Is Vertical Compression Correctly Applied in This Function Transformation?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on determining the new equation g(x) after applying a vertical compression to the function f(x) = 2(x^2) - 4 by a factor of 1/2. The book states that the correct transformation results in g(x) = (x^2) - 2. The explanation clarifies that vertical changes affect the y-values, and applying the compression involves multiplying the entire function by 1/2, which leads to the correct result. The confusion arises from misunderstanding how vertical compression operates on the function. Ultimately, the book's solution is validated through proper application of the distributive law.
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Q. Given f(x)=2(x^2)-4 , determine the new equation g(x) after a vertical compression by a factor of 1/2.

The answer provided by the book is g(X) = (x^2)-2, but shouldn't it be g(x) = (x^2)-4 ?

Help will be much appreciated.

Regards,

Adam
 
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dragon513 said:
Q. Given f(x)=2(x^2)-4 , determine the new equation g(x) after a vertical compression by a factor of 1/2.

The answer provided by the book is g(X) = (x^2)-2, but shouldn't it be g(x) = (x^2)-4 ?

Help will be much appreciated.

Regards,

Adam
No, the book's solution is correct. Horizontal changes are changes in x, vertical changes are changes in y. Since this is a vertical compression by 1/2, first calculate y= 2x2- 4, the calculate (1/2)y= (1/2)(2x2- 4)= x2- 2 (becareful to use the "distributive law"- multiply both parts by 1/2). The new y is y= x2- 2.
 
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