Mathematics

Mathematics

Problem

Analyze the polynomial function g(x)=x5−5x4g(x)=x^{5}-5x^{4} with respect to its critical points and local behavior. (a) Determine g′(x)g'(x) and write it in completely factored form. (b) List all critical points of gg and state the multiplicity of each corresponding root of g′(x)g'(x). (c) Construct a sign chart for g′(x)g'(x) and identify the intervals on which gg is increasing and the intervals on which it is decreasing. (d) For each critical point, decide whether gg has a local maximum, a local minimum, or a point of inflection with a horizontal tangent. Justify your conclusions using the information from parts (b) and (c).

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