Math Problem Statement

How does the graph of f(x) = -3^(2x) - 4 differ from the graph of g(x) = -3^(2x)?

Solution

The problem compares the functions f(x)=32x4f(x) = -3^{2x} - 4 and g(x)=32xg(x) = -3^{2x}, asking how their graphs differ.

Key Observations:

  • The function f(x)=32x4f(x) = -3^{2x} - 4 includes the term "-4," which represents a vertical shift.
  • The function g(x)=32xg(x) = -3^{2x} does not have this constant term.

Shift Explanation:

  • The "-4" in f(x)=32x4f(x) = -3^{2x} - 4 shifts the graph of g(x)g(x) downward by 4 units.
  • A vertical shift by a constant cc affects the graph by moving it up or down without affecting the horizontal positioning.

Conclusion:

  • The graph of f(x)f(x) is shifted 4 units down from the graph of g(x)g(x).

Thus, the correct answer is C. The graph of f(x)f(x) is shifted four units down from the graph of g(x)g(x).

Would you like further details or explanations?

Here are some additional questions to expand the discussion:

  1. How does adding a positive constant affect the vertical shift of a graph?
  2. What happens to the shape of the graph when constants are added or subtracted?
  3. How does a horizontal shift differ from a vertical shift in function graphs?
  4. Can you describe how the transformation f(x)=g(x)4f(x) = g(x) - 4 looks graphically?
  5. What other transformations (e.g., reflections, stretches) can occur besides shifts?

Tip: Vertical shifts move the graph up or down, depending on whether the constant is added or subtracted.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Function Transformations
Vertical Shifts
Graphing Exponential Functions

Formulas

Vertical shift: f(x) = g(x) + c or f(x) = g(x) - c

Theorems

Shift Theorem for Functions

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11