Use the graph of f in the figure to evaluate the function or analyze the limit. <IMAGE>
lim x→−1^− f(x)

Key Concepts

Limits

A limit is a fundamental concept in calculus that describes the behavior of a function as its input approaches a certain value. In this case, we are interested in the left-hand limit as x approaches -1, denoted as lim x→−1^− f(x). This means we examine the values of f(x) as x gets closer to -1 from the left side, which helps us understand the function's behavior at that point.

Left-Hand Limit

The left-hand limit refers specifically to the value that a function approaches as the input approaches a certain point from the left. It is denoted as lim x→c^− f(x) for a function f(x) as x approaches c. This concept is crucial for evaluating limits at points where the function may not be defined or may behave differently from the right-hand side.

Graphical Analysis

Graphical analysis involves using the visual representation of a function to understand its behavior, including limits, continuity, and discontinuities. By examining the graph of f, one can identify the value that f(x) approaches as x approaches -1 from the left, which is essential for accurately evaluating the limit in the given question.