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
3. Functions
Function Operations
Problem 45a
Textbook Question
In Exercises 31–50, find fg and determine the domain for each function. f(x)= = 8x/(x - 2), g(x) = 6/(x+3)
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1
Step 1: Understand the problem. We need to find the composition of two functions, denoted as (f \circ g)(x) or fg(x), which means we will substitute g(x) into f(x).
Step 2: Write down the functions. We have f(x) = \frac{8x}{x - 2} and g(x) = \frac{6}{x + 3}.
Step 3: Substitute g(x) into f(x). This means replacing every instance of x in f(x) with g(x). So, fg(x) = f(g(x)) = \frac{8(\frac{6}{x+3})}{\frac{6}{x+3} - 2}.
Step 4: Simplify the expression. Simplify the numerator and the denominator separately, and then simplify the entire fraction if possible.
Step 5: Determine the domain. The domain of fg(x) is all real numbers except where the denominator is zero or where g(x) is undefined. Solve for x in the equations x + 3 = 0 and \frac{6}{x+3} - 2 = 0 to find these restrictions.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Function Composition
Function composition involves combining two functions, where the output of one function becomes the input of another. In this case, fg means f(g(x)), which requires substituting g(x) into f(x). Understanding how to perform this substitution is crucial for finding the composite function.
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Function Composition
Domain of a Function
The domain of a function is the set of all possible input values (x-values) for which the function is defined. For rational functions, the domain is restricted by values that make the denominator zero. Identifying these restrictions is essential for determining the valid inputs for both f(x) and g(x).
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Domain Restrictions of Composed Functions
Rational Functions
Rational functions are ratios of polynomials, expressed in the form f(x) = P(x)/Q(x), where P and Q are polynomials. The behavior of these functions, including their asymptotes and discontinuities, is influenced by the zeros of the denominator. Understanding these characteristics helps in analyzing the functions f(x) and g(x) in the given problem.
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Intro to Rational Functions
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