Explain intersection as solution

What you'll learn

1. Explain why the x-coordinates of intersection points of y = f(x) and y = g(x) are solutions to f(x) = g(x) — using the definition of the graph as a solution set
2. Use graphing technology (graphing calculator, Desmos) to find approximate solutions to f(x) = g(x) for any function types including polynomial, rational, absolute value, exponential, and logarithmic functions
3. Set up the graphical approach for solving an equation by rewriting it as f(x) = g(x) and graphing both sides as separate functions
4. Interpret the number and approximate location of solutions from a graph, and refine approximations using zoom or table features of technology
5. Articulate the limitation of graphical solutions (approximate only) and when algebraic methods give exact answers

Prerequisites

• Understand graphs of equations