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2.4 Square Root Function Overview

Sep 22, 2025

Overview

This lesson covers the square root function ( f(x) = \sqrt{x} ), focusing on its domain and range.

Square Root Function Overview

  • The square root function is defined as ( f(x) = \sqrt{x} ).
  • The graph of ( f(x) = \sqrt{x} ) only exists for certain x-values.

Domain of the Square Root Function

  • The domain consists of all x-values where the function is defined.
  • The graph has no points for negative x; it starts at ( x = 0 ).
  • The domain is all real numbers ( x \geq 0 ).
  • In interval notation, the domain is ( [0, \infty) ).

Range of the Square Root Function

  • The range includes all y-values that the function takes.
  • There are no negative y-values; the graph starts at ( y = 0 ).
  • The range is all real numbers ( y \geq 0 ).
  • In interval notation, the range is ( [0, \infty) ).

Key Terms & Definitions

  • Square root function — A function written as ( f(x) = \sqrt{x} ), producing non-negative results for non-negative inputs.
  • Domain — The set of all possible input values (x-values) for which the function is defined.
  • Range — The set of all possible output values (y-values) that the function can produce.
  • Interval notation — A way of writing subsets of the real numbers; e.g., ( [0, \infty) ) means all numbers from 0 to infinity, including 0.

Action Items / Next Steps

  • Practice finding domain and range for other radical (square root) functions.
  • Review interval notation for use with domains and ranges.