B Range of y: Solving Exercises with x=0

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The discussion addresses the range of the function y = √(1 - x²) when x = 0, clarifying that y can only take on the positive square root value, which is 1. It emphasizes that functions must have a single output for each input, eliminating ambiguity about the values of y. The correct range of y is established as 0 ≤ y ≤ 1, rather than just y ≥ 0. The conversation highlights the importance of notation in indicating whether both positive and negative roots are considered. Overall, the focus is on understanding the proper representation and range of the function given the constraints of mathematical functions.
SamitC
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Hello,
This is a very basic question but bothering me on some exercises.
upload_2016-7-19_0-14-33.png
,
upload_2016-7-19_0-14-33.png

Then how is the range of y is
upload_2016-7-19_0-15-49.png
? What if x is 0, then we can have y = 1 or y = -1.
While doing some exercises I encountered this issue and can't match the answers.
Thanks in advance
 
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For the most part, ##\sqrt{x}## indicates the positive square root value.

Since, in this case, y is a function, there is not the slightest ambiguity. Functions are only allowed to have one value for anyone input. So ##y=\sqrt{1-x^2}## refers only to the positive root.
 
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If you just write ##y = \sqrt{1-x^2}## then it is only the positive root. Otherwise you should write ##y = ± \sqrt{1-x^2}## to indicate that you consider both roots. And even this is a bit sloppy because it means ##y \in \{ ± \sqrt{1-x^2} \}##. I normally write ##y_{1,2} = ± \sqrt{1-x^2}##.
 
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.Scott said:
For the most part, ##\sqrt{x}## indicates the positive square root value.

Since, in this case, y is a function, there is not the slightest ambiguity. Functions are only allowed to have one value for anyone input. So ##y=\sqrt{1-x^2}## refers only to the positive root.
The function part made it clear. Thanks.
 
But the range isn't ##y\ge 0##. It's ##0\le y\le 1##.