Table of contents
- 0. Functions7h 52m
- Introduction to Functions16m
- Piecewise Functions10m
- Properties of Functions9m
- Common Functions1h 8m
- Transformations5m
- Combining Functions27m
- Exponent rules32m
- Exponential Functions28m
- Logarithmic Functions24m
- Properties of Logarithms34m
- Exponential & Logarithmic Equations35m
- Introduction to Trigonometric Functions38m
- Graphs of Trigonometric Functions44m
- Trigonometric Identities47m
- Inverse Trigonometric Functions48m
- 1. Limits and Continuity2h 2m
- 2. Intro to Derivatives1h 33m
- 3. Techniques of Differentiation3h 18m
- 4. Applications of Derivatives2h 38m
- 5. Graphical Applications of Derivatives6h 2m
- 6. Derivatives of Inverse, Exponential, & Logarithmic Functions2h 37m
- 7. Antiderivatives & Indefinite Integrals1h 26m
- 8. Definite Integrals3h 25m
5. Graphical Applications of Derivatives
Finding Global Extrema
Problem 4.1.47
Textbook Question
Absolute maxima and minima Determine the location and value of the absolute extreme values of ƒ on the given interval, if they exist.
ƒ(x) = 3x⁵ - 25x³ + 60x on [-2,3]

1
First, find the critical points of the function ƒ(x) = 3x⁵ - 25x³ + 60x by taking its derivative and setting it equal to zero. The derivative is ƒ'(x) = 15x⁴ - 75x² + 60.
Solve the equation 15x⁴ - 75x² + 60 = 0 to find the critical points. This can be done by factoring or using the quadratic formula on the resulting polynomial.
Evaluate the function ƒ(x) at the critical points found in the previous step, as well as at the endpoints of the interval, x = -2 and x = 3.
Compare the values of ƒ(x) at the critical points and the endpoints to determine which is the absolute maximum and which is the absolute minimum on the interval [-2, 3].
Conclude by stating the location (x-values) and the corresponding values of the absolute maximum and minimum of the function on the given interval.

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above
Video duration:
12mPlay a video:
Was this helpful?
Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Critical Points
Critical points are values of x in the domain of a function where the derivative is either zero or undefined. These points are essential for finding local maxima and minima, as they indicate where the function's slope changes. To locate absolute extrema on a closed interval, one must evaluate the function at these critical points as well as at the endpoints of the interval.
Recommended video:
Critical Points
First Derivative Test
The First Derivative Test is a method used to determine whether a critical point is a local maximum, local minimum, or neither. By analyzing the sign of the derivative before and after the critical point, one can infer the behavior of the function. If the derivative changes from positive to negative, the critical point is a local maximum; if it changes from negative to positive, it is a local minimum.
Recommended video:
The First Derivative Test: Finding Local Extrema
Evaluating Endpoints
When finding absolute extrema on a closed interval, it is crucial to evaluate the function at the endpoints of the interval in addition to the critical points. The absolute maximum or minimum could occur at these endpoints, especially if the function is not continuous or has significant changes in behavior at the edges of the interval. Thus, comparing the function values at critical points and endpoints ensures all potential extrema are considered.
Recommended video:
Evaluate Logarithms
Related Videos
Related Practice