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 derivative at c equals the average rate of change over [a, b]. This is expressed as f'(c) = (f(b) - f(a)) / (b - a).
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Fundamental Theorem of Calculus Part 1
Piecewise Functions
A piecewise function is defined by different expressions over different intervals. In this problem, g(x) is defined as x³ for -2 ≤ x ≤ 0 and x² for 0 < x ≤ 2. Understanding how to evaluate and differentiate each piece within its respective interval is crucial for applying the Mean Value Theorem.
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Differentiability and Continuity
For the Mean Value Theorem to apply, the function must be continuous on the closed interval and differentiable on the open interval. This requires checking that g(x) is continuous at x = 0, where the pieces meet, and ensuring differentiability across the entire interval, except possibly at the endpoints.
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