Textbook Question
Simplify the difference quotients ƒ(x+h) - ƒ(x) / h and ƒ(x) - ƒ(a) / (x-a) by rationalizing the numerator.
ƒ(x) = √(1-2x)
Ch. 1 - Functions
Briggs3rd EditionCalculus: Early TranscendentalsISBN: 9780136847243
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Table of contents
- Ch. 1 - Functions210
- Ch. 2 - Limits371
- Ch. 3 - Derivatives633
- Ch. 4 - Applications of the Derivative412
- Ch. 5 - Integration328
- Ch. 6 - Applications of Integration331
- Ch. 7 - Logarithmic, Exponential Functions, and Hyperbolic Functions177
- Ch. 8 - Integration Techniques394
- Ch. 9 - Differential Equations179
- Ch. 10 - Sequences and Infinite Series339
- Ch. 11 - Power Series218
- Ch.12 - Parametric and Polar Curves215
Briggs3rd EditionCalculus: Early TranscendentalsISBN: 9780136847243Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 1, Problem 1.1.74
Simplify the difference quotient (ƒ(x)-ƒ(a)) / (x-a) for the following functions.
ƒ(x) = (1/x) - x²
Verified step by step guidance1
First, identify the function ƒ(x) = (1/x) - x² and the point a. We need to find ƒ(a) by substituting a into the function: ƒ(a) = (1/a) - a².
Next, substitute ƒ(x) and ƒ(a) into the difference quotient formula: (ƒ(x) - ƒ(a)) / (x - a). This gives us: (((1/x) - x²) - ((1/a) - a²)) / (x - a).
Simplify the numerator by combining like terms: ((1/x) - (1/a)) - (x² - a²). Notice that (x² - a²) is a difference of squares, which can be factored as (x - a)(x + a).
Factor the expression (x² - a²) in the numerator: ((1/x) - (1/a)) - (x - a)(x + a). This allows us to cancel the (x - a) term in the numerator and denominator.
After canceling the (x - a) term, simplify the remaining expression. You should be left with a simplified form of the difference quotient.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Difference Quotient
The difference quotient is a fundamental concept in calculus that represents the average rate of change of a function over an interval. It is defined as (ƒ(x) - ƒ(a)) / (x - a), where ƒ(x) is the function and a is a specific point. This expression is crucial for understanding the derivative, as it approaches the instantaneous rate of change as x approaches a.
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Function Composition
Function composition involves combining two functions to create a new function. In the context of the given function ƒ(x) = (1/x) - x², it is important to recognize how the components interact. Understanding how to manipulate and simplify functions is essential for effectively working with the difference quotient and finding limits.
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Limits
Limits are a core concept in calculus that describe the behavior of a function as its input approaches a certain value. They are essential for evaluating the difference quotient, especially when determining the derivative. In this case, simplifying the difference quotient may involve taking the limit as x approaches a, which provides insight into the function's behavior at that point.
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