Math

Start Free Trial

How do I find the maximum value of the function f(x)=5^x-x^5 on the interval 0<=x<=2?

I know that to find the maximum value I need to find the derivative of the function and then set it to zero. And i got: 

f'(x)=5^x(ln5)-5x^4

0=5^x(ln5)-5x^4

x^4=5^(x-1)(ln5)

And this is where i got stuck, i cannot solve the above equation. And i know there is an answer since using guess and check i was about to come close to the answer.

I asked my teacher about this first, according to him, it's unsolveable using algebra. and i do not need to know about it at grade 12 high school(but i still wish to know). So basically i'm asking if you can show me how to solve this, or tell me what i would need to know to be able to solve this.

Download PDF PDF Page Citation Cite Share Link Share

Expert Answers

An illustration of the letter 'A' in a speech bubbles
| Certified Educator
Share Link Share Page Citation Cite

You have followed the correct steps when you have differentiated the function and then you have tried to solve `f'(x)=0.`

Notice that the equation you need to solve is transcedental, hence you should use numerical or graphical methods to find the roots.

You should consider two functions such that:

`g(x)=x^4 and h(x) = 5^(x-1)*ln 5`

You need to sketch the graphs of these functions and the roots of the equation g(x)=h(x) represent the x coordinates of the points of intersection of graphs.

Notice that x coordinate of point of intersection between the red and black curves is in `(1,2), ` hence the function reaches its extreme point at a value of `x in (1,2).`

See eNotes Ad-Free

Start your 48-hour free trial to get access to more than 30,000 additional guides and more than 350,000 Homework Help questions answered by our experts.

Get 48 Hours Free Access

Already a member? Log in here.

Approved by eNotes Editorial

Videos