How to Solve a Composition of Functions g(f(x))?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the composition of functions \( g(f(x)) \), where participants explore different forms and simplifications of the expression. The scope includes mathematical reasoning and attempts to clarify the process of simplification.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants present the functions as \( g(f(x)) = \frac{2}{\frac{1}{x}-4} + 4 \) and suggest possible forms for \( f(x) \) and \( g(x) \).
  • One participant expresses a desire to simplify \( g(f(x)) \) rather than find the functions themselves.
  • Another participant provides a step-by-step simplification of \( g(f(x)) \) leading to \( \frac{4 - 14x}{1 - 4x} \), while also noting intermediate steps.
  • There is a correction regarding the simplification of \( g(f(x)) \) leading to different interpretations of the final expression, with one participant stating \( g(f(x)) = 2x - 4 \) after further simplification.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the final simplified form of \( g(f(x)) \), as different interpretations and simplifications are presented. There is also uncertainty regarding the initial functions \( f(x) \) and \( g(x) \) and their roles in the composition.

Contextual Notes

Some participants rely on specific forms of \( f(x) \) and \( g(x) \) that may not be universally accepted or defined, leading to variations in the simplification process. The discussion includes multiple steps and corrections that reflect different approaches to the problem.

Ebone_Love
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g(f(x))=\( g(f(x))=2/(1/x-4)+4 \)
 
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Ebone_Love said:
g(f(x))=\( g(f(x))=2/(1/x-4)+4 \)
What is your question? If it's to find a possible combination of f(x) and g(x), then
[math]f(x) = \dfrac{1}{x} - 4[/math]

and
[math]g(x) = \dfrac{2}{x} + 4[/math]
will do the trick.

-Dan
 
Thank you, but I already know f(x) and g(x). I am trying to solve the equation for \( g(f(x)) \)
 
I need help solving the written part of the question in the attached photo.
 

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You have g(f(x)). What are you trying to "solve?" Are you trying to graph it? Make a table?

[math]
\begin{array}{ l c r } x & f(x) & g(x) \\ -2 & -1/6 & -8 \\ -1 & -1/5 & -6 \\ 0 & -1/4 & -4 \\ 1 & -1/3 & -2 \\ 2 & -1/2 & 0 \\ \end{array}
[/math]Also: g(f(x)) = 2/( 1/(x - 4) ) + 4. You need an extra set of parenthesis.

-Dan
 
I am so sorry I forgot what I wanted to say 😂, which was that I wanted to simplify g(f(x)).
 
Then you have to put $f(x) $ in $g(f(x))$ and solve. Considering the picture you have sent $f(x) = $ $1 \over (x-4)$ and $g(x)=$ $2 \over x$ $+4$
so we have $g(f(x))= 2(x-4) + 4 = 2x + 4$
 
Thank you topsquark.
 
Ebone_Love said:
g(f(x))=\( g(f(x))=2/(1/x-4)+4 \)
$\frac{2}{\frac{1}{x}- 4}+ 4= \frac{2}{\frac{1}{x}- \frac{4x}{x}}+ 4= \frac{2}{\frac{1-4x}{x}}+ 4= \frac{2x}{1- 4x}+ 4$.

That would satisfy me but you could continue as
$\frac{2x}{1- 4x}+ \frac{4(1- 4x)}{1- 4x}= \frac{2x+ 4- 16x}{1- 4x}= \frac{4- 14x}{1- 4x}$.
 
  • #10
DaalChawal said:
Then you have to put $f(x) $ in $g(f(x))$ and solve. Considering the picture you have sent $f(x) = $ $1 \over (x-4)$ and $g(x)=$ $2 \over x$ $+4$
so we have $g(f(x))= 2(x-4) + 4 = 2x + 4$
No, 2(x- 4)+ 4= 2x- 8+ 4= 2x- 4.
 

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