Math Problem Statement

For which value(s) of a does g(x) approach a different number from the right side than it approaches from the left side? For which value(s) of a does g(x) increase or decrease without bound as x approaches a or for which value(s) of a is g(x) not defined?

Solution

The image shows a graph of the function g(x)g(x) with questions regarding its behavior at different values of x=ax = a.

Let's analyze the questions.

Question 1:

"For which value(s) of aa does g(x)g(x) approach a different number from the right side than it approaches from the left side?"

This is asking about discontinuities, specifically jump discontinuities. Based on the graph:

  • At a=0a = 0, there is a jump discontinuity where the limit from the left and right are different.
  • At a=1a = 1, it seems like there's a removable discontinuity or a hole, but the function approaches the same value from both sides.
  • At a=3a = 3, the graph shows a continuous curve.

So, the correct value for this is:

  • a=0a = 0

Question 2:

"For which value(s) of aa does g(x)g(x) increase or decrease without bound as xx approaches aa, or for which value(s) of aa is g(x)g(x) not defined?"

This is asking where the function either has a vertical asymptote (where the function goes to infinity) or where it's not defined.

  • At a=2a = -2 and a=1a = -1, the graph shows vertical asymptotes where the function increases or decreases without bound.
  • At a=0a = 0, there's a hole in the graph, meaning the function is not defined there.

So, the correct values for this are:

  • a=2a = -2, a=1a = -1, and a=0a = 0.

Let me know if you'd like more detailed explanations or have further questions!


Here are five related questions to deepen your understanding:

  1. What is the difference between a jump discontinuity and a removable discontinuity?
  2. How can we tell if a function has a vertical asymptote from its graph?
  3. What does it mean for a function to be continuous at a point?
  4. What are the formal definitions of left-hand and right-hand limits?
  5. How can we algebraically verify if a function is not defined at a certain point?

Tip: When examining graphs for discontinuities, always check for differences in left-hand and right-hand limits at critical points.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Limits
Discontinuities
Asymptotes
Continuity

Formulas

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Theorems

Left-hand and Right-hand Limits
Vertical Asymptotes

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12