Question

If f(x) = 3x + 1, then f(a + h) - f(a) =

Answer 1

To find \(f(a+h)\) rewrite \(f(x)\) substituting \((a+h)\) wherever you encounter \(x\). Do the same with \(f(a)\) and combine the expressions. Be careful to subtract polynomials properly!

Answer 2

could you work it out step by step? @whpalmer4

Answer 3

Of course.

\[f(x)=3x+1\]This is our "pattern"
\[f(a) = 3(a)+1\]That is \(f(a)\) — I just replaced \(x\) with \(a\) wherever I saw it

Can you try \(f(a+h)\) for me?