Find which value of x horizontal Tangent Line

In summary, to find the value of x where f(x) has a horizontal tangent line, you can use either the quotient rule or the chain rule to find F'(x), then set this expression equal to zero and solve for x.
  • #1
Aske
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0
Find which value of x...horizontal Tangent Line

Homework Statement


What is given is F(x)= -4/(x-3)(x+4) and the problem asks for to find the value of x where f(x) has a horizontal tangent line.

Homework Equations


I read somewhere else on these forms that using the quotient rule is the key, and that you make F'(x) to be equal to 0. If this is correct, I need some clarification on how it'd be put into the formula.
 
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  • #2


Well yes a horizontal tangent line, means that the gradient of the tangent at that point is zero, so F'(x)=0.

But you don't necessarily need to use the quotient rule, the chain rule would suffice as well.


So first find, F'(x)
 
  • #3


rock.freak667 said:
Well yes a horizontal tangent line, means that the gradient of the tangent at that point is zero, so F'(x)=0.

But you don't necessarily need to use the quotient rule, the chain rule would suffice as well.


So first find, F'(x)
So, that means the left side is euqal to zero, or is every where (including left side) that is f '(x) is equal to zero. Or, am I looking for the derivative, but anywhere in the formula I see that has f ' (x) is simply zero. Thanks in advance.
 
  • #4


Just find the expression for F'(x) and just equate that expression to zero and solve for x.
 

Related to Find which value of x horizontal Tangent Line

1. What is a horizontal tangent line?

A horizontal tangent line is a line that is parallel to the x-axis and touches a curve at only one point. It indicates that the slope of the curve at that point is equal to 0.

2. Why is it important to find the value of x for a horizontal tangent line?

Knowing the value of x at which a horizontal tangent line occurs can help in determining critical points of a function, which can provide valuable information about the behavior of the function.

3. How do you find the value of x for a horizontal tangent line?

To find the value of x for a horizontal tangent line, you need to first find the derivative of the function and then set it equal to 0. The resulting equation can then be solved for x to find the x-coordinate of the point where the horizontal tangent line occurs.

4. Can a function have more than one horizontal tangent line?

Yes, a function can have multiple horizontal tangent lines. This can occur when the function has multiple points where the slope is equal to 0.

5. What is the significance of a horizontal tangent line in real-life applications?

In real-life applications, a horizontal tangent line can represent a point of equilibrium or balance in a system. It can also indicate a point where there is no change, such as the maximum or minimum value of a function.

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