Expert: Bobby Soltani - 11/1/2005

Question
Find the difference quotient for f(x) 2x^2 - 3x

Evaluate it at x=3, h=0.1

Answer
Hi Olivia,

the difference quotient is:

(f(x+h) - f(x))/h

f(x) = 2x^2 - 3x
f(3) = 2(3)^2 - 3*3 = 18 - 9 = 9

f(x+h) = f(3.1) = 2(3.1)^2 - 3*3.1 = 19.22 - 9.3 = 9.92

now, since we have f(x+h), f(x), and h, we can find the difference quotient.

(9.92 - 9)/0.1 = 9.2

Let me know if you have any questions.

Bobby