Rolle’s Theorem
Statement Rolle’s Theorem
Let f be a real valued function defined on the closed interval [a,b] such that
i) it is continuous on the closed interval [a,b]
ii) it is differentiable on the open interval (a,b)
iii) f(a)=f(b).
Then there exist a real number c such that f ’(c) = 0.
First we need to check whether given function satisfy the conditions of Roll’s theorem or not. Following results are helpful in doing so.
- A polynomial function is everywhere continuous and differentiable.
- Exponential function, sine and cosine functions are everywhere continuous and differentiable.
- Logarithmic function is continuous and differentiable in its domain.
- The sum, difference, product and quotient of two continuous and differentiable functions is also continuous and differentiable.
- Tan(x) is not continuous at
- |x| is continuous but not differentiable at x=0.
Example 1: Discuss the applicability of Rolle’s theorem for f(x)= tan(x) on interval [0,π]
Solution: We check all three conditions one by one.
Tan(x) is not continuous at x=π/2 so it can’t be differentiable either at x=π/2 . First condition of continuity is not satisfied in given domain and hence Rolle’s theorem is not applicable to tan(x) on given interval [0,π].
Example 2 : Verify Rolle’s theorem for f(x)= x^2-5x+6 on interval [2,3].
Solution: Since a polynomial function is continuous and differentiable everywhere so…
i) f(x) is continuous on [2,3]
ii) f(x) is differentiable on (2,3)
iii) f(2)= (2)^2 -5(2) + 6 = 0
f(3)=(3)^2- 5(3) + 6 = 0
Hence f(2)= f(3)
All three conditions of Rolle’s theorem are satisfied . Therefore Rolle’s theorem is applicable to this function and we can find c such that f ’(c)=0
f ’(c)= 2x-5
f ‘(c) = 0 => 2x-5=0
x= 5/2
x=2.5 (2,3)
Hence Rolle’s theorem is verified for given function and c=2.5
Practice problems:
- Using Rolle’s theorem, find points on the curve y=16-x^2 for interval [-1,1] where tangent is parallel to x axis.
- Let f(x) = x2 – x. Does Rolle’s Theorem guarantees the existence of some c in (0, 1) with f ‘ (c) = 0? If not, explain why not.
Answers:
- (0,16)
- Yes, c=0.5