Math Problem Statement

The function f is given by f(x) = (x - 1) / (3x - 2). Find the f^(-1)(x).

Solution

We are given the function:

f(x)=x13x2f(x) = \frac{x - 1}{3x - 2}

We need to find the inverse function, f1(x)f^{-1}(x).

Steps to find the inverse function:

  1. Replace f(x)f(x) with yy:

y=x13x2y = \frac{x - 1}{3x - 2}

  1. Swap xx and yy to begin solving for yy:

x=y13y2x = \frac{y - 1}{3y - 2}

  1. Solve for yy:

Multiply both sides by 3y23y - 2 to get rid of the denominator:

x(3y2)=y1x(3y - 2) = y - 1

Expand the left-hand side:

3xy2x=y13xy - 2x = y - 1

Move all terms involving yy to one side:

3xyy=2x13xy - y = 2x - 1

Factor out yy on the left:

y(3x1)=2x1y(3x - 1) = 2x - 1

Now, solve for yy:

y=2x13x1y = \frac{2x - 1}{3x - 1}

Thus, the inverse function is:

f1(x)=2x13x1f^{-1}(x) = \frac{2x - 1}{3x - 1}

Final Answer:

The correct choice is C.


Would you like more details on any step? Here are some related questions to expand understanding:

  1. How do you verify if two functions are inverses of each other?
  2. Can every function have an inverse? Why or why not?
  3. What are the restrictions on the domain and range of f(x)f(x) and f1(x)f^{-1}(x)?
  4. How does the vertical line test help in determining if a function is invertible?
  5. What happens to the graph of a function when you take its inverse?

Tip: When finding the inverse of a rational function, be careful with handling the algebra when swapping and solving for the new variable.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Inverse Functions
Rational Functions
Algebra

Formulas

f(x) = (x - 1) / (3x - 2)
f^(-1)(x) = (2x - 1) / (3x - 1)

Theorems

The process of finding inverse functions

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12 (Pre-Calculus/Calculus)