Math Problem Statement

Describe the x-values for which (a) f(x) is increasing or decreasing, (b) f(x) > 0, and (c) f(x) < 0, using the graph provided.

Solution

Let's analyze the graph provided to answer the questions:

  1. Where the function is increasing or decreasing:
    • The function is increasing where the slope of the graph is positive, meaning the curve goes upwards.
    • The function is decreasing where the slope is negative, meaning the curve goes downwards.

Looking at the graph:

  • The function increases in the intervals x<1x < -1 and x>1x > 1.
  • The function decreases in the interval 1<x<1-1 < x < 1.
  1. Where the function is greater than zero (above the x-axis):

    • The function is greater than zero when the graph is above the x-axis. This occurs in two intervals: 2<x<0-2 < x < 0 and 3<x3 < x.
  2. Where the function is less than zero (below the x-axis):

    • The function is less than zero when the graph is below the x-axis. This happens in the interval 0<x<30 < x < 3.

Answers:

a. The function is increasing when x<1x < -1 and x>1x > 1, decreasing when 1<x<1-1 < x < 1.

b. The function is greater than zero when 2<x<0-2 < x < 0 and x>3x > 3.

c. The function is less than zero when 0<x<30 < x < 3.

Would you like further details or clarifications?

Related Questions:

  1. What does it mean when a function is increasing or decreasing?
  2. How do you identify when a function is positive or negative from a graph?
  3. Can a function be zero at multiple points? What does that indicate?
  4. How do turning points relate to increasing and decreasing intervals?
  5. How can you find the exact values of xx where the function is zero?

Tip: Turning points (where the slope changes from positive to negative or vice versa) often indicate maximum or minimum values of the function.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Functions
Increasing and Decreasing Intervals
Positive and Negative Functions
Graph Analysis

Formulas

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Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12