Math Problem Statement

Use the graph of the function to find its average rate of change from x = -5 to x = -2. Simplify your answer as much as possible.

Solution

To find the average rate of change of the function g(x)g(x) from x=5x = -5 to x=2x = -2, we use the formula:

Average Rate of Change=g(x2)g(x1)x2x1\text{Average Rate of Change} = \frac{g(x_2) - g(x_1)}{x_2 - x_1}

where x1=5x_1 = -5 and x2=2x_2 = -2.

Step-by-Step Solution:

  1. Identify the Points: From the graph:

    • At x=5x = -5, the corresponding yy-value g(5)g(-5) appears to be approximately 3-3.
    • At x=2x = -2, the corresponding yy-value g(2)g(-2) appears to be approximately 33.
  2. Calculate the Difference in yy-values: g(2)g(5)=3(3)=3+3=6g(-2) - g(-5) = 3 - (-3) = 3 + 3 = 6

  3. Calculate the Difference in xx-values: x2x1=2(5)=2+5=3x_2 - x_1 = -2 - (-5) = -2 + 5 = 3

  4. Calculate the Average Rate of Change: Average Rate of Change=63=2\text{Average Rate of Change} = \frac{6}{3} = 2

Answer:

The average rate of change of the function g(x)g(x) from x=5x = -5 to x=2x = -2 is 22.

Would you like further clarification or have any additional questions?

Here are some related questions that might interest you:

  1. How does the average rate of change differ from the instantaneous rate of change?
  2. Can we determine the behavior of the function based on the average rate of change?
  3. How would the average rate of change change if we looked at a different interval?
  4. What is the significance of a positive or negative average rate of change?
  5. How would you calculate the rate of change if given a different function, like a piecewise function?

Tip: When finding the average rate of change, always ensure to check the function values accurately from the graph to avoid estimation errors.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Average Rate of Change
Function Analysis
Graph Interpretation

Formulas

Average Rate of Change = (g(x2) - g(x1)) / (x2 - x1)

Theorems

Average rate of change formula

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-10