Inverse Function of f(x) = 3squareroot 2x+1 & f(x) = x^2 + 2x - 8

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the inverse functions of two specific functions: \( f(x) = 3\sqrt{2x+1} \) and \( f(x) = x^2 + 2x - 8 \). Participants explore methods for deriving these inverses, including grappling with algebraic manipulations and seeking general formulas for logarithmic and exponential functions.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant attempts to find the inverse of \( f(x) = 3\sqrt{2x+1} \) but expresses uncertainty about the correctness of their solution, noting discrepancies when graphed.
  • The same participant also struggles with finding the inverse of \( f(x) = x^2 + 2x - 8 \) and indicates that they encounter difficulties in their algebraic manipulation.
  • Another participant critiques the first participant's approach, suggesting that they lack basic skills in manipulating equations and recommends practicing transposing equations.
  • A different participant provides a brief explanation that the inverse of logarithmic functions is exponential and vice versa, offering an example involving logarithms and exponentials.
  • Another contribution suggests rewriting the equation \( f(x) = x^2 - 2x - 8 \) in a different form to facilitate finding the inverse.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on the correctness of the first participant's attempts to find the inverses, as they express uncertainty and receive mixed feedback. The discussion includes critiques and suggestions but does not resolve the issues presented.

Contextual Notes

Participants express confusion over algebraic manipulations and the process of finding inverses, indicating potential gaps in foundational skills. There are unresolved steps in the algebraic processes discussed, particularly in the context of the quadratic function.

Struggling
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find the inverse function of:
f: [-1/2,infin) ---> R, Where F(x) = 3sqaureroot 2x+1

i got f(x) = 3squareroot 2x+1
x = 3squareroot 2(f-1)+1
f-1 = (x^3-1)/2 where (infin,-1/2]

is this right?
because when i graph it, it doesn't really look like the inverse

also i just ran into another problem
find the inverse function of:
f : [-1,infin) ---R, where f(x) = x^2 + 2x - 8

i did:
f(x) = x^2 - 2x - 8
x = (f-1)^2 - 2(f-1) - 8
x+8 = (f-1)^2 - 2(f-1)
and then everything goes wrong here


edit: ARGGGGH just more and more problems, is there any formula or way of working out the inverse of Log's and exponentials? i can't find any in my books

thanks
 
Last edited:
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Struggling said:
is this right? because when i graph it, it doesn't really look like the inverse

No, nothing that you're doing there looks even close. You seem to really be at a loss to manipulate equations correctly. The basic skill you seem to be missing is that of transposing simple equations. Practice of this would be a good place for you to start.

For example, can you manipulate a simple equation like f = 9c/5 + 32 to express c in terms of f (this is called transposing btw). This is the thing you really need to lean before you can do the above problems (or just about anything else in maths actually).
 
is there any formula or way of working out the inverse of Log's and exponentials?

The inverse of the log function is the exponential.
the inverse of the exponential is the log function.

For example

[tex]log_3 y = x[/tex]

Inverse function is [itex]3^n[/itex]

[tex]3 ^ {log_3 y} = 3 ^ x [/itex]<br /> <br /> [tex]y = 3^x[/tex][/tex]
 
f(x) = x^2 - 2x - 8
Rewrite x2-2x-8-f=0.

x=1+-sqrt(9+f)
 

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