Math Problem Statement

If x is divided by 2 and then 4 is subtracted, then the function is f left parenthesis x right parenthesis equals x divided by 2 minus 4.

What are the steps to find the inverse to this function?

Solution

To find the inverse of the function f(x)=x24f(x) = \frac{x}{2} - 4, follow these steps:

Step 1: Replace f(x)f(x) with yy

Let f(x)=x24f(x) = \frac{x}{2} - 4. First, rewrite the function as: y=x24y = \frac{x}{2} - 4

Step 2: Swap xx and yy

To find the inverse, swap the variables xx and yy. This will give you: x=y24x = \frac{y}{2} - 4

Step 3: Solve for yy

Now, solve for yy to express the inverse function. Start by isolating the term involving yy:

  1. Add 4 to both sides: x+4=y2x + 4 = \frac{y}{2}

  2. Multiply both sides by 2 to eliminate the denominator: 2(x+4)=y2(x + 4) = y

Thus, the inverse function is: f1(x)=2(x+4)f^{-1}(x) = 2(x + 4)

Final Answer:

The inverse function is: f1(x)=2(x+4)f^{-1}(x) = 2(x + 4)

Would you like any further clarification or more detailed steps? Here are some related questions to explore:

  1. How can we check that the inverse function is correct?
  2. What does the graph of a function and its inverse look like?
  3. How do we find the inverse of more complex functions involving squares or cubes?
  4. What is the domain and range of the function and its inverse?
  5. What would happen if we added another operation to the original function, like multiplying by a constant?

Tip: Always remember to swap the variables xx and yy when finding the inverse, and then solve for the new yy to get the inverse function.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Functions
Inverse Functions
Algebra

Formulas

f(x) = x/2 - 4
f^{-1}(x) = 2(x + 4)

Theorems

Inverse function property: Swap x and y, then solve for y

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10