Question

Use the table below of the function f(x) = x4 − 4x to answer this question:

x
f(x)
−2
24
−1
5
0
0
1
−3
2
8


What is the average rate of change from x = −1 to x = 2?

Answer 1

The average rate of change between -1 and 2 is 1.

Explanation:

To get this, use the two ordered pairs (-1, 5) and (2, 8). Now use the slope formula to find the rate of change.

m(slope) = (y2 - y1)/(x2 - x1)

m = (8 - 5)/(2 - -1)

m = 3/3

m = 1