The Derivative (cont.) 3.1
A Differential Function is Continuous If y = f(x) has a derivative at x = c, then f(x) is continuous at x = c. When the Derivative Fails to Exist The derivative fails to exist when The graph of the function has a corner. The graph of the function has a vertical tangent. The graph of the function has a break (discontinuity).
To be differentiable, a function must be continuous and smooth. Derivatives will fail to exist at: corner cusp discontinuity vertical tangent
Continuity does not imply Differentiability Differentiability implies Continuity
Find the interval where the function is differentiable. Limit does not exist, so the function is not continuous and not differentiable at x = 0 Possible point of discontinuity at x = 0
Using your calculator Graph |x| + 1 Zoom in on “corner” Notice the corner does not change A differentiable curve will “straighten out”
Find at x = 2. Example: 1. Graph the function 2. Press 2nd TRACE to enter the CALC Menu 3. Select 6. dy/dx 4. Press 2 and ENTER 5. BE CAREFUL! The calculator gave an answer of 12.000001. The answer is 12! This should only be used as a check for your homework. You cannot use this method on a test/quiz!!