This tool identifies points on a graph where the function’s value is smaller (local minimum) or larger (local maximum) than the values at all nearby points. It does not necessarily find the absolute smallest or largest value of the function across its entire domain. For example, consider a wavy line; the tool pinpoints the crests and troughs, indicating where the function briefly changes direction from increasing to decreasing, or vice-versa.
Determining these points is critical in various fields, including engineering, economics, and data analysis. Engineers use this to optimize designs, economists to model market behavior, and data scientists to find trends in datasets. Historically, these points were found through manual calculation using calculus. The availability of automated tools significantly reduces computation time and minimizes the risk of human error.