Using Second Derivative to Determine Extrema (Sufficient Condition)

Let f(x) have a second derivative at point x₀, with f'(x₀) = 0 and f''(x₀) e 0. 1. If f''(x₀) > 0, then f(x) attains a local minimum at x₀. 2. If f''(x₀) < 0,…

Syllabus path: Functions › Concepts and Properties of Functions › Maximum and Minimum Values of a Function

CSCA Exam Prep

This formula is aligned to the CSCA undergraduate admissions exam syllabus. Continue with the linked tutorial and topic practice.

Practice related questions (12) · Start mock exam · Sign up — AI explanations · Membership plans

CSCA Mathematics Formula Reference

Formula and explanation

Let f(x) have a second derivative at point x₀, with f'(x₀) = 0 and f''(x₀) e 0. 1. If f''(x₀) > 0, then f(x) attains a local minimum at x₀. 2. If f''(x₀) < 0, then f(x) attains a local maximum at x₀. If f''(x₀) = 0, this method fails, and other methods (e.g., first derivative sign test) must be used.

Related tutorial and examples

Maximum and Minimum Values of a Function

Maximum and Minimum Values of a Function 1. Concept The Maximum and Minimum Values (collectively called Global Extrema) describe the boundaries of the function's output range over its entire domain or a specific interval. Let the domain of y = f(x) be D: Maximum Value: If there e…

Read the full tutorial and worked examples

Plan your next CSCA study step

Use this topic in a focused practice set, then connect it to the exam requirements and timed papers.