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
Problem 23c
Textbook Question
Graph each piecewise-defined function. See Example 2. ƒ(x)={4-x if x<2, 1+2x if x≥2![Piecewise function definition for f(x) with two conditions based on x values.](https://lightcat-files.s3.amazonaws.com/problem_images/a895bcad66bcbc63-1675845540738.jpg)
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Step 1: Identify the two pieces of the piecewise function: f(x) = x + 5 for x ≤ 3 and f(x) = 14 - 3x for x > 3.
Step 2: Graph the first piece, f(x) = x + 5, for x ≤ 3. This is a linear function with a slope of 1 and a y-intercept of 5. Plot points for x-values less than or equal to 3 and draw the line.
Step 3: Graph the second piece, f(x) = 14 - 3x, for x > 3. This is a linear function with a slope of -3 and a y-intercept of 14. Plot points for x-values greater than 3 and draw the line.
Step 4: Ensure continuity at x = 3 by checking the value of both pieces at x = 3. For f(x) = x + 5, when x = 3, f(3) = 8. For f(x) = 14 - 3x, when x = 3, f(3) = 5. Since the values are different, there is a jump discontinuity at x = 3.
Step 5: Combine the two pieces on the same graph, clearly indicating the different domains for each piece and the discontinuity at x = 3.
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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 different expressions based on the input value. Each segment of the function applies to a specific interval of the domain, allowing for varied behavior in different regions. Understanding how to interpret and graph these functions is crucial, as it involves determining which expression to use based on the value of x.
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Graphing Techniques
Graphing piecewise functions requires plotting each segment separately according to its defined conditions. This involves identifying the endpoints of each interval and determining whether they are included (closed dot) or excluded (open dot) in the graph. Mastery of these techniques is essential for accurately representing the function visually.
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Graphs and Coordinates - Example
Continuity and Discontinuity
Continuity refers to whether a function has any breaks, jumps, or holes in its graph. For piecewise functions, it is important to check the transition points where the definition changes, as these points can indicate discontinuities. Understanding continuity helps in analyzing the overall behavior of the function and ensuring accurate graphing.
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Determining Removable Discontinuities (Holes)
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