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Definition of the derivative

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52216712
Let \(f(x) = -1.5x + 3\). 1. Use the limit definition of the derivative to find \(f'(-2)\) and \(f'(4)\). 2. Interpret the results geometrically and explain why the two values are equal.

Hints

- Start with the limit definition of the derivative. - Notice what happens to the constant terms in the numerator. - What shape is the graph of a linear function? - Does a line’s slope change from one point to another?

Solution

1. At \(x = -2\), \(\frac{f(-2+h)-f(-2)}{h} = \frac{-1.5(-2+h)+3-6}{h} = \frac{-1.5h}{h} = -1.5\) for \(h \ne 0\). Therefore, \(f'(-2) = \lim_{h\to 0}(-1.5) = -1.5\). 2. At \(x = 4\), \(\frac{f(4+h)-f(4)}{h} = \frac{-1.5(4+h)+3-(-3)}{h} = \frac{-1.5h}{h} = -1.5\) for \(h \ne 0\). Therefore, \(f'(4) = -1.5\). 3. The graph is a line with constant slope \(-1.5\). At every point, the tangent line is the same line, so its slope and the derivative are constant.

Answer

1. \(f'(-2) = -1.5\) and \(f'(4) = -1.5\) 2. Both equal the constant slope of the line. The tangent line has the same slope at every point.
52217512
The statements below describe a function \(f\). Group the letters that describe the same mathematical fact. A: \(f(5) = 2\) B: \(f'(2) = 5\) C: The tangent line to the graph of \(f\) at \(x = 2\) has slope \(5\). D: The value of \(f\) at \(x = 5\) is \(2\). E: The instantaneous rate of change of \(f\) at \(x = 2\) is \(5\). F: The point \((5, 2)\) lies on the graph of \(f\). G: \(f'(5) = 2\) H: \(f(2) = 5\)

Hints

- Distinguish between \(f(x)\) and \(f'(x)\). - Which words describe a function value, and which describe a derivative? - Pay attention to which number is the input and which is the output or slope. - A point on the graph has coordinates \((x, f(x))\).

Solution

1. Statements A, D, and F all say that the function value at \(x = 5\) is \(2\). The coordinate statement \((5, 2)\) has the form \((x, f(x))\). 2. Statements B, C, and E all say that the derivative at \(x = 2\) is \(5\). The derivative is both the tangent-line slope and the instantaneous rate of change. 3. Statement G concerns the derivative at \(x = 5\), and statement H concerns the function value at \(x = 2\), so neither belongs to the two groups.

Answer

Group 1: A, D, F Group 2: B, C, E Not in either group: G, H
52891912
Let \(f(x) = -8\). 1. Use the h-form of the limit definition of the derivative to find \(f'(x_0)\) for any \(x_0\in\mathbb{R}\). 2. Explain how the result is related to the graph of \(f\).

Hints

- Compare \(f(x_0+h)\) with \(f(x_0)\). - Determine what happens to the numerator of the difference quotient. - Think about the slope of a horizontal line. - Relate that slope to the derivative.

Solution

1. Form the difference quotient: \(\frac{f(x_0+h)-f(x_0)}{h}\). 2. Because \(f(x) = -8\) for every input, \(\frac{f(x_0+h)-f(x_0)}{h} = \frac{-8-(-8)}{h} = 0\) for \(h\ne 0\). 3. Take the limit: \(f'(x_0) = \lim_{h\to 0}0 = 0\). 4. The graph is the horizontal line \(y = -8\), so its slope is \(0\) at every point. This agrees with the derivative.

Answer

1. \(f'(x_0) = 0\) for every \(x_0\in\mathbb{R}\). 2. The graph is horizontal, so its slope is \(0\) everywhere.
52892012
The position of a parked car on a straight road is modeled by \(s(t) = 15\), where \(t\) is measured in seconds and \(s\) is measured in meters. 1. Use the limit definition of the derivative to find the instantaneous rate of change \(s'(10)\). 2. Interpret the result in the context of the car's motion.

Hints

- The derivative of a position function represents instantaneous velocity. - Decide whether the car's position changes as time passes. - Substitute the constant position values into the difference quotient. - Interpret a zero rate of change in the motion context.

Solution

1. Form the difference quotient at \(t = 10\): \(\frac{s(10+h)-s(10)}{h} = \frac{15-15}{h} = 0\) for \(h\ne 0\). 2. Take the limit: \(s'(10) = \lim_{h\to 0}0 = 0\). 3. The derivative of position is instantaneous velocity. Therefore, the car's velocity at \(t = 10\) is \(0\,\frac{\text{m}}{\text{s}}\), which means the car is not moving.

Answer

1. \(s'(10) = 0\,\frac{\text{m}}{\text{s}}\) 2. The instantaneous velocity is \(0\,\frac{\text{m}}{\text{s}}\), so the car is stationary.
52216512
Let \(f(x) = -0.5x^2 + 4x\). Use the limit definition of the derivative to find the slope of the tangent line to the graph of \(f\) at \(x = -2\).

Hints

- Write the limit definition of the derivative at a specific point. - Substitute \(x = -2\) into the definition. - Simplify the numerator until you can factor out \(h\). - After canceling \(h\), evaluate the limit as \(h\) approaches \(0\).

Solution

1. Evaluate the function at the point: \(f(-2) = -0.5(-2)^2 + 4(-2) = -10\). 2. Set up the difference quotient: \(\frac{f(-2+h)-f(-2)}{h} = \frac{-0.5(-2+h)^2+4(-2+h)-(-10)}{h}\). 3. Simplify the numerator: \(-0.5(4-4h+h^2)-8+4h+10 = 6h-0.5h^2\). 4. For \(h \ne 0\), the quotient simplifies to \(\frac{6h-0.5h^2}{h} = 6-0.5h\). 5. Take the limit: \(f'(-2) = \lim_{h\to 0}(6-0.5h) = 6\).

Answer

\(f'(-2) = 6\), so the tangent line has slope \(6\).
52216612
Let \(f(x) = 2x^2 - 4x + 1\). Use the limit definition of the derivative to find the instantaneous rate of change at \(x = 3\).

Hints

- Instantaneous rate of change is the derivative at the given point. - Set up and simplify the difference quotient. - Use the square of a binomial carefully when expanding \((3+h)^2\). - Determine what remains as \(h\) approaches \(0\).

Solution

1. Evaluate \(f(3)\): \(f(3) = 2(3)^2-4(3)+1 = 7\). 2. Form the difference quotient: \(\frac{f(3+h)-f(3)}{h} = \frac{2(3+h)^2-4(3+h)+1-7}{h}\). 3. Expand and combine like terms in the numerator: \(2(9+6h+h^2)-12-4h-6 = 8h+2h^2\). 4. For \(h \ne 0\), simplify: \(\frac{8h+2h^2}{h} = 8+2h\). 5. Take the limit: \(f'(3) = \lim_{h\to 0}(8+2h) = 8\).

Answer

The instantaneous rate of change is \(f'(3) = 8\).
52216912
Let \(f(x) = 2x^2 - 5x + 1\). Use the limit definition of the derivative to find \(f'(2)\).

Hints

- First evaluate the function at the given point. - Substitute \(2+h\) into the function and expand carefully. - Simplify until \(h\) can be factored and canceled. - Evaluate the remaining expression as \(h\) approaches \(0\).

Solution

1. Evaluate \(f(2)\): \(f(2) = 2(2)^2-5(2)+1 = -1\). 2. Form the difference quotient: \(\frac{f(2+h)-f(2)}{h} = \frac{2(2+h)^2-5(2+h)+1-(-1)}{h}\). 3. Expand and simplify the numerator: \(2(4+4h+h^2)-10-5h+2 = 2h^2+3h\). 4. For \(h \ne 0\), simplify the quotient to \(2h+3\). 5. Take the limit: \(f'(2) = \lim_{h\to 0}(2h+3) = 3\).

Answer

\(f'(2) = 3\)
52217012
Let \(g(x) = -0.5x^2 + 3x\). Use the limit of the difference quotient to find the instantaneous rate of change at \(x = 4\).

Hints

- Instantaneous rate of change is the derivative at the given point. - Expand the squared binomial carefully. - Remember to subtract \(g(4)\) in the numerator. - After canceling \(h\), take the limit as \(h\) approaches \(0\).

Solution

1. Evaluate \(g(4)\): \(g(4) = -0.5(4)^2+3(4) = 4\). 2. Form the difference quotient: \(\frac{g(4+h)-g(4)}{h} = \frac{-0.5(4+h)^2+3(4+h)-4}{h}\). 3. Expand and simplify the numerator: \(-0.5(16+8h+h^2)+12+3h-4 = -0.5h^2-h\). 4. For \(h \ne 0\), simplify the quotient to \(-0.5h-1\). 5. Take the limit: \(g'(4) = \lim_{h\to 0}(-0.5h-1) = -1\).

Answer

The instantaneous rate of change is \(g'(4) = -1\).
52217612
Suppose \(f\) is differentiable and \(f'(4) = -1\). Which statements are equivalent to this condition? Briefly justify your choices. 1. The derivative of \(f\) at \(x = 4\) is \(-1\). 2. The graph of \(f\) passes through \((4, -1)\). 3. The tangent line at \((4, f(4))\) has slope \(-1\). 4. \(\lim_{h\to 0}\frac{f(4+h)-f(4)}{h} = -1\). 5. The tangent line to the graph of \(f\) at \(x = 4\) has the same slope as \(y = -x+10\). 6. \(f(-1) = 4\).

Hints

- Distinguish between \(f'(x)\) and \(f(x)\). - Recall the geometric meaning of a derivative. - Compare Statement 4 with the limit definition of the derivative. - Compare the tangent-line slope with the slope of the given line.

Solution

1. Statement 1 directly restates the notation \(f'(4) = -1\), so it is equivalent. 2. Statement 2 says \(f(4) = -1\), which is a function value rather than a derivative value, so it is not equivalent. 3. The derivative at a point is the tangent-line slope, so Statement 3 is equivalent. 4. Statement 4 is the limit definition of \(f'(4)\), so it is equivalent. 5. The line \(y = -x+10\) has slope \(-1\). Therefore, Statement 5 is equivalent. 6. Statement 6 gives a different function value and is not equivalent.

Answer

Statements 1, 3, 4, and 5 are equivalent to \(f'(4) = -1\).
52217712
A vehicle moves along a straight road. Its position \(s\), in meters, is modeled by \(s(t) = 2t^2 + 5t\), where \(t\) is measured in seconds. Find the average velocity on \([1, 3]\) and the instantaneous velocity at \(t = 1\). Use the limit definition for the instantaneous velocity.

Hints

- Average velocity is the slope of a secant line. - Instantaneous velocity is the limit of average velocities over shrinking intervals. - Simplify the difference quotient before taking the limit. - Distinguish between change over an interval and change at one instant.

Solution

1. Evaluate the positions: \(s(1) = 2(1)^2+5(1) = 7\,\text{m}\) and \(s(3) = 2(3)^2+5(3) = 33\,\text{m}\). 2. The average velocity on \([1, 3]\) is \(\frac{s(3)-s(1)}{3-1} = \frac{33-7}{2} = 13\,\frac{\text{m}}{\text{s}}\). 3. For the instantaneous velocity at \(t = 1\), simplify the difference quotient: \(\frac{s(1+h)-s(1)}{h} = \frac{2(1+h)^2+5(1+h)-7}{h} = \frac{9h+2h^2}{h} = 9+2h\). 4. Take the limit: \(s'(1) = \lim_{h\to 0}(9+2h) = 9\,\frac{\text{m}}{\text{s}}\).

Answer

Average velocity on \([1, 3]\): \(13\,\frac{\text{m}}{\text{s}}\) Instantaneous velocity at \(t = 1\): \(9\,\frac{\text{m}}{\text{s}}\)
52217812
Let \(f(x) = -x^2 + 6x\). a) Write the difference quotient at \(x = 2\) over an interval of width \(h\), and simplify it as far as possible. b) Use the limit as \(h\to 0\) to find the instantaneous rate of change at \(x = 2\).

Hints

- Substitute \(2+h\) for every \(x\) in the function. - Expand the squared binomial carefully. - Pay close attention to the negative sign before the square. - Factor and cancel \(h\) before taking the limit.

Solution

1. Evaluate \(f(2)\): \(f(2) = -(2)^2+6(2) = 8\). 2. Form the difference quotient: \(\frac{f(2+h)-f(2)}{h} = \frac{-(2+h)^2+6(2+h)-8}{h}\). 3. Simplify the numerator: \(-(4+4h+h^2)+12+6h-8 = 2h-h^2\). 4. For \(h \ne 0\), the quotient simplifies to \(\frac{2h-h^2}{h} = 2-h\). 5. Therefore, \(f'(2) = \lim_{h\to 0}(2-h) = 2\).

Answer

a) \(2-h\) b) \(f'(2) = 2\)
52218012
A test vehicle accelerates along a straight track. Its position, in meters, is modeled by \(s(t) = 0.8t^2\), where \(t\) is measured in seconds. 1. Write and simplify the difference quotient for the average velocity on \([3, 3+h]\). 2. Use the limit as \(h\to 0\) to find the instantaneous velocity at \(t = 3\). 3. Explain the mathematical relationship between average rate of change and instantaneous rate of change at a point \(t_0\).

Hints

- Substitute \(3+h\) into the position function and expand. - What happens to the simplified expression as \(h\) approaches \(0\)? - Think about how a secant line approaches a tangent line.

Solution

1. The difference quotient is \(\frac{s(3+h)-s(3)}{h} = \frac{0.8(3+h)^2-0.8(3)^2}{h}\). Expanding and simplifying gives \(\frac{4.8h+0.8h^2}{h} = 4.8+0.8h\). 2. The instantaneous velocity is \(s'(3) = \lim_{h\to 0}(4.8+0.8h) = 4.8\,\frac{\text{m}}{\text{s}}\). 3. The instantaneous rate of change at \(t_0\) is the limit of the average rate of change on \([t_0, t_0+h]\) as the interval width \(h\) approaches \(0\). Geometrically, the secant line approaches the tangent line.

Answer

1. \(4.8+0.8h\) 2. \(4.8\,\frac{\text{m}}{\text{s}}\) 3. The instantaneous rate is the limit of the average rate over intervals whose width approaches \(0\).
52221912
Let \(f(x) = 1.5x^2\). Use the limit definition of the derivative with \(h\) to derive \(f'(x)\). Then find the value \(x_0\) where the graph of \(f\) has slope \(9\).

Hints

- Start with the limit definition \(f'(x)=\lim_{h\to 0}\frac{f(x+h)-f(x)}{h}\). - Expand \((x+h)^2\). - Simplify the numerator until you can divide every term by \(h\). - Use the meaning of \(f'(x_0)\) as the slope at \(x_0\).

Solution

1. Set up the difference quotient: \(\frac{f(x+h)-f(x)}{h} = \frac{1.5(x+h)^2-1.5x^2}{h}\). 2. Expand and simplify: \(\frac{1.5(x^2+2xh+h^2)-1.5x^2}{h} = \frac{3xh+1.5h^2}{h}\). 3. For \(h\ne 0\), divide by \(h\): \(3x+1.5h\). 4. Take the limit as \(h\to 0\): \(f'(x) = \lim_{h\to 0}(3x+1.5h) = 3x\). 5. Set the derivative equal to the required slope: \(3x_0=9\). 6. Solve to get \(x_0=3\).

Answer

The derivative is \(f'(x) = 3x\). The graph has slope \(9\) at \(x_0=3\).
52222012
Let \(f(x) = 4x-x^2\). Use the limit definition of the derivative to derive \(f'(x)\). Then find the value \(x_0\) where the tangent line to the graph of \(f\) is parallel to \(y=-2x+5\).

Hints

- What must be true about the slopes of parallel lines? - Be careful with signs when subtracting \(f(x)\) in the numerator. - Simplify the numerator so that you can divide by \(h\). - After dividing by \(h\), determine what happens to the remaining \(h\)-term as \(h\to 0\).

Solution

1. Set up the difference quotient: \(\frac{f(x+h)-f(x)}{h} = \frac{4(x+h)-(x+h)^2-(4x-x^2)}{h}\). 2. Expand the numerator: \(\frac{4x+4h-(x^2+2xh+h^2)-4x+x^2}{h}\). 3. Combine like terms: \(\frac{4h-2xh-h^2}{h}\). 4. For \(h\ne 0\), divide by \(h\), and then take the limit: \(f'(x)=\lim_{h\to 0}(4-2x-h)=4-2x\). 5. Parallel lines have equal slopes. Since \(y=-2x+5\) has slope \(-2\), solve \(4-2x_0=-2\). 6. This gives \(-2x_0=-6\), so \(x_0=3\).

Answer

The derivative is \(f'(x)=4-2x\). The tangent line is parallel to the given line at \(x_0=3\).
52222712
Use the limit definition of the derivative to find \(f'(x)\) for \(f(x)=5-2x^2\).

Hints

- Write the difference quotient for a general input \(x\). - Substitute \(x+h\) into the function and expand \((x+h)^2\). - Identify which terms cancel after subtracting \(f(x)\). - Simplify the quotient before taking the limit as \(h\to 0\).

Solution

1. Set up the difference quotient: \(\frac{f(x+h)-f(x)}{h} = \frac{5-2(x+h)^2-(5-2x^2)}{h}\). 2. Expand and simplify the numerator: \(\frac{5-2(x^2+2xh+h^2)-5+2x^2}{h} = \frac{-4xh-2h^2}{h}\). 3. For \(h\ne 0\), divide by \(h\): \(-4x-2h\). 4. Take the limit as \(h\to 0\): \(f'(x)=\lim_{h\to 0}(-4x-2h)=-4x\).

Answer

\(f'(x)=-4x\)
52222812
Use the limit definition of the derivative with \(h\) to find \(f'(x)\) for \(f(x)=x^2+6x\).

Hints

- Replace each occurrence of \(x\) in the function rule with \(x+h\). - Expand all expressions in the numerator and combine like terms. - Factor out \(h\) from the numerator so that you can simplify the quotient. - Determine what happens to the remaining \(h\)-term as \(h\to 0\).

Solution

1. Set up the difference quotient: \(\frac{f(x+h)-f(x)}{h}=\frac{(x+h)^2+6(x+h)-(x^2+6x)}{h}\). 2. Expand and combine like terms: \(\frac{x^2+2xh+h^2+6x+6h-x^2-6x}{h}=\frac{2xh+h^2+6h}{h}\). 3. For \(h\ne 0\), divide by \(h\): \(2x+h+6\). 4. Take the limit as \(h\to 0\): \(f'(x)=\lim_{h\to 0}(2x+h+6)=2x+6\).

Answer

\(f'(x)=2x+6\)
52241112
Let \(f(x) = 2x^2\). 1. Find the tangent-line slope at \(x = 1\) using the difference quotient on \([1, 1+h]\) and the limit as \(h\to 0\). 2. Find the same slope using the difference quotient between \(x = 1\) and a variable point \(x\), followed by the limit as \(x\to 1\). 3. Compare the methods. Explain what goes wrong if you skip the limit process and substitute \(h = 0\) or \(x = 1\) directly into the original difference quotient.

Hints

- Expand the squared binomial in the first method. - Factor the difference of squares in the second method. - A denominator of zero makes the original quotient undefined. - Compare how each variable point approaches \(x = 1\).

Solution

1. Using an increment \(h\), \(\frac{f(1+h)-f(1)}{h} = \frac{2(1+h)^2-2}{h} = \frac{4h+2h^2}{h} = 4+2h\) for \(h\ne 0\). Therefore, \(f'(1) = \lim_{h\to 0}(4+2h) = 4\). 2. Using a variable point \(x\), \(\frac{f(x)-f(1)}{x-1} = \frac{2x^2-2}{x-1} = \frac{2(x-1)(x+1)}{x-1} = 2(x+1)\) for \(x\ne 1\). Therefore, \(f'(1) = \lim_{x\to 1}2(x+1) = 4\). 3. Both methods produce the same tangent slope. Direct substitution into the original quotients gives \(\frac{0}{0}\), an undefined expression. Simplification for nearby values and then taking a limit avoids dividing by zero.

Answer

1. \(f'(1) = 4\) 2. \(f'(1) = 4\) 3. Direct substitution gives the undefined form \(\frac{0}{0}\); the limit must be taken after simplifying the quotient for nonzero separation.
52816012
A large water tank is being filled. Its water volume, in liters, is modeled by \(V(t) = 0.5t^3+2t\), where \(t\) is measured in minutes. a) Write the difference quotient on \([4, 4+h]\), and simplify it as far as possible. b) Use the limit as \(h\to 0\) to find the instantaneous inflow rate at \(t = 4\). c) Interpret the value from part b in context.

Hints

- Expand \((4+h)^3\) carefully. - Simplify the difference quotient before taking the limit. - Terms that still contain \(h\) approach zero as \(h\to 0\). - The rate unit is volume divided by time.

Solution

1. Evaluate \(V(4) = 0.5(4)^3+2(4) = 40\). 2. Expand \(V(4+h)\): \(V(4+h) = 0.5(4+h)^3+2(4+h) = 40+26h+6h^2+0.5h^3\). 3. The difference quotient is \(\frac{V(4+h)-V(4)}{h} = \frac{26h+6h^2+0.5h^3}{h} = 26+6h+0.5h^2\), for \(h\ne 0\). 4. Taking the limit gives \(V'(4) = \lim_{h\to 0}(26+6h+0.5h^2) = 26\,\frac{\text{L}}{\text{min}}\). 5. At exactly \(4\) minutes, the tank’s water volume is increasing at \(26\,\frac{\text{L}}{\text{min}}\).

Answer

a) \(26+6h+0.5h^2\) b) \(26\,\frac{\text{L}}{\text{min}}\) c) At \(t = 4\), the water volume is increasing at \(26\,\frac{\text{L}}{\text{min}}\).
52889512
Let \(f(x)=x^3\). Use the difference quotient and the \(h\)-method to find \(f'(x_0)\) at an arbitrary input \(x_0\). Show algebraically that \(f'(x)=3x^2\).

Hints

- Start with the definition of instantaneous rate of change as a limit. - Expand \((a+b)^3\). - Simplify the quotient so that \(h\) no longer appears in the denominator. - Determine what happens to terms containing \(h\) as \(h\to 0\).

Solution

1. Set up the difference quotient: \(\frac{f(x_0+h)-f(x_0)}{h}=\frac{(x_0+h)^3-x_0^3}{h}\). 2. Expand the cube: \(\frac{x_0^3+3x_0^2h+3x_0h^2+h^3-x_0^3}{h}\). 3. Simplify the numerator: \(\frac{3x_0^2h+3x_0h^2+h^3}{h}\). 4. For \(h\ne 0\), divide by \(h\): \(3x_0^2+3x_0h+h^2\). 5. Take the limit as \(h\to 0\): \(f'(x_0)=\lim_{h\to 0}(3x_0^2+3x_0h+h^2)=3x_0^2\). Therefore, \(f'(x)=3x^2\).

Answer

\(f'(x_0)=3x_0^2\), so \(f'(x)=3x^2\).
52889612
Let \(f(x) = x^4\). Use the limit of the difference quotient as \(x\to 2\) to find the slope of the tangent line at \(x = 2\).

Hints

- Substitute the function and point into the difference quotient. - Factor the numerator so that the denominator can be canceled. - Use a difference of squares more than once. - Evaluate the simplified expression at \(x = 2\).

Solution

1. Form the difference quotient: \(\frac{f(x)-f(2)}{x-2} = \frac{x^4-16}{x-2}\). 2. Factor the numerator: \(x^4-16 = (x^2-4)(x^2+4) = (x-2)(x+2)(x^2+4)\). 3. For \(x\ne 2\), cancel \(x-2\) to obtain \((x+2)(x^2+4)\). 4. Take the limit: \(f'(2) = \lim_{x\to 2}(x+2)(x^2+4) = (4)(8) = 32\).

Answer

The tangent-line slope is \(f'(2) = 32\).
52889812
Let \(f(x) = \frac{1}{x+1}\), where \(x\ne -1\). Use the limit definition of the derivative to find the slope of the tangent line at \(x = 1\).

Hints

- Substitute the point into the limit definition. - Use a common denominator to subtract the fractions in the numerator. - Be careful with the negative sign when simplifying. - Cancel \(h\) before taking the limit.

Solution

1. Evaluate \(f(1) = \frac{1}{2}\) and \(f(1+h) = \frac{1}{2+h}\). 2. Form the difference quotient: \(\frac{f(1+h)-f(1)}{h} = \frac{\frac{1}{2+h}-\frac{1}{2}}{h}\). 3. Combine the fractions in the numerator: \(\frac{1}{2+h}-\frac{1}{2} = \frac{2-(2+h)}{2(2+h)} = \frac{-h}{2(2+h)}\). 4. For \(h\ne 0\), the quotient simplifies to \(-\frac{1}{2(2+h)}\). 5. Take the limit: \(f'(1) = \lim_{h\to 0}\left(-\frac{1}{2(2+h)}\right) = -\frac{1}{4}\).

Answer

\(f'(1) = -\frac{1}{4} = -0.25\)
52890012
Let \(f(x)=\frac{3}{x}\), where \(x\ne 0\). Use the limit definition of the derivative with \(h\) to find \(f'(a)\) for \(a\ne 0\).

Hints

- Combine the two fractions in the numerator using a common denominator. - Simplify the resulting complex fraction before taking the limit. - The factor \(h\) must cancel from the difference quotient. - Substitute the limiting value only after simplifying.

Solution

1. Set up the difference quotient: \(\frac{f(a+h)-f(a)}{h}=\frac{\frac{3}{a+h}-\frac{3}{a}}{h}\). 2. Combine the fractions in the numerator: \(\frac{3}{a+h}-\frac{3}{a}=\frac{3a-3(a+h)}{a(a+h)}=\frac{-3h}{a(a+h)}\). 3. For \(h\ne 0\), simplify the difference quotient: \(\frac{-3h}{a(a+h)}\cdot\frac{1}{h}=\frac{-3}{a(a+h)}\). 4. Take the limit as \(h\to 0\): \(f'(a)=\lim_{h\to 0}\frac{-3}{a(a+h)}=-\frac{3}{a^2}\).

Answer

\(f'(a)=-\frac{3}{a^2}\)
52891112
Let \(f(x) = 2x^2-x\). Use the h-form of the limit definition of the derivative to find the slope of the tangent line at \(x = 1\).

Hints

- Write the difference quotient using \(f(1+h)\) and \(f(1)\). - Expand \((1+h)^2\) carefully. - Factor out and cancel \(h\) before taking the limit. - Evaluate the simplified expression as \(h\) approaches \(0\).

Solution

1. Evaluate the function at the point: \(f(1) = 2(1)^2-1 = 1\). 2. Form the difference quotient: \(\frac{f(1+h)-f(1)}{h} = \frac{2(1+h)^2-(1+h)-1}{h}\). 3. Expand and simplify the numerator: \(2(1+2h+h^2)-1-h-1 = 3h+2h^2\). 4. For \(h\ne 0\), simplify the quotient: \(\frac{3h+2h^2}{h} = 3+2h\). 5. Take the limit: \(f'(1) = \lim_{h\to 0}(3+2h) = 3\).

Answer

The slope of the tangent line at \(x = 1\) is \(3\).
52891212
Let \(f(x) = \frac{1}{2}x^3+1\). Use the h-form of the limit definition of the derivative to find the instantaneous rate of change at \(x = 2\).

Hints

- Expand \((2+h)^3\) before simplifying the difference quotient. - Distribute the factor \(\frac{1}{2}\) to every term. - After subtracting \(f(2)\), each term in the numerator should contain \(h\). - Cancel \(h\), then take the limit as \(h\) approaches \(0\).

Solution

1. Evaluate the function at the point: \(f(2) = \frac{1}{2}(2)^3+1 = 5\). 2. Form the difference quotient: \(\frac{f(2+h)-f(2)}{h} = \frac{\frac{1}{2}(2+h)^3+1-5}{h}\). 3. Expand the cube: \((2+h)^3 = 8+12h+6h^2+h^3\). 4. Simplify the numerator: \(\frac{1}{2}(8+12h+6h^2+h^3)-4 = 6h+3h^2+\frac{1}{2}h^3\). 5. For \(h\ne 0\), simplify the quotient: \(6+3h+\frac{1}{2}h^2\). 6. Take the limit: \(f'(2) = \lim_{h\to 0}\left(6+3h+\frac{1}{2}h^2\right) = 6\).

Answer

The instantaneous rate of change at \(x = 2\) is \(6\).
52893112
A vehicle moves along a test track. Its distance from the starting point is modeled by \(s(t) = 0.5t^2\), where \(t\) is measured in seconds and \(s\) is measured in meters. Define the instantaneous velocity at \(t = 4\) precisely as a limit, and then evaluate that limit using the difference quotient.

Hints

- Begin with average velocity over a short time interval. - Let the length of that interval approach \(0\). - Substitute the position function into the difference quotient. - Simplify so that the factor \(h\) can be canceled before taking the limit.

Solution

1. The average velocity from \(t = 4\) to \(t = 4+h\) is \(\frac{s(4+h)-s(4)}{h}\). 2. Evaluate the position values: \(s(4) = 0.5(4)^2 = 8\) and \(s(4+h) = 0.5(4+h)^2 = 8+4h+0.5h^2\). 3. Simplify the difference quotient: \(\frac{8+4h+0.5h^2-8}{h} = 4+0.5h\) for \(h\ne 0\). 4. Define and evaluate the instantaneous velocity: \(v(4) = \lim_{h\to 0}\frac{s(4+h)-s(4)}{h} = \lim_{h\to 0}(4+0.5h) = 4\). 5. Therefore, the instantaneous velocity at \(t = 4\) is \(4\,\frac{\text{m}}{\text{s}}\).

Answer

\(v(4) = \lim_{h\to 0}\frac{s(4+h)-s(4)}{h} = 4\,\frac{\text{m}}{\text{s}}\)
52893212
The volume of water in a storage tank is modeled by \(V(t) = 10t-0.2t^2\), where \(V\) is measured in liters, \(t\) is measured in minutes, and \(0\le t\le 20\). Write the difference quotient for the interval from \(t = 5\) to \(t = 5+h\), and explain what it represents in context. Then use a limit to find the instantaneous rate of change of the volume at \(t = 5\).

Hints

- Interpret change in volume divided by change in time. - Track the units of the quotient. - Expand \((5+h)^2\) and simplify the numerator. - Cancel \(h\) before letting \(h\) approach \(0\).

Solution

1. The difference quotient is \(\frac{V(5+h)-V(5)}{h}\). It represents the average rate of change of the water volume from \(5\) to \(5+h\) minutes, measured in liters per minute. 2. Evaluate \(V(5) = 10(5)-0.2(5)^2 = 45\). 3. Evaluate and simplify \(V(5+h) = 10(5+h)-0.2(5+h)^2 = 45+8h-0.2h^2\). 4. Simplify the difference quotient: \(\frac{45+8h-0.2h^2-45}{h} = 8-0.2h\) for \(h\ne 0\). 5. Take the limit: \(V'(5) = \lim_{h\to 0}(8-0.2h) = 8\). 6. The volume is increasing at an instantaneous rate of \(8\,\frac{\text{L}}{\text{min}}\) when \(t = 5\).

Answer

The quotient \(\frac{V(5+h)-V(5)}{h}\) is the average change in volume per minute from \(t = 5\) to \(t = 5+h\). The instantaneous rate at \(t = 5\) is \(8\,\frac{\text{L}}{\text{min}}\).
52894112
A cylindrical water tank is being filled. The volume of water is modeled by \(V(t) = t^2+5t\), where \(V\) is measured in liters and \(t\) is measured in minutes. 1. Find the average rate of change of the volume on \([1, 4]\), including units. 2. Use the limit definition of the derivative to find the instantaneous rate of change at \(t = 1\). 3. Interpret both rates geometrically on the graph of \(V\).

Hints

- Use the slope formula with the two endpoint values for the average rate. - For the instantaneous rate, let a second time approach \(t = 1\). - A secant line passes through two points on a graph; a tangent line gives the local slope at one point. - Rate units are volume per unit of time.

Solution

1. Evaluate the endpoints: \(V(1) = 1^2+5(1) = 6\) and \(V(4) = 4^2+5(4) = 36\). 2. The average rate of change is \(\frac{V(4)-V(1)}{4-1} = \frac{36-6}{3} = 10\,\frac{\text{L}}{\text{min}}\). 3. For the instantaneous rate, form the difference quotient: \(\frac{V(1+h)-V(1)}{h} = \frac{(1+h)^2+5(1+h)-6}{h}\). 4. Expand and simplify: \(\frac{7h+h^2}{h} = 7+h\) for \(h\ne 0\). 5. Take the limit: \(V'(1) = \lim_{h\to 0}(7+h) = 7\,\frac{\text{L}}{\text{min}}\). 6. The average rate is the slope of the secant line through \((1, 6)\) and \((4, 36)\). The instantaneous rate is the slope of the tangent line at \((1, 6)\).

Answer

1. \(10\,\frac{\text{L}}{\text{min}}\) 2. \(7\,\frac{\text{L}}{\text{min}}\) 3. The average rate is a secant-line slope, and the instantaneous rate is the tangent-line slope at \(t = 1\).
52894212
The position of an object moving along a straight line is modeled by \(s(t) = 30t-t^2\), where \(t\) is measured in seconds and \(s\) is measured in meters. 1. Find the average velocity from \(t = 0\) to \(t = 5\). 2. Use the limit definition of the derivative to find the instantaneous velocity at \(t = 2\). 3. Explain the general relationship between the average rate of change on \([t_0,t_0+h]\) and the instantaneous rate of change at \(t_0\).

Hints

- Average velocity is displacement divided by elapsed time. - Instantaneous velocity is the derivative of position. - Substitute \(t = 2+h\) and \(t = 2\) into the position function. - Think about what happens to average velocity as the time interval becomes arbitrarily short.

Solution

1. Evaluate the positions: \(s(0) = 0\) and \(s(5) = 30(5)-5^2 = 125\). 2. The average velocity is \(\frac{s(5)-s(0)}{5-0} = \frac{125}{5} = 25\,\frac{\text{m}}{\text{s}}\). 3. Form the difference quotient at \(t = 2\): \(\frac{s(2+h)-s(2)}{h}\). 4. Since \(s(2) = 56\), the quotient becomes \(\frac{30(2+h)-(2+h)^2-56}{h} = \frac{26h-h^2}{h} = 26-h\) for \(h\ne 0\). 5. Take the limit: \(s'(2) = \lim_{h\to 0}(26-h) = 26\,\frac{\text{m}}{\text{s}}\). 6. In general, the instantaneous rate at \(t_0\) is the limit of the average rate on \([t_0,t_0+h]\) as \(h\) approaches \(0\).

Answer

1. \(25\,\frac{\text{m}}{\text{s}}\) 2. \(26\,\frac{\text{m}}{\text{s}}\) 3. The instantaneous rate is the limit of the average rate as the interval length approaches \(0\).
52902612
A company's total cost is modeled by \(C(x) = 0.05x^2+10x+500\), where \(x\) is the number of units produced and \(C(x)\) is measured in dollars. 1. Write and simplify the difference quotient for the interval from \(x = 100\) to \(x = 100+h\). 2. Use its limit as \(h\to 0\) to find the marginal cost \(C'(100)\). 3. Interpret the result as an estimate of the additional cost of producing the 101st unit.

Hints

- Substitute \(100+h\) and \(100\) carefully into the cost function. - The constant terms in the numerator should cancel. - Cancel \(h\) before taking the limit. - Marginal cost approximates the cost of producing one additional unit.

Solution

1. Form the difference quotient: \(\frac{C(100+h)-C(100)}{h}\). 2. Substitute the cost function: \(\frac{0.05(100+h)^2+10(100+h)+500-(0.05(100)^2+10(100)+500)}{h}\). 3. Expanding and combining like terms gives \(\frac{20h+0.05h^2}{h} = 20+0.05h\) for \(h\ne 0\). The quotient has units of dollars per unit. 4. Take the limit: \(C'(100) = \lim_{h\to 0}(20+0.05h) = 20\,\frac{\$}{\text{unit}}\). 5. Therefore, the model estimates that producing the 101st unit adds approximately \(\$20\) to total cost.

Answer

1. \((20+0.05h)\,\frac{\$}{\text{unit}}\) 2. \(C'(100) = 20\,\frac{\$}{\text{unit}}\) 3. The 101st unit adds approximately \(\$20\) to total cost.
52904912
Let \(f(x)=\frac{1}{x^2}\). For an arbitrary value \(a\ne 0\), use the limit of secant slopes to find \(f'(a)\). Use the identity \(u^2-v^2=(u-v)(u+v)\).

Hints

- Interpret the derivative as the limiting slope of secant lines whose points move together. - Combine the two fractions in the numerator using a common denominator. - Factor the numerator so that \(x-a\) can be canceled. - Evaluate the remaining expression as \(x\to a\).

Solution

1. Set up the difference quotient as \(x\to a\): \(\frac{f(x)-f(a)}{x-a}=\frac{\frac{1}{x^2}-\frac{1}{a^2}}{x-a}\). 2. Combine the fractions in the numerator: \(\frac{a^2-x^2}{x^2a^2(x-a)}\). 3. Factor the numerator: \(\frac{-(x^2-a^2)}{x^2a^2(x-a)}=\frac{-(x-a)(x+a)}{x^2a^2(x-a)}\). 4. For \(x\ne a\), cancel \(x-a\): \(-\frac{x+a}{x^2a^2}\). 5. Take the limit: \(f'(a)=\lim_{x\to a}-\frac{x+a}{x^2a^2}=-\frac{2a}{a^4}=-\frac{2}{a^3}\).

Answer

\(f'(a)=-\frac{2}{a^3}\)
53234812
The graph shows \(f(x) = x^2-4x+3\) and its tangent line at \(A(3, 0)\). a) Use two grid points on the tangent line to determine the instantaneous rate of change at \(x = 3\). b) Verify the result using the h-form of the limit definition: \(f'(3) = \lim_{h\to 0}\frac{f(3+h)-f(3)}{h}\).
Figure for problem 532348

Hints

- Select two easy-to-read points on the tangent line. - Use rise divided by run for the graphical slope. - Substitute \(3+h\) into the function and simplify. - Cancel \(h\) before taking the limit.

Solution

1. The tangent line passes through \(A(3, 0)\) and the grid point \((4, 2)\). Its slope is \(\frac{2-0}{4-3} = 2\). 2. For the limit calculation, first find \(f(3) = 0\). 3. Evaluate \(f(3+h) = (3+h)^2-4(3+h)+3 = h^2+2h\). 4. Form and simplify the difference quotient: \(\frac{f(3+h)-f(3)}{h} = \frac{h^2+2h}{h} = h+2\) for \(h\ne 0\). 5. Take the limit: \(f'(3) = \lim_{h\to 0}(h+2) = 2\). Both methods give the same instantaneous rate of change.

Answer

a) \(2\) b) \(f'(3) = 2\)
53250712
The graph shows \(f(x) = 0.25x^2+1\) for \(x\ge 0\), together with secant line \(s\) through \(P(2, 2)\) and \(Q(4, 5)\). a) Find the slope of secant line \(s\). b) Find the slope of the secant line through \(P(2, 2)\) and \(Q_1(3, f(3))\). c) As the second point approaches \(P\), the secant slope approaches the tangent slope at \(P\). Use parts a) and b) to predict \(f'(2)\), then verify your prediction with the h-form of the limit definition.
Figure for problem 532507

Hints

- Use the slope formula for each secant line. - Find \(f(3)\) before calculating the second slope. - Think about what the secant line becomes as its second point approaches \(P\). - Simplify the difference quotient before taking the limit.

Solution

1. The slope through \(P(2, 2)\) and \(Q(4, 5)\) is \(\frac{5-2}{4-2} = \frac{3}{2} = 1.5\). 2. Evaluate \(f(3) = 0.25(3)^2+1 = 3.25\), so \(Q_1 = (3, 3.25)\). 3. The second secant slope is \(\frac{3.25-2}{3-2} = 1.25\). 4. The secant slopes decrease toward \(1\) as the second point approaches \(P\), so predict \(f'(2) = 1\). 5. Evaluate \(f(2+h) = 0.25(2+h)^2+1 = 2+h+0.25h^2\). 6. The difference quotient is \(\frac{f(2+h)-f(2)}{h} = \frac{h+0.25h^2}{h} = 1+0.25h\) for \(h\ne 0\). 7. Take the limit: \(f'(2) = \lim_{h\to 0}(1+0.25h) = 1\).

Answer

a) \(1.5\) b) \(1.25\) c) Prediction: \(1\); verification: \(f'(2) = 1\)
53367712
Let \(f(x) = x^2+4x\). Use the h-form of the limit definition of the derivative to find \(f'(1)\).
Figure for problem 533677

Hints

- Find \(f(1)\) first. - Substitute \(1+h\) into the function and simplify. - Factor out and cancel \(h\) in the difference quotient. - Evaluate the remaining expression as \(h\) approaches \(0\).

Solution

1. Evaluate \(f(1) = 1^2+4(1) = 5\). 2. Evaluate \(f(1+h) = (1+h)^2+4(1+h) = h^2+6h+5\). 3. Form and simplify the difference quotient: \(\frac{f(1+h)-f(1)}{h} = \frac{h^2+6h}{h} = h+6\) for \(h\ne 0\). 4. Take the limit: \(f'(1) = \lim_{h\to 0}(h+6) = 6\).

Answer

\(f'(1) = 6\)
53367812
Let \(f(x) = 3x^2-2\). Use the h-form of the difference quotient to find the slope of the tangent line at \(x = -1\).
Figure for problem 533678

Hints

- Use \(\frac{f(x_0+h)-f(x_0)}{h}\) with \(x_0 = -1\). - Expand \((-1+h)^2\) carefully. - Cancel \(h\) before taking the limit.

Solution

1. Evaluate \(f(-1) = 3(-1)^2-2 = 1\). 2. Evaluate \(f(-1+h) = 3(-1+h)^2-2 = 3h^2-6h+1\). 3. Form and simplify the difference quotient: \(\frac{f(-1+h)-f(-1)}{h} = \frac{3h^2-6h}{h} = 3h-6\) for \(h\ne 0\). 4. Take the limit: \(f'(-1) = \lim_{h\to 0}(3h-6) = -6\).

Answer

The tangent-line slope is \(-6\).
53389412
The sign function is defined by \(s(x)=\begin{cases}-1&\text{if }x<0\\0&\text{if }x=0\\1&\text{if }x>0\end{cases}\). 1. Describe the graph’s behavior at \(x=0\). 2. Determine whether the function is continuous at \(x=0\) by using limits. 3. Use secant slopes through \(P(0, 0)\) to explain why \(s^{\prime}(0)\) does not exist as a finite number.
Figure for problem 533894

Hints

- Compare the left-hand and right-hand limits at \(0\). - Write the slope between \(P(0, 0)\) and a point \((x,s(x))\) on the graph. - Determine whether those secant slopes approach a finite value as \(x\to0\).

Solution

1. The graph has a jump at \(x=0\): it lies at \(y=-1\) to the left and \(y=1\) to the right, while \(s(0)=0\). 2. The one-sided limits are \(\lim_{x\to0^-}s(x)=-1\) and \(\lim_{x\to0^+}s(x)=1\). Since they differ, \(s\) is not continuous at \(0\). 3. For \(x\ne0\), the secant slope through \(P(0, 0)\) and \((x,s(x))\) is \(\frac{s(x)-s(0)}{x-0}=\frac{s(x)}{x}=\frac{1}{|x|}\). As \(x\to0\), these slopes increase without bound, so they do not approach a finite number. Therefore, \(s^{\prime}(0)\) does not exist.

Answer

1) The graph has a jump at \(x=0\), with \(s(0)=0\). 2) \(\lim_{x\to0^-}s(x)=-1\) and \(\lim_{x\to0^+}s(x)=1\), so \(s\) is not continuous at \(0\). 3) The secant slopes equal \(\frac{1}{|x|}\), which increases without bound as \(x\to0\). Thus, \(s^{\prime}(0)\) does not exist as a finite number.
53420212
Let \(f(x)=0.5x^2+2\). Use the limit definition \(f'(x)=\lim_{h\to 0}\frac{f(x+h)-f(x)}{h}\) to find the derivative function. Show the intermediate algebraic steps.
Figure for problem 534202

Hints

- Substitute \(x+h\) for every occurrence of \(x\) in the function rule. - Expand \((x+h)^2\). - Simplify the numerator until every remaining term contains a factor of \(h\). - Cancel \(h\) before taking the limit.

Solution

1. Set up the difference quotient: \(\frac{f(x+h)-f(x)}{h}=\frac{0.5(x+h)^2+2-(0.5x^2+2)}{h}\). 2. Expand and simplify the numerator: \(\frac{0.5(x^2+2xh+h^2)+2-0.5x^2-2}{h}=\frac{xh+0.5h^2}{h}\). 3. For \(h\ne 0\), factor and divide by \(h\): \(\frac{h(x+0.5h)}{h}=x+0.5h\). 4. Take the limit as \(h\to 0\): \(f'(x)=\lim_{h\to 0}(x+0.5h)=x\).

Answer

\(f'(x)=x\)
52893412
In a laboratory, the temperature of a chemical during a cooling process is modeled by \(T(t) = 0.2t^2-8t+100\), where \(T\) is measured in degrees Celsius, \(t\) is measured in minutes, and \(0\le t\le 20\). a) Use the limit definition \(T'(t) = \lim_{h\to 0}\frac{T(t+h)-T(t)}{h}\) to find the instantaneous rate of change at \(t = 5\) and \(t = 15\). b) When is the instantaneous rate of change exactly \(-2\,\frac{{}^\circ\text{C}}{\text{min}}\)? c) Explain why the rate is negative for \(0\le t<20\) and equal to zero at \(t = 20\). What does this indicate about the temperature?

Hints

- Expand \((t+h)^2\) and combine like terms in the difference quotient. - All terms without \(h\) should cancel from the numerator. - The sign of the derivative tells whether the temperature is increasing or decreasing. - To answer part b, set the derivative equal to the given rate.

Solution

1. Form and simplify the difference quotient: \(\frac{T(t+h)-T(t)}{h} = \frac{0.2(t+h)^2-8(t+h)+100-(0.2t^2-8t+100)}{h}\). 2. Expanding and combining like terms gives \(\frac{0.4th+0.2h^2-8h}{h} = 0.4t+0.2h-8\) for \(h\ne 0\). 3. Take the limit: \(T'(t) = \lim_{h\to 0}(0.4t+0.2h-8) = 0.4t-8\). 4. Evaluate the rates: \(T'(5) = 0.4(5)-8 = -6\) and \(T'(15) = 0.4(15)-8 = -2\). The units are degrees Celsius per minute. 5. Solve \(0.4t-8 = -2\): \(0.4t = 6\), so \(t = 15\) minutes. 6. For \(0\le t<20\), \(0.4t-8<0\), so the temperature is decreasing. At \(t = 20\), the rate is zero, so the temperature has stopped decreasing instantaneously at the endpoint of the model.

Answer

a) \(T'(5) = -6\,\frac{{}^\circ\text{C}}{\text{min}}\) and \(T'(15) = -2\,\frac{{}^\circ\text{C}}{\text{min}}\) b) \(t = 15\,\text{min}\) c) The negative rate means the temperature is decreasing. At \(t = 20\), the instantaneous rate is zero, so the temperature has stopped decreasing instantaneously at the endpoint of the model.
52905012
Let \(f(x)=\frac{1}{x^4}\). For \(a\ne 0\), derive \(f'(a)\) by taking the limit of the difference quotient. Use the identity \(u^4-v^4=(u-v)(u^3+u^2v+uv^2+v^3)\).

Hints

- Write the difference quotient for the function. - Simplify the complex fraction. - Use the given identity to factor out the term \(x-a\). - After canceling, evaluate the limit as \(x\to a\).

Solution

1. Set up the difference quotient: \(\frac{f(x)-f(a)}{x-a}=\frac{\frac{1}{x^4}-\frac{1}{a^4}}{x-a}\). 2. Combine the fractions in the numerator: \(\frac{a^4-x^4}{x^4a^4(x-a)}\). 3. Factor the numerator: \(\frac{-(x^4-a^4)}{x^4a^4(x-a)}=\frac{-(x-a)(x^3+x^2a+xa^2+a^3)}{x^4a^4(x-a)}\). 4. For \(x\ne a\), cancel \(x-a\): \(-\frac{x^3+x^2a+xa^2+a^3}{x^4a^4}\). 5. As \(x\to a\), the numerator approaches \(-4a^3\) and the denominator approaches \(a^8\). 6. Therefore, \(f'(a)=-\frac{4a^3}{a^8}=-\frac{4}{a^5}\).

Answer

\(f'(a)=-\frac{4}{a^5}\)

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