Question

Given the function f(x) =x^2-4x-2, determine the average rate of change of the function over the interval -1 ≤x ≤8

Answer 1

The average rate of change of change over the interval is 3.

Explanation:

Given/Known:

( f(b) - f(a) ) / (b - a)

b = 8

a = -1

Solve:

( ((8)^2-4(8)-2) - ((-1)^2-4(-1)-2) ) / (8 - (-1))

(30 - 3)/(9)

27/9

3

The average rate of change is 3.