To evaluate the function [tex]\( f(x) = x^2 + 5x - 1 \)[/tex] at [tex]\( x = -3 \)[/tex], follow these steps:
1. Substitute [tex]\(-3\)[/tex] for [tex]\( x \)[/tex] in the function.
[tex]\[
f(-3) = (-3)^2 + 5(-3) - 1
\][/tex]
2. Calculate [tex]\((-3)^2\)[/tex].
[tex]\[
(-3)^2 = 9
\][/tex]
3. Multiply [tex]\(5\)[/tex] by [tex]\(-3\)[/tex].
[tex]\[
5(-3) = -15
\][/tex]
4. Substitute these values back into the function.
[tex]\[
f(-3) = 9 + (-15) - 1
\][/tex]
5. Simplify the expression by performing the addition and subtraction.
[tex]\[
9 - 15 - 1 = -7
\][/tex]
Therefore, [tex]\( f(-3) = -7 \)[/tex].
