Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Absolute Extrema
Absolute extrema refer to the highest and lowest values of a function on a given interval. To find these values, one must evaluate the function at critical points, where the derivative is zero or undefined, as well as at the endpoints of the interval. The largest of these values is the absolute maximum, while the smallest is the absolute minimum.
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Critical Points
Critical points are values of the independent variable where the derivative of the function is either zero or does not exist. These points are essential for finding absolute extrema, as they indicate where the function may change direction. To locate critical points, one must first compute the derivative of the function and solve for when it equals zero or is undefined.
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Closed Interval Method
The closed interval method is a technique used to find absolute extrema of a function on a closed interval [a, b]. This method involves evaluating the function at the endpoints of the interval and at any critical points found within the interval. The absolute maximum and minimum values are then determined by comparing these function values.
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