Math Problem Statement

Give the rule that describes the piecewise-defined function in the graph below.

Solution

The graph shows a piecewise-defined function. We need to determine the correct function for f(x)f(x) based on the two segments shown:

  1. First segment: The line starts at point (1,2)(-1, -2) and goes up to (2,3)(2, 3). To determine its equation, calculate the slope: slope=3(2)2(1)=53.\text{slope} = \frac{3 - (-2)}{2 - (-1)} = \frac{5}{3}. Using point-slope form yy1=m(xx1)y - y_1 = m(x - x_1) with the point (1,2)(-1, -2) and slope 53\frac{5}{3}, we get: y+2=53(x+1).y + 2 = \frac{5}{3}(x + 1). Simplifying: y=53x+532=53x13.y = \frac{5}{3}x + \frac{5}{3} - 2 = \frac{5}{3}x - \frac{1}{3}.

    Therefore, for 1x2-1 \leq x \leq 2, the equation is f(x)=53x13f(x) = \frac{5}{3}x - \frac{1}{3}.

  2. Second segment: The line starts at (2,3)(2, 3) and extends horizontally to the right. Since it's a horizontal line, its equation is simply y=3y = 3 for x2x \geq 2.

Thus, the piecewise function is:

\begin{cases} \frac{5}{3}x - \frac{1}{3}, & \text{if } -1 \leq x \leq 2, \\ 3, & \text{if } x > 2. \end{cases}$$ This matches option **B** in the answer choices. Would you like further details or explanations? Here are five related questions to consider: 1. How is the slope of a line calculated? 2. What is the point-slope form of a linear equation? 3. How do you find the equation of a line passing through two points? 4. What is the equation of a horizontal line? 5. How does the domain of each piece affect the form of a piecewise function? **Tip**: When finding a line’s equation from a graph, always start by calculating the slope using two points!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Piecewise Functions
Linear Equations
Slope
Graphing

Formulas

Slope formula: (y2 - y1) / (x2 - x1)
Point-slope form: y - y1 = m(x - x1)

Theorems

Equation of a line through two points

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12