Math Problem Statement

If f(x) = 3x and g(x) = (1/3)x, which expression could be used to verify that g(x) is the inverse of f(x)?

Solution

To verify that g(x)g(x) is the inverse of f(x)f(x), we need to check if f(g(x))=xf(g(x)) = x and g(f(x))=xg(f(x)) = x.

Given:

  • f(x)=3xf(x) = 3x
  • g(x)=13xg(x) = \frac{1}{3}x

Let's apply these functions to verify.

  1. f(g(x))=f(13x)=3×13x=xf(g(x)) = f\left( \frac{1}{3}x \right) = 3 \times \frac{1}{3}x = x

  2. g(f(x))=g(3x)=13×3x=xg(f(x)) = g(3x) = \frac{1}{3} \times 3x = x

Both conditions hold, so g(x)g(x) is indeed the inverse of f(x)f(x).

Now let's find which option reflects this:

  • The second option shows (13x)(3x)\left( \frac{1}{3}x \right)(3x), which is equivalent to g(f(x))=xg(f(x)) = x, confirming the inverse relationship.

Therefore, the correct answer is the second option.

Would you like more details or have any questions? Here are some related questions:

  1. How do you find the inverse of a function in general?
  2. Can a function have more than one inverse?
  3. How do graphical interpretations of inverses work?
  4. What is the significance of the line y=xy = x in verifying inverses?
  5. How can you test if a function is one-to-one?

Tip: Always check both f(g(x))f(g(x)) and g(f(x))g(f(x)) to verify inverse relationships.

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Functions
Inverses

Formulas

f(g(x)) = x
g(f(x)) = x

Theorems

Inverse Functions Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12