Math Problem Statement

Complete the description of the piecewise function graphed below.

Solution

Let's break down the graph of the piecewise function to fill in the missing intervals:

Observations:

  1. For f(x)=3f(x) = 3:

    • From the graph, we see a horizontal line at y=3y = 3 between x=6x = -6 and x=3x = -3. Both endpoints are closed, so this segment is included in the domain.
    • Therefore, f(x)=3f(x) = 3 for 6x3-6 \leq x \leq -3.
  2. For f(x)=2f(x) = -2:

    • There is a horizontal line at y=2y = -2 between x=2x = -2 and x=1x = 1, with an open circle at x=2x = -2 and a closed circle at x=1x = 1. So, x=2x = -2 is excluded, but x=1x = 1 is included.
    • Hence, f(x)=2f(x) = -2 for 2<x1-2 < x \leq 1.
  3. For f(x)=5f(x) = -5:

    • A horizontal line at y=5y = -5 exists between x=2x = 2 and x=6x = 6, with open circles at both x=2x = 2 and x=6x = 6. So both endpoints are excluded.
    • Therefore, f(x)=5f(x) = -5 for 2<x<62 < x < 6.

Completed Piecewise Function:

\begin{cases} 3 & \text{if } -6 \leq x \leq -3 \\ -2 & \text{if } -2 < x \leq 1 \\ -5 & \text{if } 2 < x < 6 \end{cases}$$ --- Would you like further clarification or additional details? ### Relative Questions: 1. What are the conditions for a piecewise function to be continuous? 2. How can we determine whether a point on the graph is included or excluded? 3. What are some common applications of piecewise functions in real-world scenarios? 4. How can a piecewise function be used to model different behaviors in a system? 5. Can you describe how to interpret open and closed circles in graphing? ### Tip: Always pay attention to the open and closed circles on graphs of piecewise functions. They determine whether the endpoint is included in the interval or not.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Piecewise Functions
Function Notation
Interval Notation

Formulas

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Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12