This module was designed and written with you in mind.

It is here to help you master the key concepts of functions,

the rational functions, inverse functions, and the exponential
functions. The scope of this module permits it to be used in
many different learning situations. The language used
recognizes the diverse vocabulary level of students. The
lessons are arranged to follow the standard sequence of the
course. But the order in which you read them can be changed
to correspond with the textbook you are now using.

MODULE 1: Key Concepts of Functions

After going through this module, you are expected to:
1. represent real-life situations using functions, including piece-wise functions;
2. evaluate different functions;
3. perform the different types of operations on function; and
4. solve various problems involving functions.

PRE-TEST Multiple Choice. Choose the letter of the best answer.

1. Which of the following diagram represents a relation that is not a function?
a) One–to–one b) One–to–many c) Many–to–one d) None of the above
2. A method of determining whether or not a graph represent a function is
a) Diagonal Line test c) Horizontal Line Test
b) Zigzag Line Test d) Vertical Line Test
3. Given the relation 𝐴 = {(5,2), (7,4), (9,10), (𝑥, 5)}. Which of the following values
for x will make the relation a function?
a) 7 b) 9 c) 4 d) 5
4. If 𝑓(𝑥) = −2𝑥2 − 3, find 𝑓(0).
a) -5 b) -3 c) 0 d) 3
5. If 𝑔(𝑥) = −8𝑥 + 1, find 𝑔(−2).
a) -7 b) 1 c) 10 d) 17
6. To evaluate a function is to ______________ the variable in the function with a
value from the function’s domain and compute the result.
a) omit b) simplify c) skip d) substitute
7𝑥−1
7. If 𝑝(𝑥) =𝑥2 +1, find 𝑝(−2).
a) -3 b) -1 c) 1 d) 3
8. Which of the following defines the sum of 𝑓 + ℎ given that 𝑓 and ℎ are
functions?
a) (𝑓 + ℎ)(𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑥) + ℎ(𝑥) c) (𝑓 + ℎ)(𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑥)– ℎ(𝑥)
b) (𝑓 + ℎ)(𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑥) • ℎ(𝑥) d) (𝑓 + ℎ)(𝑥) = 𝑓(ℎ(𝑥))
1
9. The process of obtaining a composite function is called __________________.
a) composting function c) compositing function
b) decomposition function d) function composition
10. Which of the following yields the same result when (𝑔 ◦ 𝑔)(𝑥) is performed?
a) 𝑔 ◦𝑔 b) 𝑓 ◦ 𝑔 c) 𝑔 ◦ 𝑓 d) 𝑓 ◦ 𝑓
11. Given 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 and 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑥 + 5, find (𝑓 ◦ 𝑔)(𝑥).
a) 2𝑥 + 5 b) 2𝑥 + 10 c) 𝑥 + 5 d) 𝑥 + 10
12. Find the three consecutive odd integers such that their sum is 237.
a) 76, 78, 80 b) 77, 79, 81 c) 78, 80, 81 d) 79, 81, 83
13. The wage of the certain job is thirty pesos per hour. Try to find the wages
equivalent to the first 5 hours. Let x represents the number of working hours, and
f(x) as the total amount earned. Write the function that shows the relationship.
a) 𝑓(𝑥) = 30 + 𝑥 b) 𝑓(𝑥) = 30 + 5𝑥 c) 𝑓(𝑥) = 30𝑥 d) 𝑓(𝑥) = 5𝑥
14. The distance measured on a map, varies directly with the actual distance. If 1
cm represents 25 km, how many kilometers are represented by 7 cm?
a) 172 km b) 173 km c) 174 km d) 175 km
15. Lea bought 5 oranges and 6 apples for Php120.00 only. How much is each
avocado if one orange costs Php12.00?
a) Php10.00 b) Php15.00 c) Php20.00 d) Php25.00
LESSON 1: REPRESENTATION OF REAL LIFE SITUATIONS USING
FUNCTIONS, INCLUDING PIECE-WISE FUNCTIONS
Function is said to be the central idea in the study of mathematics. In many
situations, there is a mathematical function in which one quality according to some
definite rule. Physical situations and number patterns can be represented by tables,
graphs, verbal rules and equations where their interrelationship can be studied and
analyzed (Bernabe, 2006).
Activity 1.
Determine whether or not each relation is a function. Put a check on the space that
corresponds to your answer.
function Not function
1. {(2, 3), (-6, 5), (0, -2), (-1, -5)}
2. {(1, 3), (1, 4), (2, 5), (2, 6), (3, 7)}
3.
Input Output
(x) (y)
-4 1
-3 2
-4 3
-5 4
2
 4.
Input Output
(x) (y)
1 3
2 6
3 9
4 12
5. 𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 − 6 = 0
6. 𝑥 2 + 𝑦 = 5
7.

8.

Let us recall the definition of relation and function.

Relations functions
A relation is a rule that relates values A function is a relation where each
from a set of values (called the element in the domain is related to
domain) to a set of values (called the only one value in the range by some
range) rule.
The elements of the domain can be The elements of the domain can be
imagined as input to a machine that imagined as input to a machine that
applies a rule to these inputs to applies a rule so that each input
generate one or more outputs. corresponds to only one output.
A relation is also a set of ordered pairs A function is a set of ordered pairs
(𝑥, 𝑦) (𝑥, 𝑦) such that no two ordered pairs
have the same x-value but different
y-values.

A function is a set of ordered pairs (𝑥, 𝑦) such that no two ordered pairs have
the same x-value but different y-values, using functional notation, we can write
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑦 read as “f of x is equal to y”. In particular, if (1, 2) is an ordered pair
associated with the function 𝑓, then we say that 𝑓(2) = 1.

In Activity 1 No. 1, each element in the domain {2, -6, 0, -1}, is assigned to
no more than one value in the range { 3, 5, -2, -5 }. Therefore, it is a function.
Meanwhile in No. 2 is not a function because (1, 3), (1, 4) and (2, 5), (2, 6) are
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ordered pairs with the same x-value but different y-values. In Activity 1 No. 3, is
not a function since there is a repetition in the input value. That is, -4 has more than
one output values which are 1 and 3. Meanwhile, in No. 4, each value matches to
only one output value. The domain is {1, 2, 3, 4} and the range is {3, 6, 9, 12}.
Therefore, this relation is a function.

If we are given a set of ordered pairs, we can easily determine whether the
relation is a function or not by simply looking if each first element is used only once
in the given set.

In Activity 1 No. 5, when the equation is solved for y we have,

𝑥2 + 𝑦2 − 6 = 0 the original equation

𝑥2 + 𝑦2 = 6 add 6 to both sides
𝑦2 = 6 − 𝑥2 subtract 𝑥 2
𝑦 = ±√6 − 𝑥 2 apply the square root method
The symbol ± in the last equation shows that for all values of 𝑥 between −2
and 2, there are values of y. For example, if 𝑥 = 1, then 𝑦 . Hence,
the equation does not define y as a function of x.

In activity 1 No. 6, when the equation is solved for y we have,

𝑥2 + 𝑦 = 5 original equation
𝑦 = 5 − 𝑥2 subtract 𝑥 2 to both sides

In the equation 𝑦 = 5 − 𝑥 2 there is no value of x that makes the function y

undefined. Thus, the domain of 𝑦 = 5 − 𝑥 2 is the set of real numbers or {𝑥/𝑥 ∈
ℝ}
In activity 1 No. 7 and 8, use the vertical line test to determine whether the
graph is function or not.
Vertical line test
A graph represents a function if and only if each vertical line intersects the
graph at most once.
Using a vertical line test in activity 1 No. 7, we have.

Thus, y is a function since the vertical line

intersect the graph in only 1 point.

Likewise, using the vertical line test in activity 1 No. 8, we have.

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 Thus, y is not function of x since two values of y
correspond to an x-value. That is, the vertical line intersects
the graph in two (2) points.
In previous studies, a relation was defined as a correspondence between two
variables, x and y. or as a set of ordered pair (𝑥, 𝑦), where x, is related to y. For
instance, the price of a plot of land (y) is related to the number of square meters of
land bought (x); the monthly wages (y) of an employee is related to the number
hours the employee worked (x): the water bill paid for the month (y) is related to the
number of cubic meters of water consumed.
Activity 2.
The SSG Organization plans to sell cupcakes to raise a fund. A bakery
charges them P15.00 for the first 100 cupcakes. After the first 100 cupcakes they
purchase up to 150 cupcakes the bakery reduces the price to P13.50 per cupcake.
After they purchased150 cupcakes, the price lower to P10.00 per cupcake. Write a
function that models this situation.
In this scenario you need to use Piecewise function to model the situation.

Functions as representations of real-life situations.

Functions can often be used to model real situations. Identifying an
appropriate functional model will lead to a better understanding of various
phenomena.
Definition
1. A linear function is a function of the form
𝑓(𝑥 ) = 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏, where 𝑎 ≠ 0.
2. A quadratic function is a function of the form
𝑓(𝑥 ) = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐, where 𝑎 ≠ 0.
3. A polynomial function of degree n is a function of the form
𝑓(𝑥 ) = 𝑎𝑛 𝑥 𝑛 + 𝑎𝑛−1 𝑥 𝑛−1 + 𝑎1 𝑥 + 𝑎0 ; where 𝑛 ≠ 0:
A piecewise function is a function defined by multiple sub functions,
where each subfunction applies to a certain interval of the main function’s
domain.

Solution for Activity 2:

The cost of cupcakes can be presented by the piecewise function.
Let C = number of pieces of cupcakes
P = the price of cupcakes
15𝐶 , 𝑖𝑓 0 < 𝐶 ≤ 100
𝑃(𝐶 ) = {13.50𝐶 , 𝑖𝑓 100 < 𝐶 ≤ 150
10𝐶 , 𝑖𝑓 𝐶 > 150
5
Example. A user is charged P300 monthly for a particular mobile plan, which
includes 100 free text messages. Messages in excess of 100 are charged P1 each.
Represent the monthly cost for text messaging using the function 𝑡(𝑚), where m
is the number of messages sent monthly.
Solution: the cost of text messaging can be express by the piecewise function:
300, 𝑖𝑓 0 < 𝑚 ≤ 100
𝑡(𝑚) = {
200 + 𝑚, 𝑖𝑓 𝑚 > 100

LESSON 2: EVALUATING FUNCTIONS

Evaluating a function means replacing the variable in the function, in this
case x, with a value from the function’s domain and computing for the result. To
denote that we are evaluating 𝑓 at 𝑎 for some 𝑎 in the domain of 𝑓, we write 𝑓(𝑎).
If one thinks of the function machine, evaluating a function is similar to
providing our machines with a valid input.

To evaluate a function, we should:

-Directly replace the indicated value to the given function;
-Perform the indicated operation; and
-Simplify the answer.
Example 1. Evaluate the following functions at 𝑥 = 1.5.

(a) 𝑓(𝑥) = 4𝑥 + 1
Solution:
1) directly replace the value of x by 1.5 → 𝑓(1.5) = 4(1.5) +1
2) perform indicated operation and simplify → 𝑓(1.5) = 6 + 1
𝑓(1.5) = 7 ■
(b) 𝑞(𝑥) = 𝑥2 + 2𝑥– 2
Solution:
 substitute the value of x by 1.5 → 𝑞(1.5) = (1.5)2 + 2(1.5)– 2
 perform indicated operation and simplify → 𝑞(1.5) = 2.25 + 3 − 2
𝑞(1.5) = 3.25 ■

Solution:
𝑔
𝑔
𝑔 ■

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 2𝑥+1
(d) 𝑟(𝑥 ) =
𝑥−1

Solution:
2(1.5)+1
𝑟(1.5) = 1.5−1

3+1 4
𝑟(1.5) = = 0.5 = 8
0.5

Example 2.
Find 𝑔(−4) and 𝑟(1), where 𝑔 and 𝑟 are defined in the previous example.
Solution:
This is not possible because -4 is not in the domain of 𝑔(𝑥) and 1 is not in the
domain of 𝑟(𝑥).

Example 3.
Evaluate the following functions, where 𝑓 and 𝑞 are defined as in Example 1.

(a) 𝑓(3𝑥– 1)
Solution:
To evaluate 𝑓(3𝑥– 1), we need to replace all the x in 𝑓(𝑥) = 4𝑥 + 1 by (3𝑥– 1).
𝑓(3𝑥– 1) = 4(3𝑥 – 1) + 1
𝑓(3𝑥– 1) = 12𝑥 – 4 + 1
𝑓(3𝑥– 1) = 12𝑥 – 3 ■

(b) 𝑞(2𝑥 + 3)
Solution:
To evaluate 𝑞(3𝑥 + 3), replace all the 𝑥 in 𝑞(𝑥) = 𝑥2 + 2𝑥 − 2 by (2𝑥 + 3).
𝑞(2𝑥 + 3) = (2𝑥 + 3)2 + 2(2𝑥 + 3)–2
𝑞(2𝑥 + 3) = (4𝑥2 + 12𝑥 + 9) + 4𝑥 + 6– 2
𝑞(2𝑥 + 3) = 4𝑥2 + 16𝑥 + 13 ■
2
𝑥 + 2, 𝑥 ≤ 1
Example 4. Given 𝑞(𝑥 ) = { . Evaluate the following:
|𝑥 − 3|, 𝑥 > 1

(a) 𝑓(−5)
Solution:
To evaluate the piecewise function, we should identify first to which condition the
given value belongs. Since -5 belongs to the condition 𝑥 ≤ 1, we will be using the
first function, 𝑥2 + 2.
𝑓(−5) = (−5)2 + 2
𝑓(−5) = 25 + 2
𝑓(−5) = 27 ■
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 (a) 𝑓(5)
Solution:
With this value, 5 belongs to the condition 𝑥 > 1. Hence, we will be using the
second function, |𝑥 − 3|.
𝑓(5) = |5 − 3|
𝑓(5) = 2 ■
(b) 𝑓(1)
Solution:
Since 1 belongs to the condition 𝑥 ≤ 1, we will be using the first function, 𝑥2 + 2.
𝑓(1) = (1)2 + 2
𝑓(1) = 1 + 2
𝑓(1) = 3 ■

LESSON 3: OPERATIONS ON FUNCTIONS

The important concept that we need to understand in this lesson is that adding,
subtracting and multiplying two or more functions together will result in another
function. Dividing two functions together will also result in another function if the
denominator or divisor is not the zero function.
Definition
Sum, Difference, Product and Quotient Function
Let 𝑓 and 𝑔 be functions.
1. Their sum, denoted by 𝑓 + 𝑔, is the function denoted
by (𝑓 + 𝑔)(𝑥 ) = 𝑓(𝑥 ) + 𝑔(𝑥 ).
2. Their difference, denoted by 𝑓 − 𝑔, is the function denoted
by (𝑓 − 𝑔)(𝑥 ) = 𝑓(𝑥 ) − 𝑔(𝑥).
Their product, denoted by 𝑓 ∙ 𝑔, is the function denoted
by (𝑓 ∙ 𝑔)(𝑥 ) = 𝑓(𝑥 ) ∙ 𝑔(𝑥 ).
𝑓 𝑓(𝑥)
3. Their quotient, denoted by 𝑓/𝑔, is the function denoted by ( ) (𝑥 ) = ,
𝑔 𝑔(𝑥)
excluding the values of x where 𝑔(𝑥 ) = 0.
A. Let 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 + 1 and 𝑔(𝑥) = 2𝑥2. Find the following:
𝑓
1. (𝑓 + 𝑔)(𝑥) 2. (𝑓 − 𝑔)(𝑥) 3. (𝑓 • 𝑔)(𝑥) 4. (𝑔) (𝑥 )
Solutions:
1. (𝑓 + 𝑔)(𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑥) + 𝑔(𝑥) = (𝑥 + 1) + 2𝑥2 = 2𝑥2 + 𝑥 + 1 ■

2. (𝑓 − 𝑔)(𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑥) − 𝑔(𝑥) = (𝑥 + 1) − 2𝑥2 = −2𝑥2 + 𝑥 + 1 ■

3. (𝑓 • 𝑔)(𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑥) • 𝑔(𝑥) = (𝑥 + 1)(2𝑥2) = 2𝑥3 + 2𝑥2 ■

8
 𝑓 𝑓(𝑥) 𝑋+1
4. (𝑔) (𝑥 ) =𝑔(𝑥) = ;𝑥≠0 ■
2𝑋 2

2𝑥+1 3𝑥
B. If 𝑓(𝑥 ) = and 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑥−2 , find the following:
𝑥−2

𝑓
1. (𝑓 + 𝑔)(𝑥) 2. (𝑓 − 𝑔)(𝑥) 3. (𝑓 • 𝑔)(𝑥) 4. (𝑔) (𝑥 )
Solutions:
2𝑥+1 3𝑥 2𝑥+1+3𝑥 5𝑥+1
1. (𝑓 + 𝑔)(𝑥 ) = 𝑓(𝑥 ) + 𝑔(𝑥 ) = + 𝑥−2 = = ■
𝑥−2 𝑥−2 𝑥−2

2𝑥+1 3𝑥 2𝑥+1−3𝑥 −𝑥+1

2. (𝑓 − 𝑔)(𝑥 ) = 𝑓(𝑥 ) − 𝑔(𝑥 ) = − 𝑥−2 = = ■
𝑥−2 𝑥−2 𝑥−2

2𝑥+1 3𝑥 3𝑥(2𝑥+1) 6𝑥 2 +3𝑥

3. (𝑓 ∙ 𝑔)(𝑥 ) = 𝑓(𝑥 ) ∙ 𝑔(𝑥 ) = ∙ 𝑥−2 = (𝑥−2)2
= 𝑥 2 −4𝑥+4
𝑥−2

𝑓 𝑓(𝑥) 2𝑥+1 3𝑥 2𝑥+1 𝑥−2 2𝑥+1

4. (𝑔) (𝑥 ) = 𝑔(𝑥) = ÷ 𝑥−2 = ∙ =
𝑥−2 𝑥−2 3𝑥 3𝑥

Composition of Function
Definition. Let 𝑓 and 𝑔 be functions. The composite function denoted by
(𝑓 ∘ 𝑔)(𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑑 𝑎𝑠 f composite with g) is defined by (𝑓 ∘ 𝑔)(𝑥 ) = 𝑓(𝑔(𝑥 )).
The process of obtaining a composite function is called function composition.

Examples:
A. Let 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 + 1 and 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑥2– 2𝑥 + 2. Find: (1) (𝑓 ◦ 𝑔)(𝑥), (2) (𝑔 ◦ 𝑓)(𝑥).
Solutions:
1. (𝑓 ◦ 𝑔)(𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑔(𝑥)) = 2[𝑔(𝑥)] + 1 = 2(𝑥2– 2𝑥 + 2) + 1 = 2𝑥2– 4𝑥 + 4 + 1
= 2𝑥2– 4𝑥 + 5 ■
2. (𝑔 ◦ 𝑓)(𝑥) = 𝑔(𝑓(𝑥)) = [𝑓(𝑥)]2– 2[𝑓(𝑥)] + 2 = (2𝑥 + 1)2– 2(2𝑥 + 1) + 2
= (4𝑥2 + 4𝑥 + 1)– (4𝑥 + 2) + 2 = 4𝑥2 + 4𝑥 + 1– 4𝑥– 2 + 2 = 4𝑥2 + 1 ■
B. If 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 + 1 and ℎ(𝑥) = 3𝑥, evaluate (𝑓 ∘ ℎ)(1) and (ℎ ∘ 𝑓 )(1).
Solutions:
(𝑓 ∘ ℎ)(1): ℎ(𝑥 ) = 3𝑥  ℎ(1) = 3(1)  ℎ(1) = 3
𝑓(𝑥 ) = 2𝑥 + 1 𝑓(3) = 2(3) + 1 𝑓(3) = 7
Therefore, (𝑓 ∘ ℎ)(1) = 𝑓(ℎ(1)) = 𝑓(3) = 7■

(ℎ ∘ 𝑓)(1): 𝑓(𝑥 ) = 2𝑥 + 1 𝑓(1) = 2(1) + 1 𝑓(1) = 3

ℎ(𝑥 ) = 3𝑥  ℎ(3) = 3(3)  ℎ(3) = 9
Therefore, (ℎ ∘ 𝑓)(1) = ℎ(𝑓 (1)) = ℎ(3) = 9■
9
 2
C. If 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 + 2 and 𝑔(𝑥 ) = , find the values of the following:
𝑥

1. (𝑓 ◦ 𝑔)(2) 2. (𝑔 ◦ 𝑓)(2) 3. (𝑔 ◦ 𝑔)(2)

Solutions:
2 2
1. (𝑓 ◦ 𝑔)(2): 𝑔(𝑥 ) =  𝑔(2) =  𝑔(2) = 1
𝑥 2

𝑓(𝑥 ) = 𝑥 2 + 2 𝑓(1) = (1)2 + 2 = 1 + 2 = 3 

𝑓(1) = 3
Therefore, (𝑓 ◦ 𝑔)(2)=𝑓(𝑔(2)) = 𝑓(1) =3 ■

2. (𝑔 ◦ 𝑓)(2): 𝑓(𝑥 ) = 𝑥 2 + 2 𝑓(2) = (2)2 + 2 = 4 + 2 = 6

𝑓(2) = 6
2 2 1 1
𝑔(𝑥 ) = 𝑥  𝑔(6) = 6 = 3 𝑔(6) = 3
1
Therefore, (𝑔 ◦ 𝑓)(2)=𝑔(𝑓(𝑥 )) = 𝑔(6) = 3 ■
2 2
3. (𝑔 ◦ 𝑔)(2): 𝑔(𝑥 ) = 𝑥  𝑔(2) = 2  𝑔(2) = 1
2
𝑔(1) = 1  𝑔(1) = 2
Therefore, (𝑔 ◦ 𝑔)(2)=𝑔(𝑔(𝑥 )) = 𝑔(1) = 2 ■

LESSON 4: PROBLEM SOLVING INVOLVING FUNCTIONS

A problem is a situation in which we do not have an immediate solution, we do
not know instantly how to solve it. We want or need to solve it. In a mathematical
problem, every situation involves mathematical reasoning. It’s time now for you to
be exposed to the real application of functions, to experience solving real-life
problems involving functions.

The four steps that can be used to solve verbal problems are listed below.
1. READ the problem. To solve a verbal problem, first read the problem carefully and
explore what the problem is about.
• Identify what information is given.

• Identify what you are asked to find.

• Choose a variable to represent one of the unspecified numbers in the problem.

10
2. PLAN the solution. After defining the variable, find a word sentence to suggest an
equation for the number (s). Use the expressions to replace the world sentence by
an equation.

3. SOLVE the problem. To solve the equation, familiarize yourself with the properties
of equality- addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. To simplify, use
PEMDAS rule for series of operations.

4. EXAMINE the solution if necessary. Use the solution of the equation to write a
statement that settles the problem. Check that the conclusion agrees with the
problem situation or satisfies all conditions of the problems. If the conclusions do
not “check”, it is good to rework the problem.

Example 1. The distance measured on a map, varies directly with the actual
distance. If 1 cm represents 25 km, how many kilometers are represented by 7 cm?

Solutions: Let 𝑓(𝑥) be the actual distance.

Let 𝑥 be the distance measured on a map representing the actual distance. Since
the distance measured on a map varies directly with the actual distance, then
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑘𝑥.
If 𝑥1 = 1, then 𝑓(𝑥1) = 𝑓(1) = 𝑘(1) = 25
Hence, 𝑘 = 25. Thus 𝑓(𝑥) = 25𝑥
If 𝑥2 = 7, then 𝑓(𝑥2 ) = 25(7) = 175
Therefore, a distance of 7 cm on the map is equivalent to an actual distance of
175 km.

Example 2. Hart decided to save his money in a piggy bank. He started with an
initial deposit of P50.00 and then, deposited P15.00 each week. How much has he
deposited at the end of five weeks? 8 weeks?

Solution: Let 𝑓(𝑥) = represents his total saving

Let 𝑥 = represents the number of weeks. Then, the equation is 𝑓(𝑥) = 50 + 15𝑥 or
𝑓(𝑥) = 50 + 15𝑥
Substitute the given values of x (the number of weeks), we get P125.00 in 5 weeks,
and P170.00 in 8 weeks.

Example 3. A taxi driver charges his passenger P25.00 as initial fee and an
additional P1.00 for every 500 meters traveled during the entire trip.
(a) write the function that shows the relationship
(b) how much will a passenger pay if he traveled a total of 25km? 38 km?

11
Solution:
(a) 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑃25 + 𝑥(𝑃1.00)  𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑃1.00𝑥 + 25
where: 𝑥 = number of 500m distances traveled and 𝑓(𝑥) = amount due

25,000𝑚
(b) In 25 km, there are fifty 500-m from = 50
500𝑚
Hence, when 𝑥 = 50, 𝑓(𝑥) = 25 + 50(𝑃1.00) = 𝑃75.00

25,000𝑚
In 38 km, there are seventy-six 500-m from = 76
500𝑚

Hence, when 𝑥 = 76, 𝑓(𝑥) = 25 + 76(𝑃1.00) = 𝑃101.00

Example 4. Find the three consecutive odd integers such that their sum is 237.
Solution:
Let 𝑥 – first integer Equation: 𝑥 + 𝑥 + 2 + 𝑥 + 4 = 237
𝑥 + 2 – second integer 3𝑥 + 6 = 237
𝑥 + 4 – third integer 3𝑥 = 231
𝑥 = 77
Therefore, the three consecutive odd integers are 77,79,81

ANSWERS TO PRE-TEST IN MODULE 1

1. b 4. b 7. d 10. a 13. c
2. d 5. d 8. a 11. b 14. d
3. c 6. d 9. d 12. b 15. A

MODULE 2: Rational Functions

After going through this module, you are expected to:

1. define a rational function;
2. identify situations that model rational function;
3. write an equation representing situations that model rational function;
4. distinguish rational function, rational equation and rational inequality;
5. solve rational equations and inequalities;
6. represent rational functions through table of values, graph and equation; and
7. find the domain and range of rational function

12
PRE-TEST Multiple Choice. Choose the letter of the best answer.
1. Which of the following is not an example of rational function?
1−𝑥 4 𝑥
a) 𝑓(𝑥 ) = b) 𝑓(𝑥 ) = 𝑥 c) 𝑓(𝑥 ) = 2−𝑥 d) none of these
𝑥
2. A motorcycle travels a distance of 80 meters. Express velocity v as a
function of travel time t, in seconds.
80 𝑡
a) 𝑣 = b) 𝑣 = 80 c) 𝑣 = 80𝑡 d) 𝑣 = 80𝑡
𝑡
3. Which of the following relationships of physical quantities can be modeled
by rational function?
a) The circumference of a circle related to its radius.
b) The child’s dose related to his age taking adult’s dose to be constant.
c) The voltage form a source related to the current flowing in a wire.
d) The weight related to amount of food intake.
For items 4 to 6, identify whether the given mathematical statement is a
Rational Function, Rational Equation, Rational Inequality or None of these.
Choices are provided inside the box. Write the chosen letter on a separate
sheet of paper.

A. Rational Function C. Rational Inequality

B. Rational Equation D. None of these
4 22 1
4. 2+𝑥 = 7 5. 𝑓(𝑥 ) = 𝑥 6. 1 − 𝑥 > 2𝑥
14
7. Which of the following is a solution of the equation 2+𝑥 = 7?
a) 3 b) 0 c) 4 d) 6
1
8. Which of the following is NOT a solution to the inequality 1 − 𝑥 > 2𝑥 ?
a) -3 b) -1 c) 2 d) -2
9. Which rational function is represented by the table of values below?
Which rational function is represented by the table of values below?
x 1 2 3 -1 -2
𝒇(𝒙) 3 4 5 1 0
5 6 7
3
2𝑥 4𝑥 2𝑥 2+𝑥
a) 𝑓(𝑥 ) = 4+𝑥 b) 𝑓(𝑥 ) = 2𝑥+1 c) 𝑓(𝑥 ) = 2+𝑥 d) 𝑓 (𝑥 ) = 4+𝑥
2𝑥
10. What value of x in 𝑓(𝑥 ) = will make the function undefined?
2+𝑥
a) 0 b) -2 c) 2 d) -1

13
LESSON 1: RATIONAL FUNCTIONS
Rational function is just one of the many functions that can model relationships
of physical quantities or variables dealt in different fields. Some real world
applications of rational functions are electronic circuitry and optics (physics),
spectroscopy (chemistry), concentration of drugs (medicine) and a lot more. In this
module, discussion of key concepts of rational functions is of concern.

In Grade 8 mathematics, you learned about rational algebraic expression,

𝑝(𝑥)
p(x) an expression of the form 𝑞(𝑥) where p(x) and q(x) are both polynomials. As a
sort of review about rational algebraic expression, do the following activity.
Given a certain value of x, determine the value of the rational algebraic
expression:
𝑥 𝑥+1
1.) 𝑥−2 ; 𝑥 = −2 2. 𝑥 ; 𝑥 = 1
3 𝑥−4
2.) 𝑥2 −𝑥+1; 𝑥 = −1 4. 𝑥2 +6𝑥−5; 𝑥 = 2

There are a lot of situations in real-life that are modelled by rational

functions. To help you understand the concept about rational function,
consider this situation and then do the accompanying activity.
The local barangay received a budget of P100,000 to provide medical
checkups for the children in the barangay. The amount is to be alloted
equally among the children in the barangay.
1. Fill-up the table below with the different allotment amounts for different
values for the number of children:
No. of Children (x) 10 20 50 100 200 500 1000
Alloted Amount (y)

2. Write an equation representing the relationship of the allotted amount per

child (y-variable) versus the total number of children (x-variable).

1.1 Definition of Rational Function

𝑝(𝑥)
A rational function is a function of the form 𝑓(𝑥 ) = , where 𝑝(𝑥)
𝑞(𝑥)
and 𝑞(𝑥) are polynomial function and 𝑞(𝑥) is not the zero function
(i.e.𝑞(𝑥) ≠ 0). The domain of 𝑓(𝑥) is the set of all values of x where
𝑞(𝑥) ≠ 0.

14
 Example 1. A Car is to travel a distance of 20 meters. Express velocity v as
a function of travel time t, in seconds.
Solution: The following table of values show v for various values of t.
t (seconds) 1 2 4 5 10
v (meters per second) 20 10 5 4 2
20
The function 𝑣(𝑡) = can represent v as a function of t.
𝑡
Example 2. A fence is to enclose a rectangular vegetable farm with an area
of 400 square meters. If x is the length of one side of this fence, find a
function P(x) representing the perimeter of the fencing material required.
Solution: The following table of values show P(x) for various values of x.
x 2 10 20 50 100 200
P(x) 404 100 80 116 208 404
2𝑥 2 +800
The function 𝑝(𝑥 ) = can represent v as a function of t.
𝑥

1.2 Rational Function, Rational Equation and Rational Inequality

If fractions are studied in arithmetic and are frequently used in everyday
life, rational expressions must equally be studied because of its usefulness
in all fields to which algebra is applied. The comparison of rational equations,
inequalities, and functions are shown below.
Rational Rational
Rational Function
Equation Inequality
Definition An equation An Inequality A function of the form 𝑓(𝑥 ) =
𝑝(𝑥)
𝑞(𝑥)
involving involving
rational rational where 𝑝(𝑥) and 𝑞(𝑥) are polynomial
expressions. expression functions and q(x) is not the zero function.
To help you distinguish the difference among the Rational Function,
Rational Equation, and Rational Inequality, observe these examples:

(because the expression involves radicals)

15
 A rational equation or inequality can be solved for all x values that satisfy the
equation or inequality. A rational function expresses a relationship between two
variables (such as x and y), and can be represented by a table of values or a graph.

1.3 Solving Rational Rational Equation and Rational Inequality

To solve an equation or inequality in one variable as x means to find
all values of x for which the equation or inequality is true.

Procedure for Solving Rational Equations:

a) Eliminate denominators by multiplying each term of the equation by the least
common denominator.
b) Note that eliminating denominators may introduce extraneous solutions.
Check the solutions of the transformed equations with the original equation.

16
 Procedure for Solving Rational Inequalities:
a) Rewrite the inequality as a single rational expression on one side of the
inequality symbol and 0 on the other side.
b) Determine over what intervals the rational expression takes on positive and
negative values.
1) Locate the x values for which the rational expression is zero or undefined
(factoring the numerator and denominator is a useful strategy).
2) Mark the numbers found in (i) on a number line. Use a shaded circle to
indicate that the value is included in the solution set, and a hollow circle to indicate
that the value is excluded. These numbers partition the number line into intervals.
3) Select a test point within the interior of each interval in (ii). The sign of the
rational expression at this point is also the sign of the rational expression at each
interior point in the aforementioned interval.
4) Summarize the intervals containing the solutions.
Interval and Set Notation
An inequality may have infinitely many solutions. The set of all solutions can
be expressed using set notation or interval notation. These notations are
presented in the table below:
interval Set notation graph
(𝑎, 𝑏) {𝑥 |𝑎 < 𝑥 < 𝑏}
[𝑎, 𝑏] {𝑥 |𝑎 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 𝑏}
[𝑎, 𝑏) {𝑥 |𝑎 ≤ 𝑥 < 𝑏}
(𝑎, 𝑏] {𝑥 |𝑎 < 𝑥 ≤ 𝑏}
(𝑎, ∞) {𝑥 |𝑎 < 𝑥 }
[𝑎, ∞) {𝑥 |𝑎 ≤ 𝑥 }
(−∞, 𝑏) {𝑥 |𝑥 < 𝑏}
(−∞, 𝑏] {𝑥 |𝑥 ≤ 𝑏}
(−∞, ∞) ℝ (𝑠𝑒𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑙 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟𝑠)
Solutions to inequalities in this module will be represented using set notation.
2𝑥
Example 1: Solve the inequality 𝑥+1 ≥ 1.
Solution:
a) Rewrite the inequality as a single rational expression.
2𝑥 2𝑥 2𝑥−(𝑥+1) 𝑥−1
≥ 1 𝑥+1 − 1 ≥ 0  ≥0 ≥0
𝑥+1 𝑥+1 𝑥+1
b) The rational expression will be zero for x = 1 and undefined for x = -1. The
value x = 1 is included while x = -1 is not. Mark these on the number line. Use
a shaded circle for x = 1 (a solution and an unshaded circle for x = -1(not a
solution).

-1 1

17
c) Choose the convenient test points in the intervals determined by -1 and 1
𝑥−1
to determine the sign of 𝑥+1 in these intervals. Construct a table of signs as
shown below.

Interval 𝑥 < −1 −1 < 𝑥 < 1 𝑥>1

Test Point 𝑥 = −2 𝑥=0 𝑥=2
𝑥−1 - - +
𝑥+1 - + +
𝑥−1 + - +
𝑥+1
d) Since we are looking for the intervals where the rational expression is
positive or zero, we determine the solution to be the set
{𝑥𝜖ℛ|𝑥 < −1 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 ≥ 1}. Plot this set on the number line.

3 1
Example 2. Solve the inequality −𝑥<0
𝑥−2
Solution:
a. Rewrite the inequality with zero on one side.
3 1 3𝑥−(𝑥−2) 2𝑥+2 2(𝑥+1)
−𝑥 <0  <0  <0  <0
𝑥−2 𝑥(𝑥−2) 𝑥(𝑥−2) 𝑥(𝑥−2)
b. The rational expression will be zero for x = -1 and undefined for 0 and 2. Plot
these points on a number line. Use hollow circles since these values are not part
of the solution.

c. Construct a table of signs to determine the sign of the function in each interval
determined by -1, 0 and 2.
Interval 𝑥 < −1 −1 < 𝑥 < 1 0<𝑥<2 𝑥>2
Test Point 𝑥 = −2 𝑥=-½ 𝑥=1 𝑥=3
2(𝑥 + 1) - + + +
𝑥 - - + +
𝑥−2 - - - +
2(𝑥 + 1) - + - +
𝑥(𝑥 − 2)
d. Summarize the intervals satisfying the inequality. The solution set of the
inequality is the set {{𝑥 ∈ ℝ|𝑥 < −1 𝑜𝑟 0 < 𝑥 < 2}} Plot this set on the
number line.

18
1.4 Rational Function Represented as Table of Values, Graph and Equation
Rational Functions can be represented in three ways, namely: a table of
values, an equation, and a graph.

Example Consider a 100-meter track used for foot races. Represent the
speed of a runner as a function of the time it takes to run 100 meters in the
track through (a) equation, (b) table of values and (c) graph.
a. Equation
Solution. Since the speed of a runner depends on the time it takes to run 100
meters, we can represent speed as a function of time.
Let x represent the time it takes to run 100 meters. Then the speed can be
100
represented as a function 𝒔(𝒙) as follows: 𝑠(𝑥 ) = 𝑥
𝑑
Observe that it is similar to the structure of the formula 𝑠 = relating speed,
𝑡
distance, and time.

b. Table of Values
Solution. A table of values can help us determine the behavior of a function
as the variable changes.
Let x be the runtime and 𝒔(𝒙) be the speed of the runner in meters per
100
second, where 𝑠(𝑥 ) = . The table of values for run times from 10
𝑥
x 10 12 14 16 18 20
seconds to 20 seconds is as follows:
s(x) 10 8.33 7.14 6.25 5.56 5
From the table we can observe that the speed decreases with time.

c. Graph
Plot the points on the table of values on a Cartesian plane. Determine if the points
100
on the function 𝑠(𝑥 ) = 𝑥 follow a smooth curve or a straight line.
Solution. Assign points on the Cartesian plane for each entry on the table of
values above:
A(10,10) B(12,8.33) C(14, 7.14) D(16, 6.25) E(18,5.56) F(20,5)
Plot these points on the Cartesian plane:
y

1
2
1
08

6
4
2
-4 -2 0 2 4 6 8 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 X
-2 0 2 4 6 8 0 2

Figure 1
19
 By connecting the points, we can see that they are not collinear but rather
follows a smooth curve.
y

12

10

-4 -2 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 X

-2

Figure 2

For the 100-meter dash scenario, we have constructed a function of speed

against time, and represented our function with a table of values and a graph.
The previous example is based on a real world scenario and has limitations on the
values of the x-variable. For example, a runner cannot have negative time (which
would mean he is running backwards in time!), nor can he exceed the limits of
human physiology (can a person run 100-meters in 5 seconds?). However, we can
apply the skills of constructing tables of values and plotting graphs to observe the
behavior of rational functions.
𝑥−1
Example2. Represent the rational function given by 𝑓 (𝑥 ) = 𝑥+1 using a table of
values and plot a graph of the function by connecting points.
Solution. Since we are now considering functions in general, we can find function
values across more values of x. Let us construct a table of values for some x-values
from 10 to 10:
x -10 -8 -6 -4 -2 0 2 4 6 8 10
f(x) 1.22 1.29 1.4 1.67 3 -1 0.33 0.6 0.71 0.78 0.82

Let us attempt to get a better picture by plotting the points on a Cartesian

plane and connecting the points.
y

4
B C D E
A 2 G H I J K
-10 -8 -6 -4 -2 0 4 6 8 10 12 X
F
-2

-4

-6

Figure 3

Observe that the function will be undefined at x -1. This means that there
cannot be a line connecting point E and point F as this implies that there is a
point in the graph of the function where x -1. This means that x-1 is a vertical

20
asymptote, where the graph of the function will never cross or touch but will
tend to get closer and closer without bound.

Figure 5:

1.5 Domain and Range of Rational Function

𝑃(𝑥)
The domain of a rational function 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑄(𝑥) is all values of x that will not
make the 𝑄(𝑥) equal to zero. To find the domain of the Rational Function,
set the denominator equal to zero and solve for x.
The range of a rational function are all the possible resulting values of the
dependent variables after we have substituted the domain.
To find the Range of the Rational Function:
(a) Find the Inverse of the Function
(b) Find the Domain of the Inverse Function
(c) State the Range.

1
Example 1: Find the domain and range of 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥.
To find the Domain:
𝑥 ≠ 0. → The Denominator cannot be equal to zero
𝐷(𝑓): {𝑥 ∈ ℝ|𝑥 ≠ 0} → Read as The Domain of function is x is an
element of all real number such that x is not
equal to zero.
To find the Range:
1
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 → Step 1: Find the inverse of the rational function.
1
𝑦=𝑥 → Change f(x) to y

1
𝑥=𝑦 → Interchange x and y

21
 1
(𝑦)𝑥 = (𝑦) → Solve for y in term of x.
𝑦
𝑥𝑦 1 1
𝑥𝑦 = 1  =𝑥  𝑦=𝑥
𝑥

1
𝑓 −1 = 𝑥 → This is the inverse function

𝑥≠0 → Step 2: Find the Domain of the Inverse Function

𝐷(𝑓−1): {𝑥 ∈ ℝ|𝑥 ≠ 0} → Domain of the inverse function
𝑅 (𝑓): {𝑦 ∈ ℝ|𝑦 ≠ 0} → Step 3: State the Range of the function.
Note: The Domain of the Inverse Function is the
Range of the Original Function.
𝑥+2
Example 2: Find the domain and range of 𝑓(𝑥) =𝑥−2
To find the Domain:
𝑥−2≠0 → The Denominator cannot be
equal to
zero
𝑥≠2
𝐷(𝑓): {𝑥 ∈ ℝ|𝑥 ≠ 2} → Read as The Domain of function
is x is an
element of all real number such
that x is
not equal to two.

To find the Range:

𝑥+2
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥−2 → Step 1: Find the inverse of the rational function.

𝑥+2
𝑦 = 𝑥−2 → Change f(x) to y

𝑦+2
𝑥 = 𝑦−2 → Interchange x and y
𝑦+2
(𝑦 − 2)𝑥 = 𝑦−2(𝑦 − 2) → Solve for y in term of x
y(x − 1) 2x + 2
𝑥𝑦 − 2𝑥 = 𝑦 + 2  𝑥𝑦 − 𝑦 = 2𝑥 + 2  𝑦(𝑥 − 1) = 2𝑥 + 2  =
𝑥−1 𝑥−1
2x + 2 2x + 2
 𝑦=  𝑓 −1 = → This is the inverse function.
𝑥−1 𝑥−1

22
 𝑥−1≠0 → Step 2: Find the Domain of the Inverse Function
𝑥≠1
𝐷(𝑓−1): {𝑥 ∈ ℝ|𝑥 ≠ 1} → Domain of the inverse function
𝑅(𝑓): {𝑦 ∈ ℝ|𝑦 ≠ 1} → Step 3: State the Range of the function.
Note: The Domain of the Inverse Function is the Range of the Original Function.

ANSWERS TO PRE-TEST IN MODULE 2

1. d 3. b 5. a 7. b 9. d
2. a 4. b 6. c 8. c 10. b

MODULE 3: Rational Functions

After going through this module, you are expected to:
1. determine the intercepts of rational function;
2. determine the zeroes of rational function;
3. determine the asymptotes of rational functions;
4. define rational functions, rational equations and rational inequalities; and
5. solve problems involving rational functions, equations and inequalities.

Pre-Test. Choose the letter of the best answer.

1. Point/s where the graph of the rational function intersects the x- or y-axis.
a) zero b) intercept c) domain d) asymptote
2. Zeroes are also known as ____________________________ of functions.
a) x-intercepts b) roots c) solutions d) all of the above
3. Given the polynomial function 𝑝(𝑥) = 12 + 4𝑥 − 3𝑥2 − 𝑥3, what is the degree of
polynomial?
a) 4 b) 3 c) 2 d)1
4. The values of x which make the function zero.
a) range b) zeroes c) domain d) asymptote
5. The real numbered zeroes are also _____________ of the graph of the function.
a) x-intercepts b) range c) y-intercepts d) asymptote
𝑝(𝑥)
6. A function of the form 𝑓(𝑥 ) = 𝑞(𝑥) where p(x) and q(x) are polynomial functions
and is q(x) not the zero polynomial.
a) Rational function c) Quadratic function
b) Exponential function d) Linear function
23
7. Which of the following is a rational function?
2+𝑥 𝑥 2 +2𝑥+3 7
a) 𝑥−1 = 8 b) 𝑥 > √𝑥 + 2 c) 𝑓(𝑥 ) = d) 2𝑥 ≥ 𝑥+4
𝑥+1
8. If the graph of function either increases or decreases without bound as the
x-values approach a from the right or left, the line is called
a) vertical asymptote b) x – axis c) horizontal asymptote d) y - axis
9. If the degrees of the numerator (n) is less than the degrees of the denominator
(m), y = 0 is
a) vertical asymptote c) zero of the function
b) horizontal asymptote d) y- intercept

10. The x- and y-intercept is

a) -2 and 1 b) 2 and -1 c) 2 and 1 d) -2 and -1
11. The vertical asymptote is
a) x = -2 b) x = 2 c) y = -2 d) y = 2
12. What is the horizontal asymptote of the given function?
a) y = -1 b) y = 1 c. y = 2 d) y = -2
13. What are the zero/es of given function?
a) x = - 1 b) y = - 1 c. x = 2 d) y = -2
4𝑥 2 +4𝑥+1
14. The following best describes the function 𝑓 = EXCEPT,
𝑥 2 +3𝑥+2
a) horizontal asymptote is y = 4
b) the x-intercepts and zeroes are the same
c) x = -1 and x = -2 are vertical asymptotes
d) the degree of numerator (n) is greater than the denominator (m)
15. Let n be the degree of the numerator and m be the degree of the denominator.
If n > m,
𝑎
a) there is no horizontal asymptote c) horizontal asymptote is 𝑦 = 𝑏
b) horizontal asymptote is y = 0 d) a and b
24
LESSON 1: INTERCEPTS, ZEROES AND ASYMPTOTES OF RATIONAL
FUNCTIONS
In the previous lesson, we have learned the process of finding the domain and
range of rational functions. Understanding the key concepts of domain and range
is very essential as we proceed to this topic. In this module, we will determine the
intercepts, zeroes and asymptotes of rational functions which are mainly the
process in graphing rational functions. Furthermore, rational expressions and
equations are also useful tools for representing real life situations like in describing
distance-speed time questions and modelling multi-person work problems. With
this, we can be able to analyze and interpret real life problems involving rational
functions algebraically and graphically.
Let us start our study of this module by reviewing first the concepts of finding
the domain and range of rational functions.
𝑥−2
Find the domain and range of the function 𝑓(𝑥 ) = 𝑥+2. Algebraically, we get
the following;
a) The domain of f (x) is {𝑥 ∈ 𝑹|𝑥 ≠ −2}.
Observe that the function is undefined at x= -2. This means that x= -2 is not
part of the domain of f (x). In addition, no other values of x will make the
function undefined.
b) The range of f (x) is {𝑦 ∈ 𝑹|𝑦 ≠ 1}
We should know that the range of the function is the same as the domain of
−2𝑥−2
its inverse. Operationally, we get 𝑓 −1 (𝑥 ) = 𝑥−1 . This means that the
function is undefined in y =1.
On the other hand, the domain of a rational function includes all real numbers
except those that cause the denominator to equal zero.
What are the values of x that will make the function zero?
What is the function value when x = 0?

Setting Boundaries
𝑥−2
Directions: Locate the points which makes the function f (x)= 𝑥+2 undefined.
Draw a vertical broken line for x = -2 and a horizontal broken line for y =1. What do
you observe? What will happen if we extend the graph? Identify the point/s where
the graph of the rational function intersects the x- or y-axis. What are these points?

25
 y-axis

x-axis

Source: https://www.desmos.com/calculato
r

Figure 1

The vertical broken line and the horizontal line serves as boundaries to which
a function's graph draws closer without touching it.
As x approaches -2 from the left and from the right, the graph gets closer and
closer to the line 𝑥 = −2.
As x increases or decreases without bound, f(x) gets closer and closer to 1.
That is the line y=1.
The point where the graph of the rational function intersects the x-axis is (2,0).
This represents the value of x that will make the function zero.
In addition, point (0, -1) intersects the y-axis. This represents the function value
when x = 0.

Intercepts of Rational Function

Definition. An intercept of a rational function is a point where the graph of the
rational function intersects the x- or y-axis.

There are two ways in determining the intercepts of rational functions.

𝑥−2
Example 1: Let’s consider the given function 𝑓(𝑥 ) = 𝑥+2.

a. Algebraically, we do the following.

26
 b. Graphically, we will just locate points where the graph of the rational
function intersects the x- or y-axis. We have done it earlier in figure 1 so it
would be better if we label it on the graph below.
y - axis

x - intercept

(2 , 0)

x - axis
(0 , - 1)
y - intercept

Source : https://www.desmos.com/calculato r
F igure 2

Zeroes of Rational Function

Definition.
Zeroes are also known as x-intercepts, solutions or roots of functions. The zeroes
of a function are the values of x which make the function zero. The real numbered
zeroes are also x-intercepts of the graph of the function.
𝑥−2
In this case, the numerator x – 2 in the function 𝑓(𝑥 ) = will be zero at x = 2.
𝑥+2
Therefore, x = 2 is a zero of f(x). Since it is a real zero, it is also an x-intercept.
Finally, we can express our answer as x = 2 or (2, 0).

Asymptotes of Rational Function

Definition.
An asymptote is a line or curve to which a function's graph draws closer
without touching it. Functions cannot cross a vertical asymptote, and they usually
approach horizontal asymptotes in their end behavior (i.e. as 𝑥 → ±∞)

Vertical Asymptote
Definition
The vertical line x = a is a vertical asymptote of a function 𝑓 if the graph
of 𝑓 either increases or decreases without bound as the x-values approach 𝑎
from the right or left.
27
 We can find vertical asymptotes of rational function by simply following these
steps.
a) Equating the denominator to zero.
b) Solving for x.
𝑝(𝑥)
In other words, if f (x)= . Then settingq(x) 0, will give the vertical
𝑞(𝑥)
asymptote(s).
𝑥−2
Thus, in 𝑓(𝑥 ) = 𝑥+2 , vertical asymptote is x = -2.

The vertical broken line you have drawn in figure 1 is the vertical asymptote which
serves as boundaries to which a function's graph draws closer without touching it.
As x approaches -2 from the left and from the right, the graph gets closer and
closer to the line x=-2. Moreover, a vertical asymptote represents a value at which
a rational function is undefined. So, the domain defines the vertical asymptote of
the function.

Horizontal Asymptote
Definition
The horizontal line y = b is a horizontal asymptote of the function f if 𝑓(𝑥)
gets closer to 𝑏 as x increases or decreases without bound (𝑥 → ±∞).

There are three possible conditions in determining horizontal asymptote(s) of a

rational function.
Let n be the degree of the numerator and m be the degree of the denominator:

a) If n < m, the horizontal asymptote is y = 0.

b) If n = m, the horizontal asymptote is y a , where a is the leading coefficient 𝑏
of the numerator and b is the leading coefficient of the denominator.
c) If n > m, there is no horizontal asymptote.
𝑥−2
The function 𝑓(𝑥 ) = satisfies the second condition. We have
𝑥+2
𝑎 1
𝑦 = 𝑏 = 1, therefore horizontal asymptote is y = 1.
The horizontal broken line you have drawn in figure 1 is the horizontal
asymptote which serves as boundaries to which a function's graph draws closer
without touching it.

28
 As x increases or decreases without bound, f(x) gets closer and closer to. That
is the line y=1. Moreover, the range defines the horizontal asymptote of the function.
The graph below will show us the intercepts, zeroes and asymptotes of
𝑥−2
𝑓(𝑥 ) = 𝑥+2.

y-axis

HORIZONTAL ASYMPTOTE, y=1

(2, 0) x-axis
(0 ,-1)

Source: https://www.desmos.com/calculator

Figure 3
Example 2:
Determine the (a) intercepts, (b) zeroes, and (c) asymptotes of rational function of
𝑥 2 −4
𝑓(𝑥 ) = 𝑥2 −16.
Solutions:

29
Example 3: Determine the (a) intercepts, (b) zeroes, and (c) asymptotes of rational
function
Solutions:

30
 Determining the intercepts, zeroes and asymptotes of rational functions are
mainly the process in graphing rational functions. We will not be sketching the graph
as it will be discussed in the next module. However, if graphs are given, we can
determine these values as we have done in the beginning.

LESSON 2: PROBLEMS INVOLVING RATIONAL FUNCTIONS, EQUATIONS,

AND INEQUALITIES

Definition: A rational expression can be described as a function where either

the numerator, denominator, or both have a variable on it.

Some examples of rational expressions:

𝑥 2 +2𝑥+3
1. (It is a ratio of two polynomials)
𝑥+1
5
2. (The numerator 5 is a polynomial of degree 0)
𝑥−3

𝑥 2 +4𝑥−3
3. (Rational expression which is also a polynomial)
2
1 1
4. 𝑥+2 (The expression is equal to (𝑥+2)(𝑥−2) so it is a rational expression)
𝑥−2

Definition. A rational equation is an equation involving rational expressions.

To solve a rational equation:
a) Eliminate denominators by multiplying each term of the equation by the
least common denominator or LCD.
b) Note that eliminating denominators may introduce extraneous solutions.
Check the solutions of the transformed equations with the original equation.

2 3 1
Example 1. Solve for x : 𝑥 − 2𝑥 = 5

2 3 1
Solution. 𝟏𝟎𝒙(𝑥 − 2𝑥) = 5 (10𝑥)Multiply both sides by the LCD 10𝑥.

2 3 1
(10𝑥) − (10𝑥) = (10𝑥) Distribute.
𝑥 2𝑥 5

20 − 15 = 2𝑥 Simplify, and then solve.

5
𝑥=2
5
Note: Check your answer by substituting for 𝑥 to see if you obtain a true statement.
2
31
 Definition.
A rational inequality is an inequality involving rational expressions.

3𝑥−10
Example 1. Solve the inequality > 2.
𝑥−4
Solution. Rewrite the inequality as a single rational expression. Bring 2 to the left.
3𝑥−10
−2>0
𝑥−4
3𝑥−10 𝑥−4 𝑥−4
− 2 (𝑥−4) > 0 multiply 2 by 𝑥−4
𝑥−4

3𝑥−10 2(𝑥−4)
− >0 Simplify.
𝑥−4 𝑥−4
3𝑥−10−2𝑥+8
>0
𝑥−4
𝑥−2
>0
𝑥−4
0
At 𝑥 = 2, we have > 0 which is 𝑎 = 0 point
𝑥−4
𝑥−2
At 𝑥 = 4, we have > 0, which is undefined.
0
Choose convenient test points in the intervals determined by 2 and 4 to determine
𝑥−2
the sign of 𝑥−4 in these intervals. Construct a table of signs as shown below.
Test Point 𝑥=0 𝑥=2 𝑥=3 𝑥=4 𝑥=5
x-2 - + +
x-4 - - +
(x-2)(x-4) + - undefined +

Since we are looking for the intervals where the rational expression is positive, we
determine the solution set to be .
2𝑥
Example 2. Solve the inequality 𝑥+1 ≥ 1.
Solution. Rewrite the inequality as a single rational expression.
2𝑥 2𝑥−(𝑥+1) 𝑥−1
−1≥0  ≥0  ≥0
𝑥+1 𝑥+1 𝑥+1

The rational expression will be zero for 𝑥 = 1 and undefined for 𝑥 = −1.
The value 𝑥 = 1 is included while 𝑥 = −1 is not. Use a shaded circle for 𝑥 = 1 (a
solution) and unshaded circle for 𝑥 = −1 (not a solution).

32
Choose convenient test points in the intervals determined by -1 and 1 to determine
𝑥−1
the sign of 𝑥+1 in these intervals. Construct a table of signs as shown below.
𝐼𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑣𝑎𝑙 𝑥 < −1 −1 < 𝑥 < 1 𝑥>1
𝑇𝑒𝑠𝑡 𝑥 = −2 𝑥=0 𝑥=2
𝑃𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡
𝑥−1 - - +
𝑥+1 - + +
𝑥−1
+ - +
𝑥+1
Since we are looking for the intervals where the rational expression is positive
or zero, we determine the solution to be the set 𝑅|𝑥 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 . It can also be
written using interval notation: .
Rational Function
Definition.
𝑝(𝑥)
A rational function is a function of the form 𝑓(𝑥)𝑞(𝑥) where 𝑝(𝑥)and 𝑞(𝑥)
are polynomial functions and 𝑞 is a nonzero polynomial. The domain of
𝑓(𝑥) is all values of 𝑥 where 𝑞(𝑥) ≠ 0.

10
Example 1. Given 𝑓(𝑥) =𝑥−3
a) Construct a table of values using the numbers from -2 to 8.
b) Plot the points in the Cartesian plane and determine whether the points form a
smooth curve or a straight line.

Solution.
(a)
𝑥 -2 -1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
- -
f(x) -2 .25 3.3 -5 -10 Und. 10 5 3.3 2.5 2

(b) Connecting the points, we get the following graph which forms two different
smooth curves.

33
Example 2. (It would be introduced in an another way of solving inequalities).
3𝑥+6
Sketch the graph of 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥−1
6
Solution. The 𝑦-intercept is 𝑓(0) = −1 = −6 (0, −6)
The 𝑥-intercepts will be, 3𝑥 + 6 = 0
𝑥 = −2 (−2,0)
Now, we need to determine the asymptotes.
For the vertical asymptote, we have 𝑥 − 1 = 0. So, 𝑥 = 1.
3
For the horizontal asymptote, we have, 𝑦 = 1 = 3.
Since the 𝑥 and 𝑦 intercepts are already in the left region, we won’t need to get any
points there. That means, we’ll just get a point in the right region. Say, 𝑥 = 2.
3(2)+6 12
𝑓(2) = = = 12 (2,12)
2−1 1
Plotting these points on the graph, we get the following.

The definition of rational equations, inequalities and functions are summarized

below.
Rational Rational
Equation Inequality Rational Function
Definition An equation An inequality A function of the form 𝑓(𝑥)=
involving involving 𝑝(𝑥)
where 𝑝(𝑥) and 𝑞(𝑥) are
rational rational 𝑞(𝑥)

expressions. expressions. polynomial functions and 𝑞(𝑥)

is a nonzero functio .
2 3 1 5 2 𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 + 3
Example − = ≤ 𝑓(𝑥 ) =
𝑥 2𝑥 5 𝑥−3 𝑥 𝑥+1

A rational equation or inequality can be solved for all 𝑥 values that satisfy the
equation or inequality. Whereas we solve an equation or inequality, we do not
“solve" functions. Rather, a function (and in particular, a rational function) expresses
a relationship between two variables (such as 𝑥 and 𝑦), and can be represented by
a table of values or a graph.
34
ANSWERS TO PRE-TEST IN MODULE 3:
1. B 4. B 7. B 10. B 13. B
2. D 5. A 8. A 11. A 14. D
3. B 6. A 9. B 12. B 15. A

MODULE 4: Inverse Function

After going through this module, you are expected to:
1. represent real-life situations using one-to one functions;
2. determine the inverse of a one-to-one function;
3. illustrate the inverse of a function using table of values and graph;
4. determine the domain and range of inverse functions; and
5. solve problems involving inverse functions.

Pre-Test. Multiple Choice. Choose the letter of the best answer.

1. Which of the following ordered pairs represents one to one functions.
a) (0,2)(1,2)(2,2) b) (-2,0)(-2,1)(-2,-2) c) (0,1)(1,2)(2,3) d) (0,3)(1,3)(2,6)
2. One to one function crosses a horizontal line ______ time/s.
a) 0 b) 1 c) 2 d) infinitely many
3. All of the following are one to one functions, EXCEPT:
a) 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 b) 𝑓(𝑥) = 1 c) 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 − 1 d) 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 + 1
4. Complete the statement: A function is one to one if:
a) exactly one element in the domain corresponds to exactly one element in
the range.
b) there are two elements in the domain match with element in the range.
c) in every element in domain there corresponds two elements in the range.
d) many domain and many range.
5. Complete the statement: (-1,2) (1,2) (2,2) is:
a) one to one b) one to many c) many to one d) many to many
6. The inverse of 𝑓−1(𝑥) is ________.
a) 𝑥 b) 1 c) 𝑓−1(𝑥) d) 𝑓(𝑥)
7. 𝑓−1(𝑓(𝑥)) = _______ for all 𝑥 in the domain of 𝑓.
a) y b) x c) 1 d) 0
8. A function with an inverse is described to be _________________.
a) one-to-many b) one-to-one c) many-to-one d) many-to-many
9. Complete the statement: The inverse of a one-to-one function can be
interpreted as the same function ___, that is, it is a function from a y-value back
to its corresponding x-value.
a) but in the same direction c) but in the opposite direction
b) but in the same value d) but in the same value
35
10. What is the result if a function that is not one-to-one is inverted?
a) not a function b) a function c) a relation d) not a relation
11. What is the implication of a function satisfying the horizontal line test?
a) It indicates that the function is linear.
b) It indicates that the given is a one-to-one function.
c) It indicates that the function does not satisfy the vertical line test.
d) It indicates that different x values of the function can have exactly the same
corresponding y values.
12. Which of the following are one-to-one functions?
a) Books to their authors c) People to family names.
b) SIM cards to digits in cell phone numbers d) True or False questions to answers
13. Which of the following is the inverse of the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 − 5?
2 5
a) 𝑓 −1 (𝑥 ) = 𝑥+5 c) 𝑓 −1 (𝑥 ) = 𝑥+2
𝑥+5 𝑥
b) 𝑓 −1 (𝑥 ) = d) 𝑓 −1 (𝑥 ) = 𝑥+2
2
14. What is the result if a function that is not one-to-one is inverted?
a) not a function b) a function c) a relation d) not a relation
15. Find the domain of this set of data. {(1,2), (3,4), (5,6), (7,8) }
a) { 2, 4, 6, 8} b) { 1, 3, 5, 7 } c) { 1, 2, 3, 4 } d) { 5, 6, 7, 8 }

LESSON 1: REPRESENTING REAL-LIFE SITUATIONS USING ONE-TO-ONE

FUNCTIONS
Have you ever asked yourself how your height and weight predict your BMI
(Body Mass Index)? How does the power consumption affect the electric bill?
How does the number of studying hours affect your grade? This module will
discuss further how to determine one to one functions and its application in real
life situations. Group the following objects in such a way that they have common
properties/characteristics.
Triangle guava circle
Pineapple crayons eraser
Apple rectangle durian
Pencil book yellow pad
Oval banana square
Shapes Fruits School Supplies

36
Form some ordered pairs using the format:
a. Column 1 ______________________________________________
b. Column 2 ______________________________________________
c. Column 3 ______________________________________________
Questions:
1. How many objects can be found in each column?
2. How did you classify the objects?
3. Based on the coordinates you have formulated, is there a repetition of the first
coordinates? What about the second coordinates?

Representing Relations!
Given a table, you will be able to learn how to make a set of ordered pairs.

FOODS (x) DRINKS (y)

Camote Que Calamansi Juice
Banana Que Pineapple Juice
Hotcake Mango Juice
Pandesal Apple Juice
Cheesebread Orange Juice
1. What are the set of ordered pairs?
2. What elements belongs to the first set? Second set?
3. Is there a repetition of the first coordinates? How about the second coordinates?
4. Does the ordered pairs represent a relation?
5. How is the relation represented?

Represents Real Life Situations using One to One Functions

The previous discussion shows that
-Rational function is a function that is a fraction and has the property that both its
numerator and denominator are polynomials. In other words, 𝑅(𝑥) is 𝑝(𝑥) a
𝑝(𝑥)
rational function if 𝑅(𝑥) =𝑞(𝑥) where 𝑝(𝑥) and 𝑞(𝑥) are both polynomials, and
𝑞(𝑥) ≠ 0.

Definition
The function f is one to one if for any 𝑥1, 𝑥2 in the domain of 𝑓 then 𝑓(𝑥1)≠ 𝑓(𝑥2).
That is the same 𝑦-value is never paired with two different 𝑥 values.

37
 Points to Remember:
A relation can be presented in many ways:
• Set of Ordered Pairs

• Mapping Diagram

• Table of Values

• Graph

• Rule/ Function

A relation has four types:

• One to one

• Many to one

• One to many

• Many to many; thus only one to one relation and many to one

relation represents a function.

Example 1: Suppose the Kidzoona charge in an hour play is Php 300. Your baby
brother wants to play in the said amusement.
Questions:
1. How much will you pay if your baby brother will play 1 hour? 2 hours? 3 hours?
How about 5 hours?
2. Based on your answer in item 1, write an ordered pair in the form (time, amount).
3. Make a rule/ function that represents the given relation.
4.Is the given relation a one to one function?
5. How are time consume in Kidzoona related to charge to be paid?

Solutions:
1. If the brother will play 1 hour the sister will pay Php 300, while if he will play 2
hours his sister will pay Php 600, moreover if he will play for 3 hours they will pay
Php 900.
2. Ordered pairs are: (1,300) (2,600) (3,900).
3. 𝑓(𝑥) = 300𝑥, thus 𝑥 represents the time spent in Kidzoona while f(x) represents
the total charge to be paid.
4. The relation is a one to one function since there exactly one element of f(x) in
every element of x.
5. The total amount to be paid depends on the time consumed in Kidzoona.

Example 2: Suppose you want to call your father by telephone. The charge of a
pay phone call is Php10 pesos for the first 2 minutes and an additional Php3 for
every additional minute or a half of it.

Answer the following:

1. How much will you pay if you call your father for 1 minute? 2 minutes? How
about 4 minutes?
38
2. Represent table of value of the given relation based on your answer in item 1.
3. Is the relation a one to one function? Why or why not?

Solutions:
1. If I will call my father for 1 minute I will pay Php10, if 2 minutes Php10 and if 4
minutes Php16.
2.
Number of minutes of phone call (x) 1 2 4
Total amount (f(x)) Php 10 Php 10 Php 16
3. The relation is not a one to one function since there is only one element of f(x)
in every element of x. Thus, it represents a many to one function.

LESSON 2: INVERSE OF ONE-TO-ONE FUNCTION

A function and its inverse can be described as the "DO" and the "UNDO"
functions. A function takes a starting value, performs some operation on this value,
and creates an output answer. The inverse function takes the output answer,
performs some operation on it, and arrives back at the original function's starting
value.

Inverting Functions
The previous discussion shows that
 if the x- and y-values of a one-to-one function are interchanged, the result is a
function, but
 if the x- and y-values of a function that is not one-to-one are inverted, the result
is no longer a function.
Definition
Let 𝑓 be a one-to-one function with domain 𝐴 and range 𝐵. Then the 𝑖𝑛𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑠𝑒 of
𝑓, denoted by 𝑓−1, is a function with domain 𝐵 and range 𝐴 defined by 𝑓−1(𝑦) = 𝑥
if and only if 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑦 for any 𝑦 in 𝐵.
A function has an inverse if and only if it is one-to-one.
As shown earlier, 'inverting' the x- and y-values of a function results in a
function if and only if the original function is one-to-one.

To find the inverse of a one-to-one function,

a) write the function in the form 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥);
b) interchange the x and y variables;
c) solve for y in terms of x. This is because we are interchanging the input and
output values of a function.

39
Example 1: Find the inverse of 𝑓(𝑥) = 3𝑥 + 1.
Solution:
𝑥−1 3𝑦 𝑥−1
𝑥 = 3𝑦 + 1 → 𝑥 = 3𝑦 + 1 → 𝑥 − 1 = 3𝑦 → = → =𝑦
3 3 3

𝑥−1
Therefore, the inverse of 𝒇(𝒙) = 𝟑𝒙 + 𝟏 is 𝑓 −1 (𝑥 ) = .
3
Questions:
1) What is the inverse of the inverse?
2) What is 𝑓(𝑓−1(𝑥))? How about 𝑓−1(𝑓(𝑥))?
To answer these questions, use Example 1 before proceeding to the next part.
Solve using a scratch paper and record the properties you observed.
𝑥−1
 To solve for the inverse of 𝑓 −1 (𝑥 ) = , we have 𝑓 −1 (𝑓 −1 (𝑥).
3
𝑥−1 𝑦−1 𝑦−1
Solutions: 𝑦 =  𝑥=  (3)(𝑥) = ( )(3)  3𝑥 + 1 = 𝑦
3 3 3
𝑥−1
 3𝑥 + 1 = 𝑓(𝑥) Therefore, the inverse of 𝑓 −1 (𝑥 ) = is 𝑓(𝑥 ) = 3𝑥 + 1.
3
 Solving for 𝑓(𝑓−1(𝑥)) and 𝑓−1(𝑓(𝑥)), given the functions 𝑓(𝑥 ) = 3𝑥 + 1 and
𝑥−1
𝑓 −1 (𝑥 ) = .
3
Solutions:
𝑥−1
𝑓(𝑓−1(𝑥))= 3 ( ) + 1  𝑓(𝑓−1(𝑥))= 𝑥 − 1 + 1  𝑓(𝑓−1(𝑥))= 𝑥.
3

(3𝑥+1)−1 3𝑥
𝑓−1(𝑓(𝑥))=  𝑓−1(𝑓(𝑥))=  𝑓−1(𝑓(𝑥))= 𝑥.
3 3
From the above solutions, we can summarize the properties of an inverse of a one-
to-one function.
Property of an inverse of a one-to-one function
Given a one-to-one function 𝑓(𝑥) and its inverse 𝑓−1(𝑥). Then the following
are true:
1) The inverse of 𝑓−1(𝑥) is 𝑓(𝑥).
2) 𝑓(𝑓−1(𝑥)) = 𝑥 for all 𝑥 in the domain of 𝑓−1.
3) 𝑓−1(𝑓(𝑥)) = 𝑥 for all 𝑥 in the domain of 𝑓.

Example 2: Find the inverse of 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑥3 − 2.

Solution: 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑥3 – 2  𝑦 = 𝑥 3 − 2  𝑥 = 𝑦 3 − 2  𝑥 + 2 = 𝑦 3
3 3 3 3
 √𝑥 + 2 = √𝑦 3  √𝑥 + 2 = 𝑦  √𝑥 + 2 = 𝑔−1 (𝑥)

Therefore, the inverse of 𝑔 is 𝒈 .

40
Example 3: Find the inverse of 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥2 + 4𝑥 − 2 if it exists.

Example 4: Find the inverse of 𝑓(𝑥) = |4𝑥|, if it exists.

Solution: Recall that the graph of 𝑦 = |3𝑥| is shaped like a “V” whose vertex
is located at the origin. This function fails the horizontal line test
and therefore has no inverse.

Alternate Solution: We can also show that 𝑓−1 does not exist by showing that 𝑓 is
not one-to-one.
Note that 𝑓(1) = 𝑓(−1) = 4. Since the x-values 1 and -1 are
paired to the same y-value, then 𝑓 is not one-to one and it cannot
have an inverse.

If we apply the procedure in solving the inverse of a one-to-one function:

𝑥2
Here, 𝑥 = 2 will correspond to 𝑦 = 1 and 𝑦 = −1, so 𝑦 = ±√ 4 is not a function.
Therefore, 𝑓(𝑥) = |4𝑥| has no inverse function.

41
LESSON 3: TABLE AND GRAPH OF AN INVERSE FUNCTION
If function passes the horizontal line test, it is an indication that the said
function is one-to-one. Subsequently, its inverse also is a function.

Since the domain of the function becomes the range of its inverse, and the
range of the function becomes the domain of its inverse, in problems dealing with
a function and its inverse, when determining the inverse’ ordered pairs, we simply
reverse the domain and range of the original function.

Example 1
Find the inverse of the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 + 1; present the graph of the original
function and its inverse.

𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 + 1 x -1 0 1 2
y

In order to accomplish a table of values such this, first, you must set values of your
x. Then, to obtain corresponding values of y, substitute each values of x in the
function. We have the first value of x that is -1,
𝑦 = 2𝑥 + 1  𝑦 = 2(−1) + 1  𝑦 = −2 + 1  𝑦 = −1.
The accomplished table of ordered pairs of the original function 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 + 1
and its inverse is presented below.

The graphs of the given function and its inverse are reflections of each other
along the symmetry line 𝑥 = 𝑦.

𝒇(𝒙) = 𝟐𝒙 + 𝟏

𝒙−𝟏
𝒇− 𝟏 ( 𝒙 ) =
𝟐

42
Example 2
Here we have a rational function. Observe its representation in table and graphs.

LESSON 4: DOMAIN AND RANGE OF AN INVERSE FUNCTION

Since the domain of the function becomes the range of its inverse, and the
range of the function becomes the domain of its inverse, in problems dealing with
a function and its inverse, when determining the inverse’ ordered pairs, we simply
reverse the domain and range of the original function.

EXAMPLE 1.
Graph 𝑦 = 𝑓 −1 (𝑥) if the graph of
𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥 ) = 2𝑥 + 1
restricted in the domain {x |−2 ≤ x ≤ 1.5} is
given below. What is the range of f(x)?
What is the domain and range of its inverse?
Solution.
Take the reflection of the restricted graph of y = 2x + 1 across the line y = x.

43
The range of the original function can be determined by inspection of the graph.
The range is {y ∈ R | − 3 ≤ y ≤ 4}.
Domain [−2, 1.5] [−3, 4]
Range [−3, 4] [−2, 1.5]

In summary:

f(x) 𝑓−1(x) Observe that the domain of the inverse is

the range of the original function, and that the
Domain [ -2, 1, 5] [ -3, 4] range of the inverse is the domain of the original
Range [ -3, 4] [ -2, 1, 5] function. Is this true for all one-to-one functions
and their inverses?

EXAMPLE 2.
1
Find the domain and range the inverse of 𝑓(𝑥 ) = 𝑥 whose graph is shown below.
Solution.
Applying the horizontal line test, we verify that
the function is one-to-one. Since the graph of
1
𝑓(𝑥 ) = 𝑥 is symmetric with respect to the
line y = x (indicated by a dashed line), its
reflection across the line y = x is itself.
Therefore, the inverse of 𝑓(𝑥) is itself, or
𝑓 −1 (𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑥).

In summary:
The domain and range of the inverse function can be determined by inspection of
the graph:
Domain of 𝑓−1(x) = [−3, 4]
Range of 𝑓−1(x) = [−2, 1.5]

44
LESSON 5: PROBLEMS INVOLVING INVERSE FUNCTIONS
Inverse function is something that tells you how to get back to its original
phase, value, form or its reverse, and problems involving inverse functions applies
a lot in real life scenario. So basically it, requires the skills of formulating the
mathematical expression out from mathematical statement in deriving the correct
answer.

Remember in solving a problem.

1. Understand the problem.
The problem asks if the temperatures in Philippines is equivalent to the
temperature in Fahrenheit in UK during the conversation.
2. What are the clues given?
You said that its 350C is the temperature in the Philippines. Her friend said
that its 920F in UK at that moment, and concluded that the two are the
equivalent in reverse.
3. What is the formula to convert Celsius to Fahrenheit?
To convert Celsius to Fahrenheit, use the formula: 𝐹 = 1.8 𝑐 + 32
4. What is the formula to convert Fahrenheit to Celsius?
The formula is: 𝐶 = (𝐹 − 32)/1.8
5. Carry out the plan. By using the formula substitute the given.
6. Check and review your answer.

Solution:
Step 1. Write the mathematical model in converting Celsius to Fahrenheit. This is
your original function.
𝐹 = 1.8 𝑐 + 32
Step 2. Keep in mind the steps in solving an inverse function.
In this problem your 𝑦 (𝐾) and 𝑋 (𝑐).
Step a. Change K to Y that is: 𝑦 = 1.8 𝑥 + 32
Step b. Interchange y and x: 𝑥 = 1.8 𝑦 + 32
Step c. Solve for new 𝑦 in terms of 𝑥:
𝑥 − 32 = 1.8𝑦 + 32
𝑥 − 32 = 1.8𝑦 − 32
𝑥 − 32 = 1.8𝑦
1.8𝑦 = 𝑥 − 32
1.8𝑦 𝑥−32
=
1.8 1.8
𝑥−32
𝑦= 1.8
𝑥−32
Step d. The new equation or the 𝑓−1 is: 𝑦 = 1.8

45
Therefore,
Step 3. The inverse of 𝐹 = 1.8 𝑐 + 32 is 𝐶 = (𝐹 − 32)/1.8
Let’s check if 35 o C is an inverse of 950 F.
𝐹 = 1.8 𝑐 + 32
𝐹 = 1.8 (35) + 32
𝐹 = 63 + 32
𝐹 = 95
The problem in previous activity tackles about inverse function since Celsius
and Fahrenheit are temperature set up. With Fahrenheit you’re really get cold at
0℉ and really hot at 100℉ and with Celsius you’re cold at 0℃ and dead at 100℃.
From the given data above we can tell, that the two are inversely equivalent.
Expressing a mathematical statement into mathematical expression/model is a
necessary skill to solve problems involving inverse function.

ANWERS TO PRE-TEST IN MODULE 4

1. C 4. A 7. B 10. A 13. B
2. B 5. B 8. B 11. B 14. A
3. B 6. D 9. C 12. D 15. B

MODULE 5: Exponential Functions

After going through this module, you are expected to:
1. Define exponential function, exponential equation and exponential inequalities.
2. Distinguish among exponential function, exponential equation and exponential
inequalities.
3. Know the concept of exponential functions,
4. Differentiate exponential growth and decay, and
5. Represent real - life situations using exponential functions.

PRE-TEST Multiple Choice. Choose the letter of the best answer.

For items 1 to 4, determine whether the given expression is an exponential
function, exponential equation, exponential inequality or none of these. Refer to
the choices below.
a) Exponential Function c) Exponential Inequality
b) Exponential Equation d) None of these
1
1. 𝑦 = 3𝑥 2. 4𝑥+1 >64 3. 25𝑥−9 = 4𝑥 4. 5 = 𝑥2 − 6𝑥
5. If a certain growth of bacteria depends upon the formula 𝑦 = 200(4𝑥), what is 𝑦
when 𝑥 = −2?
a) 23.5 b) 22.5 c) 12.5 d) 11.5
46
6. What is 𝑓(𝑥) = 2−𝑥 if 𝑥 = −3 ?
1 1
a) 8 b) 6 c) 6 d) 8
7. A barangay has 1,000 individuals and its population doubles every 60 years.
What is the barangay’s population in 10 years?
a) 1,008 b)1,020 c) 1,122 d) 1,182
8. The half-life of a substance is 400 years. What is the exponential model for this
situation if the initial amount is 200 mg?
400 400
1 𝑡 1 𝑡
a) 𝑦 = 200 (2) c) 𝑦 = 400 (2)
𝑡 𝑡
1 400 1 400
b) 𝑦 = 200 (2) d) 𝑦 = 400 (2)
9. Php10,000 is invested at 2% compounded annually. What is the exponential
model for this situation?
a) 𝑦 = 10,000(2)𝑡 c) 𝑦 = 10,000(1.02)𝑡
b) 𝑦 = 10,000(0.2)𝑡 d) 𝑦 = 10,000(0.02)𝑡
10. Which of the situations can be modeled by an exponential function?
a) A radioactive substance decays after t units of time.
b) An amount deposited by Nheytan in Landbank of the Philippines earns a
compounded interest of 7.5% yearly.
c) A certain culture of bacteria doubles every hour.
d) All of the above
11. What is f (x) = 5x if x =−2?
1 1
a) 25 b) 10 c) 5 d) 25
12. Myries invested P50,000 after graduation. If the average interest rate is 4.8%
compounded annually, what is the exponential model for the situation?
a) 𝐴 = 50,000(0.048)𝑡 c) 𝐴 = 50,000(0.048)𝑡
b) 𝐴 = 50,000(1.048)𝑡 d) 𝐴 = 50,000(1.048)𝑡
13. The half-life of a substance is 400 years. How much will remain after 600 years
if the initial amount was 200 grams?
a) 70.71 grams b) 68.49 grams c) 63.97 d) 59.07 grams
14. A certain culture of bacteria grows in number according to the function
N = 2x5t (in thousands). After one hour how many bacteria are there?
a) 2 b) 7 c) 10 d) 25
15. The population of the Philippines can be approximated by the function
P(x) = 20,000,000e0.0251x (0≤x≤40) where x is the number of years since 1955

47
(e.g. x = 0 at 1955). Use this model to approximate the Philippine population during
the 1985. Round off answer to the nearest thousand. (Hint: use a scientific
calculator).
a) 42,467,211 b) 44,762,121 c) 46,117,422 d) 47,211,426

LESSON 1: REPRESENTING REAL-LIFE SITUATIONS USING EXPONENTIAL

FUNCTIONS
Exponential functions occur in various real-world situations. Exponential
functions are used to model real-life situations such as population growth,
radioactive decay, carbon dating, growth of an epidemic, loan interest rates, and
investments.
Some things can be counted by multiplying continually. Recall the concept
of geometric sequence (or progression) studied in Grade 10 in which each term
after the first is obtained by multiplying the preceding term by a non-zero constant
called the common ratio.
Symbolically, if a is the first term and r is the common ratio, then
𝑎, 𝑎𝑟, 𝑎𝑟 2 , 𝑎𝑟 3 , . .. forms a geometric sequence.
For example, bacteria reproduce by splitting, doubling the number of bacterial
cells. If there are 7 cells and a doctor is examining the bacteria, after a certain time,
there will be 14 cells…then 28… then 56, etc. The terms 7, 14, 28, 56, … can be
written in factored form or exponential form as shown in the table below:
Term In Factored In Exponential
Form Form
a1 =7 7 7x20
a2 =14 7x2 7x21
a3 = 28 7x2x2 7x22
a4 =56 7x2x2x2 7x23
⋮ ⋮ ⋮

This means that if there are 7 bacteria initially and doubles after a certain
time, then there will be 7(2)n−1 after n units of time.
In general, given the first term a1 and the common ratio is r of a geometric
sequence, then the nth term of the sequence is𝑎𝑛 = 𝑎1 𝑟 𝑛−1 .
To help you understand exponential functions, do the following activity.
Materials: One 2-meter of string, a pair of scissors
a) At step 0, there is 1 string.

48
 b) At step 1, fold the string into two equal parts and then cut at the middle.
How many strings of equal length do you have? Enter your answer in the table
below.
c) At step 2, again fold each of the strings equally and then cut. How many
strings of equal length do you have? Enter your answer in the table below.
d) Continue the process until the table is completely filled-up.
Step
Number of
Strings
Questions:
a) What pattern can be observed from the data?
b) Define a formula for the number of strings as a function of the step number.
Answers:
Step 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Number of 1 2 4 8 16 32 64 128
Strings

It can be observed that as the step number increases by 1, the number of strings
doubles. If n is the number of strings and s is the step number, then n(s) = 2s.
An Exponential Expression is an expression of the form 𝒂 ∙ 𝒃𝒙−𝒄 + 𝒅, where
(𝒃 > 𝟎, 𝒃 ≠ 𝟏).
The definitions of exponential equations, inequalities and functions are shown
below.
Exponential Exponential
Equation Inequality Exponential Function
Definition An equation An inequality Function of the form
involving involving 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑏 𝑥 (𝑏 >
exponential exponential 0, 𝑏 ≠ 1).
expressions expressions
Example 2𝑥−𝑥 2
1 52𝑥 − 5𝑥+1 ≤ 0 𝑓(𝑥 ) = 1.8𝑥 or
7 = 𝑦 = (1.8)𝑥
343

An exponential equation or inequality can be solved for all 𝑥 values that

satisfy the equation or inequality. An exponential function expresses a relationship
between two variables (such as 𝑥and 𝑦), and can be represented by a table of
values or a graph.
49
Solved Examples
Determine whether the given is an exponential function, an exponential equation,
an exponential inequality, or none of these.
1. 𝑓(𝑥) = 5𝑥2 (Answer: None of these)
1 𝑥
2. 2 ≥ ( ) (Answer: Exponential Inequality)
2

3. 74𝑥 = 𝑦 (Answer: Exponential Function)

4. 4(100𝑥−2 ) = 500 (Answer: Exponential Equation)
5. 7 < 49𝑥+3 (Answer: Exponential Inequality)
6. 𝑦 = 0.5𝑥 (Answer: Exponential Function)

Definition. An exponential function with the base b is a function of the form

𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑏 𝑥 or 𝑦 = 𝑏 𝑥 where 𝑏 > 0, 𝑏 ≠ 1.

The base 𝑏 is restricted to positive real numbers to ensure that f (x) is always
a real number. Also, base 𝑏 cannot be equal to 1, for if 𝑏 = 1 , then 𝑓(𝑥) = 1, and
it will be a constant function.
Example 1. Complete a table of values for x = −3, −2, −1, 0, 1, 2 and 3 for the
1 𝑥
exponential functions 𝑦 = (3) , 𝑦 = 10𝑥 , and 𝑦 = (0.8)𝑥 .
Solution:
x −3 −2 −1 0 1 2 3
1 𝑥 1 1 1
𝑦=( ) 27 9 3 1
2 3 9 27
1 1 1
𝑦 = 10𝑥 1 10 100 1000
1000 100 10
y =(0.8)x 1.953125 1.5625 1.25 1 0.8 0.64 0.512

1
Example 2. If 𝑓(𝑥) = 3𝑥 , evaluate f (2), f (−2), 𝑓 (2), f (0.4) and 𝑓(𝜋).
Solution:
𝑓(2) = 32 = 9
1 1
𝑓(−2) = 3−2 = =
32 9
1 1
𝑓 ( ) = 32 = √3
2
2 5 5
0.4
𝑓(0.4) = 3 = 35 = √32 = √9
50
Since 𝜋 ≈3.14159 is irrational, the rules for rational exponents are not applicable.
We define 3𝜋 using rational numbers: 𝑓(𝜋) = 3𝜋 can be approximated by 33.14 .
A better approximation is 33.14159. Intuitively, one can obtain any level of accuracy
for 3𝜋 by considering sufficiently more decimal places of 𝜋. Mathematically, it can
be proved that these approximations approach a unique value, which we define to
be 3𝜋 .

Definition
Let b be a positive number not equal to 1. A transformation of an
exponential function with base b is a function of the form
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑎 ∙ 𝑏 𝑥−𝑐 + 𝑑 .
where 𝑎, 𝑐 and d are real numbers.
There are many real-life situations that can be represented using exponential
functions and their transformations. Some of them are population growth,
exponential decay, and compound interest.

Population Growth
On several instances, scientists will start with a certain number of bacteria or
animals and watch how the population grows. For example, if the population
doubles every 3 days, then this can be represented as an exponential function.
Example 3. Let t = time in hour. At t = 0, there were initially 20 bacteria. Suppose
that the bacteria double every 100 hours. Give an exponential model for the
bacteria as a function of t.
Solution:
Initially, At t = 0, Number of bacteria = 20
At t =100, Number of bacteria = 20 ∙ 2
At t = 200, Number of bacteria = 20 ∙ 22
At t = 400, Number of bacteria = 20 ∙ 23
𝑡
An exponential model for this situation is 𝑦 = 20(2) 100 .

Exponential Model for Population Growth

Suppose a quantity y doubles every T units of time. If y0 is the initial amount,

𝑡
then the quantity y after t units of time is given by 𝑦 = 𝑦0 (2) . 𝑇

51
Radioactive Decay
The disintegration of substances is another situation that shows exponential
change. Each hour, a fraction of the atoms of a radioactive substance randomly
changes into different atoms, i.e. they decay.

Definition
The half-life of a substance is the time it takes for half of the substance to decay.

Example 4. Suppose that the half-life of a certain radioactive substance is 10

days and there are 10 g initially. (a) Determine the amount of substance
remaining after 30 days, and (b) give an exponential model for the amount of
remaining substance.
Solution: We use the fact that the mass is halved every 10 days (from the
definition of half-life). Let t = time in days. Thus, we have
Initially, At t = 0, Amount of substance = 10g
1
At t =10, Amount of substance = 10( )= 5g
2
1 2
At t = 20, Amount of substance = 10(2) = 2.5g
1 3
At t = 30, Amount of substance = 10(2) =1.25g
a) The amount of substance remaining after 30 days is 1.25g.
𝑡
1 10
b) An exponential model for this situation is 𝑦 = 10 ( )
2

Exponential Model for Radioactive Decay

If the half-life of a substance is T units, and y0 is the amount of the

substance corresponding to t = 0, then the amount y of substance

remaining after t units of time is given by

𝑡
1 𝑇
𝑦 = 𝑦0 ( )
2

Compounded Interest
A starting amount of money (called the principal) can be invested at a certain
interest rate that is earned at the end of a given period of time (such as one year).
If the interest rate is compounded, the interest earned at the end of the period is
52
added to the principal, and this new amount will earn interest in the next period.
The same process is repeated for each succeeding period: interest previously
earned will also earn interest in the next period.
Example 5. Mrs. Dela Cruz invested Php100,000.00 in a company that offers 6%
interest compounded annually. Define an exponential model for this situation. How
much will this investment be worth at the end of each year for the next five years?
Solution: Let t be the time in years. Then we have:
Initially, At t = 0, Amount of investment = 100,000

At t =1, Amount of investment = 100,000 +100,000(0.06) =

100,000(1+0.06) = Php 106,000
At t =2, Amount of investment = 100,000 (1+0.06)=
100,000(1+0.06)+100,000(1+0.06)(0.06)
= 100,000(1+0.06)(1+0.06)= 100,000(1+0.06)2 = Php 112,360
At t = 3, Amount of investment = 100,000 (1+0.06)2
= 100,000(1+0.06)2 +100,000(1+0.06)2 (0.06)
= 100,000(1+0.06)2 (1+0.06) = 100,000(1+0.06)3
= Php 119,101.60
Following the pattern, we can simply solve a certain amount of investment at t
period of time.
At t = 4, Amount of investment = 100,000 (1+0.06)4 ≈Php 126,247.70
At t = 5, Amount of investment = 100,000 (1+0.06)5 ≈Php 133,822.56
An exponential model for this situation is A=100,000(1+0.06)t or simply
𝐴 = 100,000(1.06)𝑡 .

Exponential Model for Compound Interest

If a principal P is invested at an annual rate of r, compounded annually, then the
amount after t years is given by 𝐴 = 𝑃(1 + 𝑟)𝑡 .
Example 6. Referring to Example 5, is it possible for Mrs. Dela Cruz to double her
money in 8 years? 10 years?
Solution: Using the exponential model A=100,000(1.06)t , we substitute t =8 and
t =10:
If t =8, A=100,000(1.06)8 ≈Php 159,384.81.
If t =10, A=100,000(1.06)10 ≈ Php 179,084.77
Since Mrs. Dela Cruz money still has NOT reached Php200,000 after 10 years,
then she has not doubled her money during this time.

53
The Natural Exponential Function
Some situations can be modeled using the exponential function with base e,
an irrational number whose value is approximately 2.71828. At this point, we will
just rely on the scientific calculator to obtain further decimal expansion of e.
Definition
The natural exponential function is a function defined by
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑒 𝑥 for all 𝑥 real numbers.
Example 7. A radioactive substance is decaying according to the function
𝑦 = 500𝑒 −0.02𝑡 , where 𝑦 milligram is the amount present in t years from now.
How much will be left after 10 years?
Solution:
Substitute t =10 to the given function. Using a scientific calculator, we have
𝑦 = 500𝑒 −0.2 ≈ 409 .

ANWERS TO PRE-TEST IN MODULE 5

1. B 4. D 7. C 10. D 13. A
2. C 5. C 8. B 11. D 14. C
3. D 6. A 9. C 12. D 15. A

54