Solving Composite Functions with Distributive Property

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving composite functions and understanding the use of the distributive property in algebra. Participants explore the addition of a plus sign in the context of composite functions and seek clarification on the manipulation of algebraic expressions.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the addition of a plus sign in the equation for composite functions, specifically in the expression g(n) = n^3 + 2n^2 - 7n + 5 + f(n).
  • Another participant suggests that the expression can be rewritten to clarify the use of the plus sign, indicating that it can be expressed as g(n) = n^3 + 2n^2 + (-7)n + 5 + f(n).
  • Further clarification is sought regarding why the expression can be written in that way and how the plus sign is derived from the equation.
  • A participant explains that subtracting a number is equivalent to adding its negative, illustrating that a - b = a + (-b).
  • One participant acknowledges understanding after the explanation about the equivalence of subtraction and addition of negative numbers.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the equivalence of subtraction and addition of negative numbers, but there remains some uncertainty regarding the specific application of this concept to the original problem.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the initial confusion about the composite function and the role of the plus sign in the context of the specific problem presented.

TheFabricator
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Hi All,

I am teaching my self algebra using khan academy and I've come across a problem I can't figure out. I am trying to solve composite functions and I can't figure out why a Plus sign is added to the equation, Could I be missing something that I am suppose to distrubute?

The functions is:

g(f(−1))=?


h(x)=4x+2

g(n)=n^3+2n^2−7n+5+f(n)

f(t)=3t−h(t)

f(−1)=−1

g(−1)=(−1)^3+2(−1)^2 + (−7)(−1)+5+f(−1)

where does this...Δ Plus sign come from?
 
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g(n)=n^3+2n^2−7n+5+f(n)
This can be written as
g(n)=n^3+2n^2+(−7)n+5+f(n)

Alternatively, you can drop your plus sign and write
g(−1)=(−1)^3+2(−1)^2 −7(−1)+5+f(−1)
 
mfb said:
This can be written as
g(n)=n^3+2n^2+(−7)n+5+f(n)

Alternatively, you can drop your plus sign and write
g(−1)=(−1)^3+2(−1)^2 −7(−1)+5+f(−1)

Ok thank you, But why can it be written that way? How does the plus sign get there from the equation. Can you expand on that or point me in the right direction on how to find out.
 
TheFabricator said:
Ok thank you, But why can it be written that way? How does the plus sign get there from the equation. Can you expand on that or point me in the right direction on how to find out.

There is no difference between substrating a number and adding a negative number:
<br /> a - b = a + (-b) = -b + a<br />
 
DrClaude said:
There is no difference between substrating a number and adding a negative number:
<br /> a - b = a + (-b) = -b + a<br />

Ah ok I understand now, Thank you
 

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