Question

the curve y=x^2-3x-4 crosses the x-axis at P and Q. the tangents to the curves at P and Q meet at R. the normals to the curve at P and Q meet at S. Find the distance RS.

Answer 1

this using calculus?

Answer 2

yep. differentiation

Answer 3

the derivative of the function tells us the slope at any given point of the curve

can you tell me what you get as a derivative?

Answer 4

y= x^2-3x-4
---> 2x-3

i dont know what should i do further than that x_x

Answer 5

crosses \(x\) axis at P and Q??

Answer 6

we will need to find P and Q as the x intercepts of the parabola; do you recall the quadratic formula?