Inverse function of a parabola

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the inverse function of a quadratic function, specifically a parabola defined by the equation g(x) = 1/3(x-2)^2 - 3, with a specified domain of x in [2, 5]. Participants explore the implications of the function being one-to-one and the process of solving for the inverse.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the method of solving for x in terms of y from the equation of g(x). There are attempts to clarify the implications of the function being one-to-one and the correct approach to finding the inverse. Some participants express confusion regarding the results obtained and the steps taken, particularly in relation to completing the square and the implications of the domain.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of the correct method to derive the inverse function. Some participants have provided guidance on how to approach the problem, while others have raised questions about the steps taken and the correctness of the results. Multiple interpretations of the problem are being discussed, and there is a recognition of errors in the original attempts.

Contextual Notes

The domain of g(x) is specified as x in [2, 5], which influences the discussion about the one-to-one nature of the function and the validity of the inverse. Participants also note confusion stemming from the mathematical manipulations involved in finding the inverse.

fatou123
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from a graph of a function ( i obtained the graphg by doing a translation and y-scaling) g(x)= 1/3(x-2)^2 -3 b (x in [2:5]) i can see that g is increasing and so it is a one-one function and an image set is [-3;0]. so therefore the function g has an universe function g^-1 .

so i can find the rule of g^-1 by solving this equations:

y=g(x)=1/3 (x-2)^2 -3

to obtain x in term of y

i have y=1/3(x-2)^2 -3 that is x= +or-3sqrt-1/9 - 1/3y is this right ?
 
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No, the whole point of being "one-to-one" is that you have one value, not two.
Unfortunately, you didn't show HOW you solve for x so I can't comment but that surely does not look right! (It's hard to be sure since you don't use parentheses to show what you really mean.) You are correct that when x= 2, y= -3. If you take y= -3 in the formula you give, do you get x= 0? When you take x= 5, y= g(5)= 0. When you take y= 0 in your equation, do you get x= 5?

If y= (1/3)(x-2)^2- 3 with x between 2 and 5, then y+ 3= (1/3)(x-2)^2, (x-2)^2= 3(y+3) x-2= sqrt(3(y+3)) and finally x= 2+ sqrt(3(y+3)). The PLUS is used rather than the MINUS because x must be larger than 2. Finally, don't forget to write the solution itself:
g-1(x)= 2+ sqrt(3(x+3)).
 
thank hallsofivy you have just confirm what i though that theyr were something wrong in my result =.

i tackle this equation by comoleting thr squares of a quadratic equations,and i think this is where i got confused by the two result i was looking for! lol
the domain of g(x) is given to us as x in [2;5] so i can't really argue this.

i solved the g^-1 by rearranging g(x)

y=1/3(x-2)^2 -3 , 1/3(x-2)^2=-3-y , (x-2)^2= -1/9-1/3y, x-3= SQRT-1/9-1/3y hence
x=3 SQRT-1/3-1/3y

thank you again i undersrtood were i got wrong in this it was quite obvious really lol
 
fatou123 said:
thank hallsofivy you have just confirm what i though that theyr were something wrong in my result =.

i tackle this equation by comoleting thr squares of a quadratic equations,and i think this is where i got confused by the two result i was looking for! lol
the domain of g(x) is given to us as x in [2;5] so i can't really argue this.

i solved the g^-1 by rearranging g(x)

y=1/3(x-2)^2 -3 , 1/3(x-2)^2=-3-y
This first step is incorrect.

, (x-2)^2= -1/9-1/3y, x-3= SQRT-1/9-1/3y hence
x=3 SQRT-1/3-1/3y

thank you again i undersrtood were i got wrong in this it was quite obvious really lol
 

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