b] that is differentiable on the open interval (a, b), there exists at least one point c in (a, b) such that the instantaneous rate of change at c (ƒ'(c)) equals the average rate of change over the interval, given by (ƒ(b) - ƒ(a)) / (b - a). This theorem is fundamental in connecting the behavior of a function over an interval to its derivative.
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Secant Line
A secant line is a straight line that intersects a curve at two or more points. In the context of the question, the secant line connects the points (a, ƒ(a)) and (b, ƒ(b)) on the graph of the function ƒ. The slope of this secant line represents the average rate of change of the function over the interval [a, b], which is crucial for applying the Mean Value Theorem.
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Derivative
The derivative of a function, denoted as ƒ'(x), represents the instantaneous rate of change of the function at a specific point x. It is defined as the limit of the average rate of change as the interval approaches zero. Understanding derivatives is essential for solving the equation in part (b) of the question, as it allows us to find the value of c where the instantaneous rate of change equals the average rate of change over the interval.
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