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Ch. 3 - Derivatives
Briggs - Calculus: Early Transcendentals 3rd Edition
Briggs3rd EditionCalculus: Early TranscendentalsISBN: 9780136847243Not the one you use?Change textbook
All textbooksBriggs 3rd EditionCh. 3 - DerivativesProblem 3.5.85
Chapter 3, Problem 3.5.85

Continuity of a piecewise function Let g(x) = <matrix 2x1> For what values of a is g continuous?

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First, understand the concept of continuity for a function. A function is continuous at a point if the limit of the function as it approaches the point from both sides is equal to the function's value at that point.
Identify the piecewise function g(x) given in the problem. Since the problem does not specify the pieces, assume g(x) is defined differently on different intervals. For example, g(x) might be defined as g(x) = x^2 for x < a and g(x) = 2x + 1 for x ≥ a.
To determine the values of 'a' for which g(x) is continuous, ensure that the left-hand limit and right-hand limit at x = a are equal, and also equal to g(a). This means you need to solve the equation: lim(x -> a^-) g(x) = lim(x -> a^+) g(x) = g(a).
Calculate the left-hand limit: lim(x -> a^-) g(x). If g(x) = x^2 for x < a, then this limit is a^2.
Calculate the right-hand limit: lim(x -> a^+) g(x). If g(x) = 2x + 1 for x ≥ a, then this limit is 2a + 1. Set the left-hand limit equal to the right-hand limit and solve for 'a': a^2 = 2a + 1.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Continuity

A function is continuous at a point if the limit of the function as it approaches that point equals the function's value at that point. For piecewise functions, continuity must be checked at the boundaries where the pieces meet. This involves ensuring that the left-hand limit, right-hand limit, and the function's value at that point are all equal.
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Intro to Continuity

Piecewise Function

A piecewise function is defined by different expressions based on the input value. Each segment of the function applies to a specific interval of the domain. Understanding how to evaluate and analyze each piece is crucial for determining overall properties like continuity and differentiability.
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Limit

The limit of a function describes the behavior of the function as it approaches a particular point from either side. In the context of continuity, limits are used to determine if the function approaches the same value from both directions at a point of interest. Evaluating limits is essential for confirming the continuity of piecewise functions at their transition points.
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One-Sided Limits
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