How Do I Expand Composite Functions in Mathematics?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on expanding composite functions, particularly in the context of finding the inverse of a function. The user struggles with expressing g^-1 in terms of f and g, initially using f(x) = x^2, which is not one-to-one unless the domain is restricted. Participants clarify that the squaring function cannot be assumed to be one-to-one without such restrictions and suggest using a different function, like a cubic function, which is inherently one-to-one. The conversation emphasizes the importance of correctly identifying one-to-one functions when working with inverses. Ultimately, the user seeks confirmation on their approach to finding g^-1 and the validity of their function choices.
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Expanding Composite Functions(urgent help needed)

I had to solve an assignment question, we are asked to find the formula for g^-1, except once i plug n do everything, i come up with x=f(g^-1(x)+c), which is x=f(g^-1(x)) + f(c), now i m suppose to put the formula in terms of g^-1=..., but i don't know how i can expand the function f(g^-1(x)). So how do i expand composite functions?
 
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g-1(x) is just the argument you are passing into the function f. So treat it no differently than you would if you were passing in x, or t, or y etc:

E.g. if f(x) = x2, then f(g-1(x)) = [g-1(x)]2
 
Also, we haven't learned the chain rule or derivatives yet, so it doesn't involve any of that in the solution.
 
:confused: There was no differentiation of any kind in my last post.

If you could post the expression for f(x), that would be helpful.
 
well that is obvious to me, its just that, i don't know how to expand.
This is the question.
Suppose f is a one-one function. g(x)=f(x + c) for all x s.t. x +c (element)dom f , now prove that g is one-one and find the formula for g^-1.
 
so basically, any one-one function f, can possibly work, don't you think?
 
x=f(g^-1(x)+c), which is x=f(g^-1(x)) + f(c)

Why do you think that?


Anyways, what about using f^-1 somewhere?
 
I realized though, that since the squaring funcion is one-one. That means i can suppose for f that it is f(x)=x^2.
So then, x=g(g^-1(x))=f(g^-1(x)) + f(c)=[g^-1(x)]^2 + c^2.
So x - c^2=[g^-1(x)]^2.
So g^-1(x)=sq.root(x - c^2).
Plz tell me if this is right.
 
f(x) = x^2 is not one to one (unless you restrict the domain of the inverse function appropriately).
 
  • #10
so if i restrict the domain of the inverse, then it becomes one-one and then my solution will be correct right.
 
  • #11
btw can someone give me a proof of the function f(x)=x^2, as being one-one.
 
  • #12
that since the squaring funcion is one-one. That means i can suppose for f that it is f(x)=x^2.

You cannot; you're reversing the statement.

The statement "the squaring function is one-one" does not mean you can say "a one-one function is the squaring function".

(And, of course, you have cephid's observation that the squaring function is not one-one)
 
  • #13
i c, i realized that i should have used the cubic function, since that is one-one.
 
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