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Inverse functions

Learning goals

  • Determines whether a function is one-to-one on a stated domain.
  • Finds an inverse function algebraically when appropriate.
  • Verifies inverse relationships by composition.
  • Relates graphs of a function and its inverse by reflection across y = x.
  • Tracks domain and range interchange.

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Inverse functions 1
A one-to-one function \(f\) satisfies \(f(-2)=5\). What is \(f^{-1}(5)\)?

Hints

- Read \(f(-2)=5\) as an input-output pair. - An inverse function reverses that pair.

Solution

1. Inverse functions reverse input-output pairs. 2. Since \(f(-2)=5\), the inverse sends \(5\) back to \(-2\).

Answer

\(f^{-1}(5)=-2\)
Inverse functions 2
Which expression means “the inverse function of \(f\)”: \(f^{-1}(x)\) or \(\frac{1}{f(x)}\)?

Hints

- Distinguish inverse-function notation from taking a reciprocal. - Ask which expression is intended to undo the input-output assignment of \(f\).

Solution

1. The notation \(f^{-1}(x)\) denotes the inverse function, which reverses the input-output assignment of \(f\). 2. The expression \(\frac{1}{f(x)}\) is the reciprocal of the output and is a different operation.

Answer

\(f^{-1}(x)\)
Inverse functions 3
The table gives the values of a one-to-one function \(f\). <table><tr><th>Input</th><th>\(-2\)</th><th>\(0\)</th><th>\(3\)</th></tr><tr><td>Output</td><td>\(4\)</td><td>\(1\)</td><td>\(7\)</td></tr></table> Find \(f^{-1}(7)\).

Hints

- Read the row containing the original outputs. - The inverse takes an old output back to its original input.

Solution

1. The original function gives output \(7\) for input \(3\). 2. The inverse reverses this pair, so \(f^{-1}(7)=3\).

Answer

\(3\)
Inverse functions 4
A function contains the input-output pairs \((-2,3)\), \((0,3)\), and \((1,5)\). Is it one-to-one? Explain.

Hints

- Compare the outputs assigned to different inputs. - What would happen if an inverse were asked to undo the repeated output?

Solution

1. Two different inputs, \(-2\) and \(0\), both give output \(3\). 2. A one-to-one function cannot repeat an output for different inputs, so this function is not one-to-one.

Answer

No. Inputs \(-2\) and \(0\) both produce \(3\).
Inverse functions 5
The domain of a one-to-one function \(f\) is \(\{1,2,4\}\), and its range is \(\{0,3,5\}\). What is the domain of \(f^{-1}\)?

Hints

- Which set contains the original outputs? - An inverse switches the roles of inputs and outputs.

Solution

1. The outputs of \(f\) become inputs of \(f^{-1}\). 2. Therefore, the inverse domain is \(\{0,3,5\}\).

Answer

\(\{0,3,5\}\)
Inverse functions 6
Let \(f(x)=x+4\). Which is its inverse function: \(g(x)=x-4\) or \(h(x)=\frac{1}{x+4}\)?

Hints

- Which operation undoes adding \(4\)? - An inverse function reverses the original mapping; it is not the same as dividing \(1\) by the output.

Solution

1. Adding \(4\) is undone by subtracting \(4\). 2. Thus \(g(x)=x-4\) is the inverse; \(h\) is the reciprocal of the output instead.

Answer

\(g(x)=x-4\)
Inverse functions 7
The graphed function \(f\) is one-to-one. Point A lies on its graph. What point must lie on \(f^{-1}\)?
Figure for problem 560675

Hints

- Read both coordinates of A from the graph. - What happens to the order of the two coordinates when a point reflects across \(y=x\)?

Solution

1. The marked point is \(A(1,3)\). 2. The inverse swaps the input and output, so \((3,1)\) lies on \(f^{-1}\).

Answer

\((3,1)\)
Inverse functions 8
At a fixed time, each student in a class is assigned their measured height in inches. a) Under what condition is the assignment student \(\rightarrow\) height a function? b) When is the reverse assignment height \(\rightarrow\) student not a function? c) What condition must hold for the original function to have an inverse function?

Hints

- Focus on measurements taken at one fixed time. - Ask whether one height could be assigned to more than one student in the reverse relation. - An inverse function requires the original function to be one-to-one.

Solution

1. The assignment is a function when each student has exactly one recorded height at the specified measurement time. 2. The reverse assignment is not a function if two or more students have the same recorded height, because that height would correspond to more than one student. 3. The original function is invertible only if all recorded heights are distinct, making the function one-to-one.

Answer

a) Each student must have exactly one recorded height at the fixed time. b) The reverse assignment is not a function when at least two students have the same recorded height. c) All recorded heights must be different.
Inverse functions 9
Each slot in a snack vending machine has a unique code, such as \(10\), \(11\), or \(12\), and each slot has one listed price. At least two slots have the same price. a) Is the assignment slot code \(\rightarrow\) price a function? Explain. b) Is the reverse assignment price \(\rightarrow\) slot code a function? Explain. c) Give another school-related example of an assignment and determine whether it is a function.

Hints

- Check whether any input can lead to more than one output. - Reverse the direction of the assignment and test the function definition again. - For part c, choose a school-related input for which exactly one output is defined.

Solution

1. Slot code \(\rightarrow\) price is a function because each slot code has exactly one listed price. 2. Price \(\rightarrow\) slot code is not a function because at least one price corresponds to more than one slot code. 3. One example is student \(\rightarrow\) date of birth. This is a function because each student has exactly one date of birth.

Answer

a) Yes. Each slot code has exactly one price. b) No. A price can correspond to more than one slot code. c) Example: student \(\rightarrow\) date of birth is a function.
Inverse functions 10
The two panels show the graphs of functions \(f\) and \(g\). a) Decide whether each function is invertible on its entire displayed domain. Justify each decision using the horizontal line test. b) For the function that is not invertible, give a largest interval of the form \([a,b]\) on which its restriction is invertible.
Figure for problem 532310

Hints

- Move an imaginary horizontal line up and down each graph. - An invertible function can be intersected at most once by each horizontal line. - Split the noninvertible graph at the point where its direction changes. - Choose a complete increasing or decreasing branch.

Solution

1. a) Every horizontal line meets the graph of \(f\) at most once. Therefore, \(f\) is one-to-one and invertible on its entire displayed domain. 2. Some horizontal lines meet the graph of \(g\) twice. For example, \(y=0\) intersects it at \(x=-2\) and \(x=2\). Therefore, \(g\) is not invertible on its entire displayed domain. 3. b) The graph of \(g\) decreases from \(x=-3\) to its vertex at \(x=0\), then increases from \(x=0\) to \(x=3\). 4. Thus, either \([-3,0]\) or \([0,3]\) is a largest interval on which the restriction of \(g\) is invertible.

Answer

a) \(f\) is invertible on its displayed domain; \(g\) is not. b) \([-3,0]\) or \([0,3]\)
Inverse functions 11
The two panels show the graphs of functions \(f\) and \(g\). Use the horizontal line test to determine whether each function is invertible on its entire displayed domain. Justify each answer.
Figure for problem 533537

Hints

- Imagine moving a horizontal line upward across each graph. - Count how many times the line can intersect each graph. - An inverse is a function only when each output corresponds to at most one input.

Solution

1. For \(f\), a horizontal line such as \(y=1\) intersects the graph twice, at \(x=-3\) and \(x=3\). 2. Therefore, \(f\) is not one-to-one and is not invertible on its displayed domain. 3. Every horizontal line intersects the graph of \(g\) at most once. 4. Therefore, \(g\) is one-to-one and is invertible on its displayed domain.

Answer

\(f\) is not invertible because it fails the horizontal line test. \(g\) is invertible because every horizontal line intersects its graph at most once.
Inverse functions 12
Examine the four function graphs. For each graph, determine whether the function is invertible on the displayed interval. Briefly justify your answer using an appropriate graphical test.
Figure for problem 534553

Hints

- Use the horizontal line test rather than the vertical line test. - Imagine moving a horizontal line through each graph. - Check whether one output can correspond to more than one input. - A strictly monotonic graph passes the test.

Solution

1. Use the horizontal line test: a function is invertible on its domain when every horizontal line intersects its graph at most once. 2. a) The graph is strictly increasing, so it passes the horizontal line test. The function is invertible. 3. b) The graph fails the test. For example, the line \(y=1\) intersects it at \(x=1\) and \(x=3\). The function is not invertible. 4. c) The square-root graph is strictly increasing on its displayed domain, so it passes the test. The function is invertible. 5. d) The parabola fails the test. For example, the line \(y=2\) intersects it twice. The function is not invertible.

Answer

a) Invertible b) Not invertible c) Invertible d) Not invertible Graphs a) and c) pass the horizontal line test; graphs b) and d) do not.
Inverse functions 13
The graph shows a function \(f\) defined for \(x\ge0\). a) Explain why \(f\) has an inverse on this domain. b) Use the graph to find \(f(1)\) and \(f^{-1}(5)\). c) Find the point on \(f^{-1}\) corresponding to the labeled point \(P\) on \(f\).
Figure for problem 534554

Hints

- Can any horizontal line cross this branch more than once? - To find an inverse output, look for the original input with the given output. - What happens to point coordinates under reflection across \(y=x\)?

Solution

1. The graph increases for \(x\ge0\), so each horizontal line intersects it at most once. Thus it is one-to-one. 2. The graph gives \(f(1)=2\). The input producing \(5\) is \(2\), so \(f^{-1}(5)=2\). 3. The point \(P=(0, 1)\) on \(f\) corresponds to \((1, 0)\) on its inverse.

Answer

a) It passes the horizontal line test on \(x\ge0\). b) \(f(1)=2\) and \(f^{-1}(5)=2\) c) \((1, 0)\)
Inverse functions 14
Which of the functions \(f\), \(g\), and \(h\) have inverse functions on their displayed domains? Explain using the horizontal line test.
Figure for problem 534558

Hints

- What must be true about the outputs of a function for its inverse to be a function? - Try imagining horizontal lines through different heights on each graph. - What happens when a graph changes from increasing to decreasing? - Can a horizontal segment pass the horizontal line test?

Solution

1. Graph \(f\) is strictly decreasing, so every horizontal line intersects it at most once. It has an inverse. 2. Graph \(g\) rises and then falls. Some horizontal lines intersect it twice, so it does not have an inverse on the full displayed domain. 3. Graph \(h\) stays at \(y=2\) over an interval. Different inputs give the same output, so \(h\) does not have an inverse function.

Answer

Only \(f\) has an inverse function. Graphs \(g\) and \(h\) fail the horizontal line test.
Inverse functions 15
For each panel, decide whether the graphs labeled \(f\) and \(g\) could represent a function and its inverse, with \(g=f^{-1}\). Justify each decision using symmetry.
Figure for problem 534559

Hints

- Function and inverse graphs are reflections across a particular line. - Check whether a point \((x,y)\) on one graph corresponds to \((y,x)\) on the other. - Use a point with easy-to-read coordinates.

Solution

1. a) The graphs are reflections of each other across the line \(y=x\). For example, \((0,1)\) on the graph of \(f\) corresponds to \((1,0)\) on the graph of \(g\). 2. Therefore, the graphs in panel a) can represent a function and its inverse. 3. b) The graphs are not reflections across \(y=x\). The point \((2,1)\) lies on \(f\), so its inverse graph would need to contain \((1,2)\). 4. The graph of \(g\) instead contains \((1,1)\), so the graphs in panel b) do not represent a function and its inverse.

Answer

a) Yes. The graphs are symmetric across \(y=x\). b) No. They are not symmetric across \(y=x\); for example, \((2,1)\) on \(f\) does not correspond to \((1,2)\) on \(g\).
Inverse functions 16
For \(f(x)=3x-6\), a classmate says that \(f^{-1}(x)\) means the reciprocal \(\frac{1}{f(x)}\). Find \(f^{-1}(x)\) and \(\frac{1}{f(x)}\), and explain in one sentence why they are different objects.

Hints

- Ask what operation an inverse function is supposed to undo. - Compare the meaning of the superscript \(-1\) in inverse-function notation with an exponent of \(-1\) applied to a number. - One expression comes from reversing inputs and outputs; the other comes from taking reciprocals of outputs.

Solution

1. Write \(y=3x-6\), interchange \(x\) and \(y\), and solve: \(x=3y-6\), so \(y=\frac{x+6}{3}\). Therefore, \(f^{-1}(x)=\frac{x+6}{3}\). 2. The reciprocal is \(\frac{1}{f(x)}=\frac{1}{3x-6}\), defined for \(x\ne2\). 3. An inverse function reverses the input-output assignment of \(f\), while a reciprocal takes the numerical reciprocal of each output.

Answer

\(f^{-1}(x)=\frac{x+6}{3}\) \(\frac{1}{f(x)}=\frac{1}{3x-6}\), with \(x\ne2\) They are different because an inverse reverses input and output, while a reciprocal replaces an output by its reciprocal.
Inverse functions 17
Let \(f(x)=3x-2\) and \(g(x)=\frac{x+2}{3}\). Find \(f(g(x))\) and \(g(f(x))\). Are the two functions inverses?

Hints

- Substitute the entire inner expression into the outer rule. - Check both orders, not just one. - What result should each composition give if the functions undo one another?

Solution

1. \(f(g(x))=3\left(\frac{x+2}{3}\right)-2=x\). 2. \(g(f(x))=\frac{(3x-2)+2}{3}=x\). 3. Both compositions return the original input, so \(f\) and \(g\) are inverses.

Answer

\(f(g(x))=x\) and \(g(f(x))=x\); yes, the functions are inverses.
Inverse functions 18
Which graph passes the horizontal-line test on its whole displayed domain? Explain why, using the height \(y=4\) as one example.
Figure for problem 560677

Hints

- Imagine drawing a horizontal line through the chosen height in both panels. - Can the same output come from two different inputs? - Compare the domains, not just the shapes of the curves.

Solution

1. In panel a), the horizontal line \(y=4\) intersects the parabola at \(x=-2\) and \(x=2\), so the function is not one-to-one. 2. In panel b), only \(x\ge0\) is shown. The same horizontal line meets the graph only at \(x=2\). 3. Panel b) increases throughout its displayed domain, so every horizontal line meets it at most once. It passes the horizontal-line test.

Answer

Panel b). Its graph increases throughout the displayed domain, so no horizontal line meets it twice. The line \(y=4\) meets panel a) twice.
Inverse functions 19
Let \(f(x)=4x-7\), for all real \(x\). a) Find a rule for \(f^{-1}(x)\). b) Find \(f^{-1}(5)\) and check by applying \(f\) to your answer.

Hints

- What must the inverse undo first and second? - Work backward from an output \(y\) to find its input. - Check by putting the recovered input into the original rule.

Solution

1. Write \(y=4x-7\), so \(y+7=4x\) and \(x=\frac{y+7}{4}\). 2. Reverse the input and output roles: \(f^{-1}(x)=\frac{x+7}{4}\). 3. Then \(f^{-1}(5)=\frac{5+7}{4}=3\), and \(f(3)=4\cdot3-7=5\).

Answer

a) \(f^{-1}(x)=\frac{x+7}{4}\) b) \(f^{-1}(5)=3\), and \(f(3)=5\).
Inverse functions 20
The function \(f(x)=(x+1)^2\) is restricted to \(x\le-1\). a) Find \(f^{-1}(x)\) and its domain. b) Find \(f^{-1}(9)\). Explain why the other square-root branch is not allowed.

Hints

- When solving a squared equation, there may be two signs to consider. - Which sign agrees with the stated domain of \(f\)? - What output values can a squared expression produce?

Solution

1. Set \(y=(x+1)^2\). Because \(x\le-1\), we have \(x+1\le0\), so \(x+1=-\sqrt{y}\). 2. Therefore, \(f^{-1}(x)=-1-\sqrt{x}\), with domain \([0,\infty)\). 3. The value is \(f^{-1}(9)=-1-3=-4\). The positive branch would give \(x=2\), outside the original domain \(x\le-1\).

Answer

a) \(f^{-1}(x)=-1-\sqrt{x}\); domain \([0,\infty)\) b) \(f^{-1}(9)=-4\). The other branch gives \(2\), which is outside \(x\le-1\).
Inverse functions 21
A classmate says the inverse of \(f(x)=3(x-2)\) is \(g(x)=\frac{x}{3}-2\). a) Use the input \(x=4\) to show whether \(g\) really undoes \(f\). b) Find the correct inverse rule.

Hints

- An inverse must return you to the original input after the first rule is applied. - Put the output of \(f\) into the proposed inverse. - Work backward through the original operations in reverse order.

Solution

1. The first rule gives \(f(4)=3(4-2)=6\). 2. The proposed inverse gives \(g(6)=\frac{6}{3}-2=0\), not \(4\). So it does not undo \(f\). 3. To recover the input from \(y=3(x-2)\), divide by \(3\), then add \(2\): \(x=\frac{y}{3}+2\). 4. Thus \(f^{-1}(x)=\frac{x}{3}+2\).

Answer

a) \(f(4)=6\), but \(g(6)=0\ne4\), so \(g\) is not the inverse. b) \(f^{-1}(x)=\frac{x}{3}+2\)
Inverse functions 22
Let \(f:\mathbb{Z}\to W\) be defined by \(f(x)=x^2\), where \(W=\{0,1,4,9,16,\ldots\}\) is the set of perfect squares. a) Explain why this relation is a function. b) Determine whether \(f\) has an inverse function. Justify your answer with a counterexample. c) Give a subset \(D\) of the integers so that the restriction \(f:D\to W\) has an inverse function.

Hints

- Check whether each input has exactly one output, then separately consider whether each output comes from only one input. - If an inverse relation fails to be a function, look for two different domain values with the same image. - For a valid restriction, keep enough inputs to produce every value in \(W\) while avoiding repeated outputs.

Solution

1. Every integer input \(x\) produces exactly one output, \(x^2\), so the relation is a function. 2. The function is not one-to-one on \(\mathbb{Z}\). For example, \(f(2)=4\) and \(f(-2)=4\). Therefore, the inverse relation would assign two inputs to the output \(4\), so it is not a function. 3. One valid restriction is \(D=\{0,1,2,3,\ldots\}\), the nonnegative integers. On this domain, each perfect square in \(W\) has exactly one input, so the restricted function is invertible.

Answer

a) Each integer input has exactly one squared output. b) No. For example, \(f(2)=f(-2)=4\), so \(f\) is not one-to-one. c) One choice is \(D=\{0,1,2,3,\ldots\}\).
Inverse functions 23
A hiker records a trip starting at a cabin. First the hiker moves away from the cabin, then pauses, and finally walks partway back after realizing a camera was left behind. a) Is the assignment time since the start \(\rightarrow\) distance from the cabin a function? Explain. b) Is the reverse assignment distance from the cabin \(\rightarrow\) time since the start a function? Explain using the trip description. c) Describe the shape of the distance-versus-time graph during the pause.

Hints

- At one fixed time, can the hiker have two different distances from the cabin? - Identify ways the same distance can occur at multiple times. - A constant distance over an interval produces what kind of graph segment?

Solution

1. At any particular time, the hiker has exactly one distance from the cabin, so time \(\rightarrow\) distance is a function. 2. The reverse assignment is not a function. During the pause, one distance corresponds to many times, and during the return trip some distances are reached once while moving away and again while returning. 3. During the pause, the distance remains constant as time passes, so the graph has a horizontal segment.

Answer

a) Yes. Each time has exactly one distance. b) No. The same distance can occur at more than one time because of both the pause and the return trip. c) The graph is horizontal during the pause.
Inverse functions 24
The graph of \(f(x) = 0.4x + 3\) is reflected across the line \(y = x\). a) Find an equation for the reflected function \(g\). b) Find the intersection of the graphs of \(f\) and \(g\). Explain why this point must lie on \(y = x\). c) Suppose \(k(x) = 3\). Explain why reflecting its graph across \(y = x\) does not produce the graph of a function of \(x\).

Hints

- What happens to the coordinates \((x, y)\) when a point is reflected across \(y = x\)? - How can you solve an equation for a different variable? - When does a geometric line represent the graph of a function of \(x\)? - What is special about a point that stays fixed under a reflection?

Solution

1. Reflection across \(y = x\) swaps \(x\) and \(y\). Starting with \(y = 0.4x + 3\), write \(x = 0.4y + 3\) and solve for \(y\): \(y = 2.5x - 7.5\). Thus, \(g(x) = 2.5x - 7.5\). 2. Set the functions equal: \(0.4x + 3 = 2.5x - 7.5\). Then \(10.5 = 2.1x\), so \(x = 5\), and \(y = 5\). The intersection is \((5, 5)\). The reflection swaps these two distinct lines. Because they have a unique intersection, that intersection must map to itself; fixed points of the reflection lie on \(y = x\). 3. The graph of \(k(x) = 3\) is the horizontal line \(y = 3\). Reflecting it across \(y = x\) gives the vertical line \(x = 3\), which fails the vertical line test and is not the graph of a function of \(x\).

Answer

a) \(g(x) = 2.5x - 7.5\) b) \((5, 5)\); it lies on \(y = x\), the line of reflection. c) The reflection is \(x = 3\), a vertical line, so it is not the graph of a function of \(x\).
Inverse functions 25
Let \(f(x)=\frac{2x}{x-1}\), with domain \(D_f=\mathbb{R}\setminus\{1\}\). 1) Find the range of \(f\), and find a formula for the inverse function \(f^{-1}\). 2) The graph of \(f\) has vertical asymptote \(x=1\) and horizontal asymptote \(y=2\). Without further calculation, explain which asymptotes the graph of \(f^{-1}\) has. 3) Find the points where the graphs of \(f\) and \(f^{-1}\) intersect.

Hints

- Interchange \(x\) and \(y\), then solve for the new output variable. - The domain of an inverse is the range of the original function. - Reflection across \(y=x\) interchanges horizontal and vertical features. - At a shared point, the two function formulas give the same output.

Solution

1. Start with \(y=\frac{2x}{x-1}\) and solve for \(x\): \(y(x-1)=2x\), so \(x(y-2)=y\) and \(x=\frac{y}{y-2}\). 2. Therefore, \(y\ne2\), so the range is \(\mathbb{R}\setminus\{2\}\), and \(f^{-1}(x)=\frac{x}{x-2}\). 3. Reflection across \(y=x\) interchanges horizontal and vertical lines. Thus, the vertical asymptote \(x=1\) becomes the horizontal asymptote \(y=1\), and the horizontal asymptote \(y=2\) becomes the vertical asymptote \(x=2\). 4. For intersections, solve \(\frac{2x}{x-1}=\frac{x}{x-2}\), with \(x\ne1,2\). This gives \(2x(x-2)=x(x-1)\), so \(x^2-3x=0\). 5. Hence, \(x=0\) or \(x=3\). The intersection points are \((0,0)\) and \((3,3)\).

Answer

1) Range: \(\mathbb{R}\setminus\{2\}\); \(f^{-1}(x)=\frac{x}{x-2}\) 2) Vertical asymptote \(x=2\); horizontal asymptote \(y=1\) 3) \((0,0)\) and \((3,3)\)
Inverse functions 26
Let \(f(x)=\frac{1}{2}(x+2)^2-4\), with domain \((-\infty,-2]\). 1) Explain why \(f\) has an inverse function on this domain. 2) Find a formula for \(f^{-1}\). 3) State the domain and range of \(f^{-1}\).

Hints

- Use the restricted domain to identify which branch of the parabola is included. - Interchange input and output, then solve for the new output. - The domain restriction determines which square-root sign to choose. - The domain and range switch when a function is inverted.

Solution

1. The domain restricts \(f\) to the left branch of an upward-opening parabola. As \(x\) increases toward \(-2\), \((x+2)^2\) decreases, so \(f\) is strictly decreasing and one-to-one. 2. Start with \(y=\frac{1}{2}(x+2)^2-4\). Then \((x+2)^2=2y+8\). 3. Because the original domain requires \(x\le-2\), choose the negative square root: \(x+2=-\sqrt{2y+8}\). Thus, \(x=-\sqrt{2y+8}-2\). 4. Interchange the variables to obtain \(f^{-1}(x)=-\sqrt{2x+8}-2\). 5. The range of \(f\) is \([-4,\infty)\), so the domain of \(f^{-1}\) is \([-4,\infty)\). The range of \(f^{-1}\) is the original domain, \((-\infty,-2]\).

Answer

1) \(f\) is strictly decreasing on \((-\infty,-2]\), so it is one-to-one. 2) \(f^{-1}(x)=-\sqrt{2x+8}-2\) 3) Domain: \([-4,\infty)\); range: \((-\infty,-2]\)
Inverse functions 27
Let \(f(x)=5-\frac{2}{x+3}\), with domain \((-3,\infty)\). 1) Use monotonicity to show that \(f\) has an inverse function. 2) Find a formula for \(f^{-1}\). 3) State the domain and range of \(f^{-1}\).

Hints

- Compare the reciprocal terms for two inputs \(a<b\). - Interchange input and output, then isolate the new output. - Use the horizontal asymptote and the behavior near \(x=-3\) to find the range. - The domain and range switch for an inverse function.

Solution

1. Suppose \(-3<a<b\). Then \(0<a+3<b+3\), so \(\frac{1}{a+3}>\frac{1}{b+3}\). It follows that \(f(a)<f(b)\). Therefore, \(f\) is strictly increasing and one-to-one. 2. Starting with \(y=5-\frac{2}{x+3}\), obtain \(5-y=\frac{2}{x+3}\), so \(x+3=\frac{2}{5-y}\) and \(x=\frac{2}{5-y}-3\). 3. Therefore, \(f^{-1}(x)=\frac{2}{5-x}-3\). 4. As \(x\) ranges over \((-3,\infty)\), \(f(x)\) takes every value less than \(5\). Thus, the inverse domain is \((-\infty,5)\), and its range is \((-3,\infty)\).

Answer

1) \(f\) is strictly increasing on \((-3,\infty)\), so it has an inverse. 2) \(f^{-1}(x)=\frac{2}{5-x}-3\) 3) Domain: \((-\infty,5)\); range: \((-3,\infty)\)
Inverse functions 28
Let \(f(x)=\ln(x+3)\), with domain \((-3,\infty)\). a) Find a formula for \(f^{-1}\) and state its domain. b) Find \((f^{-1})^{-1}\) algebraically and show that it equals \(f\). c) Describe the geometric relationship between the graphs of \(f\) and \(f^{-1}\). Use this relationship to explain why taking an inverse twice returns the original function.

Hints

- Exponentiation reverses a natural logarithm. - The domain of an inverse is the range of the original function. - To invert the inverse, interchange input and output again. - Reflection across \(y=x\) interchanges point coordinates.

Solution

1. a) Start with \(y=\ln(x+3)\). Exponentiating gives \(e^y=x+3\), so \(x=e^y-3\). Therefore, \(f^{-1}(x)=e^x-3\). 2. The range of \(f\) is \(\mathbb{R}\), so the domain of \(f^{-1}\) is \(\mathbb{R}\). 3. b) Start with \(y=e^x-3\). Then \(y+3=e^x\), so \(x=\ln(y+3)\). Therefore, \((f^{-1})^{-1}(x)=\ln(x+3)=f(x)\). 4. c) The graph of an inverse function is the reflection of the original graph across \(y=x\). Reflecting twice across the same line returns every point to its original position, so \((f^{-1})^{-1}=f\).

Answer

a) \(f^{-1}(x)=e^x-3\), with domain \(\mathbb{R}\) b) \((f^{-1})^{-1}(x)=\ln(x+3)=f(x)\) c) The graphs are reflections across \(y=x\); two reflections return the original graph.
Inverse functions 29
A function is called self-inverse when \(f^{-1}(x)=f(x)\) for every input in its domain. a) Determine algebraically whether \(f(x)=\frac{2}{x}\), with domain \(\mathbb{R}\setminus\{0\}\), is self-inverse. b) Give a linear function \(g(x)=mx+c\), with \(m\ne0\), that is self-inverse. Prove that \(g=g^{-1}\). c) What symmetry must the graph of a self-inverse function have relative to \(y=x\)?

Hints

- Interchange input and output, then solve for the new output. - Try a line with slope \(-1\). - An inverse graph is a reflection across \(y=x\).

Solution

1. a) Start with \(y=\frac{2}{x}\). Then \(xy=2\), so \(x=\frac{2}{y}\). Interchanging the variables gives \(f^{-1}(x)=\frac{2}{x}=f(x)\). Thus, \(f\) is self-inverse. 2. b) One example is \(g(x)=-x+5\). From \(y=-x+5\), solve for \(x\): \(x=-y+5\). Therefore, \(g^{-1}(x)=-x+5=g(x)\). 3. More generally, every line \(g(x)=-x+c\) is self-inverse; the identity function \(g(x)=x\) is also self-inverse. 4. c) The graph must be symmetric about the line \(y=x\). Whenever \((a,b)\) is on the graph, \((b,a)\) must also be on the graph.

Answer

a) Yes. \(f^{-1}(x)=\frac{2}{x}=f(x)\). b) For example, \(g(x)=-x+5\), and solving for the inverse gives \(g^{-1}(x)=-x+5\). c) The graph must be symmetric about \(y=x\).
Inverse functions 30
Let \(f(x)=\frac{2}{x-3}+1\), with domain \((3,\infty)\). Show that \(f\) has an inverse function, find a formula for \(f^{-1}\), and state the domain and range of \(f^{-1}\).

Hints

- Compare the reciprocal terms for two inputs in the domain. - Interchange input and output, then solve for the new output. - Use the horizontal asymptote and behavior near \(x=3\) to determine the range. - The domain and range switch for an inverse function.

Solution

1. Suppose \(3<a<b\). Then \(0<a-3<b-3\), so \(\frac{1}{a-3}>\frac{1}{b-3}\). Therefore, \(f(a)>f(b)\), and \(f\) is strictly decreasing and one-to-one. 2. Start with \(y=\frac{2}{x-3}+1\). Then \(y-1=\frac{2}{x-3}\), so \(x-3=\frac{2}{y-1}\) and \(x=\frac{2}{y-1}+3\). 3. Thus, \(f^{-1}(x)=\frac{2}{x-1}+3\). 4. On \((3,\infty)\), the function takes every value greater than \(1\). Therefore, the domain of \(f^{-1}\) is \((1,\infty)\), and its range is \((3,\infty)\).

Answer

\(f\) is strictly decreasing and therefore invertible. \(f^{-1}(x)=\frac{2}{x-1}+3\) Domain: \((1,\infty)\) Range: \((3,\infty)\)
Inverse functions 31
Let \(g(x)=e^{\frac{1}{2}x}-3\), with domain \(\mathbb{R}\). a) Explain why \(g\) has an inverse function. b) Find a formula for \(g^{-1}\), and state its domain and range.

Hints

- Exponential functions with positive base are strictly increasing. - A vertical shift changes the range but not monotonicity. - Use the natural logarithm to undo the exponential. - The domain and range switch for an inverse function.

Solution

1. a) The exponential function \(e^{\frac{1}{2}x}\) is strictly increasing, and a vertical shift does not change monotonicity. Therefore, \(g\) is strictly increasing and one-to-one. 2. The range of \(g\) is \((-3,\infty)\). 3. b) Start with \(y=e^{\frac{1}{2}x}-3\). Then \(y+3=e^{\frac{1}{2}x}\), so \(\ln(y+3)=\frac{1}{2}x\) and \(x=2\ln(y+3)\). 4. Therefore, \(g^{-1}(x)=2\ln(x+3)\). Its domain is \((-3,\infty)\), and its range is \(\mathbb{R}\).

Answer

a) \(g\) is strictly increasing, so it has an inverse function. b) \(g^{-1}(x)=2\ln(x+3)\), with domain \((-3,\infty)\) and range \(\mathbb{R}\)
Inverse functions 32
Give an example of a linear function \(f\) with domain \(\mathbb{R}\) whose graph has no point in common with the graph of \(f^{-1}\). Justify your choice using the reflection line \(y=x\).

Hints

- Inverse graphs are reflections across \(y=x\). - Try a line parallel to \(y=x\) but not equal to it. - Find the inverse by interchanging input and output. - Check whether the two line equations can be equal at any input.

Solution

1. Choose \(f(x)=x+1\). Since its slope is nonzero, it has an inverse function. 2. Solving \(y=x+1\) for \(x\) gives \(f^{-1}(x)=x-1\). 3. The two graphs are parallel lines, so they do not intersect. Geometrically, they are reflections of each other across \(y=x\). 4. Equivalently, the graph of \(f\) is parallel to \(y=x\), so it has no fixed point satisfying \(f(x)=x\). Therefore, the graphs of \(f\) and \(f^{-1}\) have no common point.

Answer

One example is \(f(x)=x+1\). Its inverse is \(f^{-1}(x)=x-1\), and the two parallel graphs are reflections across \(y=x\), so they have no common point.
Inverse functions 33
Let \(f(x)=\frac{1}{3}(x+3)^2-1\). a) Find the two largest intervals that can be used as the domain so that \(f\) has an inverse function. b) Use \([-3,\infty)\) as the domain. Find a formula for \(f^{-1}\), and state its domain and range.

Hints

- A parabola changes monotonicity at its vertex. - Restrict the domain to one complete side of the vertex. - The chosen branch determines the sign of the square root. - The domain and range switch for an inverse function.

Solution

1. a) The parabola has vertex \((-3,-1)\). It is strictly decreasing to the left of the vertex and strictly increasing to the right. 2. Therefore, the two largest possible domains are \((-\infty,-3]\) and \([-3,\infty)\). 3. b) Start with \(y=\frac{1}{3}(x+3)^2-1\). Then \((x+3)^2=3y+3\). 4. Because the chosen domain requires \(x\ge-3\), take the positive square root: \(x+3=\sqrt{3y+3}\). 5. Thus, \(x=-3+\sqrt{3y+3}\), so \(f^{-1}(x)=-3+\sqrt{3x+3}\). 6. The range of the restricted function is \([-1,\infty)\). Therefore, the inverse domain is \([-1,\infty)\), and its range is \([-3,\infty)\).

Answer

a) \((-\infty,-3]\) and \([-3,\infty)\) b) \(f^{-1}(x)=-3+\sqrt{3x+3}\), with domain \([-1,\infty)\) and range \([-3,\infty)\)
Inverse functions 34
For \(a\in\mathbb{R}\), let \(f_a(x)=\frac{ax+5}{x-3}\) with \(x\ne3\). 1. Find the value of \(a\) for which \(f_a\) is its own inverse on its full domain. 2. State the line of symmetry of a graph that is its own inverse. Show that the intersection of the asymptotes for your function lies on this line.

Hints

- Is every member of the family one-to-one? Check whether the numerator can become a multiple of the denominator. - When finding an inverse, solve the equation for the original input. - A function and its inverse have the same graph when their reflection across \(y=x\) leaves the graph unchanged. - What are the asymptotes of the resulting rational function?

Solution

1. At \(a=-\frac{5}{3}\), the numerator is \(-\frac{5}{3}(x-3)\), making \(f_a\) constant for \(x\ne3\), so it has no inverse function. 2. Otherwise, solve \(y=\frac{ax+5}{x-3}\): \(y(x-3)=ax+5\), hence \(x=\frac{3y+5}{y-a}\) and \(f_a^{-1}(x)=\frac{3x+5}{x-a}\). 3. Equality of the inverse and original rules, with the same excluded input, requires \(a=3\). For this value, \(f_3(x)=3+\frac{14}{x-3}\) and \(f_3^{-1}(x)=\frac{3x+5}{x-3}=f_3(x)\). 4. Inverse graphs reflect across \(y=x\); a self-inverse graph is symmetric about that line. 5. The asymptotes of \(f_3\) are \(x=3\) and \(y=3\). They meet at \((3, 3)\), which lies on \(y=x\).

Answer

1. \(a=3\) 2. Symmetry line: \(y=x\). The asymptotes meet at \((3, 3)\), a point on this line.
Inverse functions 35
Consider linear functions of the form \(g(x)=mx+b\). 1) A function with y-intercept \(b=6\) is identical to its inverse \(g^{-1}\). Find the slope \(m\), and justify your answer by comparing the two formulas. 2) Determine whether a linear function can be both symmetric about the y-axis and identical to its own inverse. Explain your reasoning.

Hints

- Find the inverse of \(mx+6\) symbolically. - Compare both the slope and the y-intercept. - A line symmetric about the y-axis must be horizontal. - An inverse function requires a one-to-one original function.

Solution

1. For \(m\ne0\), start with \(y=mx+6\). Solving for \(x\) gives \(x=\frac{1}{m}y-\frac{6}{m}\), so \(g^{-1}(x)=\frac{1}{m}x-\frac{6}{m}\). 2. For \(g=g^{-1}\), matching slopes gives \(m=\frac{1}{m}\), so \(m^2=1\) and \(m=1\) or \(m=-1\). 3. If \(m=1\), matching intercepts would require \(6=-6\), which is impossible. If \(m=-1\), the inverse is \(-x+6\), the same as \(g\). Therefore, \(m=-1\). 4. A line symmetric about the y-axis must be horizontal, so it has slope \(0\). A constant function is not one-to-one and has no inverse function. Therefore, no such linear function exists.

Answer

1) \(m=-1\), so \(g(x)=-x+6\) 2) No. Y-axis symmetry requires slope \(0\), but a constant function is not invertible.
Inverse functions 36
Let \(f(x)=-\frac{1}{2}(x+1)^2+4\), with domain \([-1,\infty)\). Show that \(f\) has an inverse function. Find a formula for \(f^{-1}\), and state its domain and range.

Hints

- Identify the vertex and the selected branch of the parabola. - The domain restriction determines the square-root sign. - Solve the original equation for the input variable. - The domain and range switch for an inverse function.

Solution

1. The domain restricts \(f\) to the right branch of a downward-opening parabola. Starting at the vertex \((-1,4)\), the function is strictly decreasing, so it is one-to-one and invertible. 2. Start with \(y=-\frac{1}{2}(x+1)^2+4\). Then \((x+1)^2=8-2y\). 3. Since the original domain requires \(x\ge-1\), choose the positive square root: \(x+1=\sqrt{8-2y}\). 4. Therefore, \(x=\sqrt{8-2y}-1\), so \(f^{-1}(x)=\sqrt{8-2x}-1\). 5. The range of \(f\) is \((-\infty,4]\). Thus, the inverse domain is \((-\infty,4]\), and its range is \([-1,\infty)\).

Answer

\(f\) is strictly decreasing on \([-1,\infty)\), so it is invertible. \(f^{-1}(x)=\sqrt{8-2x}-1\) Domain: \((-\infty,4]\) Range: \([-1,\infty)\)
Inverse functions 37
Let \(f(x)=\sqrt{x+4}\), with domain \([-4,5]\). a) Find the range of \(f\). b) Make a value table for \(f\) at \(x\in\{-4,-3,0,5\}\). c) Use the table for \(f\) to make a value table for \(f^{-1}\). Then find a formula for \(f^{-1}\) and state its domain.

Hints

- Use the endpoint outputs to find the range. - In an inverse table, interchange each input-output pair. - Squaring reverses the principal square root. - The inverse domain is the original range.

Solution

1. a) The square-root function is increasing. Since \(f(-4)=0\) and \(f(5)=3\), the range is \([0,3]\). 2. b) The ordered pairs for \(f\) are \((-4,0)\), \((-3,1)\), \((0,2)\), and \((5,3)\). 3. c) Interchange the coordinates to obtain the inverse pairs \((0,-4)\), \((1,-3)\), \((2,0)\), and \((3,5)\). 4. From \(y=\sqrt{x+4}\), square both sides to get \(y^2=x+4\), so \(x=y^2-4\). 5. Therefore, \(f^{-1}(x)=x^2-4\), with domain \([0,3]\).

Answer

a) Range: \([0,3]\) b) <table><tr><td>\(x\)</td><td>\(-4\)</td><td>\(-3\)</td><td>\(0\)</td><td>\(5\)</td></tr><tr><td>\(f(x)\)</td><td>\(0\)</td><td>\(1\)</td><td>\(2\)</td><td>\(3\)</td></tr></table> c) <table><tr><td>\(x\)</td><td>\(0\)</td><td>\(1\)</td><td>\(2\)</td><td>\(3\)</td></tr><tr><td>\(f^{-1}(x)\)</td><td>\(-4\)</td><td>\(-3\)</td><td>\(0\)</td><td>\(5\)</td></tr></table> \(f^{-1}(x)=x^2-4\), with domain \([0,3]\)
Inverse functions 38
Let \(f(x)=4e^{\frac{1}{2}x-2}\), with domain \(\mathbb{R}\). Show that \(f\) has an inverse function, and find a formula for \(f^{-1}\).

Hints

- What do you know about the graph of \(e^x\), and how do the changes to its input and output affect that behavior? - What operation reverses an exponential with base \(e\)? - Isolate the exponential expression before applying its inverse operation. - What possible outputs of \(f\) will become inputs of its inverse?

Solution

1. Since \(e^x\) is strictly increasing and \(\frac{1}{2}x-2\) is increasing, multiplying by \(4>0\) gives a strictly increasing, one-to-one function \(f\). 2. From \(y=4e^{\frac{1}{2}x-2}\), divide by \(4\) to get \(\frac{y}{4}=e^{\frac{1}{2}x-2}\). 3. Taking natural logarithms yields \(\ln(\frac{y}{4})=\frac{1}{2}x-2\), so \(x=2\ln(\frac{y}{4})+4\). 4. Therefore \(f^{-1}(x)=2\ln(\frac{x}{4})+4\), defined for \(x>0\).

Answer

\(f\) is increasing and one-to-one. \(f^{-1}(x)=2\ln(\frac{x}{4})+4\), with domain \((0,\infty)\).
Inverse functions 39
Let \(g(x)=\ln(3x+6)-2\), with its maximal real domain. Show that \(g\) has an inverse function, and find a formula for \(g^{-1}\).

Hints

- A logarithm requires a positive argument. - Compositions of increasing functions are increasing. - Exponentiation reverses the natural logarithm. - Interchange input and output after solving.

Solution

1. The logarithm requires \(3x+6>0\), so the domain is \((-2,\infty)\). 2. The natural logarithm is strictly increasing, and the positive linear expression \(3x+6\) is also increasing. Therefore, \(g\) is strictly increasing and one-to-one. 3. Start with \(y=\ln(3x+6)-2\). Then \(y+2=\ln(3x+6)\). 4. Exponentiating gives \(e^{y+2}=3x+6\), so \(x=\frac{1}{3}e^{y+2}-2\). 5. Therefore, \(g^{-1}(x)=\frac{1}{3}e^{x+2}-2\).

Answer

Domain of \(g\): \((-2,\infty)\) \(g\) is strictly increasing and therefore invertible. \(g^{-1}(x)=\frac{1}{3}e^{x+2}-2\)
Inverse functions 40
Let \(f(x)=e^{x-2}+1\), with domain \(\mathbb{R}\). a) Find the range of \(f\). b) Find a formula for \(f^{-1}\) and state its domain. c) Find the y-intercept of the graph of \(f\). Reflect that point across \(y=x\) to identify a point on the graph of \(f^{-1}\).

Hints

- A positive exponential term never reaches \(0\). - Use the natural logarithm to undo the exponential. - The inverse domain is the original range. - Reflection across \(y=x\) interchanges coordinates.

Solution

1. a) Since \(e^{x-2}>0\), the function values are always greater than \(1\). As \(x\to-\infty\), the exponential term approaches \(0\), so the range is \((1,\infty)\). 2. b) Start with \(y=e^{x-2}+1\). Then \(y-1=e^{x-2}\), so \(\ln(y-1)=x-2\). 3. Therefore, \(f^{-1}(x)=\ln(x-1)+2\), with domain \((1,\infty)\). 4. c) \(f(0)=e^{-2}+1\), so the y-intercept is \((0,e^{-2}+1)\). 5. Reflection across \(y=x\) interchanges coordinates, giving the inverse point \((e^{-2}+1,0)\).

Answer

a) \((1,\infty)\) b) \(f^{-1}(x)=\ln(x-1)+2\), with domain \((1,\infty)\) c) Y-intercept: \((0,e^{-2}+1)\); inverse point: \((e^{-2}+1,0)\)
Inverse functions 41
Consider the one-to-one functions \(f(x)=0.5x^3\), \(g(x)=\frac{x+2}{x-1}\), and \(h(x)=3^x\). The points are \(P_1(2, 4)\), \(P_2(0, -2)\), \(P_3(1, 3)\), and \(P_4(-1, -0.5)\). a) Determine which listed points lie on each original graph. b) For every point you identified in part a, write the corresponding point on the graph of the inverse function by reversing the coordinates. c) Without finding complete inverse formulas, determine \(f^{-1}(27)\), \(g^{-1}(27)\), and \(h^{-1}(27)\).

Hints

- First decide whether an ordered pair belongs to the original function by checking its input and output. - A point on an inverse graph has the coordinates of the corresponding original point reversed. - To evaluate an inverse at \(27\), ask which original input produces an output of \(27\).

Solution

1. For \(f\), \(f(2)=4\) and \(f(-1)=-0.5\), so \(P_1\) and \(P_4\) lie on its graph. 2. For \(g\), \(g(2)=4\), \(g(0)=-2\), and \(g(-1)=-0.5\), so \(P_1\), \(P_2\), and \(P_4\) lie on its graph. The input \(x=1\) is not in the domain. 3. For \(h\), \(h(1)=3\), so only \(P_3\) lies on its graph. 4. Reversing coordinates gives inverse-graph points. For \(f^{-1}\): \((4, 2)\) and \((-0.5, -1)\). For \(g^{-1}\): \((4, 2)\), \((-2, 0)\), and \((-0.5, -1)\). For \(h^{-1}\): \((3, 1)\). 5. The equation \(f(x)=27\) gives \(0.5x^3=27\), so \(x=\sqrt[3]{54}\). Therefore, \(f^{-1}(27)=\sqrt[3]{54}\). 6. The equation \(g(x)=27\) gives \(\frac{x+2}{x-1}=27\), so \(x+2=27x-27\), hence \(x=\frac{29}{26}\). Therefore, \(g^{-1}(27)=\frac{29}{26}\). 7. The equation \(h(x)=27\) gives \(3^x=27\), so \(x=3\). Therefore, \(h^{-1}(27)=3\).

Answer

a) For \(f\): \(P_1,P_4\) For \(g\): \(P_1,P_2,P_4\) For \(h\): \(P_3\) b) For \(f^{-1}\): \((4, 2)\), \((-0.5, -1)\) For \(g^{-1}\): \((4, 2)\), \((-2, 0)\), \((-0.5, -1)\) For \(h^{-1}\): \((3, 1)\) c) \(f^{-1}(27)=\sqrt[3]{54}\), \(g^{-1}(27)=\frac{29}{26}\), \(h^{-1}(27)=3\)
Inverse functions 42
Let \(f(x)=2e^{0.5x}-4\). a) State the range of \(f\) and the equation of its horizontal asymptote. b) Find the inverse function \(f^{-1}\) and its domain. c) Explain why \(f\) is invertible over its entire domain by using its monotonicity.

Hints

- What value does the exponential part approach but never reach? - Solve the equation for the variable in the exponent. - What connection is there between strict monotonicity and invertibility?

Solution

1. Since \(e^{0.5x}>0\), \(f(x)>-4\). Also, \(f(x)\to-4\) as \(x\to-\infty\). Therefore, the range is \((-4, \infty)\), and the horizontal asymptote is \(y=-4\). 2. Start with \(y=2e^{0.5x}-4\). Then \(y+4=2e^{0.5x}\), \(\frac{y+4}{2}=e^{0.5x}\), and \(\ln\!\left(\frac{y+4}{2}\right)=0.5x\). 3. Solving for \(x\) gives \(x=2\ln\!\left(\frac{y+4}{2}\right)\). Interchanging \(x\) and \(y\), \(f^{-1}(x)=2\ln\!\left(\frac{x+4}{2}\right)\), with domain \((-4, \infty)\). 4. The function \(e^{0.5x}\) is strictly increasing because the coefficient \(0.5\) in the exponent is positive. Multiplying the outputs by \(2\) and shifting them down \(4\) units preserve this monotonicity. Thus, \(f\) is strictly increasing, so it is one-to-one and invertible.

Answer

a) Range: \((-4, \infty)\); horizontal asymptote: \(y=-4\) b) \(f^{-1}(x)=2\ln\!\left(\frac{x+4}{2}\right)\), with domain \((-4, \infty)\) c) Since \(f\) is strictly increasing on its entire domain, it is one-to-one and therefore invertible.
Inverse functions 43
The graph shows \(f(x)=\frac{1}{2}(x-2)^2-1\) on the domain \([0,5]\). a) Use the graph to explain why \(f\) is not invertible on its entire domain. b) Give the two largest intervals on which the restriction of \(f\) is invertible. c) For the interval on the right, find a formula for the corresponding inverse function and state its domain.
Figure for problem 532308

Hints

- Use the horizontal line test. - Split the parabola at its vertex. - The selected branch determines the square-root sign. - The inverse domain is the range of the restricted function.

Solution

1. a) The function is not one-to-one on \([0,5]\). For example, \(f(0)=1\) and \(f(4)=1\), so a horizontal line at \(y=1\) meets the graph twice. 2. b) The vertex is \((2,-1)\). The function is strictly decreasing on \([0,2]\) and strictly increasing on \([2,5]\), so these are the two largest invertibility intervals. 3. c) On the right interval, start with \(y=\frac{1}{2}(x-2)^2-1\). Then \((x-2)^2=2(y+1)\). 4. Since \(x\ge2\), take the positive square root: \(x=2+\sqrt{2(y+1)}\). 5. Therefore, \(f^{-1}(x)=2+\sqrt{2(x+1)}\). 6. On \([2,5]\), the range is \([-1,3.5]\), so the inverse domain is \([-1,3.5]\).

Answer

a) \(f\) is not one-to-one; for example, \(f(0)=f(4)=1\). b) \([0,2]\) and \([2,5]\) c) \(f^{-1}(x)=2+\sqrt{2(x+1)}\), with domain \([-1,3.5]\)
Inverse functions 44
The graph shows a function \(f\) defined for \(x\ge-3\). a) Read the coordinates of the starting point and two other points with integer coordinates. b) Find the formula for \(f\) in the form \(f(x)=\sqrt{x+a}+b\). c) Find a formula for \(f^{-1}\) and state its domain.
Figure for problem 532309

Hints

- The starting point identifies the horizontal and vertical shifts of a square-root graph. - Check the formula using other visible points. - Interchange input and output, then solve for the new output. - The inverse domain is the original range.

Solution

1. a) The starting point is \((-3,-1)\). Other integer-coordinate points include \((-2,0)\), \((1,1)\), and \((6,2)\). 2. b) A square-root graph starting at \((-3,-1)\) is shifted \(3\) units left and \(1\) unit down. Therefore, \(f(x)=\sqrt{x+3}-1\). 3. c) Start with \(y=\sqrt{x+3}-1\). Then \(y+1=\sqrt{x+3}\), so \(x=(y+1)^2-3\). 4. Therefore, \(f^{-1}(x)=(x+1)^2-3\). The range of \(f\) is \([-1,\infty)\), so the inverse domain is \([-1,\infty)\).

Answer

a) Starting point: \((-3,-1)\); for example, two other points are \((-2,0)\) and \((1,1)\) b) \(f(x)=\sqrt{x+3}-1\) c) \(f^{-1}(x)=(x+1)^2-3\), with domain \([-1,\infty)\)
Inverse functions 45
The panels show the graphs of functions \(f\) and \(g\) on the displayed domain \([-3,3]\). a) Decide which function is invertible on its entire displayed domain. Justify your answer using the horizontal line test. b) For the function that is not invertible on the displayed domain, find the largest connected interval containing \(x=0\) on which its restriction is invertible.
Figure for problem 532311

Hints

- Use the horizontal line test on each graph. - Look for a horizontal line that intersects one graph more than once. - For part b, identify the turning points surrounding \(x=0\). - Keep one complete monotonic section.

Solution

1. a) A horizontal line such as \(y=0\) meets the graph of \(f\) three times, at \(x=0\) and \(x=\pm\sqrt{3}\). Therefore, \(f\) is not one-to-one on \([-3,3]\). 2. The graph of \(g\) is strictly increasing on the displayed domain, so every horizontal line meets it at most once. Therefore, \(g\) is invertible on \([-3,3]\). 3. b) The graph of \(f\) has turning points at \(x=-1\) and \(x=1\). Between these values, the graph is strictly decreasing. 4. Thus, the largest connected interval containing \(0\) on which \(f\) is invertible is \([-1,1]\).

Answer

a) \(g\) is invertible on the displayed domain; \(f\) is not. b) \([-1,1]\)
Inverse functions 46
Let \(f(x)=(x-1)^2-2\) for \(x\ge1\). a) Which curve, \(g_1\) or \(g_2\), shows \(f^{-1}\)? Support your choice using corresponding points. b) Find \(f^{-1}(x)\) algebraically and state its domain.
Figure for problem 532312

Hints

- Which coordinate changes occur under reflection across \(y=x\)? - Where would the blue graph's starting point reflect? - When solving a squared equation, which square-root branch matches the original domain? - How does the original range determine the inverse domain?

Solution

1. Reflecting across \(y=x\) swaps coordinates. The point \((1, -2)\) on \(f\) reflects to \((-2, 1)\), and \((2, -1)\) reflects to \((-1, 2)\). 2. Those reflected points lie on \(g_1\), so the green curve is \(f^{-1}\). 3. Solve \(y=(x-1)^2-2\): \(y+2=(x-1)^2\). 4. Because the original input must satisfy \(x\ge1\), take the positive root: \(x=1+\sqrt{y+2}\). 5. Therefore \(f^{-1}(x)=1+\sqrt{x+2}\), with domain \([-2,\infty)\).

Answer

a) \(g_1\), the green dashed curve. Points \((1, -2)\) and \((2, -1)\) on \(f\) reflect to \((-2, 1)\) and \((-1, 2)\) on \(g_1\). b) \(f^{-1}(x)=1+\sqrt{x+2}\); domain \([-2,\infty)\).
Inverse functions 47
The graph of a function \(f\) with domain \([-3,5]\) is shown. a) Use the graph to explain why \(f\) is not invertible on its entire domain. b) Give the three largest subintervals on which the restriction of \(f\) is invertible. c) For each subinterval, find a formula for the corresponding inverse function and state its domain.
Figure for problem 532314

Hints

- Use the horizontal line test. - Split the graph wherever its direction changes. - Find each line equation from two endpoints. - Solve each linear equation for the input variable. - The inverse domain is the range of the corresponding piece.

Solution

1. a) A horizontal line such as \(y=2\) intersects the graph more than once, so \(f\) is not one-to-one on \([-3,5]\). 2. b) The three monotonic pieces occur on \(I_1=[-3,1]\), \(I_2=[1,3]\), and \(I_3=[3,5]\). 3. On \(I_1\), the line is \(f_1(x)=x+2\). Solving \(y=x+2\) gives \(f_1^{-1}(x)=x-2\). The range of \(f_1\) is \([-1,3]\), so the inverse domain is \([-1,3]\). 4. On \(I_2\), the line is \(f_2(x)=-x+4\). This function is self-inverse, so \(f_2^{-1}(x)=-x+4\), with domain \([1,3]\). 5. On \(I_3\), the line is \(f_3(x)=2x-5\). Solving \(y=2x-5\) gives \(f_3^{-1}(x)=\frac{1}{2}x+\frac{5}{2}\). The range of \(f_3\) is \([1,5]\), so the inverse domain is \([1,5]\).

Answer

a) A horizontal line such as \(y=2\) intersects the graph more than once. b) \(I_1=[-3,1]\), \(I_2=[1,3]\), and \(I_3=[3,5]\) c) \(I_1\): \(f_1^{-1}(x)=x-2\), domain \([-1,3]\) \(I_2\): \(f_2^{-1}(x)=-x+4\), domain \([1,3]\) \(I_3\): \(f_3^{-1}(x)=\frac{1}{2}x+\frac{5}{2}\), domain \([1,5]\)
Inverse functions 48
The graph shows the function \(f(x)=0.5x^3-1.5x+1\), with domain \(\mathbb{R}\). a) Use the graph to explain why \(f\) is not invertible on its entire domain. b) Find the largest interval \(I=[a,b]\) that contains \(x=0\) and on which the restriction of \(f\) is invertible. c) On the interval \(I\), the inverse function \(f^{-1}\) exists. Find the point on the graph of \(f^{-1}\) that corresponds to the local maximum of \(f\).
Figure for problem 532652

Hints

- Use the horizontal line test. - Identify the turning points around \(x=0\). - Keep the complete monotonic section between those turning points. - An inverse function interchanges the coordinates of corresponding points.

Solution

1. a) A horizontal line such as \(y=1\) intersects the graph more than once. Therefore, different inputs produce the same output, so \(f\) is not one-to-one on \(\mathbb{R}\) and is not invertible there. 2. b) The graph has a local maximum at \(x=-1\) and a local minimum at \(x=1\). It is strictly decreasing between these turning points. 3. Therefore, the largest interval containing \(0\) on which the restriction is one-to-one is \(I=[-1,1]\). 4. c) The local maximum is the point \((-1,2)\), since \(f(-1)=2\). 5. Points on an inverse graph have their coordinates reversed, so the corresponding point on \(f^{-1}\) is \((2,-1)\).

Answer

a) The graph fails the horizontal line test, so \(f\) is not invertible on \(\mathbb{R}\). b) \(I=[-1,1]\) c) \((2,-1)\)
Inverse functions 49
The blue graph is \(f(x)=0.5x^2+1\) for \(x\ge0\). The dashed gray line \(y=x\) and two candidate graphs, \(g_1\) in red and \(g_2\) in green, are also shown. a) Use the graph to explain why \(f\) is invertible on its domain \([0,\infty)\). b) Find a formula for \(f^{-1}\) and state its domain. c) Decide whether \(g_1\) or \(g_2\) is the graph of \(f^{-1}\). Justify your answer.
Figure for problem 532658

Hints

- Use the horizontal line test. - Solve \(y=0.5x^2+1\) for \(x\), and use the original domain to choose the correct square root. - The inverse domain is the original range. - Reflection across \(y=x\) interchanges point coordinates. - Test a point that is easy to read from the blue graph.

Solution

1. a) The graph of \(f\) is strictly increasing for \(x\ge0\), so it passes the horizontal line test and is invertible on \([0,\infty)\). 2. b) Begin with \(y=0.5x^2+1\). Then \(2(y-1)=x^2\). 3. Because the original domain requires \(x\ge0\), take the nonnegative square root: \(x=\sqrt{2y-2}\). 4. Interchanging the variables gives \(f^{-1}(x)=\sqrt{2x-2}\). 5. The range of \(f\) is \([1,\infty)\), so the domain of \(f^{-1}\) is \([1,\infty)\). 6. c) The inverse graph is the reflection of the graph of \(f\) across \(y=x\). For example, \((2,3)\) lies on \(f\), so \((3,2)\) must lie on \(f^{-1}\). The red graph \(g_1\) contains \((3,2)\), so \(g_1\) is the inverse graph.

Answer

a) The graph is strictly increasing on \([0,\infty)\), so it passes the horizontal line test. b) \(f^{-1}(x)=\sqrt{2x-2}\), with domain \([1,\infty)\) c) \(g_1\), because it is the reflection of \(f\) across \(y=x\) and contains the reflected point \((3,2)\).
Inverse functions 50
The graph shows the function \(f(x)=\sqrt{x+2}\). a) Find the domain and range of \(f\). b) Use the graph to explain why \(f\) has an inverse function. c) Find a formula for \(f^{-1}\) and state its domain. d) State the equation of the line across which the graphs of \(f\) and \(f^{-1}\) are reflections. Then find the point where the two graphs intersect.
Figure for problem 532679

Hints

- Require the expression under the square root to be nonnegative. - Use the horizontal line test. - Solve the equation for the original input, then interchange the variables. - The inverse domain is the original range. - Because this function is strictly increasing, any common point of its graph and its inverse graph lies on \(y=x\). Check solutions after squaring.

Solution

1. a) The radicand must be nonnegative, so \(x+2\ge0\), which gives \(x\ge-2\). Therefore, the domain is \([-2,\infty)\). 2. A square root is nonnegative, so the range is \([0,\infty)\). 3. b) The graph is strictly increasing on its entire domain, so it passes the horizontal line test and has an inverse. 4. c) Start with \(y=\sqrt{x+2}\). Squaring gives \(y^2=x+2\), so \(x=y^2-2\). 5. Interchanging the variables gives \(f^{-1}(x)=x^2-2\). Its domain is the range of \(f\), so the inverse domain is \([0,\infty)\). 6. d) The reflection line is \(y=x\). Because \(f\) is strictly increasing, any common point of the graphs of \(f\) and \(f^{-1}\) must lie on this line, so solve \(\sqrt{x+2}=x\). 7. Squaring gives \(x^2-x-2=0\), so \((x-2)(x+1)=0\). The candidate values are \(x=2\) and \(x=-1\). 8. The original equation requires \(x\ge0\), so \(x=-1\) is extraneous. Thus, the graphs intersect at \((2,2)\).

Answer

a) Domain: \([-2,\infty)\); range: \([0,\infty)\) b) The graph is strictly increasing, so it passes the horizontal line test. c) \(f^{-1}(x)=x^2-2\), with domain \([0,\infty)\) d) Reflection line: \(y=x\); intersection point: \((2,2)\)
Inverse functions 51
The panels show the graphs of four functions, \(f\), \(g\), \(h\), and \(k\). Determine which functions are invertible on their entire displayed domains. Briefly justify each decision using an appropriate graphical test.
Figure for problem 533535

Hints

- Use the horizontal line test on each panel. - Look for an output value that comes from more than one input. - A strictly increasing or strictly decreasing graph passes the test. - For a graph with separate branches, consider both branches together.

Solution

1. A function is invertible on its displayed domain exactly when it is one-to-one. Graphically, this can be checked with the horizontal line test. 2. The graph of \(f\) fails the test because some horizontal lines intersect it three times. Therefore, \(f\) is not invertible on its entire displayed domain. 3. The graph of \(g\) is strictly decreasing, so every horizontal line intersects it at most once. Therefore, \(g\) is invertible on its displayed domain. 4. The two branches of \(h\) occupy disjoint y-value ranges, and each branch is strictly decreasing. Therefore, every horizontal line intersects the graph of \(h\) at most once, so \(h\) is invertible on its displayed domain. 5. The graph of \(k\) fails the test. For example, the line \(y=1\) intersects it twice. Therefore, \(k\) is not invertible on its displayed domain.

Answer

On their displayed domains, the functions \(g\) and \(h\) are invertible because they pass the horizontal line test. The functions \(f\) and \(k\) are not invertible because each has a horizontal line that intersects its graph more than once.
Inverse functions 52
The graph shows the quadratic function \(f(x)=0.5(x-2)^2-3\). a) Use the graph to explain why \(f\) is not invertible when its domain is \(\mathbb{R}\). b) Restrict the domain so that an inverse exists. Find the largest interval of the form \([a,\infty)\) on which the restriction of \(f\) is invertible. c) Describe how to construct the graph of the inverse function geometrically from the restricted graph of \(f\).
Figure for problem 533536

Hints

- Locate the vertex of the parabola. - Use the horizontal line test. - Choose one side of the vertex where the graph is strictly monotonic. - Interchanging inputs and outputs corresponds to reflection across a particular line.

Solution

1. a) The graph fails the horizontal line test. For example, \(f(0)=f(4)=-1\), so two different inputs have the same output. 2. Therefore, \(f\) is not one-to-one on \(\mathbb{R}\) and is not invertible there. 3. b) The vertex is \((2,-3)\). To the right of the vertex, the graph is strictly increasing. 4. The largest interval of the form \([a,\infty)\) on which the restriction is one-to-one is \([2,\infty)\). 5. c) Reflect the restricted graph across the line \(y=x\).

Answer

a) The graph fails the horizontal line test; for example, \(f(0)=f(4)=-1\). b) \([2,\infty)\) c) Reflect the restricted graph across \(y=x\).
Inverse functions 53
The graph shows a function \(f\) with domain \([-2,4]\). a) Use the graph to explain why \(f\) is not invertible on its entire domain. b) Find the two largest subintervals of the domain on which the restriction of \(f\) is invertible. c) For each subinterval, write a formula for the restricted function and its inverse. State the domain of each inverse.
Figure for problem 533539

Hints

- Use the horizontal line test. - Split the parabola at its vertex. - Solve the quadratic equation for the original input. - Choose the square-root sign that matches each restricted domain. - The inverse domain is the range of the corresponding restriction.

Solution

1. a) The graph fails the horizontal line test. For example, \(f(-2)=f(4)=1.5\), so \(f\) is not one-to-one on \([-2,4]\). 2. b) The vertex occurs at \(x=1\). The graph is strictly decreasing on \(I_1=[-2,1]\) and strictly increasing on \(I_2=[1,4]\). 3. These are the two largest subintervals on which the restrictions are invertible. 4. c) Both restrictions use the formula \(f(x)=0.5(x-1)^2-3\), with their respective domains. 5. Solve \(y=0.5(x-1)^2-3\): \((x-1)^2=2y+6\), so \(x=1\pm\sqrt{2y+6}\). 6. On \(I_1\), inputs satisfy \(x\le1\), so \(f_1^{-1}(x)=1-\sqrt{2x+6}\). 7. On \(I_2\), inputs satisfy \(x\ge1\), so \(f_2^{-1}(x)=1+\sqrt{2x+6}\). 8. Each restriction has range \([-3,1.5]\), so each inverse has domain \([-3,1.5]\).

Answer

a) The graph fails the horizontal line test; for example, \(f(-2)=f(4)=1.5\). b) \(I_1=[-2,1]\) and \(I_2=[1,4]\) c) \(I_1\): \(f_1(x)=0.5(x-1)^2-3\), and \(f_1^{-1}(x)=1-\sqrt{2x+6}\), with inverse domain \([-3,1.5]\) \(I_2\): \(f_2(x)=0.5(x-1)^2-3\), and \(f_2^{-1}(x)=1+\sqrt{2x+6}\), with inverse domain \([-3,1.5]\)
Inverse functions 54
The graph shows a function \(g\) with domain \([-4,2]\). a) Use the graph to show that \(g\) is not invertible on its entire domain. b) Find the two largest subintervals of the domain on which the restriction of \(g\) is invertible. c) For each subinterval, write a formula for the restricted function and its inverse. State the domain of each inverse.
Figure for problem 533540

Hints

- Look for an output that occurs at two different inputs. - Split the graph where it changes direction. - Find each line equation from two points. - Solve each equation for the input variable. - The inverse domain is the range of the corresponding restriction.

Solution

1. a) The horizontal line \(y=0\) intersects the graph at \(x=-3\) and \(x=1\). Therefore, \(g\) is not one-to-one on \([-4,2]\). 2. b) The graph changes direction at \(x=-1\). It is strictly decreasing on \(I_1=[-4,-1]\) and strictly increasing on \(I_2=[-1,2]\). 3. c) On \(I_1\), the line through \((-4,1)\) and \((-1,-2)\) has equation \(g_1(x)=-x-3\). 4. Solving \(y=-x-3\) for \(x\) gives \(x=-y-3\), so \(g_1^{-1}(x)=-x-3\). 5. On \(I_2\), the line through \((-1,-2)\) and \((2,1)\) has equation \(g_2(x)=x-1\). 6. Solving \(y=x-1\) for \(x\) gives \(x=y+1\), so \(g_2^{-1}(x)=x+1\). 7. Both restrictions have range \([-2,1]\), so both inverse functions have domain \([-2,1]\).

Answer

a) The graph fails the horizontal line test; for example, \(g(-3)=g(1)=0\). b) \(I_1=[-4,-1]\) and \(I_2=[-1,2]\) c) \(I_1\): \(g_1(x)=-x-3\), and \(g_1^{-1}(x)=-x-3\), with inverse domain \([-2,1]\) \(I_2\): \(g_2(x)=x-1\), and \(g_2^{-1}(x)=x+1\), with inverse domain \([-2,1]\)
Inverse functions 55
The graph shows a piecewise linear function \(f\) with domain \([-3,3]\). a) Use the graph to explain why \(f\) is not invertible on its entire domain. b) Give the three largest subintervals on which the restriction of \(f\) is invertible. c) For the restriction to \([1,3]\), find a formula for the inverse function and state its domain.
Figure for problem 533545

Hints

- Count the inputs where the graph has output \(0\). - Split the graph at the corners where its direction changes. - First find the line equation on \([1,3]\). - Solve that equation for the input variable.

Solution

1. a) The horizontal line \(y=0\) intersects the graph at three different inputs. Therefore, \(f\) is not one-to-one on \([-3,3]\). 2. b) The graph changes direction at \(x=-1\) and \(x=1\). The three largest monotonic intervals are \([-3,-1]\), \([-1,1]\), and \([1,3]\). 3. c) On \([1,3]\), the graph is the line through \((1,-1)\) and \((3,1)\). Its slope is \(1\), so the restricted function is \(f_3(x)=x-2\). 4. Solving \(y=x-2\) for \(x\) gives \(x=y+2\). Therefore, \(f_3^{-1}(x)=x+2\). 5. The range of the restriction is \([-1,1]\), so the inverse domain is \([-1,1]\).

Answer

a) The graph fails the horizontal line test; the line \(y=0\) intersects it three times. b) \([-3,-1]\), \([-1,1]\), and \([1,3]\) c) \(f_3^{-1}(x)=x+2\), with domain \([-1,1]\)
Inverse functions 56
The function \(f(x)=\frac{4}{x^2}\) has domain \(\{x\in\mathbb{R}\mid -3\le x\le3,\ x\ne0\}\). a) Explain why \(f\) is not invertible on its entire domain. b) Find the two largest subintervals of the domain on which the restriction of \(f\) is invertible. c) For the restriction with \(x>0\), find a formula for the inverse function and state its domain.
Figure for problem 533546

Hints

- Look for symmetry in the graph. - Separate the two branches at the y-axis. - When solving for the original input, use the fact that the selected branch has positive inputs.

Solution

1. a) The function is symmetric about the y-axis, so \(f(x)=f(-x)\). For example, \(f(1)=f(-1)=4\). 2. Therefore, \(f\) is not one-to-one on its entire domain and is not invertible there. 3. b) The left branch is strictly increasing on \([-3,0)\), and the right branch is strictly decreasing on \((0,3]\). These are the two largest intervals on which the restrictions are invertible. 4. c) On the positive branch, start with \(y=\frac{4}{x^2}\). Then \(x^2=\frac{4}{y}\). 5. Since \(x>0\), take the positive square root: \(x=\frac{2}{\sqrt{y}}\). 6. Thus, \(f^{-1}(x)=\frac{2}{\sqrt{x}}\). The range of the positive branch is \([\frac{4}{9},\infty)\), so this is the domain of the inverse.

Answer

a) \(f\) is not invertible because \(f(x)=f(-x)\); for example, \(f(1)=f(-1)=4\). b) \([-3,0)\) and \((0,3]\) c) \(f^{-1}(x)=\frac{2}{\sqrt{x}}\), with domain \([\frac{4}{9},\infty)\)
Inverse functions 57
The graph shows \(f(x)=x^3-3x\) on the domain \([-2.2,2.2]\). a) Use the graph to determine whether \(f\) is invertible on this entire domain. b) Split the domain into the three largest subintervals on which the restriction of \(f\) is invertible. c) Imagine reflecting the graph restricted to \([-1,1]\) across \(y=x\). What are the coordinates of the image of \(P(1,-2)\)?
Figure for problem 533547

Hints

- Locate the turning points of the graph. - Split the domain where the graph changes from increasing to decreasing or vice versa. - Reflection across \(y=x\) interchanges point coordinates.

Solution

1. a) The graph fails the horizontal line test. For example, \(f(0)=f(\sqrt{3})=f(-\sqrt{3})=0\). 2. Therefore, \(f\) is not one-to-one on \([-2.2,2.2]\) and is not invertible on the entire domain. 3. b) The graph changes direction at \(x=-1\) and \(x=1\). It is monotonic on \([-2.2,-1]\), \([-1,1]\), and \([1,2.2]\). 4. These are the three largest subintervals on which the restrictions are invertible. 5. c) Reflection across \(y=x\) interchanges coordinates, so \((1,-2)\) maps to \((-2,1)\).

Answer

a) \(f\) is not invertible because it fails the horizontal line test; for example, \(f(0)=f(\sqrt{3})=f(-\sqrt{3})=0\). b) \([-2.2,-1]\), \([-1,1]\), and \([1,2.2]\) c) \((-2,1)\)
Inverse functions 58
The graph shows a linear function \(f\). a) Use two convenient points from the graph to find a formula for \(f\). b) Find a formula for the inverse function \(f^{-1}\) algebraically. c) State the equation of the line across which the graph of \(f\) is reflected to produce the graph of \(f^{-1}\).
Figure for problem 533549

Hints

- Choose two points with integer coordinates. - Use the slope formula and the y-intercept. - Solve the equation for the original input variable. - A function and its inverse are reflected across a standard line.

Solution

1. a) Two convenient points are \((0,-3)\) and \((2,0)\). 2. The slope is \(m=\frac{0-(-3)}{2-0}=\frac{3}{2}\), and the y-intercept is \(-3\). Therefore, \(f(x)=\frac{3}{2}x-3\). 3. b) Start with \(y=\frac{3}{2}x-3\). Then \(y+3=\frac{3}{2}x\), so \(x=\frac{2}{3}y+2\). 4. Interchanging the variables gives \(f^{-1}(x)=\frac{2}{3}x+2\). 5. c) The graphs of a function and its inverse are reflections across \(y=x\).

Answer

a) \(f(x)=\frac{3}{2}x-3\) b) \(f^{-1}(x)=\frac{2}{3}x+2\) c) \(y=x\)
Inverse functions 59
The graph shows a translated square-root function \(f\). a) Find three points with integer coordinates on \(f\). Give the corresponding points on \(f^{-1}\), and identify any points shared by the two graphs. b) Use the graph to find the shifts from \(y=\sqrt{x}\). Write rules for \(f\) and \(f^{-1}\), including their domains.
Figure for problem 533558

Hints

- Look for places where the graph passes through grid intersections. - What does reflection across \(y=x\) do to the coordinates of a point? - Which points do not move under this reflection? - What familiar function shape fits this curve, and how is it shifted?

Solution

1. Three points on \(f\) are \((1, 1)\), \((2, 2)\), and \((5, 3)\). 2. Reflecting across \(y=x\) swaps their coordinates, giving inverse points \((1, 1)\), \((2, 2)\), and \((3, 5)\). The shared points are \((1, 1)\) and \((2, 2)\). 3. The graph has rule \(f(x)=\sqrt{x-1}+1\) on \([1,\infty)\). 4. Solve \(y=\sqrt{x-1}+1\): \((y-1)^2=x-1\), so \(x=(y-1)^2+1\). 5. Thus \(f^{-1}(x)=(x-1)^2+1\), with domain \([1,\infty)\).

Answer

a) For example, \((1, 1)\), \((2, 2)\), and \((5, 3)\) on \(f\) give \((1, 1)\), \((2, 2)\), and \((3, 5)\) on \(f^{-1}\). Shared points: \((1, 1)\), \((2, 2)\). b) \(f(x)=\sqrt{x-1}+1\), domain \([1,\infty)\). \(f^{-1}(x)=(x-1)^2+1\), domain \([1,\infty)\).
Inverse functions 60
The panels show the graphs of functions \(a\), \(b\), and \(c\). a) Determine which functions are invertible on their displayed domains. Justify your answers using monotonicity. b) For function \(a\), give one largest subinterval of the displayed domain on which its restriction is invertible.
Figure for problem 534583

Hints

- Check whether each graph moves in only one direction. - A strictly increasing or strictly decreasing function is one-to-one. - For function \(a\), locate the point where the graph changes direction.

Solution

1. The graph of \(a\) decreases until \(x=1\) and then increases. It is not strictly monotonic on \([-1,3]\), so it is not invertible on that entire interval. 2. The graph of \(b\) is strictly increasing on \([-1,5]\), so \(b\) is invertible on its displayed domain. 3. The graph of \(c\) is strictly decreasing on \([0.5,5]\), so \(c\) is invertible on its displayed domain. 4. The vertex of the graph of \(a\) occurs at \(x=1\). The function is strictly decreasing on \([-1,1]\) and strictly increasing on \([1,3]\). 5. Therefore, either \([-1,1]\) or \([1,3]\) is a largest valid restriction interval.

Answer

a) Functions \(b\) and \(c\) are invertible on their displayed domains. Function \(a\) is not. b) One possible interval is \([1,3]\). The interval \([-1,1]\) is also valid.
Inverse functions 61
The function \(f(x)=\frac{1}{4}x^2-1\) has domain \([0,\infty)\), and its graph is shown. 1. Find the range of \(f\). 2. Use the graph to explain why \(f\) is invertible on its domain. 3. The graph of \(f^{-1}\) is the reflection of the graph of \(f\) across \(y=x\). Find the x-intercept and y-intercept of the inverse graph. 4. Find a formula for \(f^{-1}\) algebraically and state its domain.
Figure for problem 534608

Hints

- Find the minimum output on the right half of the parabola. - Use the horizontal line test. - Reflection across \(y=x\) reverses point coordinates. - Solve \(y=f(x)\) for the original input and use the restricted domain to choose the square-root sign.

Solution

1. The smallest output occurs at \(x=0\), where \(f(0)=-1\). The graph increases without bound, so the range is \([-1,\infty)\). 2. The graph is strictly increasing on \([0,\infty)\), so it passes the horizontal line test and is invertible. 3. The graph of \(f\) has y-intercept \((0,-1)\) and x-intercept \((2,0)\). Reflection across \(y=x\) reverses coordinates. 4. Therefore, the inverse graph has x-intercept \((-1,0)\) and y-intercept \((0,2)\). 5. Start with \(y=\frac{1}{4}x^2-1\). Then \(4(y+1)=x^2\). 6. Because the original domain requires \(x\ge0\), take the nonnegative square root: \(x=2\sqrt{y+1}\). 7. Thus, \(f^{-1}(x)=2\sqrt{x+1}\), with domain \([-1,\infty)\).

Answer

1. \([-1,\infty)\) 2. The graph is strictly increasing on \([0,\infty)\), so it is invertible. 3. x-intercept: \((-1,0)\); y-intercept: \((0,2)\) 4. \(f^{-1}(x)=2\sqrt{x+1}\), with domain \([-1,\infty)\)
Inverse functions 62
The function \(g(x)=e^{x-1}-2\) is shown. 1. State the domain and range of \(g\). 2. Explain why the inverse function \(g^{-1}\) exists. 3. Find a formula for \(g^{-1}\) and state its domain. 4. Find \(g^{-1}(-1)\). Explain how to determine this value directly from the graph of \(g\), without using the inverse formula.
Figure for problem 534609

Hints

- Recall the domain and end behavior of an exponential function. - A strictly monotonic function is one-to-one. - Use the natural logarithm to undo an exponential expression. - For \(g^{-1}(-1)\), ask which input gives \(g(x)=-1\).

Solution

1. The exponential expression is defined for every real input, so the domain is \(\mathbb{R}\). 2. Since \(e^{x-1}>0\), the graph approaches but never reaches the horizontal asymptote \(y=-2\). Therefore, the range is \((-2,\infty)\). 3. The function is strictly increasing on \(\mathbb{R}\), so it is one-to-one and has an inverse. 4. Start with \(y=e^{x-1}-2\). Then \(y+2=e^{x-1}\), so \(\ln(y+2)=x-1\). 5. Thus, \(x=\ln(y+2)+1\), and interchanging the variables gives \(g^{-1}(x)=\ln(x+2)+1\). 6. The inverse domain is the range of \(g\), so it is \((-2,\infty)\). 7. \(g^{-1}(-1)=\ln(1)+1=1\). 8. Graphically, find the input where \(g(x)=-1\). The graph contains \((1,-1)\), so \(g^{-1}(-1)=1\).

Answer

1. Domain: \(\mathbb{R}\); range: \((-2,\infty)\) 2. \(g\) is strictly increasing, so it is invertible. 3. \(g^{-1}(x)=\ln(x+2)+1\), with domain \((-2,\infty)\) 4. \(g^{-1}(-1)=1\); on the graph of \(g\), the output \(-1\) occurs at input \(1\).
Inverse functions 63
The panels show four piecewise-defined functions. For each function a) through d), determine whether it is invertible on its entire displayed domain. Justify each decision with the horizontal line test.
Figure for problem 534984

Hints

- Apply the horizontal line test to each complete graph. - For separated pieces, compare their output ranges. - Check whether the output ranges of different pieces overlap. - A horizontal segment assigns the same output to many inputs.

Solution

1. a) Each line segment is strictly increasing, and the two segments have disjoint output ranges: \([-2,-1]\) and \([1,2]\). Every horizontal line intersects the complete graph at most once, so the function is invertible. 2. b) Each line segment is strictly decreasing, and the output ranges \([1,2]\) and \([-1,0]\) do not overlap. The function is invertible. 3. c) The V-shaped graph fails the horizontal line test because some horizontal lines intersect it twice. The function is not invertible. 4. d) The graph contains a horizontal segment at \(y=1\). Infinitely many inputs on that segment have the same output, so the function is not invertible.

Answer

a) Invertible b) Invertible c) Not invertible d) Not invertible
Inverse functions 64
Let \(f(x)=\frac{x-1}{x+2}\), with \(x\ne-2\), and let \(g(x)=\frac{1+2x}{1-x}\), with \(x\ne1\). Verify that \(g=f^{-1}\) by simplifying both \(f(g(x))\) and \(g(f(x))\). State the domain restriction that applies to each composition.

Hints

- Verification requires checking the compositions in both orders, not just one. - Keep track of the input values excluded from each original function. - Simplify each complex fraction carefully before deciding whether the original input is recovered.

Solution

1. For \(f(g(x))\), substitute \(g(x)\) into \(f\): \(f(g(x))=\frac{\frac{1+2x}{1-x}-1}{\frac{1+2x}{1-x}+2}=\frac{\frac{3x}{1-x}}{\frac{3}{1-x}}=x\), for \(x\ne1\). 2. For \(g(f(x))\), substitute \(f(x)\) into \(g\): \(g(f(x))=\frac{1+2\frac{x-1}{x+2}}{1-\frac{x-1}{x+2}}=\frac{\frac{3x}{x+2}}{\frac{3}{x+2}}=x\), for \(x\ne-2\). 3. Since both compositions return the original input on the appropriate domains, \(g=f^{-1}\).

Answer

\(f(g(x))=x\) for \(x\ne1\) \(g(f(x))=x\) for \(x\ne-2\) Therefore, \(g=f^{-1}\).
Inverse functions 65
A taxi charges a \(\$5\) pickup fee plus \(\$2.50\) per mile. For trips from \(0\) to \(20\) miles, \(C(d)=5+2.5d\) gives the fare in dollars. a) Find \(C^{-1}(c)\). State its domain. b) What distance corresponds to a fare of \(\$42.50\)?

Hints

- Start with the original cost equation and solve for distance. - The allowed costs become the allowed inputs of the inverse. - Check the distance by putting it into the original fare model.

Solution

1. Solve \(c=5+2.5d\) for \(d\): \(d=\frac{c-5}{2.5}\), so \(C^{-1}(c)=\frac{c-5}{2.5}\). 2. Since \(0\le d\le20\), the original fare runs from \(\$5\) to \(\$55\). The inverse domain is \([5,55]\). 3. \(C^{-1}(42.50)=\frac{42.50-5}{2.5}=15\). The trip covered \(15\) miles.

Answer

a) \(C^{-1}(c)=\frac{c-5}{2.5}\), for \(5\le c\le55\). b) \(15\,\text{miles}\)
Inverse functions 66
Let \(f(x)=\frac{2x}{x+1}\), with domain \((-1,\infty)\). 1) Show algebraically that \(f\) is strictly increasing on its domain. Then prove that the graphs of \(f\) and \(f^{-1}\) have exactly two common points, and give their coordinates. 2) Find a formula for \(f^{-1}\) and state its domain. 3) Verify that \(P=(3,1.5)\) lies on the graph of \(f\). Reflect \(P\) across \(y=x\), and verify that the reflected point lies on the graph of \(f^{-1}\).

Hints

- Compare \(f(b)\) and \(f(a)\) for two inputs with \(a<b\). - A strictly increasing function cannot exchange two distinct inputs. - Interchange \(x\) and \(y\), then solve for the new output. - Reflection across \(y=x\) interchanges a point's coordinates.

Solution

1. For \(-1<a<b\), \(f(b)-f(a)=\frac{2(b-a)}{(a+1)(b+1)}>0\). Therefore, \(f\) is strictly increasing. 2. If a common point has coordinates \((u,v)\), then \(f(u)=v\) and \(f(v)=u\). If \(u<v\), strict increase would give \(v=f(u)<f(v)=u\), a contradiction; the case \(v<u\) is similar. Thus, every common point lies on \(y=x\). 3. Solve \(\frac{2x}{x+1}=x\): \(2x=x^2+x\), so \(x(x-1)=0\). The common points are \((0,0)\) and \((1,1)\), and these are the only ones. 4. To find the inverse, solve \(y=\frac{2x}{x+1}\) for \(x\): \(y(x+1)=2x\), so \(x=\frac{y}{2-y}\). Hence, \(f^{-1}(x)=\frac{x}{2-x}\). 5. Since \(f(x)=2-\frac{2}{x+1}<2\) on the domain and takes all values below \(2\), the inverse domain is \((-\infty,2)\). 6. Finally, \(f(3)=\frac{6}{4}=1.5\), so \(P\) is on the graph. Its reflection is \(Q=(1.5,3)\), and \(f^{-1}(1.5)=\frac{1.5}{0.5}=3\).

Answer

1) \(f\) is strictly increasing on \((-1,\infty)\); the graphs of \(f\) and \(f^{-1}\) have exactly the common points \((0,0)\) and \((1,1)\). 2) \(f^{-1}(x)=\frac{x}{2-x}\), with domain \((-\infty,2)\) 3) \(P=(3,1.5)\) lies on the graph of \(f\); its reflection \(Q=(1.5,3)\) lies on the graph of \(f^{-1}\).
Inverse functions 67
Consider \(f(x)=\log_2(x)\), \(g(x)=\frac{2}{x^2}\), and \(h(x)=\sqrt{x+4}\). a) Decide which functions are one-to-one on their natural domains. For any function that is not one-to-one, give a domain restriction that makes it one-to-one. b) Find an inverse formula for \(f\), for \(g\) restricted to \(x>0\), and for \(h\). State the domain of each inverse. c) The points \(A(8, 3)\), \(B(-2, 0.5)\), \(C(0, 2)\), and \(D(2, 0.5)\) are provided as checks. Use them to verify one inverse point for \(f\), explain directly why unrestricted \(g\) is not one-to-one, and verify one inverse point for \(h\).

Hints

- An inverse function requires the original function to be one-to-one on the chosen domain. - To derive an inverse formula, interchange the roles of input and output and solve for the new output. - When solving the restricted rational case, use the sign required by the chosen original domain. - Use coordinate reversal to check an inverse formula against a known point.

Solution

1. The logarithmic function \(f\) is strictly increasing on \((0, \infty)\), so it is one-to-one. The square-root function \(h\) is strictly increasing on \([-4, \infty)\), so it is one-to-one. 2. The rational function \(g\) is not one-to-one on its natural domain because \(g(-2)=g(2)=0.5\). Restricting its domain to \((0, \infty)\) makes it one-to-one. 3. For \(f\), write \(y=\log_2(x)\), interchange \(x\) and \(y\), and solve: \(x=\log_2(y)\) gives \(y=2^x\). Thus \(f^{-1}(x)=2^x\), with domain \((-\infty, \infty)\). 4. For restricted \(g\), write \(y=\frac{2}{x^2}\) with \(x>0\). Interchanging variables gives \(x=\frac{2}{y^2}\), so \(y^2=\frac{2}{x}\). Because the inverse output must be positive, \(g^{-1}(x)=\sqrt{\frac{2}{x}}\), with domain \((0, \infty)\). 5. For \(h\), write \(y=\sqrt{x+4}\). Interchanging variables gives \(x=\sqrt{y+4}\). Squaring gives \(y=x^2-4\). Since the range of \(h\) is \([0, \infty)\), \(h^{-1}(x)=x^2-4\) has domain \([0, \infty)\). 6. Since \(A(8, 3)\) lies on \(f\), \((3, 8)\) lies on \(f^{-1}\), and indeed \(2^3=8\). The points \(B(-2, 0.5)\) and \(D(2, 0.5)\) show directly that unrestricted \(g\) has two inputs with the same output. Since \(C(0, 2)\) lies on \(h\), \((2, 0)\) lies on \(h^{-1}\), and indeed \(2^2-4=0\).

Answer

a) \(f\) and \(h\) are one-to-one on their natural domains. \(g\) is not; one valid restriction is \(x>0\). b) \(f^{-1}(x)=2^x\), domain \((-\infty, \infty)\) \(g^{-1}(x)=\sqrt{\frac{2}{x}}\) for the restriction \(x>0\), domain \((0, \infty)\) \(h^{-1}(x)=x^2-4\), domain \([0, \infty)\) c) \((3, 8)\) is on \(f^{-1}\); \(B\) and \(D\) show unrestricted \(g\) is not one-to-one; \((2, 0)\) is on \(h^{-1}\).

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