Math Problem Statement

Let f, g : R → R be odd functions. Then, the function f − g is ODD OR EVEN

Solution

Let's consider the definitions of odd and even functions:

  • A function ff is odd if for all xRx \in \mathbb{R}, f(x)=f(x)f(-x) = -f(x).
  • A function ff is even if for all xRx \in \mathbb{R}, f(x)=f(x)f(-x) = f(x).

Given that both ff and gg are odd functions, we have:

  • f(x)=f(x)f(-x) = -f(x) for all xx.
  • g(x)=g(x)g(-x) = -g(x) for all xx.

Now, we need to determine whether fgf - g is odd or even. Let's check the behavior of fgf - g when x-x is substituted:

(fg)(x)=f(x)g(x)(f - g)(-x) = f(-x) - g(-x)

Using the fact that ff and gg are odd:

(fg)(x)=f(x)(g(x))=f(x)+g(x)=(f(x)g(x))=(fg)(x)(f - g)(-x) = -f(x) - (-g(x)) = -f(x) + g(x) = -(f(x) - g(x)) = -(f - g)(x)

Thus, we see that:

(fg)(x)=(fg)(x)(f - g)(-x) = -(f - g)(x)

This shows that fgf - g is odd.

Conclusion:

The function fgf - g is odd.


Would you like further details or clarifications on the properties of odd and even functions? Here are some related questions to explore:

  1. What is the sum of two odd functions? Is the result odd or even?
  2. How do odd and even functions interact with multiplication? (e.g., is the product of two odd functions odd or even?)
  3. How can you prove that a function is even or odd by using symmetry?
  4. What happens if you combine an odd function with an even function? Is the result odd, even, or neither?
  5. Can you give an example of a function that is neither odd nor even?

Tip: The key to recognizing whether a function is odd or even often lies in checking how it behaves under xxx \to -x transformations!

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Functions
Odd Functions
Even Functions
Function Operations

Formulas

f(x) is odd if f(-x) = -f(x)
f(x) is even if f(-x) = f(x)
(f - g)(-x) = f(-x) - g(-x)

Theorems

Properties of odd and even functions

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12