Question

evaluate the function f(x)= -x^2 - 4 at the given value of the variable. a. f(2) b. f(-1) a. f(2)= (simplify your answer.)

Explanation:

Step1: Substitute x = 2 into the function

Substitute \(x = 2\) into \(f(x)=-x^{2}-4\), we get \(f(2)=-(2)^{2}-4\).

Step2: Calculate the square term

\((2)^{2}=4\), so \(f(2)=- 4-4\).

Step3: Perform the subtraction

\(-4 - 4=-8\).

Step4: Substitute x = - 1 into the function

Substitute \(x=-1\) into \(f(x)=-x^{2}-4\), we get \(f(-1)=-(-1)^{2}-4\).

Step5: Calculate the square term

\((-1)^{2}=1\), so \(f(-1)=-1 - 4\).

Step6: Perform the subtraction

\(-1-4=-5\).

Answer:

a. \(f(2)=-8\)
b. \(f(-1)=-5\)