How do you define absolute value function on different intervals?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The absolute value function f(x) = |x + 3| - |x - 3| is defined piecewise across three intervals: (-∞, -3), [-3, 3), and [3, +∞). For the interval (-∞, -3), the function simplifies to f(x) = -6. The user is seeking guidance on how to define the function for the remaining intervals, which requires evaluating the expressions for |x + 3| and |x - 3| based on the sign of x within those ranges.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of piecewise functions
  • Knowledge of absolute value properties
  • Familiarity with interval notation
  • Basic algebraic manipulation skills
NEXT STEPS
  • Define f(x) for the interval [-3, 3) using absolute value properties
  • Define f(x) for the interval [3, +∞) using absolute value properties
  • Explore graphical representations of piecewise functions
  • Study the continuity and limits of piecewise-defined functions
USEFUL FOR

Students studying calculus, mathematics educators, and anyone interested in understanding piecewise functions and absolute value operations.

paulmdrdo1
Messages
382
Reaction score
0
Define f(x)= |x+3|-|x-3| without absolute value bars piecewise in the following intervals (-∞,-3);[-3,3);[3,+∞).

this is how i do the problem,

I removed the absolute value bars first

f(x)= x+3-x+3 = 6

now i don't know how to define it piecewise. can you show me how define it correctly. thanks!
 
Mathematics news on Phys.org
Re: absolute value function.

On the interval:

i) $$(-\infty,-3)$$

we have:

$$x+3<0\,\therefore\,|x+3|=-(x+3)$$

$$x-3<0\,\therefore\,|x-3|=-(x-3)$$

and so $$f(x)=(-(x+3))-(-(x-3))=-6$$

Can you try the other two intervals?
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
1K