Math Problem Statement

A function g(x) has a positive change in the average rate of change on the interval [-6, 0], an average rate of change of 0 on the interval [0, 3], and a positive average rate of change on the interval [3, 6]. Which of the following graphs best models the piecewise function g?

Solution

The problem describes a function g(x)g(x) with the following characteristics:

  1. A positive change in the average rate of change over the interval [6,0][-6, 0].
  2. An average rate of change of 0 over the interval [0,3][0, 3].
  3. A positive average rate of change over the interval [3,6][3, 6].

To determine the correct graph, let's analyze these properties step by step:

Key Observations:

  • Positive change in the average rate of change [6,0][-6, 0]: This means g(x)g(x) is increasing overall during this interval (the slope of the secant line is positive).

  • Average rate of change = 0 over [0,3][0, 3]: This implies g(x)g(x) must be constant (a flat line segment) over this interval.

  • Positive average rate of change [3,6][3, 6]: This indicates g(x)g(x) is increasing again in this interval.

Step-by-Step Matching with the Graphs:

  • The graph must show:
    1. An upward (concave or linear) trend on [6,0][-6, 0],
    2. A flat, horizontal segment on [0,3][0, 3],
    3. An increasing trend on [3,6][3, 6].

Correct Answer:

The first graph satisfies these conditions:

  1. The segment from [6,0][-6, 0] shows an increasing trend.
  2. The segment from [0,3][0, 3] is flat.
  3. The segment from [3,6][3, 6] rises again.

Would you like me to break this analysis down further or clarify any concepts?


Related Questions:

  1. What is the difference between the average rate of change and instantaneous rate of change?
  2. How can a function's concavity affect the interpretation of its average rate of change?
  3. What does a horizontal line on a graph indicate about the function's rate of change?
  4. How would the graph change if the average rate of change on [3,6][3, 6] were negative instead of positive?
  5. Can a function have a constant average rate of change over one interval and a varying rate on another?

Tip:

When analyzing graphs of functions, always focus on the slope of secant lines over the specified intervals to determine the average rate of change!

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Piecewise Functions
Rate of Change
Graph Interpretation

Formulas

Average rate of change formula: (f(b) - f(a)) / (b - a)

Theorems

Properties of piecewise functions and intervals

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11