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Ch. 2 - Functions and Graphs
Blitzer - College Algebra 8th Edition
Blitzer8th EditionCollege AlgebraISBN: 9780136970514Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 3, Problem 82

Begin by graphing the absolute value function, f(x) = |x|. Then use transformations of this graph to graph the given function. g(x) = |x|+3

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Start by graphing the parent function f(x) = |x|. This is the absolute value function, which forms a V-shaped graph with its vertex at the origin (0, 0). The graph opens upwards, with the left side having a slope of -1 and the right side having a slope of 1.
Understand the transformation applied to the parent function. The given function g(x) = |x| + 3 adds a constant value of 3 to the output of the absolute value function. This is a vertical shift.
Apply the vertical shift to the graph of f(x) = |x|. To do this, move every point on the graph of f(x) = |x| upward by 3 units. For example, the vertex (0, 0) of f(x) = |x| will move to (0, 3).
Adjust the slopes of the graph accordingly. The left side of the graph will still have a slope of -1, and the right side will still have a slope of 1, but the entire graph is now shifted upward.
Sketch the transformed graph of g(x) = |x| + 3. Label the vertex at (0, 3) and ensure the V-shape is preserved, with the left and right sides extending as described.

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Key Concepts

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

Absolute Value Function

The absolute value function, denoted as f(x) = |x|, outputs the non-negative value of x. This function has a V-shaped graph that opens upwards, with its vertex at the origin (0,0). Understanding this function is crucial as it serves as the foundation for graphing transformations.
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Function Composition

Graph Transformations

Graph transformations involve shifting, reflecting, stretching, or compressing the graph of a function. In this case, adding a constant (like +3) to the absolute value function translates the graph vertically upwards by 3 units. Recognizing how these transformations affect the graph is essential for accurately sketching the new function.
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Intro to Transformations

Vertical Shift

A vertical shift occurs when a constant is added to or subtracted from a function's output. For g(x) = |x| + 3, the entire graph of f(x) = |x| is moved up by 3 units. This concept is important for understanding how the position of the graph changes without altering its shape.
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Shifts of Functions