Matching rules are not equal without matching domains
The function is defined by , , , where is a constant. It is given that is the least possible value such that exists.
(i) State the value of . mark
(ii) Hence find and state the domain of . marks
(iii) Sketch on the same diagram the graphs of , and , giving the coordinates of all end points. marks
It is now given that is replaced by a constant such that the functions and are equal.
(iv) Explain why the new value of satisfies the equation , and find . marks
(v) The function is defined by , . Explain why composite does not exist. mark
[2021/EJC/Promo/8]
Solution
If this part uses an earlier result, revisit (iii) Graphs of inverses and composites or open all working together.
Equality of composite functions
is now replaced by a constant for which and are equal functions. Explain why , and find .
Hint
Both composites equal , so their domains must match.
and .
So .
Two functions are equal only when their rules and their domains match.
Answer · (iv)
; admissible root (3 s.f.).
; more precisely 3.14619….
Domains must match
The domain of a composite is the domain of its inner function. starts at because is increasing.
Equate the starting points
forces the left ends to agree. Here means the limiting endpoint value of the formula: is excluded from the function domain. Inverse existence permits , but does not satisfy the equal-domain condition.
Solve
here so . This is a transcendental equation: solve it on a calculator.
Numerical root
, so (the other root of is below 2, which is not allowed).
Explore the idea