Given the function y=(x+1)(x-2)^2 find i) dy/dx ii) Stationary points and determine their nature

Here we have a function made from the product of two functions, so we canuse the product differenciation rule.

y=uv  =>  dy/dx=udv/dx + vdu/dx

Therefore dy/dy=(x-2)^2 + 2(x-2)(x+1)

Stationary points occur when the gradient is zero, we solve for (x-2)^2 + 2(x-2)(x+1)=0 which gives (0,4), (2,0)

Solving for nature of stationary point we find the second derivative d^2y/dx^2=6x-6

When x=0 we get a maximum, when x=2 we get a minimum point.

RB
Answered by Russell B. Maths tutor

5412 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Differentiate 2x^3+23x^2+3x+5 and find the values of x for which the function f(x) is at either at a maximum or minimum point. (Don't need to specify which is which)


Simplify (5-2√3)/(√3-1) giving your answer in the form p +q√3, where p and q are rational numbers


Solve the equation 2log (base 3)(x) - log (base 3)(x+4) = 2


A child of m1=48 kg, is initially standing at rest on a skateboard. The child jumps off the skateboard moving horizontally with a speed v1=1.2 ms^-1. The skateboard moves with a speed v2=16 ms^-1 in the opposite direction. Find the mass of the skateboard.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning