Table of contents
- 0. Review of Algebra4h 16m
- 1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
- 2. Graphs of Equations43m
- 3. Functions2h 17m
- 4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
- 5. Rational Functions1h 23m
- 6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
- 7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 6m
- 8. Conic Sections2h 23m
- 9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 19m
- 10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m
2. Graphs of Equations
Two-Variable Equations
Problem 22a
Textbook Question
Graph each piecewise-defined function. See Example 2. ƒ(x)={6-x if x≤3, 3 if x>3![Piecewise function f(x) with two conditions: -x-2 for x≤2 and -4 for x>2.](https://lightcat-files.s3.amazonaws.com/problem_images/26c9bef2249f9c84-1675843864214.jpg)
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1
Identify the two pieces of the piecewise function: f(x) = -x - 2 for x ≤ 2 and f(x) = -4 for x > 2.
Graph the first piece, f(x) = -x - 2, for x ≤ 2. This is a linear function with a slope of -1 and a y-intercept of -2. Plot points for x-values less than or equal to 2 and draw the line.
Graph the second piece, f(x) = -4, for x > 2. This is a horizontal line at y = -4. Plot points for x-values greater than 2 and draw the line.
Ensure the graph of the first piece stops at x = 2 and includes the point (2, -4) with a closed circle, indicating that the value at x = 2 is included in this piece.
Ensure the graph of the second piece starts just after x = 2 with an open circle at (2, -4), indicating that the value at x = 2 is not included in this piece.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Piecewise Functions
A piecewise function is defined by multiple sub-functions, each applying to a specific interval of the domain. In this case, the function f(x) has two pieces: one for x less than or equal to 2, and another for x greater than 2. Understanding how to evaluate and graph each piece is crucial for accurately representing the overall function.
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Graphing Techniques
Graphing piecewise functions involves plotting each segment of the function according to its defined conditions. For the given function, the first segment, -x - 2, is graphed for x ≤ 2, while the constant value -4 is graphed for x > 2. Knowing how to identify and mark endpoints, including whether they are open or closed, is essential for an accurate graph.
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Graphs and Coordinates - Example
Continuity and Discontinuity
Continuity refers to whether a function is unbroken at a point, while discontinuity indicates a break or jump in the function's graph. In piecewise functions, it is important to check the values at the boundaries, such as x = 2 in this case, to determine if the function is continuous or if there is a jump, which affects the overall behavior of the graph.
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Determining Removable Discontinuities (Holes)
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