Chapter 3: Problem 46
Sketch the graph of the piecewise defined function. \(f(x)=\left\\{\begin{array}{ll}{-x} & {\text { if } x \leq 0} \\ {9-x^{2}} & {\text { if } 0< x \leq 3} \\ {x-3} & {\text { if } x>3}\end{array}\right.\)
Short Answer
Expert verified
Graph consists of a line, a parabola, and another line; each drawn in specified intervals.
Step by step solution
01
Analyze the First Piece
The first piece of the function is \(-x\) for \(x \leq 0\). This is a linear function with a slope of -1. It is defined for all values of \(x\) that are less than or equal to 0. When we sketch this piece, we start from the origin at \(x=0\) and move leftward along a line with a slope of -1. The graph is a straight line downward from the point \( (0,0) \).
02
Analyze the Second Piece
The second piece of the function is \(9-x^2\) for \(0 < x \leq 3\). This piece represents a downward-opening parabola. At \(x=0\), the value is excluded, creating a hollow point. Calculate a few values to sketch the curve: \(f(1) = 8, f(2) = 5, f(3) = 0\). The highest point of the curve is (0,9), but it's just a reference here as we only consider \(x > 0\). Draw a parabola opening downward from just above \((0,9)\) to the endpoints at (x,9-x^2) with a visible point at (x=3,0).
03
Analyze the Third Piece
The third piece is \(x-3\) for \(x>3\), another linear function with a slope of 1, which starts from (x=3) at (f(3) = 0). Sketch the line starting from the point (3,0) moving to the right with a slope of 1. This part of the graph will continue upward indefinitely as x increases.
04
Combine the Pieces
To sketch the complete graph of the piecewise function, combine all the pieces: Draw the line \(-x\) for \(x\leq0\), the downward parabola \(9-x^2\) for \(03\) starting from the point \((3,0)\), continuing upward. Ensure the transition between pieces is smooth and mark any open or closed points appropriately.
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Graphing Piecewise Functions
Creating a graph of a piecewise defined function involves piecing together different functions. Each piece is restricted to a specific interval of x-values. By carefully plotting each segment, we can see how they connect to form the entire function.
- Piecewise functions often consist of various linear and non-linear equations, each with a designated domain.
- It's crucial to pay attention to open and closed dots at the boundaries of each segment. This indicates whether a boundary value is included or not.
- The challenge lies in ensuring smooth transitions between pieces without any overlap or gaps.
Combining Function Pieces
To visualize a piecewise function, you must correctly combine its segments. Each piece operates independently over its specified range. They join like "puzzle pieces" to form a complete graph.
- Start by reviewing the intervals provided for each piece. This helps in understanding where each function is active in the graph.
- Plot each segment individually, using values within its range, to determine the shape and direction.
- Make sure to plot open or closed dots based on whether the interval includes the endpoint (such as using a filled dot for ≤ or ≥ and an open dot for < or >).
Linear Functions in Pieces
Linear functions in a piecewise graph are simple lines that you can easily plot once the slope and y-intercept are known. Each part operates over a specific interval and should be differentiated by its direction and boundary conditions.
- Identify linear pieces in the function. They are usually in the form of \(y = mx + b\).
- The slope \(m\) tells the line's steepness and direction. For example, \(-x\) indicates a line going downward, while \(x-3\) slopes upwards.
- Each linear part begins or ends at specified x-values. Pay attention to whether these points are included (closed dots) or not (open dots).
Parabolic Curves in Pieces
Parabolic curves add complexity to piecewise functions due to their curved, non-linear nature. They often represent sections of a quadratic graph within a specific interval.
- Usually represented by an equation like \(y = ax^2 + bx + c\), in piecewise functions, they have notable endpoints dependent on their interval.
- These functions may not include endpoints, as shown with open dots, such as the top of our parabola, \(9-x^2\), beginning just above (0,9).
- Sketching involves calculating key points on the curve. Stay aware of how they bend and the area they cover on the graph.