Math Problem Statement

If the function f is defined by f(x) = (1/2)x + 3 for all x, which of the following defines the inverse of f? (A) f⁻¹(x) = 2x - 6 (B) f⁻¹(x) = 2 / (x + 6) (C) f⁻¹(x) = -(1/2)x - 3 (D) f⁻¹(x) = 2x + 1/3

Solution

The problem provides a function f(x)=12x+3f(x) = \frac{1}{2}x + 3 and asks for its inverse.

Steps to Find the Inverse of f(x)f(x):

  1. Rewrite y=f(x)y = f(x):
    y=12x+3y = \frac{1}{2}x + 3

  2. Swap xx and yy:
    The inverse function switches the roles of xx and yy.
    x=12y+3x = \frac{1}{2}y + 3

  3. Solve for yy:
    x3=12yx - 3 = \frac{1}{2}y
    Multiply both sides by 2:
    2(x3)=y2(x - 3) = y
    y=2x6y = 2x - 6

  4. Write the inverse function:
    f1(x)=2x6f^{-1}(x) = 2x - 6

Correct Option:

The correct answer is (A) f1(x)=2x6f^{-1}(x) = 2x - 6.


Do you need further details or have any questions?
Here are five related questions to explore:

  1. How do you verify that two functions are inverses of each other?
  2. What is the general process for finding an inverse function?
  3. Why do we swap xx and yy when finding the inverse?
  4. What are the conditions for a function to have an inverse?
  5. How do inverse functions behave graphically?

Tip: To verify an inverse function, check if f(f1(x))=xf(f^{-1}(x)) = x and f1(f(x))=xf^{-1}(f(x)) = x.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Inverse Functions
Algebra

Formulas

Inverse function: swap x and y, solve for y

Theorems

Inverse Function Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12