College Algebra

Chapter 3: Functions and Their Graphs

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 SLOs
• What are: the coordinate plane, origin, quadrant, x-axis, y-axis, ordered pair, x-coordinate, and y-coordinate?
• What is the distance formula?
• What is the midpoint formula?
• What are the methods of graphing a line?
• What is the equation of a circle?
• What are the symmetry tests?
• What is the slope of a line and what is its formula?
• Write the standard form of a linear equation in 2 variables, the slope-intercept form, and the point-slope form.
• What is the equation of a horizontal line?
• What is the equation of a vertical line?
• What are the conditions for two lines to be parallel and perpendicular?
• What is the difference between a relation and a function?
• How can you identify whether you have a function or not from a graph?
• What is a piece-wise function?
• How do we find the roots of a function? What are the real zeros of a function?

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 SLOs
• What is domain and what is the range of a function?
• What is the difference between the restrictions and the domain of a function?
• How do you find the domain of a function? How can you identify the domain and the range from a graph?
• Know the graphs of the parent functions.
• Know how to graph a piecewise function.
• When is a function increasing/decreasing?
• Know the rules of function translation, reflections, and stretching.
• How do you identify if a function is odd or even? How is it related to symmetry?
• Know the formula of the difference quotient.
• What is a function composition and how do you find it?
• Know how to decompose a function.
• Which functions are called inverses and what is their main characteristic related to their domain, range, and
symmetry?
• How can you find the existence of an inverse function?
• How can you find an inverse function?

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 The Cartesian Plane
• The Cartesian plane, or coordinate plane, is formed by two perpendicular number
lines, called axes, that intersect at the origin, O, which is where both number lines
equal 0.
• The horizontal axis is typically labeled the x-axis. The vertical axis is typically
labeled the y-axis.

• The axes divide the Cartesian plane into four

quadrants. These are typically labeled using
Roman numerals with quadrant I being in the
upper right. The numbering continues counter-
clockwise around the plane.
• The Cartesian plane is named after French
mathematician Rene Descartes (1596 – 1650)

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Section 3.1
 The Cartesian Plane: Plotting Points
• A point on the Cartesian Plan is defined as the ordered pair (𝑎, 𝑏).
• The first value, or x-coordinate, is the directed horizontal distance from the
origin.
• The second value, or y-coordinate, is the directed vertical distance from the
origin.
• Point A has coordinates (3, -1). It lies in
quadrant IV.
• Point B has coordinates (0, 2). Since it
(0, 2)
has an x-coordinate of 0 it lies on the
y-axis.
(-4.5, 0)
• Point C has coordinates (-4.5, 0). Since it
(3, -1) has a y-coordinate of 0 it lies on the
x-axis.

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Section 3.1
 The Distance Formula
• The distance between any two points 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 and 𝑥2 , 𝑦2 on the coordinate
plane may be calculated using the distance formula.

𝑑= 𝑥2 − 𝑥1 2 + 𝑦2 − 𝑦1 2
Example
Calculate the distance between points
A: (-5, 2) and B: (1, -3). 𝑑= 1 − (−5) 2 + −3 − 2 2

𝑑= (6)2 + −5 2

𝑑 = 35 + 25

𝑑 = 61 ≈ 7.81

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Section 3.1
 The Midpoint Formula
• The midpoint, M, between any two points 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 and 𝑥2 , 𝑦2 on the
coordinate plane may be found using the midpoint formula.
𝑥1 + 𝑥2 𝑦1 + 𝑦2
Example 𝑀= ,
Calculate the midpoint between points 2 2
A: (-5, 2) and B: (1, -3).
−5 + 1 2 + (−3)
𝑀= ,
2 2
−4 −1
𝑀= ,
2 2
1
𝑀 = −2 , −
2

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Section 3.1
 Graphing Equations by Point-Plotting x y
• The graph of an equation in two -3 -3
variables is the set of ordered pairs 0 -1.5
(𝑥, 𝑦) that make the equation true. Graph 2𝑥 − 4𝑦 = 6
2 -0.5
• Select a number of values of x that are
valid for the equation. 5 1
• Plug each x value into the equation and
solve for y. Record these ordered pairs
on a table.
• Plot the points on the coordinate plane.
• Sketch the graph by connecting the
points with a straight line or smooth
curve. Knowing the type of equation
being graphed will help.

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Section 3.1
 Graphing Equations by Point-Plotting x y
-3 -5
• Understanding the shape of the
graph for certain equations is useful -2 0
when graphing by point-plotting. Graph 𝑦 = −𝑥 2 + 4 0 4
2 0
3 -5

Intercepts
x-intercepts are found by
setting y=0.

y-intercepts are found by

setting x=0

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Section 3.1
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 Circles
The standard form equation of a circle is • r is the radius of the circle
(𝑥 − ℎ)2 + 𝑦 − 𝑘 2 = 𝑟 2
• Point (h, k) is the center of the
The standard form equation of a circle
circle.
centered at the origin is: 𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = 𝑟 2

Graph (𝑥 + 5)2 +𝑦 2 = 4
• The value of h = -5
• The value of k = 0
• The value of r = 2

This means the circle is centered at

point (-5, 0) with a radius of 2.

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Section 3.1
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 Symmetry
Many graphs exhibit symmetry. This allows them to be graphed with half as many points.

TEST: Substituting –x for x and Substituting –y for y Substituting –x for x

–y for y results in an results in an equivalent results in an equivalent
equivalent equation. equation. equation.

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Section 3.1
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 The Slope of a Line
• The steepness and direction of a line is measured by its slope. Given two points,
𝑥1 , 𝑦1 and 𝑥2 , 𝑦2 , the slope may be calculated using the slope formula.
• The slope is often described as the ratio of the “rise”, or vertical distance between two
points divided by the “run”, or horizontal distance between the two points.
𝑦2 − 𝑦1 ∆𝑦 rise
𝑚= = =
𝑥2 − 𝑥1 ∆𝑥 run
Example:
Find the slope of the line through
points (-2, 3) and (1, -6).
−6 − 3 −9 −3
𝑚= = =
1 − (−2) 3 1
This means the line falls 3 units for
every unit it moves to the right.

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Section 3.2
 The Slope-Intercept Equation of a Line
• The general form of a line is in the form 𝐴𝑥 + 𝐵𝑦 + 𝐶 = 0. What makes it’s graph a
straight line is the fact that x and y are both degree 1 variables.
• When a linear equation is solved for y, the result is the slope-intercept equation.
• m is the slope of the line.
𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑏 • point (0, b) is the y-intercept of the line.

To Graph a Line in Slope-Intercept Form:

• Plot the point (0, b) on the y-axis.
• Plot at least 1 more point using the
rise
𝑚= definition of the slope.
run
• Draw the straight line through these
points.

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Section 3.2
 Finding the Slope-Intercept Equation of a Line
• A line may be defined by its slope-intercept form equation given two points:
𝑦2 − 𝑦1
• Use the slope formula 𝑚 =
𝑥2 − 𝑥1
to find the slope of the line.
• Plug the slope and coordinates of either point into the slope-intercept equation,
𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑏 , then solve for b.
• Write the equation in slope-intercept form by plugging in m and b.
Find the slope-intercept equation of the line
through (2, 10) and (4, -4).
−4 − 10 −14
𝑚= = = −7
4−2 2
𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑏
𝑦 = −7𝑥 + 24
10 = −7(2) + 𝑏
10 = −14 + 𝑏
24 = 𝑏
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Section 3.2
 Finding the Point-Slope Equation of a Line
• Another important form of a linear equation is the point-slope form. Given the slope of
a line and one point 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 : 𝑦 − 𝑦1 = 𝑚 𝑥 − 𝑥1
• The slope-intercept form of a linear equation, 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑏 is obtained by solving the
point-slope form for y.
Find the point-slope equation of the line
through (-3, 4) with a slope of 2.
𝑦 − 𝑦1 = 𝑚 𝑥 − 𝑥1
𝑦 − 4 = 2 𝑥 − (−3)
Find the slope-intercept form of this line.
𝑦−4=2 𝑥+3
𝑦 − 4 = 2𝑥 + 6
𝑦 = 2𝑥 + 10

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Section 3.2
 Horizontal and Vertical Lines
• Every point on a horizontal line has the same y-coordinate. This means the slope of a
horizontal line is 𝑚 = 0 and its equation is in the form 𝑦 = 𝑏.
• Every point on a vertical line has the same x-coordinate. This means when the slope
formula is used division by 0 occurs. Because of this the slope of a vertical line is
𝑚 = undefined and its equation is in the form 𝑥 = 𝑐.

Graph the lines 𝑥 = 4 and 𝑦 = −1

on the same coordinate axes.
• 𝑥 = 4 is a vertical line with an x-
intercept at point (4, 0).
• 𝑦 = −1 is a horizontal line with
a y-intercept at point (0, -1).

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Section 3.2
 Graphing the Standard Form of a Line
• The standard form of a line is 𝐴𝑥 + 𝐵𝑦 = 𝐶 . There are two ways to graph a line in
standard form.
• Find the x and y intercepts, then graph the line through those two points.
• Solve for the slope-intercept form, 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑏 , then graph the line.
Graph the equation of the line 3𝑥 − 4𝑦 = −8.
x-intercept (y = 0) y-intercept (x = 0)
3𝑥 − 0 = −8 0 − 4𝑦 = −8
8 1
𝑥=− 𝑦=
3 2
OR using the slope-intercept form.
−4𝑦 = −3𝑥 − 8
3
𝑦 = 𝑥+2
4
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Section 3.2
 Parallel and Perpendicular Lines
• Lines that are parallel have the same slope: 𝐿1 ∥ 𝐿2 ↔ 𝑚1 = 𝑚2
• Lines that are perpendicular have opposite reciprocal slopes:
• Horizontal Lines are parallel. 1
𝐿1 ⊥ 𝐿2 ↔ 𝑚1 = −
• Vertical Lines are parallel. 𝑚2
• Any horizontal line is perpendicular to any vertical line.
Find the equation of line l, that is parallel to
the line p: 𝑦 = 2𝑥 + 17 through point (4, 5)
𝑚 = 2 by the parallel slope identity.
Point-Slope Form:
𝑦 − 5 = 2(𝑥 − 4)
𝑦 − 5 = 2𝑥 − 8
𝑦 = 2𝑥 − 3 Slope-Intercept Form

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Section 3.2
 Parallel and Perpendicular Lines
• Lines that are parallel have the same slope: 𝐿1 ∥ 𝐿2 ↔ 𝑚1 = 𝑚2
• Lines that are perpendicular have opposite reciprocal slopes:
• Horizontal Lines are parallel. 1
𝐿1 ⊥ 𝐿2 ↔ 𝑚1 = −
• Vertical Lines are parallel. 𝑚2
• Any horizontal line is perpendicular to any vertical line.
Find the equation of line l, that is perpendicular
to the line p: 𝑦 = 2𝑥 − 1 through point (-5, 2).
1
𝑚 = − by the perpendicular slope identity.
2
1
Point-Slope Form: 𝑦 − 2 = − 2 (𝑥 + 5)
1 5
𝑦−2=− 𝑥−
2 2
1 1
Slope-Intercept Form: 𝑦 = − 2 𝑥 − 2

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Section 3.2
 The Slope as Rate of Change
• The slope measures the rate of change of a linear equation.
• When calculating the slope of a linear equation in the context of an application,
remember to include the units of the y-axis in the “rise” and the units of the x-axis
in the “run”. 𝑦2 − 𝑦1 ∆𝑦 rise
𝑚= = =
𝑥2 − 𝑥1 ∆𝑥 run
The value of a piece of equipment as it
depreciates is modeled by the line shown. What
is the rate of depreciation of the equipment?
0 − 15,000 $
𝑚= ∙
20 − 0 𝑦𝑟 The equipment is
losing value at the
−15,000 $ −$750 rate of $750 per year.
𝑚= ∙ =
20 𝑦𝑟 𝑦𝑟

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Section 3.2
 Relations and Functions
• A relation is any rule that assigns elements from one set A to another set B.
• A function is a special relation where each element from set A is assigned to exactly
one element in set B.
• The elements of set A are the domain of the function, or input values.
• The elements of set B are the range of the function, or output values.
A mapping diagram is one
way to represent relations
and functions. Can you
see why the relations on
the left are functions, but
the ones on the right are
not?

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Section 3.4
 Identifying Functions
• Typically in mathematics, functions are represented by certain types of equations.
There are two ways to determine if an equation is or is not a function.
Algebraically: Solve for y Graphically: Vertical Line Test
In algebraic equations, the x variable is If a vertical line strikes the graph
typically the domain variable and the y more than once, it is the graph of a
variable is the range variable. Solving nonfunction.
for y allows the number of outputs for
each input to be seen.
6𝑥 − 2𝑦 = 10 𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = 25
−2𝑦 = −6𝑥 + 10 𝑦 2 = 25 − 𝑥 2
𝑦 = −3𝑥 + 5
𝑦 = ± 25 − 𝑥 2
YES. Each value of x NO. Values of x YES NO
produces 1 value of y. produce 2 values of y.
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Section 3.4
 Function Notation
• If an equation is proven to be a function of 𝑥, the function notation 𝑓(𝑥) may be
used in place of the 𝑦 variable.
𝑦 = −3𝑥 + 5 Evaluating Functions
To evaluate a function at a value, substitute
YES. Each value of x the value inside the parenthesis for the
produces 1 value of y. input variable, in this case 𝑥.
This may now be written: For a constant:
𝑓(𝑥) = −3𝑥 + 5 𝑓(4) = −3(4) + 5 This corresponds to
point (4, -7) on the
• 𝑓 is the name of the function. 𝑓 4 = −12 + 5 = −7 graph of 𝑓 𝑥 .
Other letters may be used. For an expression:
• The input is 𝑥. 𝑓(2𝑏 + 1) = −3(2𝑏 + 1) + 5 This yields some
• The output is 𝑓 𝑥 . algebraic
• The rule is −3𝑥 + 5. 𝑓 2𝑏 + 1 = −6𝑏 − 3 + 5 expression.

𝑓 2𝑏 + 1 = −6𝑏 + 2
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Section 3.4
 Piecewise-Defined Functions
• A piecewise-defined function is a function with different function rules over
different intervals of its domain.
Evaluating Piecewise-Defined Functions
𝑥2 if 𝑥 ≤ −2 To evaluate a piecewise-defined function:
𝑓(𝑥) = ൞ 2𝑥 + 1 if − 2 < 𝑥 < 1 • Determine which interval the input
𝑥 − 1 if 𝑥≥1 value lies within.
• Evaluate that corresponding rule.
• Note that the intervals of the
piecewise-defined function 𝑓 5 = 5−1= 4=2
cannot overlap…otherwise it
would not be a function! 𝑓 −1 = 2 −1 + 1 = −1

𝑓 −2 = (−2)2 = 4

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Section 3.4
 Finding Roots of a Function
• The roots or zeros of a function, 𝑓 𝑥 , are the solutions obtained when setting
𝑓 𝑥 =0.
• Real roots or real zeros of functions appear as x-intercepts on their graphs since
they are the result of setting 𝑦 = 0.
Find the zeros of the function
𝑓 𝑥 = 2 − 𝑥2 (− 2, 0) ( 2, 0)
𝑓 𝑥 = 2 − 𝑥2
0 = 2 − 𝑥2
𝑥2 = 2
𝑥=± 2
Since the zeros are real, they appear on the
graph as the x-intercepts.

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Section 3.4
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 Identifying the Domain of a Function
• If the domain of a function is not explicitly stated, the implied domain is used. This
is the set of all real numbers for which the function is defined. In algebraic
functions, there are three main domain rules:
• Polynomial Functions: The domain for all polynomial functions is 𝑥: (−∞, ∞).
• Rational Functions: Solve the inequality created by setting the denominator ≠ 0.
• Square Root Functions: Solve the inequality created by setting the radicand ≥ 0.
2𝑥
𝑓 𝑥 = 2𝑥 3 −𝑥+3 𝑔(𝑥) = ℎ(𝑥) = 4𝑥 − 8
𝑥−5
Domain is 𝑥: (−∞, ∞) Solve 𝑥 − 5 ≠ 0 Solve 4𝑥 − 8 ≥ 0
since 𝑓 𝑥 is a 𝑥≠5 𝑥≥2
polynomial function. Domain is Domain is
𝑥: (−∞, 5) ∪ (5, ∞) 𝑥: [2, ∞)

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Section 3.4
 Identifying Domain and Range Graphically
• Domain: The set of x-values covered by the graph.
• Range: The set of y-values covered by the graph.
• Pay special attention to endpoints and turning points as these are helpful in
defining the intervals of the domain and range.
The domain of 𝑓 is 𝑥: [−6, 0).
Note the closed endpoint on the
left and open endpoint on the
right of the domain because of
the endpoints of the graph.
(0, −1)
(−6, −1)
The range of 𝑓 is 𝑦: [−4, −1]. This
is found from the left endpoint
and minimum point on the graph.
(−3, −4)
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Section 3.5
 Graphing Functions(memorize the graphs)
• It is helpful if you can identify the basic shape of the functions graph by its type.
These are a few of the most important ones:
• Next, graph the y-intercept,
which is 𝑓 0 and any x-
intercepts, which are solutions
of the equation 𝑓 𝑥 = 0.
• Create a table and plot some
additional points. Remember
the basic shape of your
function’s graph!
• Connect the points with a
smooth curve or straight line
depending on the type of
function.
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Section 3.5
 Graphing Functions
• Graph the function 𝑓 𝑥 = − 𝑥 + 2 • The graph is based on 𝑦 = 𝑥 , so
it will have a V-shape.
• The y-intercept is
𝑓 0 = − 0 + 2, point (0, 2)
• The x-intercepts are solutions of
0 = − 𝑥 + 2 → 𝑥 = 2, −2
• Create a table with several other
points:

x -3 -1 1 3
y -1 1 1 -1
• Sketch the graph, remember
the V-shape!

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Section 3.5
 Graphing Piecewise-Defined Functions
• To graph a piecewise-defined function, graph each rule over only the part of
the domain for which it is defined.
• Use open dots to plot open endpoints for domain rules ( > or < cases).
To graph the function 𝒇 𝒙 :
• Graph the line 𝑦 = −0.5𝑥 on 𝑥: −∞, −2 .
Plot point (-2, 1) as an open dot.
• Graph the horizontal line 𝑦 = 1 on
𝑥: (−2, 0]. Plot point (-2, 1) as an open dot
and point (0, 1) as a closed dot.
• Graph the line 𝑦 = − 𝑥 on 𝑥: (0, 3). This is
the right half of an upside-down V-shaped
graph. Open endpoints at (0, 0) and (3, -3).
• Graph the horizontal line 𝑦 = 3 on
𝑥: 3, ∞ . This fills in the open dot at (3, -3).

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Section 3.5
 Increasing and Decreasing Intervals of Functions
• A function is increasing on an interval if for all points such that 𝑥1 < 𝑥2 ,
𝑓 𝑥1 < 𝑓(𝑥2 ).
• A function is decreasing on an interval if for all points such that 𝑥1 < 𝑥2 ,
𝑓 𝑥1 > 𝑓(𝑥2 ).
• A function is constant on an interval if for all points such that 𝑥1 < 𝑥2 ,
𝑓 𝑥1 = 𝑓(𝑥2 ).
The function 𝑓(𝑥) is
• In order to identify increasing increasing on the
and decreasing intervals of a intervals 𝑥: (−∞, −1) ∪
function, first identify the (1, ∞).
relative minimum and The function 𝑓(𝑥) is
maximum points. These will decreasing on the
determine the endpoints of interval 𝑥: (−1, 1).
the increasing and decreasing
intervals.
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Section 3.5
 Graphing by Transformations
• The technique of graphing by transformations begins by understanding
the shapes of some basic functions:
Once these, or any other
functions’ graphs are
understood, many other
functions may be graphed
by transforming them.

The key to graphing by

transformations is
understanding how
different constants affect
known functions.

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Section 3.6
 Graphing by Transformations: Translations
• Adding or subtracting a number to a basic function in different ways has
the effect of shifting, or translating, the graph on the coordinate plane.

Given any basic function 𝑓(𝑥) and

positive number 𝑐:
• 𝑔 𝑥 = 𝑓 𝑥 + 𝑐 is a vertical
translation up 𝑐 units.
• 𝑔 𝑥 = 𝑓 𝑥 − 𝑐 is a vertical
translation down 𝑐 units.
• 𝑔 𝑥 = 𝑓(𝑥 − 𝑐) is a horizontal
translation right 𝑐 units.
• 𝑔 𝑥 = 𝑓(𝑥 + 𝑐) is a horizontal
ℎ 𝑥 = (𝑥 + 1)3 +2 is a translation of
translation left 𝑐 units.
𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥 3 vertically up 2 units and
horizontally left 1 unit.
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Section 3.6
 Graphing by Transformations: Reflections
• A reflection occurs when one of the variables is multiplied by -1.
• Multiplying 𝑥 by -1 reflects a graph across the 𝑦-axis.
• Multiplying 𝑦 by -1 reflects a graph across the 𝑥-axis.
Given any basic function 𝑓(𝑥) and positive number 𝑐:
• 𝑔 𝑥 = −𝑓 𝑥 reflects the • 𝑔 𝑥 = 𝑓 −𝑥 reflects the graph
graph of 𝑓(𝑥) across the 𝒙-axis. of 𝑓(𝑥) across the 𝒚-axis.

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Section 3.6
 Graphing by Transformations: Stretching
• Multiplying a basic function 𝑓(𝑥) by a constant multiplies the y-
coordinates of all points on the graph by that constant. The effect of this
transformation is called a vertical stretch. 𝑔 𝑥 = 𝑐 ∙ 𝑓(𝑥).

• If 𝑐 > 1, the points on 𝑔(𝑥) will

be farther from the 𝑥-axis than
the points on 𝑓(𝑥). This make
the graph appear narrower.
1
ℎ 𝑥 = 𝑥 • If 0 < 𝑐 < 1, the points on 𝑔(𝑥)
2 will be closer to the 𝑥-axis than
the points on 𝑓(𝑥). This make
the graph appear wider.
• 𝑔 𝑥 = 2𝑓 𝑥 vertically stretches 1
the graph of 𝑓(𝑥) by a factor of 2. ℎ 𝑥 = 𝑥
2
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Section 3.6
 Graphing by Transformations: Multiple Transformations
• The transformation graphing techniques may be combined to quickly
graph a wide variety of functions in the form 𝑔 𝑥 = 𝑐 ∙ 𝑓 𝑥 − ℎ + 𝑘 for
any basic function 𝑓(𝑥).

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Section 3.6
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 Extra!
By which order do we apply the transformations?
Answer: Similar to PEMDAS
• Start with parentheses (look for possible horizontal shift) (This
could be a vertical shift if the power of x is not 1.)
• Deal with multiplication (stretch or compression)
• Deal with negation (reflection)
• Deal with addition/subtraction (vertical shift)

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 Even and Odd Functions
• Symmetry is a useful tool when graphing. When graphing functions there are
two types of symmetry. Test
• Even functions have graphs with y-axis symmetry. 𝑓 −𝑥 = 𝑓(𝑥)
• Odd functions are functions with origin symmetry. 𝑓 −𝑥 = −𝑓(𝑥)
• A graph with x-axis symmetry is not a function! It fails Vertical Line Test.

Why do you think

𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥2 + 2 they are named even
and odd functions?
EVEN ODD

3
𝑓 −𝑥 = (−𝑥)2 +2 𝑝 −𝑥 = −𝑥 − −𝑥 = −𝑥 + 𝑥 3
𝑓 −𝑥 = 𝑥 2 + 2 = 𝑓(𝑥) −𝑝 𝑥 = −(𝑥 − 𝑥 3 ) = −𝑥 + 𝑥 3
©FlatWorld 2019
Section 3.6
 Combinations of Functions
• The arithmetic combination of any two functions is itself a function.
• Sum of Functions: 𝑓 + 𝑔 𝑥 = 𝑓 𝑥 + 𝑔 𝑥
• Difference of Functions: 𝑓 − 𝑔 𝑥 = 𝑓 𝑥 − 𝑔 𝑥
• Product of Functions: 𝑓𝑔 𝑥 = 𝑓 𝑥 𝑔 𝑥
𝑓 𝑓(𝑥)
• Quotient of Functions: 𝑥 = ; 𝑔(𝑥) ≠ 0
𝑔 𝑔(𝑥)

Given the functions 𝑓 𝑥 = 2𝑥 2 − 4 and 𝑔 𝑥 = 3𝑥 + 9 determine:

𝑓 − 𝑔 𝑥 = 2𝑥 2 − 4 − (3𝑥 + 9) 𝑓 2𝑥 2 − 4
𝑥 = ; 𝑥 ≠ −3
𝑓−𝑔 𝑥 = 2𝑥 2 − 4 − 3𝑥 − 9 𝑔 3𝑥 + 9

𝑓 − 𝑔 𝑥 = 2𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 − 13 The domain of a combination of functions is

the intersection of the two domains and
when 𝑔(𝑥) ≠ 0 in the quotient of functions
©FlatWorld 2019
Section 3.7
 Combinations of Functions
• The evaluation of a combination of two functions may be done before or
after the functions are combined.
Given the functions 𝑓 𝑥 = 2𝑥 2 − 4 and 𝑔 𝑥 = 3𝑥 + 9 determine:
𝑓 + 𝑔 3 = 𝑓 3 + 𝑔(3) 𝑓𝑔 2 = 𝑓(2) ∙ 𝑔(2)
𝑓 + 𝑔 3 = 2(3)2 −4 + 3 3 + 9 𝑓𝑔 2 = (2 2 2 − 4) ∙ (3 2 + 9)
𝑓 + 𝑔 3 = 18 − 4 + 9 + 9 𝑓𝑔 2 = 4 ∙ 15 = 60
𝑓 + 𝑔 3 = 32 OR
OR 𝑓𝑔 𝑥 = 𝑓(𝑥) ∙ 𝑔(𝑥)
𝑓 + 𝑔 𝑥 = 2𝑥 2 − 4 + 3𝑥 + 9 𝑓𝑔 𝑥 = 2𝑥 2 − 4 (3𝑥 + 9)
𝑓 + 𝑔 𝑥 = 2𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 + 5 𝑓𝑔 𝑥 = 6𝑥 3 + 18𝑥 2 − 12𝑥 − 36
𝑓 + 𝑔 3 = 2(3)2 + 3(3) + 5 𝑓𝑔 2 = 6(2)3 + 18(2)2 −12(2) − 36
𝑓 + 𝑔 3 = 18 + 9 + 5 = 32 𝑓𝑔 2 = 48 + 72 − 24 − 36 = 60
©FlatWorld 2019
Section 3.7
 The Difference Quotient
• The difference quotient is another way of expressing the slope formula.
• The difference quotient calculates the average rate of change of a function 𝑓
if the following values are provided:
• 𝑎 is fixed value of 𝑥 in the domain of 𝑓.
• ℎ is the horizontal distance between the two known points on 𝑓.

©FlatWorld 2019
Section 3.7
 The Difference Quotient
• The result of simplifying a difference quotient is an expression in 𝑎 and ℎ.
State the difference quotient for the function 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 and simplify.
𝑓 𝑎 + ℎ − 𝑓(𝑎)
𝑚= Difference Quotient definition
ℎ
𝑎+ℎ 2
− 3 𝑎 + ℎ − (𝑎2 − 3𝑎)
𝑚= Evaluate 𝑓(𝑎 + ℎ) and 𝑓 𝑎
ℎ
𝑎2 + 2𝑎ℎ + ℎ2 − 3𝑎 − 3ℎ − 𝑎2 + 3𝑎
𝑚= Expand completely
ℎ
2𝑎ℎ + ℎ2 − 3ℎ Simplify numerator. All terms
𝑚= without ℎ must cancel out here!
ℎ
Cancel common factor of ℎ. The
𝑚 = 2𝑎 + ℎ − 3 difference quotient is ready to use!
©FlatWorld 2019
Section 3.7
 Compositions of Functions (fog=f(g(x))
• Composition of functions is formed when the output of the first function is
used as the input of a second function.
𝑓(𝑔 𝑥 ) is read ”f of g of x”. The “inside” function g(x) is the first in the
composition and the “outside” function f(x) is the second.

Given the functions 𝑓 𝑥 = 2𝑥 2 − 4 and 𝑔 𝑥 = 3𝑥 + 9 determine:

𝑓(𝑔 𝑥 ) 𝑔(𝑓 𝑥 )
𝑓(3𝑥 + 9) 𝑔(2𝑥 2 − 4)
2(3𝑥 + 9)2 −4 3 2𝑥 2 − 4 + 9
2(9𝑥 2 + 54𝑥 + 81) − 4 6𝑥 2 − 12 + 9
18𝑥 2 + 108𝑥 + 162 − 4 𝑔 𝑓 𝑥 = 6𝑥 2 − 3
𝑓 𝑔 𝑥 = 18𝑥 2 + 108𝑥 + 158 As can be seen here, the order of the
composition matters!
©FlatWorld 2019
Section 3.7
 Decomposing a Composite Function.
• A decomposition is expressing a function in the form of a composition 𝑓(𝑔 𝑥 ).
• To decompose a function:
• Identify the “inside” function. This is typically a function inside of parenthesis, in a
radical, or a denominator.
• See how how the “inside” function is used. Defining this determines the “outside”
function. Look for exponents, radicals, etc., to determine the “outside” function.
3
Express the function ℎ 𝑥 = 3𝑥 2 + 5 as the composition of functions
𝑓(𝑔 𝑥 ).

The “inside” function is the quantity inside the radical: 𝑔 𝑥 = 3𝑥 2 + 5.

The “outside” function takes the cubed root of 𝑔 𝑥 . Therefore 𝑓 𝑥 = 3 𝑥.

3
Check: 𝑓 𝑔 𝑥 =𝑓 3𝑥 2 +5 = 3𝑥 2 + 5 = ℎ(𝑥)
©FlatWorld 2019
Section 3.7
 Inverse Functions
• A pair of functions are inverse functions if their
compositions “undo” each other. This means
𝑓 𝑔 𝑥 = 𝑥 and 𝑔 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥.
• If f and g are a pair of inverse functions, the domain of
f is the range of g and the range of f is the domain of g.

Prove the functions 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥 + 4 and 𝑔 𝑥 = 𝑥 2 − 4 are a pair of inverse

functions.
𝑓(𝑔 𝑥 ) 𝑔(𝑓 𝑥 ) The domain of f is 𝑥: [−4, ∞)
2 and the range of f is 𝑦: [0, ∞)
𝑓(𝑥 − 4) 𝑔( 𝑥 + 4)
2 2 This means:
𝑥 −4+4 𝑥+4 −4 The domain of g is 𝑥: [0, ∞) and
𝑥2 = 𝑥 𝑥+4−4=𝑥 the range of g is 𝑦: [−4, ∞)

©FlatWorld 2019
Section 3.8
 Determining When an Inverse Function Exists
• In order for a function f to have an inverse function, it must be one-to-one. This
means that no y-value is mapped to more than once throughout the range of the
function.
• There are two methods used to determine if a function f is one-to-one.
Algebraically Geometrically
Prove that 𝑓 𝑥1 = 𝑓 𝑥2 implies Horizontal Line Test:
𝑥1 = 𝑥2 .
If 𝑓 𝑥 = 2𝑥 − 10, begin with
𝑓 𝑥1 = 𝑓 𝑥2
2𝑥1 − 10 = 2𝑥2 − 10
2𝑥1 = 2𝑥2
𝑥1 = 𝑥2
Therefore f has an inverse function.
©FlatWorld 2019
Section 3.8
 Graphs of Inverse Functions
Inverse Function Notation: If a function g is the inverse of function f , the function g
may be expressed as 𝑓 −1 . This is read as “f-inverse”. Additionally, 𝑔 𝑥 = 𝑓 −1 (𝑥) ,
which is read “f-inverse of x”. Note that inverse functions occur in pairs, so it is equally
correct to state 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑔−1 (𝑥) if desired.

Inverse Functions Graphs

The graphs of inverse functions are
symmetric along the line 𝑦 = 𝑥. This
means the x and y coordinates of every
point on the graph of 𝑓(𝑥) are
interchanged in order to create the graph
of 𝑓 −1 (𝑥).

©FlatWorld 2019
Section 3.8
 Defining an Inverse Function
• If a function 𝑓(𝑥) is one-to-one, the inverse function 𝑓 −1 (𝑥) may defined
algebraically using the following steps:
• Write the function 𝑓(𝑥) using the y variable.
• Interchange the x and y variables in the equation.
• Solve for y, then write in function notation as 𝑓 −1 (𝑥).

3𝑥 − 2
𝑓 𝑥 = 5𝑥 + 2 = 3𝑦
5
5𝑥 + 2
3𝑥 − 2 =𝑦
𝑦= 3
5
3𝑦 − 2 −1
5𝑥 + 2
𝑥= 𝑓 𝑥 =
5 3
5𝑥 = 3𝑦 − 2 Note the symmetry along
𝑦 = 𝑥 in the graphs.
©FlatWorld 2019
Section 3.8
©FlatWorld 2019