Math Problem Statement

Given the definitions of f(x) = x^2 - 3x - 3 and g(x) = -4x - 12, find the value of (g ∘ f)(0).

Solution

To find (gf)(0)(g \circ f)(0), we calculate the composition of g(f(0))g(f(0)). Here are the steps:

Step 1: Calculate f(0)f(0)

The function f(x)=x23x3f(x) = x^2 - 3x - 3. Substitute x=0x = 0:

f(0)=023(0)3=3f(0) = 0^2 - 3(0) - 3 = -3

So, f(0)=3f(0) = -3.

Step 2: Substitute f(0)f(0) into g(x)g(x)

The function g(x)=4x12g(x) = -4x - 12. Substitute x=3x = -3:

g(3)=4(3)12=1212=0g(-3) = -4(-3) - 12 = 12 - 12 = 0

Final Answer:

(gf)(0)=g(f(0))=0(g \circ f)(0) = g(f(0)) = 0

Let me know if you would like a detailed explanation of each step or have any questions!


Here are 5 related questions to deepen your understanding:

  1. How would (gf)(x)(g \circ f)(x) look for a general xx?
  2. What happens if you reverse the order to find (fg)(0)(f \circ g)(0)?
  3. How does the composition of functions change if g(x)g(x) is a quadratic function?
  4. Can you graph g(x)g(x), f(x)f(x), and their composition to see their behavior visually?
  5. What are the domain and range of (gf)(x)(g \circ f)(x)?

Tip: Always evaluate the inner function first in function compositions to avoid mistakes!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Function Composition
Substitution
Quadratic Functions
Linear Functions

Formulas

f(x) = x^2 - 3x - 3
g(x) = -4x - 12
g(f(x)) = g(f(0))

Theorems

Function Composition Rule

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11