# Math Help - piecewise defined function help!

1. ## piecewise defined function help!

F(x)= x+2 if x<0
2 if 0≤x≤1
3-1 if 1<x

Find the following:
f(-3)=_____
f(0)=_____
f(4)=_____

can someone explain this problem to me please!

2. Originally Posted by rsultana
F(x)= x+2 if x<0
2 if 0≤x≤1
3-1 if 1<x

Find the following:
f(-3)=_____
f(0)=_____
f(4)=_____

can someone explain this problem to me please!
i'll do the first.

f(-3) means we want the value of the function when x = -3. since this is a piece-wise defined function, i have to look for what formula gives the value of the function at x = -3. clearly, x < 0 is the only interval that covers x = -3, so i look at the formula for that interval, which is x + 2.

thus, f(-3) = (-3) + 2 = -1

now do the rest

3. Originally Posted by Jhevon
i'll do the first.

f(-3) means we want the value of the function when x = -3. since this is a piece-wise defined function, i have to look for what formula gives the value of the function at x = -3. clearly, x < 0 is the only interval that covers x = -3, so i look at the formula for that interval, which is x + 2.

thus, f(-3) = (-3) + 2 = -1

now do the rest
so for f(0)=2
and f(4)=-1