Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Piecewise-Defined Functions
A piecewise-defined function is a function that is defined by different expressions or rules over different intervals of its domain. Each piece of the function applies to a specific part of the input values, allowing for flexibility in modeling complex behaviors. For example, a function might be defined as f(x) = x^2 for x < 0 and f(x) = 2x + 1 for x ≥ 0.
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Domain
The domain of a function is the complete set of possible input values (x-values) for which the function is defined. In the context of piecewise functions, the domain is often divided into intervals that correspond to the different pieces of the function. Understanding the domain is crucial for determining where each rule applies and ensuring that inputs are valid.
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Range
The range of a function is the set of all possible output values (y-values) that the function can produce based on its domain. For piecewise-defined functions, the range can vary depending on the specific rules applied in each interval. Analyzing the range helps in understanding the overall behavior of the function and identifying any limitations on the output values.
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