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Multiple Choice
Using the piecewise function below, evaluate f(−1)
A
−4
B
C
D
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the piecewise function provided. The function f(x) is defined in three parts: f(x) = 4 if x < 3, f(x) = x^2 - 3 if 3 ≤ x < 8, and f(x) = x^3 if x ≥ 8.
Step 2: Determine which part of the piecewise function applies to the input x = -1. Since -1 is less than 3, the first part of the function f(x) = 4 is applicable.
Step 3: Substitute x = -1 into the applicable part of the function. Since the function is constant (f(x) = 4) for x < 3, the value of f(-1) is directly 4.
Step 4: Verify the result by checking the conditions of the piecewise function. Confirm that -1 satisfies the condition x < 3, so the correct part of the function was used.
Step 5: Conclude that the evaluation of f(-1) is complete using the piecewise function, and the result is determined by the constant value in the first part of the function.