Transforming Functions: Solving g(x) = 2f(-x+(3/2))

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The problem involves determining the function g(x) based on the given function f(x) = |x - 1/2| - 5, specifically in the context of transforming functions. The transformation is defined as g(x) = 2f(-x + (3/2)).

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss various attempts to manipulate the function g(x) and express confusion regarding the transformations applied to f(x). There are questions about the correct application of absolute values and the steps taken to derive g(x).

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on how to approach the transformation of the function, while others express uncertainty about specific steps and notation. There is a mix of interpretations regarding the absolute value and the overall transformation process.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention a lack of clarity in the notation used and express the need for step-by-step guidance. There is also an indication of frustration due to time spent on the problem without resolution.

AAAA
Messages
62
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


If f(x)=|x-1/2|-5 determine g(x)=2f(-x+(3/2))

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution


Well, I tried to factor out the k-value in the g(x) formula.
So I was left with:

g(x)=2f(-1)(x-3/2)

Then I multiply f(x) by 2 and am left with:
g(x)=2|x-(1/2)|-10

Then I subtract the 3/2 from 1/2 and am left with -2:
g(x)=2|x-2|-10

Then I apply the negative k-value and am left with
g(x)=2|-x+2|-10I checked on desmos, and that answer is wrong. It should be:
g(x)=2|-x+1|-10I've asked friends, looked online, in my textbook, and in my notes for things relating to this, and after 3 hours, came up empty-handed. If anyone could tell me where I went wrong. I would be very grateful. If you could also go step-by-step solving this problem, I would appreciate it.

Thanks.
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
AAAA said:

Homework Statement


If f(x)=|x-1/2|-5 determine g(x)=2f(-x+(3/2))

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution


Well, I tried to factor out the k-value in the g(x) formula.
So I was left with:

g(x)=2f(-1)(x-3/2)

Then I multiply f(x) by 2 and am left with:
g(x)=2|x-(1/2)|-10

Then I subtract the 3/2 from 1/2 and am left with -2:
g(x)=2|x-2|-10

Then I apply the negative k-value and am left with
g(x)=2|-x+2|-10I checked on desmos, and that answer is wrong. It should be:
g(x)=2|-x+1|-10I've asked friends, looked online, in my textbook, and in my notes for things relating to this, and after 3 hours, came up empty-handed. If anyone could tell me where I went wrong. I would be very grateful. If you could also go step-by-step solving this problem, I would appreciate it.

Thanks.


To get g(x), replace x everywhere (in the f(x) formula) by -x + (3/2); after that, multiply the whole thing by 2. In other words, ##g(x) = 2 \left. f(t) \right|_{t = -x + 3/2}##.
 
Ray Vickson said:
In other words, g(x)=2f(t)|t=−x+3/2g(x) = 2 \left. f(t) \right|_{t = -x + 3/2}.

I don't follow the last bit. I think the absolute value sign got messed up. Thanks for responding!
 
I get it now! Thanks so much! Now I can finally move on :smile:
 
AAAA said:
I don't follow the last bit. I think the absolute value sign got messed up. Thanks for responding!

Just to be clear: the notation ##f(t)|_{t = u}## does NOT mean there is a missing absolute-value sign. The notation is shorthand for "##f(t)##, evaluated at ##t = u##". Of course, that is just ##f(u)##, but since you seemed to be confused by notation such as ##f(-x + 3/2)## (that is, where ##u = -x + 3/2##) I used the alternate notation instead. It is similar to the notation used in expressing definite integrals, such as
\int f(x) \, dx = F(x) \Rightarrow \int_a^b f(x) \, dx = F(x)|_{x=a}^{b} = F(b) - F(a).
 

Similar threads

Replies
7
Views
2K
Replies
7
Views
2K
Replies
8
Views
4K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
4K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
3K
Replies
15
Views
2K