Evaluate the piecewise function for x= -2 and x=4

Question

f(x)=

-5 if x<0

x2-5 if x > (> is supposed to have a line under it) 0

Answer 1

If I understood you correctly, the function

f(x) = ⌈ -5, if x < 0

⌊ x² – 5, if x ≥ 0 ("≥" means greater or equal)

should be evaluated at x = -2 and x = 4.

Let's start with x = -2. Since -2 is less than (<) 0, we use the "piece" of the piecewise function that uses that condition. In this case, if x < 0, f(x) = -5. Therefore, f(x=-2) = -5.

Next, x = 4. Since 4 is greater or equal to (≥) 0, we use the other "piece" of the piecewise function. In this case if x ≥ 0, f(x) = x² – 5. Therefore, f(x=4) = (4)² – 5 = 16 - 5 = 11.

So, f(x=-2) = -5 and f(x=4) =11.