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Second Derivative Test

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The second derivative test is a method for determining a function's maxima, minima, and points of inflection by using its first and second derivatives.

Second derivative test is a college-level concept that would be first encountered in a Calculus I course. It is an Advanced Placement Calculus AB topic and is listed in the California State Standards for Calculus.

Prerequisites

Derivative: A derivative is the infinitesimal rate of change in a function with respect to one of its parameters.
Inflection Point: An inflection point is a point on a curve at which the concavity changes.

Classroom Articles on Calculus I (Up to College Level)

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