At which point(s) does the graph of the

Lisa Vaughan

Lisa Vaughan

Answered question

2022-03-17

At which point(s) does the graph of the function f(x)=x2x-1 have a horizontal tangent line?

Answer & Explanation

orangepaperiz7

orangepaperiz7

Beginner2022-03-18Added 9 answers

The slope of the tangent line of a graph y=f(x) at a point x0 is given by the derivative of f at that point, that is, f(x0)
A horizontal tangent line implies a slope of 0, so our goal is to find the points at
which the derivative f(x) evaluates to 0.
Using the quotient rule, we find the derivative as
f(x)=ddxx2x1
=(x1)(ddxx2)x2(ddx(x1))(x1)2
=2x(x1)x2(1)(x1)2
=2x22xx2(x1)2
=x22x(x1)2
=x(x2)(x1)2
Setting this equal to zero, we get
x(x2)(x1)2=0
x(x2)=0
x=0 or x=2
Thus, the graph of f(x) has a horizontal tangent line at x=0 and x=2, that is, at the points
(0,0),(2,4)

Do you have a similar question?

Recalculate according to your conditions!

Ask your question.
Get an expert answer.

Let our experts help you. Answer in as fast as 15 minutes.

Didn't find what you were looking for?