A tangent line to both functions

In summary, the conversation discusses finding a line that is tangent to both the functions f(x)=x^2 and g(x)=x^2-2x. The equations for the derivatives of f(x) and g(x) are provided and the attempt at a solution is shown. The conversation also touches on the value of h(a) and h(b) for the line, with h(b) being equal to (2b-2)b+c and h(a) being equal to (2b-2)a+c. It is determined that a=b-1 and the result is confirmed to be correct.
  • #1
Atran
93
1

Homework Statement



Determine a line that is tangent to both f(x)=x2 and g(x)=x2-2x

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution


f(x)=x2 => f'(x)=2x
g(x)=x2-2x => g'(x)=2x-2

f'(a) = f'(b)
2a = 2b-2

I don't know how to continue.
Thanks for help.
 
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  • #2
If h(x) is that line, what do you know about h(a), h(b)?
 
  • #3
Thank you.

h(b) = (2b-2)b+c => c = -b2

h(a) = (2b-2)a+c = (2b-2)a-b2 => (a-b)2+2a=0
2a = 2b-1 => a = b-1
(-1)2+2a=0 => a=-0.5 and b=0.5
 
  • #4
2a = 2b-1 => a = b-1
That is not true, but I think you mean 2(b-1).
The result is right.
 
  • #5
Yes, I meant 2b-2.
 

Related to A tangent line to both functions

1. What is a tangent line?

A tangent line is a line that touches a curve at only one point, without crossing over or intersecting it. In other words, it is a line that is "just touching" the curve at a specific point, and has the same slope as the curve at that point.

2. How is a tangent line to a function defined?

A tangent line to a function is defined as a line that touches the function at a specific point, and has the same slope as the function at that point. This can be visualized as a line that "hugs" the curve at a specific point.

3. What is the significance of a tangent line to both functions?

A tangent line to both functions is significant because it represents the point of intersection between the two functions. This point is where the two functions have the same value, and the tangent line to both functions helps us visualize this point and the relationship between the two functions.

4. How is a tangent line to both functions calculated?

A tangent line to both functions can be calculated by finding the point of intersection between the two functions and then finding the slope of each function at that point. The tangent line will have the same slope as both functions at that point.

5. What are some real-life applications of tangent lines to both functions?

Tangent lines to both functions can be used in various fields such as physics, engineering, and economics. For example, in physics, they can be used to determine the velocity and acceleration of a moving object at a specific point in time. In economics, they can be used to find the optimal point of production for a company by analyzing the marginal cost and revenue curves.

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