Find all critical points of the function f(x)=x^3+6x^2−3x−1. If there is more than one critical point, list them in descending order and separate them by commas.

The critical point(s) is(are) =
I thought 0, or none but it does not take that, I also tried -2 and Radical 5

Question

Find all critical points of the function f(x)=x^3+6x^2−3x−1. If there is more than one critical point, list them in descending order and separate them by commas.

The critical point(s) is(are) = 
I thought 0, or none but it does not take that, I also tried -2 and Radical 5

anonymous · Answer

differentiate to find $$3x^2+12x-3$$ which equals $$3(x^2+4x-1)$$. To find critical points you set the derivative equal to zero, since you are looking for where slope=0 and changes direction, but this is unfactorable so you must use quadratic formula.

anonymous · Answer

oh, did not know that hold on and let me see if I can solve
x^2 would be the a right

anonymous · Answer

yeah, as long as you remember to multiply back in the 3 to your answer. or you could use the unfactored one with 3 as a, 12 as b, and -3 as c

anonymous · Answer

actually nevermind you should get the right answer regardless of which one you use.

anonymous · Answer

-4.236067977, 0.2360679775 I got these two answers, thanks for the help I total forgot about doing that lol!

anonymous · Answer

you're welcome!!