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Multiple Choice
Use the second derivative test to find the local extrema of the given function. f(x)=x2+1x2−4
A
Local max of 10 at x=0
B
Local min of −4 at x=0
C
Local min of −4 at x=−2 and Local max of 10 at x=2
D
No local extrema
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Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Start by finding the first derivative of the given function f(x) = (x^2 - 4) / (x^2 + 1). Use the quotient rule for derivatives, which states that if f(x) = g(x)/h(x), then f'(x) = (g'(x)h(x) - g(x)h'(x)) / (h(x))^2.
Step 2: Simplify the first derivative expression obtained in Step 1. This will involve differentiating the numerator (x^2 - 4) and the denominator (x^2 + 1) separately, and then substituting them into the quotient rule formula.
Step 3: Set the first derivative equal to zero to find the critical points. Solve the resulting equation for x. These critical points are where the slope of the tangent line is zero, which could indicate local maxima, minima, or saddle points.
Step 4: Compute the second derivative of the function by differentiating the first derivative. Use the quotient rule again if necessary, as the first derivative is also a rational function.
Step 5: Apply the second derivative test at each critical point. Substitute the critical points into the second derivative. If f''(x) > 0, the function has a local minimum at that point. If f''(x) < 0, the function has a local maximum. If f''(x) = 0, the test is inconclusive, and further analysis is needed.