How Do You Find g(x) When f(g(x)) Equals a Different Function?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the function g(x) such that when substituted into f(x), it equals a different function. Specifically, f(x) is given as (3x-1)/(2x+5) and f(g(x)) is (x+9)/(12x-11).

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the initial setup of the problem, with one attempting to equate f(g(x)) to the given function. There are questions about the logic behind substituting g(x) into f(x) and how to manipulate the equation to find g(x). Some suggest considering the inverse function of f.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different approaches to the problem. There is recognition of the complexity involved in solving for g(x), and some guidance has been offered regarding the use of inverse functions and substitution methods.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the challenge of working independently on this problem, indicating a desire for assistance while balancing other commitments. There is also mention of the problem being part of preparation for pre-calculus.

Gshandle
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Homework Statement



Find g(x) if f(x) = (3x-1)/(2x+5) and f(g(x)) = (x+9)/(12x-11)

Homework Equations


N/A, as far as I know

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried doing it as though g(x) = y and it turned out like this:
(3y-1)/(2y+5)=(x+9)/(12x-11)
I very quickly saw that that wouldn't work though, so I'm kind of lost. This is independent work in order for me to be able to go into pre-calc, so while I can ask a teacher it is difficult to find time, hence why I'm relying on you guys :) Help would be much appreciated!
 
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Think about it like this: you have f(x), and you have f(x) in the specific case when x=g(x), what you are looking for is what does x have to be in f(x) to give f(g(x)).

So, what does x have to be exchanged with in (3x-1)/(2x+5) to give (x+9)/(12x-11)
 
Well, I already got that part of the logic which is why I set g(x) equal to y, but it didn't work, so I don't understand how to get it to work.
 
Maybe you can find [itex]f^{-1}(y)[/itex]??

That is, set

[tex]y=\frac{3x-1}{2x+5}[/tex]

and try to find x in function of y.
 
Ok, I just went through the math and its a bit of a long haul. Should be fairly easy but its tedious.

What you want to do is take your f(x) function, replace x with g(x), set it equal to your f(g(x)) function and then solve for g(x).
 

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