Question

if \\(s(x) = 2 - x^2\\) and \\(t(x) = 3x\\), which value is equivalent to \\((s \cdot t)(-7)\\)?

-439
-141
153
443

Explanation:

Evaluate the inner function

$$ t(-7) = 3(-7) = -21 $$

Evaluate the outer function

$$ (s \circ t)(-7) = s(t(-7)) = s(-21) = 2 - (-21)^2 $$

Calculate the final value

$$ s(-21) = 2 - 441 = -439 $$

Answer:

• (A) \(-439\) (Correct answer)
• (B) \(-141\)
• (C) \(153\)
• (D) \(443\)