Question

Find the absolute minimum and absolute maximum values of f on the given interval.
f(x)=(x^2-1)^3, [-1,4]

Answer 1

Find the derivative, f' = 6x(x^2 - 1)^2

Answer 2

f' = 0 when x = 0 and when x = 1, and x = -1

Answer 3

Use the First Derivative Test to determine whether these points yield a rel max/min.

Answer 4

then use the endpoints as well...