If f and g are monotonic, is f(g(x))?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the properties of monotonic functions, specifically whether the composition of two increasing functions, f and g, results in another increasing function, f(g(x)). Participants are exploring definitions and implications of increasing functions within the context of calculus.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to understand the definition of increasing functions and how it applies to the composition of functions. There are questions about expressing these definitions in terms of calculus and whether a formal proof is necessary.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing insights into the definitions of increasing functions and suggesting the use of calculus to formalize their reasoning. There is a mix of approaches, including algebraic and calculus-based reasoning, but no consensus has been reached yet.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note that the original poster may be seeking a proof or counterexample, while others emphasize the importance of using calculus in their reasoning. There is also a suggestion that calculus may not be strictly necessary for this problem.

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Homework Statement


If f and g are both increasing functions, is it true that f(g(x)) is also increasing? Either prove that it is true or five an example that proves it false.


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The Attempt at a Solution


I know that it is indeed also increasing, but I'm unsure how to prove it.
 
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It might help to write down the definition of an increasing function
 
A function f(x) is increasing at a point x0 if and only if there exists some interval containing x0 such that f(x0) > f(x) for all x in I to the left of x0 and f(x0) < f(x) for all x in the interval to the right of x0.
 
NWeid1 said:
A function f(x) is increasing at a point x0 if and only if there exists some interval containing x0 such that f(x0) > f(x) for all x in I to the left of x0 and f(x0) < f(x) for all x in the interval to the right of x0.
How would you express that in terms of calculus?
 
Um idk by saying that as x increases, so does the y values.
 
Try it without words. Write an equation. Using calculus.
 
If x>y then f(x)>f(y)?
 
You posted this question in "Calculus and beyond," so use calculus.
 
You don't really need calculus here.

Just use that

[tex]x<y~\Rightarrow~f(x)<f(y)[/tex]

and

[tex]x<y~\Rightarrow~g(x)<g(y)[/tex]

Put these two things together.
 

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