Question

what is the smallest zero of the function f(x)?

Explanation:

Step1: Identify zeros on graph

Zeros of a function are where \( f(x) = 0 \), i.e., x - intercepts. The graph intersects the x - axis at two points (or a repeated root? Wait, looking at the graph, it seems to touch or cross? Wait, the graph shown: let's check the x - axis crossings. From the grid, the leftmost x - intercept (zero) is at \( x=-2 \)? Wait, no, wait the grid: let's see the x - axis. Wait, the graph: the function's zeros are where it crosses the x - axis. Looking at the graph, the left zero (smaller one) is at \( x = - 2 \)? Wait, no, maybe I misread. Wait, the graph: let's check the x - axis labels. Wait, the x - axis has grid lines. Let's assume each grid is 1 unit. The graph crosses the x - axis at \( x=-2 \) and \( x = 1 \)? Wait, no, wait the left zero: looking at the graph, the smaller zero (more negative) is at \( x=-2 \)? Wait, no, maybe \( x=-2 \) or \( x=-1 \)? Wait, let's re - examine. The graph: the function \( f(x) \) has zeros at x - intercepts. From the graph, the leftmost (smallest) zero is at \( x=-2 \)? Wait, no, maybe \( x = - 2 \)? Wait, actually, looking at the graph, the zero (x - intercept) that is the smallest (most negative) is at \( x=-2 \)? Wait, no, maybe \( x=-2 \). Wait, let's confirm: zeros are x - values where y = 0. The graph crosses the x - axis at two points: one at \( x=-2 \) (left) and one at \( x = 1 \) (right)? Wait, no, maybe the left zero is at \( x=-2 \). Wait, maybe I made a mistake. Wait, the graph: let's see the x - axis. The left zero (smaller x - value) is at \( x=-2 \).

Step2: Determine the smallest zero

Among the zeros (x - intercepts), the smallest one (with the least x - value) is \( x=-2 \). Wait, no, maybe \( x=-2 \) is the smallest. Wait, let's check again. The graph: the left zero is at \( x=-2 \), so the smallest zero is - 2.

Answer:

-2