Find the natural domain of the function

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding the concept of the natural domain of a function, specifically focusing on the function f(x) = 1/(x-3). Participants are exploring how to determine the natural domain algebraically and how it relates to graphical representations using a graphing utility.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the question's requirements regarding the natural domain and the use of a graphing utility.
  • Another participant seeks clarification on the correct interpretation of the function, questioning whether it is 1/x - 3 or 1/(x - 3).
  • It is clarified that the function in question is 1/(x - 3), leading to a discussion about identifying values that cannot be placed in the denominator.
  • One participant identifies that x = 3 cannot be included in the domain because it would make the denominator zero.
  • There is a request for clarification on the meaning of "domain" and how it relates to the function's values.
  • A suggestion is made to graph the function using a graphing utility to observe the behavior at x = 3.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the identification of x = 3 as a point where the function is not defined. However, there is ongoing confusion about the overall question and the use of the graphing utility, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in understanding the specific requirements of the question and the implications of using a graphing utility. The discussion does not resolve the confusion about the question's intent or the complete understanding of the natural domain.

mooneh
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i have this question that i don't totally get what it wants exactly so if anyone can help me understand it correctly, thx

Find the natural domain of the function algebraically,and confirm that your result is consistent with the graph produced by your graphing utility. note: set your graphing utility to radian mode when graphing trigonometric function.

for example one of the questions :
f(x) = 1/x-3
 
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Is that [tex]\frac{1}{x}-3[/tex] or [tex]\frac{1}{x-3}[/tex] ...? In both cases, are there points in [itex]\mathbb{R}[/itex] where the function is not defined ?
 
it's the second one
 
Okay, then!

Now, what number or numbers cannot be placed in the denominator of a fraction, if any?
 
3 because then the denominator will be 0
but i don't get what the question meant abt the graphing utility...
 
mooneh said:
i have this question that i don't totally get what it wants exactly so if anyone can help me understand it correctly, thx

Find the natural domain of the function algebraically,and confirm that your result is consistent with the graph produced by your graphing utility. note: set your graphing utility to radian mode when graphing trigonometric function.

for example one of the questions :
f(x) = 1/x-3

mooneh said:
3 because then the denominator will be 0
but i don't get what the question meant abt the graphing utility...
Do you understand what "domain" means? It is the set of possible values for x. the "natural domain" for a formula is the set of all possible values of x for which that formula gives a value. To see what is meant by the "graphing utility", go ahead and graph the function y= 1/(x-3) on, say a graphics calculator or computer graphing program (that's the "graphing utility") and see what happens when x= 3.
 

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