Question

Help how do I evaluate
f(a+h)-f(a)/h for f(x)=x^2 +3???

Answer 1

@amistre64 @Paynesdad

Answer 2

plug in f(a) and f(a+h)

Answer 3

Just the difference quotient, or are you taking a limit to find the derivative?

In any case, given that \(f(x)=x^2+3\), you have \(f(a)=a^2+3\) and \(f(a+h)=(a+h)^2+3\).

So, the difference quotient is
\[\frac{f(a+h)-f(a)}{h}=\frac{((a+h)^2+3)-(a^2+3)}{h}\]
Then simplify.

Answer 4

so you have to plug in x^2+3 every time there is an f? @SithsAndGiggles

Answer 5

You have to plug in whatever is in the parentheses:
\[f(\cdots)=(\cdots)^2+3\]
In this case, \(\cdots\) represents \(a\) and \(a+h\).

Answer 6

ok got it thanks!