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jmc

algebra senior

Problem

The entire graph of the function is shown below ( is only defined when is between and inclusive). How many values of satisfy ?

problem
Solution
First, we find all such that by drawing the line and finding the intersection points.



Thus, for , , and . So, if , then ,, or .

Since for all ,the equation has no solutions.

We see that for .

And the graphs of and intersect at , and once between and at the red dot. This means the equation has two solutions.



Therefore, the equation has a total of solutions.
Final answer
3