Math Problem Statement

Consider the function f whose graph is given below. Determine whether f is continuous or not on each of the following intervals: 1. x = -2, 2. x = 3, 3. (-1, 1), 4. [-1, 1], 5. [0, 1), 6. (1, +∞).

Solution

Let's analyze the continuity of the given function f(x)f(x) at the specified points and intervals.

1. x=2x = -2

From the graph, at x=2x = -2, there is a closed dot, meaning the function is defined and there is no break, jump, or vertical asymptote. The graph approaches this point from both sides smoothly, meaning f(x)f(x) is continuous at x=2x = -2.

2. x=3x = 3

At x=3x = 3, we see an open circle, which means that the function is not defined at this point. Thus, the function is not continuous at x=3x = 3.

3. Interval (1,1)(-1, 1)

In the open interval (1,1)(-1, 1), excluding the endpoints, the graph is smooth and unbroken, with no jumps, holes, or asymptotes. Therefore, the function is continuous in this interval.

4. Interval [1,1][-1, 1]

In this closed interval, we need to check the endpoints x=1x = -1 and x=1x = 1.

  • At x=1x = -1, there is no discontinuity as the function smoothly connects to this point.
  • At x=1x = 1, there is a jump discontinuity due to the gap (open circle at x=1x = 1). Thus, the function is not continuous over the entire interval [1,1][-1, 1].

5. Interval [0,1)[0, 1)

In the half-open interval [0,1)[0, 1):

  • At x=0x = 0, the function is continuous.
  • The function remains smooth up to but not including x=1x = 1, where there is a jump discontinuity at the right endpoint. Thus, the function is continuous over the interval [0,1)[0, 1).

6. Interval (1,+)(1, +\infty)

For x>1x > 1, the graph is smooth without any breaks, jumps, or vertical asymptotes, meaning that the function is continuous on (1,+)(1, +\infty).

Summary of Continuity:

  1. x=2x = -2: Continuous
  2. x=3x = 3: Not continuous
  3. (1,1)(-1, 1): Continuous
  4. [1,1][-1, 1]: Not continuous
  5. [0,1)[0, 1): Continuous
  6. (1,+)(1, +\infty): Continuous

Would you like more detailed explanations for any of these points or intervals?


Here are 5 related questions to expand on the concept of continuity:

  1. What are the conditions for a function to be continuous at a specific point?
  2. How does a jump discontinuity affect the continuity of a function?
  3. Can a function be continuous over an open interval but not at its endpoints?
  4. How do vertical asymptotes relate to discontinuity in a function?
  5. What is the difference between removable and non-removable discontinuities?

Tip: Continuity at a point requires that the left-hand limit, right-hand limit, and the function value all exist and are equal at that point.

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Continuity
Limits
Graphical Analysis

Formulas

Continuity definition: A function f(x) is continuous at x = c if the left-hand limit, right-hand limit, and the value of the function at x = c all exist and are equal.

Theorems

Continuity Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12