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
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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.