Math Problem Statement

For the linear function f(x) = 5 - (1/2)x: (a) evaluate f(-2) and f(0); (b) find the zero of f; and (c) graph f. How can the graph of f be used to determine the zero of f?

Solution

The question provided asks about a linear function f(x)=512xf(x) = 5 - \frac{1}{2}x, and it requires three parts to be solved:

(a) Evaluate f(2)f(-2) and f(0)f(0):

We substitute the values of xx into the function f(x)f(x).

For f(2)f(-2): f(2)=512(2)=5+1=6f(-2) = 5 - \frac{1}{2}(-2) = 5 + 1 = 6

For f(0)f(0): f(0)=512(0)=5f(0) = 5 - \frac{1}{2}(0) = 5

(b) Find the zero of f(x)f(x):

To find the zero of the function, set f(x)=0f(x) = 0 and solve for xx: 0=512x0 = 5 - \frac{1}{2}x 12x=5\frac{1}{2}x = 5 x=10x = 10

Thus, the zero of the function is x=10x = 10.

(c) Graph f(x)f(x):

The graph of a linear function like this one is a straight line. To graph f(x)f(x), use two points:

  1. When x=0x = 0, f(0)=5f(0) = 5 (the y-intercept).
  2. When x=10x = 10, f(10)=0f(10) = 0 (the x-intercept).

The slope of the line is 12-\frac{1}{2}, meaning for every increase of 2 in xx, f(x)f(x) decreases by 1.

How the graph can be used to determine the zero of ff:

The zero of ff can be determined by finding the point where the graph intersects the x-axis. In this case, the zero is at x=10x = 10, which is the x-intercept of the line.


Would you like more details or further explanation on any part?

Here are five related questions:

  1. How do you determine the slope from the equation of a linear function?
  2. What is the significance of the x-intercept and y-intercept in a linear graph?
  3. Can you find the equation of a line if you are given two points?
  4. How does changing the slope affect the steepness of the line in a graph?
  5. What is the general form of a linear function?

Tip: When graphing a linear function, always plot at least two points, such as the intercepts, to ensure accuracy.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Linear Functions
Slope-Intercept Form
Zeros of a Function

Formulas

f(x) = 5 - (1/2)x
Slope = -1/2
Zero of a Function: f(x) = 0

Theorems

Linear Equation Intercepts

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10