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Find a logarithmic tangent and a two-intersection slope range

The curve CC has equation 2−y=x2^{-y}=x. Its point AA has x-coordinate a>0a>0. Show that dy/dx=−1/(aln⁡2)dy/dx=-1/(a\ln2) at AA, and find the equation of the tangent there.

Hence find the tangent to CC that passes through the origin. The line y=mxy=mx intersects CC at two distinct points. Write down the range of mm.

[2008/RJC/I/11(a)]

CJC · Discussion · Question 8

The through-origin tangent gives the boundary slope; distinguish tangency from two distinct intersections.

Read the worked solution