Sketching a graph that meets given condition

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around sketching the graph of a function \( f \) defined on the interval [0,1] that meets specific conditions: it must be continuous on (0,1) and take on only two distinct values. Participants are examining the feasibility of such a function and the implications of continuity.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning the continuity of the proposed function and whether it can indeed take only two distinct values while remaining continuous. There are discussions about the definitions of continuity and the intermediate value property.

Discussion Status

The conversation is exploring different interpretations of the problem statement. Some participants suggest that while one interpretation may allow for a valid function, another interpretation leads to a contradiction regarding continuity. Guidance has been offered regarding the definitions and properties of continuous functions.

Contextual Notes

There is an ongoing debate about the wording of the problem and how it affects the interpretation of the conditions. Participants are also reflecting on the implications of continuity and the limits of functions at specific points.

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Homework Statement


Sketch the graph of a function f that is defined on [0,1] and meets the given conditions (if possible)

- f is continuous on (0,1), takes on only two distinct values.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t34.0-12/13020084_1115236431831934_1952173744_n.jpg?oh=36c9b39d36f9d87dbfe189161ecdf210&oe=570FDD68

The solutions manual said it is impossible.

What is wrong with this function?
 
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The Subject said:

Homework Statement


Sketch the graph of a function f that is defined on [0,1] and meets the given conditions (if possible)

- f is continuous on (0,1), takes on only two distinct values.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


[ IMG]https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t34.0-12/13020084_1115236431831934_1952173744_n.jpg?oh=36c9b39d36f9d87dbfe189161ecdf210&oe=570FDD68[/PLAIN]

The solutions manual said it is impossible.

What is wrong with this function?
Is it continuous on (0,1) ?
 
So, intuitively no, since "i lifted my pen while drawing this function".

I just googled the definition
(i) the function f is defined at a
Yes

(ii) the limit of f as x approaches a from the right-hand and left-hand limits exist and are equal
If a is the point that jumps, is the lim x-> a = 1 (correct?)

(iii) the limit of f as x approaches a is equal to f(a).
Iim x-> a = 1 does not equal f(a)=2, no

I see
 
A continuous function on an interval(in R), should possesses an intermediate value property. That's why it's impossible
 
The Subject said:

Homework Statement


Sketch the graph of a function f that is defined on [0,1] and meets the given conditions (if possible)

- f is continuous on (0,1), takes on only two distinct values.The solutions manual said it is impossible.

Whether or not it is possible depends on exactly how the problem's wording is interpreted.
Interpretation (1): f is defined on [0,1] and takes two values on that set. It is continuous on (0,1).
Interpretation (2): f is defined on [0,1]. It is continuous on (0,1) and takes two values on that set.

Interpretation (1) is possible, but Interpretation (2) is impossible, for reasons explained already by others.
 

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