Math Problem Statement

Find the inverse function

Find the inverse function of f(x) = x^2 + 3

Solution

The function in the image is f(x)=x2+3f(x) = x^2 + 3. Let's now find its inverse.

Steps to find the inverse of a function:

  1. Start with f(x)=y=x2+3f(x) = y = x^2 + 3.
  2. Swap xx and yy: x=y2+3x = y^2 + 3
  3. Solve for yy: x3=y2x - 3 = y^2 y=±x3y = \pm \sqrt{x - 3}

So, the inverse function is:

f1(x)=±x3f^{-1}(x) = \pm \sqrt{x - 3}

Since a quadratic function f(x)=x2+3f(x) = x^2 + 3 is not one-to-one, we have two possible branches of the inverse:

  • For the positive branch: f1(x)=x3f^{-1}(x) = \sqrt{x - 3}
  • For the negative branch: f1(x)=x3f^{-1}(x) = -\sqrt{x - 3}

Would you like to discuss any specific branch or further details on inverse functions?

Here are 5 follow-up questions:

  1. How can we determine the domain of the inverse function?
  2. What is the significance of choosing one branch (positive or negative)?
  3. Can the original function be restricted to make the inverse a function without the ±\pm?
  4. How do we verify if a function is invertible?
  5. What would happen if the original function had a linear term added?

Tip: Inverses of functions are symmetric along the line y=xy = x, so graphing both can help visualize the relationship.

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Inverse Functions
Quadratic Equations
Algebra

Formulas

Inverse function: f^{-1}(x)
Quadratic formula: f(x) = x^2 + c
Square root: y = ±√(x - c)

Theorems

Quadratic equations are not one-to-one and may have two inverse branches.

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12