Questions: Consider the following piecewise-defined function.
f(x) =
- x + 2 if x ≤ 1
- 1/3x - 3 if x > 1
Step 3 of 3: Evaluate this function at x = -2. Express your answer as an integer or simplified fraction. If the function is undefined at the given value, indicate "Undefined".
f(-2) =
Transcript text: Consider the following piecewise-defined function.
$f(x) = \begin{cases}
-x + 2 & \text{if } x \leq 1 \\
-\frac{1}{3}x - 3 & \text{if } x > 1
\end{cases}$
Step 3 of 3: Evaluate this function at x = -2. Express your answer as an integer or simplified fraction. If the function is undefined at the given value, indicate "Undefined".
$f(-2) = \square$ $\bigcirc$ Undefined
Solution
Solution Steps
To evaluate the piecewise function at \( x = -2 \), we need to determine which condition \( x = -2 \) satisfies. Since \(-2 \leq 1\), we use the first piece of the function, \( f(x) = -x + 2 \). Substitute \(-2\) into this expression to find \( f(-2) \).
Step 1: Determine the Applicable Piece of the Function
To evaluate the function \( f(x) \) at \( x = -2 \), we first identify which piece of the piecewise function to use. Since \( -2 \leq 1 \), we use the first piece of the function:
\[
f(x) = -x + 2
\]
Step 2: Substitute the Value into the Function
Next, we substitute \( x = -2 \) into the selected piece of the function:
\[
f(-2) = -(-2) + 2
\]
Step 3: Simplify the Expression
Now, we simplify the expression:
\[
f(-2) = 2 + 2 = 4
\]
Final Answer
Thus, the value of the function at \( x = -2 \) is