Final answer:
For the given piecewise-defined function, since -7 is greater than -8, we use the rule f(x) = x - 3. Thus, f(-7) = -7 - 3 = -10.
Step-by-step explanation:
To find f(-7) for the piecewise-defined function given, you need to determine which part of the function applies to the input x = -7. The function rules provided are: f(x) = x - 7 if x ≤ -8 and f(x) = x - 3 if x > -8. Since -7 is greater than -8, we use the second rule.
Therefore, f(-7) is calculated as follows:
f(-7) = (-7) - 3 = -10.
The value of the function f at x = -7 is -10.