For an implicit relation, the derivative has the form \(\frac{dy}{dx}=\frac{N(x,y)}{D(x,y)}\). At four points on the relation, the values of \(N\) and \(D\) are shown.
<table><tr><th>Point</th><th>\(N\)</th><th>\(D\)</th></tr><tr><td>\(A\)</td><td>\(0\)</td><td>\(5\)</td></tr><tr><td>\(B\)</td><td>\(-3\)</td><td>\(0\)</td></tr><tr><td>\(C\)</td><td>\(2\)</td><td>\(-4\)</td></tr><tr><td>\(D\)</td><td>\(0\)</td><td>\(0\)</td></tr></table>
Classify the tangent information that can be concluded at each point.
Hints
- Interpret a derivative written as a fraction by checking numerator and denominator separately.
- A zero numerator and a zero denominator do not mean the same thing.
- When both are zero, avoid canceling or assigning a slope without additional information.
Solution
1. At \(A\), the numerator is zero and the denominator is nonzero, so the tangent is horizontal.
2. At \(B\), the denominator is zero and the numerator is nonzero, so the slope is not finite; this indicates a vertical tangent in the ordinary smooth case.
3. At \(C\), the slope is \(\frac{2}{-4}=-\frac12\).
4. At \(D\), both numerator and denominator are zero, so the derivative formula alone is inconclusive. More analysis of the relation is required.
Answer
\(A\): horizontal tangent.
\(B\): vertical tangent in the ordinary smooth case.
\(C\): slope \(-\frac12\).
\(D\): inconclusive from the derivative fraction alone.