Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Differentiation
Differentiation is the process of finding the derivative of a function, which represents the rate of change of the function with respect to its variable. It involves applying rules such as the power rule, product rule, and chain rule to compute the first derivative, denoted as f′(x). Understanding differentiation is essential for analyzing the behavior of functions, including their slopes and rates of change.
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Higher-Order Derivatives
Higher-order derivatives are derivatives of derivatives. The second derivative, f′′(x), provides information about the concavity of the function, while the third derivative, f′′′(x), can indicate the rate of change of the concavity. These derivatives are crucial for understanding the function's behavior beyond just its slope, including identifying points of inflection and acceleration.
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Exponential Functions
Exponential functions, such as e^x, are functions where a constant base is raised to a variable exponent. They have unique properties, including that their derivative is equal to the function itself, which simplifies differentiation. Recognizing how to differentiate exponential functions is vital when working with mixed functions, as seen in the given function f(x) = 3x² + 5e^x.
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