Calculus question: Solving for absolute minimum and absolute maximum?

Question

For the value of f(x) = x/(x^2 +1) on the given interval [0,2]

f'(x) = (x^2 + 1 - 2x^2) / (x^2 + 1)^2

did I find the derivative correctly??? and now what do I do to set it to zero. I am totally confused !!! HELP!! Thanks

Could you show me how to solve for the +/- 1 by eliminating the denominator. Once I have that I can solve for the min and max ...it's the algebra that driving me crazy!!! Thanks!!

Answer 1

Hello

Setting it = to 0 the denominator will drop out when you multiply across. So we have -x^2 +1 = 0 or x^2 = 1 so x = +/- 1
Now you can put these into the original equation to see if they are max or min points.
Hope This Helps!