Math Problem Statement

which graph has an inverse function

Which graph has an inverse function?

Solution

To determine which graph has an inverse function, we need to see if each graph passes the Horizontal Line Test. The Horizontal Line Test states that a function has an inverse if any horizontal line intersects the graph at most once. This ensures the function is one-to-one, a necessary condition for it to have an inverse.

Analysis of Each Graph:

  1. Graph 1: This graph does not pass the Horizontal Line Test since horizontal lines intersect it more than once in some places (indicating it is not one-to-one). Therefore, it does not have an inverse.

  2. Graph 2: This graph is a straight line with a positive slope, which is a one-to-one function. It passes the Horizontal Line Test, meaning it has an inverse.

  3. Graph 3: This graph fails the Horizontal Line Test, as horizontal lines will intersect the curve multiple times in certain areas. Thus, it does not have an inverse.

  4. Graph 4: Similarly to Graph 3, this graph also fails the Horizontal Line Test because horizontal lines can intersect it at multiple points. Therefore, it does not have an inverse.

Conclusion:

Only Graph 2 has an inverse function.

Would you like further details or have any questions?

Related Questions:

  1. What makes a function pass the Horizontal Line Test?
  2. How do you find the inverse of a linear function like the one in Graph 2?
  3. Why is it important for a function to be one-to-one to have an inverse?
  4. How can you determine the inverse of a function algebraically?
  5. Can a function with a restricted domain have an inverse even if it originally fails the Horizontal Line Test?

Tip:

For a function to have an inverse, make sure it passes both the Vertical Line Test (to be a function) and the Horizontal Line Test (to be one-to-one).

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Inverse Functions
Horizontal Line Test
Function Analysis

Formulas

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Theorems

Horizontal Line Test

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12