Analyzing the Setup
We are given a function f(x) that is continuous on [0,2] and twice differentiable on (0,2). We are provided with three specific coordinates: (0,0), (1,1), and (2,2).
If you plot these points, you see they are perfectly collinear, sitting on the line y=x. This line serves as our geometric anchor for the problem.
The Magic of the Auxiliary Function
The challenge here is that Rolle's Theorem requires f(a)=f(b). Since f(0)=0 and f(1)=1, they are not equal, so we cannot apply the theorem directly to f(x).
We introduce the Auxiliary Function h(x)=f(x)−x. When we evaluate this at our known points, we find:
h(0)=f(0)−0=0
h(1)=f(1)−1=0
h(2)=f(2)−2=0
We have transformed the problem into one where h(x) is zero at three distinct points, allowing us to unleash the power of Rolle's Theorem.
The First Layer
Finding the Tangents
Consider the interval [0,1]. Since h(0)=0 and h(1)=0, Rolle's Theorem guarantees there exists some c1∈(0,1) such that h′(c1)=0.
Because h′(x)=f′(x)−1, this implies f′(c1)=1. Geometrically, the tangent to our curve f(x) at c1 is perfectly parallel to the line y=x.
Now, we repeat this for the interval [1,2]. Since h(1)=0 and h(2)=0, there must exist some c2∈(1,2) such that h′(c2)=0.
The Second Layer
The Curvature
Now, consider the function g(x)=h′(x). We know g(c1)=0 and g(c2)=0.
Since h(x) is twice differentiable, h′(x) is continuous and differentiable. We apply Rolle's Theorem to h′(x) on the interval [c1,c2].
This guarantees there exists some x∈(c1,c2) such that the derivative of h′(x), which is h′′(x), is zero. Because h(x)=f(x)−x, differentiating twice gives:
Therefore, we conclude that f′′(x)=0 for some x∈(0,2).
The Grand Conclusion
We have proven that f′′(x)=0 for some x∈(0,2). This is a powerful result in calculus.
The key takeaway for your JEE preparation is this: if a function intersects a straight line at n points, its (n−1)-th derivative will vanish at least once. This is the elegance of calculus—using the structure of derivatives to reveal the hidden geometry of the function.