Math Problem Statement

Use interval notation to write the intervals over which f is (a) increasing, (b) decreasing, and (c) constant.

Solution

To determine the intervals over which the function f(x)f(x) is increasing, decreasing, or constant, we need to analyze the graph provided.

Analyzing the Graph:

  1. Increasing Intervals: A function is increasing where the graph moves upwards as we move from left to right.
  2. Decreasing Intervals: A function is decreasing where the graph moves downwards as we move from left to right.
  3. Constant Intervals: A function is constant where the graph remains flat or horizontal.

Observing the Graph:

  • Increasing: The graph increases from x=3x = -3 to x=1x = -1.
  • Constant: The graph is constant (flat) from x=1x = -1 to x=2x = 2.
  • Decreasing: The graph decreases from x=2x = 2 to x=4x = 4.

Interval Notation:

(a) Increasing Interval:

  • The function is increasing on the interval:
    (3,1)(-3, -1)

(b) Decreasing Interval:

  • The function is decreasing on the interval:
    (2,4)(2, 4)

(c) Constant Interval:

  • The function is constant on the interval:
    (1,2)(-1, 2)

Would you like further details, or do you have any questions?

Here are some additional questions related to the graph:

  1. What happens to the function's value as x3x \to -3?
  2. Can a function be both increasing and decreasing on the same interval?
  3. How would the intervals change if there was a point of discontinuity?
  4. What is the domain of the function depicted in the graph?
  5. How does the graph reflect the range of the function?

Tip: When interpreting graphs, pay attention to the direction of movement to determine if a function is increasing, decreasing, or constant over certain intervals.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Functions
Graph Analysis
Interval Notation

Formulas

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Theorems

A function is increasing where the graph moves upwards as we move from left to right
A function is decreasing where the graph moves downwards as we move from left to right
A function is constant where the graph remains flat or horizontal

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12