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A clothing store uses the step function \( f(x) \) to recommend jeans sizes as a function of \( x \), a child's height in inches. \( f(x)=\left\{\begin{array}{l}1,40 \leq x<42 \\ 2,42 \leq x<44 \\ 3,44 \leq x<46 \\ 4,46 \leq x<48\end{array}\right\} \) According to the function, which is the height of a child who should wear size 2 jeans? 41.9 inches 42 inches 44 inches 44.1 inches

Ask by Hodges Campos. in the United States
Jan 24,2025

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Tutor-Verified Answer

Answer

42 inches

Solution

To determine which height corresponds to size 2 jeans according to the given step function \( f(x) \), let's analyze the function: \[ f(x)=\left\{\begin{array}{ll} 1 & \text{if } 40 \leq x < 42 \\ 2 & \text{if } 42 \leq x < 44 \\ 3 & \text{if } 44 \leq x < 46 \\ 4 & \text{if } 46 \leq x < 48 \\ \end{array}\right. \] **Size 2 jeans** correspond to the height range where \( 42 \leq x < 44 \). Now, let's evaluate each option: 1. **41.9 inches** - \( 41.9 \) is **less than 42**, so it falls in the range for size 1 jeans. 2. **42 inches** - \( 42 \) is **exactly 42**, which satisfies \( 42 \leq x < 44 \). Thus, this height corresponds to size 2 jeans. 3. **44 inches** - \( 44 \) is **not less than 44**. It falls at the boundary but does **not** satisfy \( 42 \leq x < 44 \). Instead, it starts the range for size 3 jeans. 4. **44.1 inches** - \( 44.1 \) is **greater than 44**, placing it in the range for size 3 jeans. **Conclusion:** The height that falls within the range for size 2 jeans is **42 inches**. **Answer:** 42 inches

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The Deep Dive

The height of a child who should wear size 2 jeans according to the function \( f(x) \) is 42 inches. This is because the function specifies that size 2 is for children whose height \( x \) falls in the range of \( 42 \leq x < 44 \). So, the only height that fits perfectly in that range and is included is 42 inches, while anything below, such as 41.9 inches, would fall under size 1. For a fun fact, step functions like \( f(x) \) are commonly used in real life, particularly in sizing charts across various industries. They make it easy to categorize items based on fixed criteria like height or weight, just like how a restaurant menu might have a different price for different platter sizes! It's all about simplifying choices for customers.

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