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Guided Practice: Reading Values from a Function's Graph

Study Guide - Smart Notes

Tailored notes based on your materials, expanded with key definitions, examples, and context.

Q1. Use the graph of f given below to find f(4).

Background

Topic: Evaluating Functions from Graphs

This question tests your ability to read and interpret the value of a function at a specific input (x-value) using its graph. This is a foundational skill in calculus, as it helps you understand how functions behave visually and numerically.

Key Terms:

  • Function: A relation that assigns exactly one output (y-value) for each input (x-value).

  • Graph of a function: A visual representation showing how the function's output changes with its input.

  • f(4): The value of the function f when x = 4; this is found by locating x = 4 on the x-axis and reading the corresponding y-value.

Graph of function f

Step-by-Step Guidance

  1. Locate the x-value of 4 on the horizontal axis (x-axis) of the graph.

  2. Find the point on the graph where x = 4. This is usually marked with a dot or by following the curve to the vertical line x = 4.

  3. From this point, move horizontally to the y-axis or read the y-coordinate directly from the graph. This y-value represents f(4).

  4. Check if the point is clearly labeled or if you need to estimate the y-value based on the graph's scale.

Try solving on your own before revealing the answer!

Final Answer: f(4) = 2

By locating x = 4 on the graph and reading the corresponding y-value, you find that f(4) is 2.

This demonstrates how to use a graph to evaluate a function at a specific input.

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