Interval

Revision as of 23:10, 16 August 2013 by MSTang (talk | contribs) (Symbols)

Definition

An interval is a range of values. The most common uses of an interval are for domain and range.

Symbols

If an interval has either $($ or $)$ in it, the values at the end are NOT included in the interval. For example, the interval $x \in (3,5)$ refers to the inequality $3 < x < 5.$

If an interval has either $[$ or $]$ in it, the values at the end ARE included. For example, the interval $x \in [2.5,7]$ refers to the inequality $2.5 \le x \le 7.$

If both endpoints are not included, then the interval is open. If both endpoints are included, then the interval is closed.

Note: The symbols $($ and $)$ are used with $-\infty$ and $\infty.$

Examples

  • (2,3) means all real values between 2 and 3, but not including 2 and 3
  • [-2,0) means all real values between -2 and 0, but does not include 0