Math Problem Statement

Given the definitions of f(x) and g(x) below, find the value of (f ∘ g)(4).

Solution

Let's solve the given function composition problem step by step. The question asks to find (fg)(4)(f \circ g)(4), which means you need to evaluate the composition of f(x)f(x) and g(x)g(x) at x=4x = 4. The given functions are:

f(x)=3x14f(x) = -3x - 14 g(x)=x2x5g(x) = x^2 - x - 5

Step 1: Find g(4)g(4)

Substitute x=4x = 4 into the function g(x)g(x):

g(4)=4245=1645=7g(4) = 4^2 - 4 - 5 = 16 - 4 - 5 = 7

Step 2: Find f(g(4))=f(7)f(g(4)) = f(7)

Now that we know g(4)=7g(4) = 7, substitute 77 into f(x)f(x):

f(7)=3(7)14=2114=35f(7) = -3(7) - 14 = -21 - 14 = -35

Final Answer:

Thus, (fg)(4)=35(f \circ g)(4) = -35.

It looks like the previously entered answer of 182-182 was incorrect, as the correct value should be 35-35.

Do you want more details or have any questions? Here are some additional related problems you can explore:

  1. What is (gf)(4)(g \circ f)(4)?
  2. How do you find the domain of the composition (fg)(x)(f \circ g)(x)?
  3. Can fgf \circ g be defined for all real numbers?
  4. What happens if g(x)g(x) is a more complex function, such as a rational function?
  5. How would the process change if f(x)f(x) or g(x)g(x) were piecewise functions?

Tip: When dealing with composition of functions, always evaluate the inside function first and then use its result in the outer function!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Function Composition
Substitution

Formulas

f(x) = -3x - 14
g(x) = x^2 - x - 5

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12