Math Problem Statement

Use transformations to graph the function: m(x) = (1/3)|x - 3| - 2

Solution

The given function is:

m(x)=13x32m(x) = \frac{1}{3} |x - 3| - 2

This is an absolute value function, and we can use transformations to graph it. Let's break down the transformation process:

  1. Starting with the base function: The base function is x|x|, which forms a "V" shape with a vertex at the origin (0,0).

  2. Horizontal shift: The expression x3|x - 3| indicates a horizontal shift to the right by 3 units. This moves the vertex from (0,0) to (3,0).

  3. Vertical stretch/compression: The coefficient 13\frac{1}{3} in front of the absolute value compresses the graph vertically by a factor of 13\frac{1}{3}, making the arms of the "V" less steep compared to the base function x|x|.

  4. Vertical shift: The "-2" at the end of the function moves the entire graph down by 2 units. This means the new vertex is at (3,2)(3, -2).

  5. Final graph: The function results in a "V" shape with a vertex at (3, -2), opening upwards, with the slopes of the arms being 13\frac{1}{3} and 13-\frac{1}{3}.

Comparing to the provided graph:

  • The graph you provided has a "V" shape.
  • The vertex appears to be correctly located at (3,2)(3, -2), matching the transformations.
  • The slopes of the lines appear to match the 13\frac{1}{3} slope, indicating the compression is correct.

Would you like further details or have any questions about this explanation?

Here are 5 related questions for practice:

  1. How would the graph change if the vertical stretch factor was 12\frac{1}{2} instead of 13\frac{1}{3}?
  2. What would happen if the expression was x+3|x + 3| instead of x3|x - 3|?
  3. How would the graph shift if the equation had +2+2 instead of 2-2?
  4. What would the graph look like if the absolute value was replaced by a square root x3\sqrt{x-3}?
  5. How can you find the axis of symmetry of an absolute value function?

Tip: Absolute value functions are symmetric around the vertex, making them an excellent tool to explore reflections and transformations in graphs.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Absolute Value Functions
Function Transformations
Graphing

Formulas

m(x) = (1/3)|x - 3| - 2

Theorems

Transformation of Functions

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11