Math Problem Statement

Given the piecewise function: y = \begin{cases} x^2 & \text{if } x < 1 \\ (x-1)^2 & \text{if } 1 \leq x \leq 2 \\ 3 - x & \text{if } x > 2 \end{cases} Explain the behavior of the function.

Solution

The given equation is a piecewise function, where yy is defined differently for three intervals of xx:

\begin{cases} x^2 & \text{if } x < 1 \\ (x-1)^2 & \text{if } 1 \leq x \leq 2 \\ 3 - x & \text{if } x > 2 \end{cases}$$ ### Explanation of Each Piece: 1. **For $$x < 1$$: $$y = x^2$$** This is a quadratic equation where the graph is a parabola opening upwards. 2. **For $$1 \leq x \leq 2$$: $$y = (x-1)^2$$** This is also a quadratic equation, but it's shifted to the right by 1 unit (vertex at $$x = 1$$, $$y = 0$$). 3. **For $$x > 2$$: $$y = 3 - x$$** This is a linear equation with a negative slope of -1, starting at $$y = 1$$ when $$x = 2$$. --- Would you like a graph of this function or a more detailed analysis, such as continuity and differentiability? --- ### Follow-up Questions: 1. What does it mean for a function to be continuous at $$x = 1$$ or $$x = 2$$? 2. How do you check if the function is differentiable at $$x = 1$$ and $$x = 2$$? 3. What is the range of this piecewise function? 4. Can you identify any critical points or local extrema for this function? 5. What would the graph of this function look like, and how would the pieces connect? **Tip:** When analyzing piecewise functions, always check for **continuity** and **differentiability** at the transition points!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Piecewise Functions
Quadratic Functions
Linear Functions
Continuity
Differentiability

Formulas

y = x^2 for x < 1
y = (x - 1)^2 for 1 ≤ x ≤ 2
y = 3 - x for x > 2

Theorems

Continuity of a function at a point
Differentiability of a function at a point

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11