Rolle's Theorem states that if a real-valued function f is continuous on the closed interval [a,b], differentiable on the open interval (a,b), and f(a)=f(b), then there exists at least one point c in (a,b) where f′(c)=0. Geometrically, if a smooth curve starts and ends at the same height, somewhere in between it must have a point where the tangent is horizontal (parallel to the X-axis) — the curve must turn around. To apply the theorem to a given function on a given interval: first check the three hypotheses (the function must be continuous on the closed interval and differentiable on the open interval — true automatically for polynomials, and for combinations of standard continuous/differentiable functions such as ex, sinx, cosx, logx wherever they are individually defined and smooth; and f(a) must equal f(b), checked by direct substitution). If any hypothesis fails (as with a function that is not differentiable at an interior point, or one where the two endpoint values differ), Rolle's Theorem does not apply. If all hypotheses hold, differentiate f, set f′(x)=0, solve for x, and confirm the solution(s) c actually lie strictly inside (a,b).
"Rolle's theorem statement and verification examples" and "Rolle's theorem class 12 important questions" are frequently searched around the Continuity and Differentiability chapter of the NCERT-aligned CBSE Class 12 Mathematics curriculum, a topic tested in board exams and JEE Main mean-value-theorem questions. Checking all three hypotheses carefully before applying the theorem, as emphasised here, is exactly what separates full marks from a partial answer in competitive-exam solutions.