Remark
Let's just figure out what f(1) and f(3) are and what equation to use.
f(1)
f(1) is defined by the top condition. Look at the condition carefully. -3 ≤ x ≤ 1
So the value of f(1) is
(x + 1)² -1
(1 + 1)² - 1
2² - 1
4 - 1 = 3
f(3)
f(3) is governed by the middle condition. 1 < x ≤ 3
The value of f(3) is - x + 2 = - 3 + 2 = - 1
Conclusion
f(1) > f(3)
Comment
Both f(1) and f(3) are defined. You just have to look around to find out where. D is wrong.
We calculated both f(1) and f(3). f(1) is larger than f(3) so that is your answer.
