Scribd
Upload
6 views

rates_of_change_in_polynomial_functions

The document explains how to calculate the Average Rate of Change (ARC) and Instantaneous Rate of Change (IRC) in polynomial functions using slopes. It provides formulas for both calculations and examples involving the function f(x) = x^4 - 2x + 3. Additionally, it poses questions about IRC at turning points and includes an assignment for practice.

Uploaded by

rupalpatel0000
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
6 views

rates_of_change_in_polynomial_functions

The document explains how to calculate the Average Rate of Change (ARC) and Instantaneous Rate of Change (IRC) in polynomial functions using slopes. It provides formulas for both calculations and examples involving the function f(x) = x^4 - 2x + 3. Additionally, it poses questions about IRC at turning points and includes an assignment for practice.

Uploaded by

rupalpatel0000
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 1

Rates of Change in Polynomial Functions

To calculate the Average Rate of Change between two points x1 and x2, find the slope of the line passing through
those points.
y2  y1 f ( x2 )  f ( x1 )
m 
x2  x1 x2  x1

Ex: What is the average rate of change of f(x) = x4 - 2x + 3 from x = 1 to x = 3?

To calculate the Instantaneous Rate of Change at a single point, a, estimate the slope of the tangent by choosing a
second point very close to a and then performing the same steps as for ARC.

f ( a  h)  f ( a )
IRC 
h

Ex: What is the instantaneous rate of change of f(x) = x4 - 2x + 3 at x = 1?

IRC at x = 2 (tangent)

ARC between
x = -2 and x = -1

What is the IRC at a turning point and why?

Assignment: p. 235 # 1, 5ad, 6ad, 8

You might also like