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Critical Point

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A critical point is a point in the graph of a function where the derivative is either zero or undefined.

Critical point is a college-level concept that would be first encountered in a Calculus I course. It is an Advanced Placement Calculus AB topic.

Examples

Maximum: The maximum of a set, function, etc. is the largest value attained by that object.
Minimum: The minimum of a set, function, etc. is the smallest value attained by that object.

Prerequisites

Derivative: A derivative is the infinitesimal rate of change in a function with respect to one of its parameters.

Classroom Articles on Calculus I (Up to College Level)

  • Calculus
  • Indefinite Integral
  • Chain Rule
  • Inflection Point
  • Continuous Function
  • Integral
  • Definite Integral
  • Intermediate Value Theorem
  • Discontinuity
  • Limit
  • Extreme Value Theorem
  • Mean-Value Theorem
  • First Derivative Test
  • Newton's Method
  • Fundamental Theorems of Calculus
  • Riemann Sum
  • Implicit Differentiation
  • Second Derivative Test