Undergrad Approximating different functions

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The discussion centers on the approximation of two functions, f and f', that share the same domain but have different codomains. It is established that if x' = x + σ, with |σ| being much smaller than 1, one cannot generally assert that f'(x') is approximately equal to f(x'). An example is provided with f(x) = x^(-2) and f'(x) = x^(-1), demonstrating that even with a small σ, the values can differ significantly. Participants also critique the notation used, suggesting that clearer labels for the functions would enhance understanding. The conversation emphasizes the importance of precise notation in mathematical discussions.
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I have a question regarding different functions. Suppose we have two functions ##f## and ##f'## with same domain, but different codomains.

Consider that ##f': x' \mapsto f'(x')## and ##f: x \mapsto f(x)##. If ##x' = x + \sigma##, with ##|\sigma| << 1##, can we say that ##f'(x') \approx f(x')##?
 
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No. Not in this generality. Let's say ##f(x)=x^{-2}\; , \;f\,'(x)=x^{-1}##. Then we have ##x'=-{10}^{-n}=x+\sigma = {10}^{-n}-2\cdot {10}^{-n}## and ##|\sigma|=|2\cdot {10}^{-n}| << 1## but ##-{10}^{n} =f\,'(x') \not \approx {10}^{2n}=f(x')##.
 
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kent davidge said:
I have a question regarding different functions. Suppose we have two functions ##f## and ##f'## with same domain, but different codomains.

Consider that ##f': x' \mapsto f'(x')## and ##f: x \mapsto f(x)##. If ##x' = x + \sigma##, with ##|\sigma| << 1##, can we say that ##f'(x') \approx f(x')##?
If you have two different functions, why not call them f and g? Or ##f_1## and ##f_2##? Your notation ##f'(x')## looks like we're evaluating the derivative of f at a number x'.
 
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Mark44 said:
If you have two different functions, why not call them f and g? Or ##f_1## and ##f_2##? Your notation ##f'(x')## looks like we're evaluating the derivative of f at a number x'.
Yea, I agree. Coincidentally I was going to write them down as ##f## and ##g## in the opening post, but I used the more abstract notation.
 

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