Let f(x) = x^2 - 16f(x)=x216 how do you find f^-1(x)f1(x)?

2 Answers
Mar 21, 2018

This is a way to express finding the inverse function of f(x)=x^2-16f(x)=x216

Explanation:

First, write the function as y=x^2-16y=x216.

Next, switch the yy and xx positions.

x=y^2-16 rarrx=y216 Solve for yy in terms of xx

x+16=y^2x+16=y2

y=sqrt(x+16)y=x+16

The inverse function should be f^-1(x)=sqrt(x+16)f1(x)=x+16

Mar 21, 2018

Please refer to the Explanation.

Explanation:

Suppose that, f : RR to RR : f(x)=x^2-16.

Observe that, f(1)=1-16=-15, and, f(-1)=-15.

:. f(1)=f(-1).

:. f" is not injective, or, "1-1.

:. f^-1 does not exist.

However, if f is defined on a suitable domain, e.g.,

RR^+, then f^-1 exists as Respected Serena D. has shown.