How to Find the Inverse of a Polynomial: Step-by-Step Guide

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the inverse of a polynomial function, specifically f(x) = 2x^3 + 5x + 3, and determining the value of f^-1(1). Participants are exploring the implications of the problem statement and the methods for finding the inverse.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to solve for x by rearranging the equation and substituting values, but expresses uncertainty about the process. Some participants question the clarity of the problem statement and suggest that the task may not require solving the cubic equation directly. Others clarify that the goal is to find the value of f(1) instead of the full inverse function.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, with some providing guidance on interpreting the question. There is a recognition that the task may be simpler than initially thought, focusing on evaluating f(1) rather than finding the complete inverse function.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of potential confusion regarding the complexity of finding the inverse of a cubic function and the expectations set by the course material. The original poster is preparing for a test, which adds urgency to the discussion.

HopelessCalc
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Homework Statement



Let f(x) = 2x^3 + 5x + 3
Find the inverse at f^-1(x) = 1

Homework Equations


N/A

The Attempt at a Solution



The only way that I know how to solve inverses is by solving for X, then replacing it by Y. Then I supposed I would sub 1 into the inverted polynomial. However I'm not sure how to solve for X.
My attempt:
y - 3 = 2x^3 + 5x
(y - 3)/x = x(2x^2 + 5)

Then, hopelessness. Any info will be extremely helpful for my test this Friday. Thank you.
 
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Your statement is a bit unclear -- I'm interpreting you to say that you want to find x = f-1(1) , that is, what value of x gives f(x) = 1 ?

I don't think they want you to solve the cubic equation 2x^{3} + 5x + 3 = 1 (unless they taught you how to do so in your course). This doesn't come out nicely at all...

I'm wondering if they're asking that if you had the function y = f-1(x)*, what value of x would give y = 1 ? This is equivalent to asking what f(1) equals: the value of f(1) is the number that f-1(x) would "take back" to 1 .*whatever that is exactly -- it wouldn't be pretty; instead, we will work with what is called the "implicit function"
 
buddy think again;
the answer is f(1)...
 
Yes, as both dynamicsolo and abhishek ghos are saying, you are completely misunderstanding the problem. The problem does NOT as you to find the inverse function, which would be extremely complex. It only asks you to find the single value f^{-1}(1).

Use the fact that if f(x)= y then x= f^{-1}(y).
 

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