Graph Analysis: Creating an Increasing-Decreasing Function Through Two Points

Piecewise Functions with Monotonic Behavior

Copy the points and complete the graph of the function according to the instructions, if it is not possible explain why.

Is it possible to create an increasing and decreasing function with the two given points?

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations
00:11 Can we make a graph that goes up and down from just two points?
00:16 Alright, let's add the points to complete our graph.
00:21 Look! We can see the function rises and then falls.
00:25 And there you have it, that's the answer!

Step-by-step written solution

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Understand the problem

Copy the points and complete the graph of the function according to the instructions, if it is not possible explain why.

Is it possible to create an increasing and decreasing function with the two given points?

000

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Step-by-step solution

To determine if it is possible to create a function that is both increasing and decreasing using two distinct points, consider these steps:

  • Since there are two points, (x1,y1)(x_1, y_1) and (x2,y2)(x_2, y_2) without specific coordinates mentioned, assume x1x2 x_1 \neq x_2 .
  • For simplicity, assume the points are arranged such that x1<x2 x_1 < x_2 .
  • Construct a piecewise function around these points. For example:
    • If a line joins these two points, identify the slope: m=y2y1x2x1 m = \frac{y_2 - y_1}{x_2 - x_1} .
    • This line will either increase (if m>0 m > 0 ) or decrease (if m<0 m < 0 ).
    • To make the function increasing over an interval and decreasing over another, introduce an additional piece at a third point, creating a V or inverse V-shape curve.
    • This piecewise approach will make it such that the function increases on one interval and decreases on another, satisfying both conditions.

In conclusion, it is indeed possible to create a function that has increasing and decreasing properties using the two given points by constructing a piecewise function with additional details.

The correct answer to this is: Possible.

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Final Answer

Possible

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Definition: Functions can be both increasing and decreasing on different intervals
  • Technique: Create piecewise function with peak between points at x3 x_3
  • Check: Verify slope changes from positive to negative across intervals ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Thinking a function must be either all increasing or all decreasing
    Don't assume one function can only increase OR decrease everywhere = missing piecewise possibilities! This ignores that functions can change behavior at different intervals. Always consider that functions can increase on some intervals and decrease on others using piecewise construction.

Practice Quiz

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Does the function in the graph decrease throughout?

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FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Can a single function really be both increasing and decreasing?

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Yes! A function can increase on one interval and decrease on another. Think of a mountain - it goes up one side and down the other side.

How do I make the function pass through both given points?

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Create a piecewise function that connects the points through a third point (like a peak). This creates a path that goes up then down, or down then up.

What's the simplest way to create this increasing-decreasing pattern?

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Add a turning point between your two given points. Make the function increase to this peak, then decrease from the peak to your second point.

Do the two points have to be at the same height?

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No! The points can be at any heights. You can always create an increasing-decreasing path between any two distinct points by adding intermediate points.

Is this the same as a parabola?

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Not necessarily! While a parabola can be increasing then decreasing, you can also use piecewise linear functions (straight line segments) to create the same pattern.

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