Algebra II Piecewise Functions Edited by Mrs. Harlow

Up to now, we’ve been looking at functions represented by a single equation. In real life, however, functions are represented by a combination of equations, each corresponding to a part of the domain. These are called piecewise functions.

One equation gives the value of f(x) when x ≤ 1 And the other when x>1

Evaluate f(x) when x=0, x=2, x=4 First you have to figure out which equation to use You NEVER use both X=4 X=2 X=0 This one fits into the top equation So: 0+2=2 f(0)=2 So: 2(4) + 1 = 9 f(4) = 9 This one fits here So: 2(2) + 1 = 5 f(2) = 5 This one fits here

Graph: For all x’s < 1, use the top graph (to the left of 1) For all x’s ≥ 1, use the bottom graph (to the right of 1)

x=1 is the breaking point of the graph. To the left is the top equation. To the right is the bottom equation.

Graph:

Step Functions

Graph :

Assignment