Concept:
If the first derivative \( f'(x) \) is never zero for any value of \( x \), then the function is either strictly increasing or strictly decreasing throughout its domain.
Case 1: Strictly Increasing
If \( f'(x) > 0 \), then for any two values \( a < b \), we have:
\[
f(a) < f(b)
\]
This implies \( f(a) \neq f(b) \).
Case 2: Strictly Decreasing
If \( f'(x) < 0 \), then for any two values \( a < b \), we have:
\[
f(a) > f(b)
\]
Again, \( f(a) \neq f(b) \).
Conclusion:
In either case, the function is injective (one-to-one), meaning it never takes the same value at two different points.
✅ Correct Answer: \( f(a) \neq f(b) \)