Candidates Test

Definition

The Candidates Test is a method used to determine the behavior of a function at critical points. By evaluating the sign of the derivative on either side of a critical point, you can determine if it is a local maximum, minimum, or neither.

Related terms

Critical Point:

A critical point occurs when the derivative of a function equals zero or does not exist. It represents potential locations for local extrema.

First Derivative Test:

The First Derivative Test uses information from the first derivative to determine whether critical points are local maxima or minima.

Second Derivative Test:

The Second Derivative Test uses information from the second derivative to determine whether critical points are local maxima or minima.