Determine the intervals of the domain over which each function is continuous. See Example 1.
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- 2. Graphs of Equations1h 43m
- 3. Functions2h 17m
- 4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
- 5. Rational Functions1h 23m
- 6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
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- 9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 22m
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3. Functions
Intro to Functions & Their Graphs
Problem 21
Textbook Question
Graph each piecewise-defined function. See Example 2. ƒ(x)={x-1 if x≤3, 2 if x>3

Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the two pieces of the piecewise function: for \(x \leq 1\), the function is \(f(x) = x + 4\), and for \(x > 1\), the function is \(f(x) = 5\).
Graph the first piece \(f(x) = x + 4\) for all \(x\) values less than or equal to 1. This is a line with slope 1 and y-intercept 4, but only plot it up to and including \(x = 1\).
At \(x = 1\), calculate the value of the first piece: \(f(1) = 1 + 4 = 5\). This point will be included in the graph (solid dot) because the inequality is \(\leq\).
Graph the second piece \(f(x) = 5\) for all \(x > 1\). This is a horizontal line at \(y = 5\), but only for \(x\) values strictly greater than 1. Use an open circle at \(x=1\) to indicate that this point is not included in this piece.
Combine both parts on the same coordinate plane, ensuring the graph is continuous at \(x=1\) with a solid dot at \((1,5)\) from the first piece and an open circle at \((1,5)\) for the second piece, then extend the horizontal line to the right for \(x > 1\).
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Piecewise-Defined Functions
A piecewise-defined function is a function composed of different expressions depending on the input value's domain. Each piece applies to a specific interval, and the function's value changes according to these conditions. Understanding how to interpret and graph each piece separately is essential.
Recommended video:
Domain Restrictions of Composed Functions
Graphing Linear Functions
Graphing linear functions involves plotting points that satisfy the equation and connecting them with a straight line. For example, the function f(x) = x + 4 is a line with slope 1 and y-intercept 4. Knowing how to graph linear parts helps visualize the piecewise function.
Recommended video:
Graphs of Logarithmic Functions
Domain Restrictions and Continuity
Domain restrictions specify where each piece of the function applies, such as x ≤ 1 or x > 1. These restrictions affect the graph's shape and whether the function is continuous at boundary points. Checking values at boundaries ensures correct graphing of open or closed points.
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Domain Restrictions of Composed Functions
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