The diagram below shows the graph of a cubic function $y = g(x)$, with stationary points at $x = -2$ and $x = 4$ - Scottish Highers Maths - Question 5 - 2019
Question 5
The diagram below shows the graph of a cubic function $y = g(x)$, with stationary points at $x = -2$ and $x = 4$.
On the diagram in your answer booklet, sketch the... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The diagram below shows the graph of a cubic function $y = g(x)$, with stationary points at $x = -2$ and $x = 4$ - Scottish Highers Maths - Question 5 - 2019
Step 1
Identify shape and roots
96%
114 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
The graph of the cubic function has roots at the stationary points x=−2 and x=4. Since these points are where the derivative function changes sign, they correspond to local maxima and minima. The graph of the derivative y=g′(x) will reflect the behavior of the cubic function around these roots.
Step 2
Interpret shape
99%
104 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
The graph of y=g′(x) should have a parabolic shape opening upwards. Since there is a local maximum at x=−2 and a local minimum at x=4, the derivative will be positive between these points. The turning point of the parabola (the vertex) will be around x=1. Therefore, the sketch should show an upward-opening parabola intersecting the x-axis at x=−2 and x=4, and a minimum turning point at x=1.
Join the Scottish Highers students using SimpleStudy...