Solving a system of equations
Task
Find a polynomial function of degree three featuring the saddle point (1, 1), as well as the point (2, 2).
Instructions
1. | | In the Input Bar, define the function f(x):= a x^3 + b x^2 + c x + d . |
2. | p | According to the task, the function value at x=1 is 1. Enter p: f(1) = 1 ;
and press the Enter key.
Hints: The input ":" names your equation, while the semicolon “;” suppresses the output. |
3. | q | We also know that the function value at x=2 is 2. Enter q: f(2) = 2 ;
into the Input Bar.
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4. | r | Since (1, 1) is a saddle point, the first derivative equals 0 at x=1. Enter r: f'(1) = 0 ;
Hint: The derivative of f can be written as f'. |
5. | s | We also know that the second derivative equals 0 at x=1. Enter s: f''(1) = 0;
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6. | | Select rows two through five with your pointer and apply the Solve tool. |
| | Hints:
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7. | Substitute | Enter Substitute($1, $6) into the Input Bar and press the Enter key.
Note: You just substituted the undefined variables in the formula of f ($1 ) with the solutions you just calculated ($6 ). |
8. | | Activate the disabled Visibility button below row number 7 to plot the function in the Graphics View. |