Math Problem Statement

if f(x)=2/(3x+1), then what represents f^-1(x)=

Solution

To find the inverse function f1(x)f^{-1}(x) of the function f(x)=23x+1f(x) = \frac{2}{3x + 1}, follow these steps:

  1. Set y=f(x)y = f(x): y=23x+1y = \frac{2}{3x + 1}

  2. Interchange xx and yy:
    Since we want the inverse, we swap xx and yy: x=23y+1x = \frac{2}{3y + 1}

  3. Solve for yy: Multiply both sides by 3y+13y + 1 to get rid of the denominator: x(3y+1)=2x(3y + 1) = 2

    Expand this: 3xy+x=23xy + x = 2

    Now, isolate yy: 3xy=2x3xy = 2 - x y=2x3xy = \frac{2 - x}{3x}

  4. Rewrite yy as f1(x)f^{-1}(x): f1(x)=2x3xf^{-1}(x) = \frac{2 - x}{3x}

Final Answer:

f1(x)=2x3xf^{-1}(x) = \frac{2 - x}{3x}

Would you like a step-by-step explanation of any part of this solution?

Here are five related questions you might find helpful:

  1. How can we verify that two functions are inverses of each other?
  2. What are the conditions for a function to have an inverse?
  3. How does the inverse of a rational function affect its domain and range?
  4. What is the importance of interchanging xx and yy when finding the inverse?
  5. How do transformations (e.g., reflections) relate to finding inverses graphically?

Tip: When finding inverses, always start by writing y=f(x)y = f(x) and then interchange xx and yy to solve for the inverse function.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Functions
Inverse Functions

Formulas

Inverse function process by interchanging x and y
Solving for y in terms of x

Theorems

Inverse Function Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12