Math Problem Statement

Which of the following is the inverse of f(x) = (3x + 4) / x, if it exists?

Solution

The given function is f(x)=3x+4xf(x) = \frac{3x + 4}{x}. To find its inverse, f1(x)f^{-1}(x), we need to follow these steps:

  1. Rewrite f(x)f(x) as yy: y=3x+4xy = \frac{3x + 4}{x}

  2. Solve for xx in terms of yy: Multiply both sides of the equation by xx to eliminate the denominator: yx=3x+4yx = 3x + 4 Now, isolate terms involving xx: yx3x=4yx - 3x = 4 Factor out xx: x(y3)=4x(y - 3) = 4 Solve for xx: x=4y3x = \frac{4}{y - 3}

  3. Replace yy with xx to express the inverse function: f1(x)=4x3f^{-1}(x) = \frac{4}{x - 3}

Thus, the inverse of f(x)f(x) is f1(x)=4x3f^{-1}(x) = \frac{4}{x - 3}.

The correct option in the image is the third option: f1(x)=4x3f^{-1}(x) = \frac{4}{x - 3}.

Would you like more details on the steps, or do you have any questions?

Here are 5 related questions to explore further:

  1. What is the general method for finding the inverse of a rational function?
  2. How can you check if a function's inverse exists?
  3. Can all rational functions have an inverse?
  4. What are the conditions under which a function is one-to-one and thus has an inverse?
  5. How do you verify if two functions are inverses of each other?

Tip: When solving for the inverse, always ensure that the function is one-to-one (passes the horizontal line test) before proceeding.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Inverse Functions
Rational Functions
Algebra

Formulas

y = (3x + 4) / x
f^{-1}(x) = (4 / (x - 3))

Theorems

Inverse Function Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12