Table of contents
- 0. Review of Algebra4h 16m
- 1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
- 2. Graphs of Equations43m
- 3. Functions2h 17m
- 4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
- 5. Rational Functions1h 23m
- 6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
- 7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 6m
- 8. Conic Sections2h 23m
- 9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 19m
- 10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m
6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions
Properties of Logarithms
Problem 55a
Textbook Question
Graph each function. ƒ(x) = log↓3 (x-1) + 2
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1
Identify the base of the logarithm. In this case, the base is 3, as indicated by the subscript in \( \log_3 \).
Recognize the transformation of the function. The expression \( x - 1 \) inside the logarithm indicates a horizontal shift to the right by 1 unit.
Note the vertical shift. The '+2' outside the logarithm indicates a vertical shift upwards by 2 units.
Determine the domain of the function. Since the logarithm is undefined for non-positive numbers, set \( x - 1 > 0 \) to find the domain, which results in \( x > 1 \).
Plot the graph by starting with the basic shape of \( \log_3(x) \), apply the horizontal shift to the right by 1 unit, and then shift the entire graph upwards by 2 units.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Logarithmic Functions
Logarithmic functions are the inverses of exponential functions and are defined for positive real numbers. The function ƒ(x) = log₃(x-1) + 2 represents a logarithm with base 3, which means it answers the question: 'To what power must 3 be raised to obtain (x-1)?' Understanding the properties of logarithms, such as their domain and range, is essential for graphing them accurately.
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Transformations of Functions
Transformations of functions involve shifting, stretching, or reflecting the graph of a function. In the given function, the term (x-1) indicates a horizontal shift to the right by 1 unit, while the +2 indicates a vertical shift upward by 2 units. Recognizing these transformations helps in accurately plotting the graph of the function based on its parent function.
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Domain & Range of Transformed Functions
Domain and Range
The domain of a function is the set of all possible input values (x-values), while the range is the set of all possible output values (y-values). For the function ƒ(x) = log₃(x-1) + 2, the domain is x > 1, since the logarithm is only defined for positive arguments. The range, however, is all real numbers, as logarithmic functions can take on any value. Understanding these concepts is crucial for graphing the function correctly.
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Domain & Range of Transformed Functions
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