Math Problem Statement

Express the function h(x) = 1/(x - 2) in the form f ∘ g. If g(x) = (x - 2), find the function f(x).

Solution

We are asked to express the function h(x)=1x2h(x) = \frac{1}{x - 2} in the form fgf \circ g, where g(x)=x2g(x) = x - 2, and we need to find the function f(x)f(x).

To solve this, we follow these steps:

  1. We are given that g(x)=x2g(x) = x - 2, and we know that h(x)=f(g(x))h(x) = f(g(x)).
  2. To express h(x)h(x) in terms of f(x)f(x), substitute g(x)g(x) into h(x)h(x): h(x)=1x2=f(g(x))=f(x2).h(x) = \frac{1}{x - 2} = f(g(x)) = f(x - 2).
  3. This implies that f(x2)=1x2f(x - 2) = \frac{1}{x - 2}.
  4. Therefore, the function f(x)f(x) must be: f(x)=1x.f(x) = \frac{1}{x}.

Thus, the function f(x)f(x) is f(x)=1xf(x) = \frac{1}{x}.

Let me know if you would like further explanation or have any other questions!

Here are some related questions:

  1. What is the composition of functions fgf \circ g?
  2. How do you find the inverse of a composite function?
  3. How does the transformation g(x)=x2g(x) = x - 2 affect the graph of a function?
  4. How do you verify the composition of two functions?
  5. Can you express h(x)=1x+3h(x) = \frac{1}{x+3} in the form fgf \circ g?

Tip: When decomposing functions into compositions, it's helpful to identify the inner and outer functions based on transformations applied to the variable.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Function Composition
Algebra
Inverse Functions

Formulas

h(x) = f(g(x))
f(x) = 1/x

Theorems

Function Composition

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12