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
3. Functions
Intro to Functions & Their Graphs
7:15 minutes
Problem 28b
Textbook Question
Textbook QuestionGraph each piecewise-defined function. See Example 2. ƒ(x)={-2x if x<-3, 3x-1 if -3≤x≤2, -4x if x>2
Verified Solution
This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above
Video duration:
7mPlay a video:
Was this helpful?
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 applicable to a specific interval of the domain. Understanding how to interpret these segments is crucial for graphing, as each piece has its own formula that dictates the output based on the input value. For example, in the function f(x) given, different expressions are used depending on whether x is less than -4, between -4 and 3, or greater than 3.
Recommended video:
4:56
Function Composition
Graphing Techniques
Graphing piecewise functions requires plotting each segment separately according to its defined interval. This involves determining the endpoints of each segment, checking for inclusivity (whether endpoints are included in the interval), and ensuring that the transitions between segments are clearly marked. For instance, the function f(x) has different linear equations that need to be graphed in their respective ranges.
Recommended video:
Guided course
02:16
Graphs and Coordinates - Example
Continuity and Discontinuity
When graphing piecewise functions, it is important to analyze the continuity at the boundaries where the function changes from one piece to another. A function is continuous if there are no breaks or jumps in the graph at these points. In the provided function, one must check if the values at x = -4 and x = 3 from the different segments match, which determines whether the graph is continuous or has a jump discontinuity.
Recommended video:
3:34
Determining Removable Discontinuities (Holes)
Watch next
Master Relations and Functions with a bite sized video explanation from Nick Kaneko
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice