Step 1: Substitute \( x = 1 \) into the function.
The given function is \( f(x) = x^3 + 5x^2 - 7x + 10 \). To find \( f(1) \), substitute \( x = 1 \) into the function:
\[
f(1) = (1)^3 + 5(1)^2 - 7(1) + 10
\]
Simplifying:
\[
f(1) = 1 + 5 - 7 + 10 = 9.6
\]
Step 2: Conclusion.
The correct approximate value of \( f(1) \) is 9.6.