Analyzing the Setup
The polynomial is defined as f(x)=ax3+bx2+cx+41. To analyze its behavior, we determine its derivatives:
These derivatives serve as our analytical lenses, allowing us to evaluate the slope and curvature of the polynomial at any given point.
Unlocking the System
We utilize the provided keys at x=1 to establish a system of linear equations. First, using f′′(1)=4:
Next, using f′(1)=2:
3a(1)2+2b(1)+c=2⟹3a+2b+c=2
Finally, using f(1)=40:
a(1)3+b(1)2+c(1)+41=40⟹a+b+c=−1
We now have the following system of equations:
1) 3a+b=2
2) 3a+2b+c=2
3) a+b+c=−1
The Elegance of Elimination
We observe that subtracting Equation (1) from Equation (2) eliminates the 3a term:
(3a+2b+c)−(3a+b)=2−2⟹b+c=0
This reveals the relationship c=−b. Substituting this into Equation (3):
The Final Reveal
With a=−1 identified, we substitute this value back into Equation (1):
Given b+c=0, it follows that c=−5. We have successfully determined the coefficients: a=−1, b=5, and c=−5.
The final objective is to calculate the value of a2+b2+c2:
(−1)2+(5)2+(−5)2=1+25+25=51
The value of the expression is 51.