Find the stationary point(s) of the curve: y = 3x^4 - 8x^3 - 3.

Firstly. Recognise which method you should use to approach this question. In this case, you can find the stationary point of a curve where its gradient is 0 i.e. at a point where the gradient changes from positive to negative or vice versa. This can be done by differentiating y (finding f'(x)) and equating to 0 (f'(x)=0) to then solve and find the x values. Let's take it step by step.
Secondly. Differentiate curve y.f(x) = 3x^4 - 8x^3 - 3f'(x) = 12x^3 - 24x^2
Thirdly. Equate to 0 and factorise the derivative (f'(x)) to make it easier to solve.12x^3 - 24x^2 = 012x^2(x - 2) = 0Treating both terms separately:12x^2 = 0 ----> x = 0x - 2 = 0 ----> x = 2
Finally. Conclude that the stationary points for curve y are found at x=0 and x=2.

Answered by Laurene L. Maths tutor

4248 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Simplify 5p + 2q – 3p – 3q


The mass of a substance is increasing exponentially. Initially its mass is 37.5g, 5 months later its mass is 52g. What is its mass 9 months after the initial value to 2 d.p?


Integrate 3x^2+cos(x) with respect to x


How do I find the solution of the simultaneous equations x+3y=7 and 5x+2y=8


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences