Matching rules are not equal without matching domains

The function ff is defined by f:x↦e∣2−x∣ f:x\mapsto e^{|2-x|}, x∈Rx\in\mathbb R, x>ax>a, where aa is a constant. It is given that aa is the least possible value such that f−1 f^{-1} exists.

(i) State the value of aa. mark

(ii) Hence find f−1(x) f^{-1}(x) and state the domain of f−1 f^{-1}. marks

(iii) Sketch on the same diagram the graphs of y=f(x) y=f(x), y=f−1(x) y=f^{-1}(x) and y=ff−1(x) y=ff^{-1}(x), giving the coordinates of all end points. marks

It is now given that aa is replaced by a constant such that the functions ff−1 ff^{-1} and f−1ff^{-1}f are equal.

(iv) Explain why the new value of aa satisfies the equation a=f(a) a=f(a), and find aa. marks

(v) The function gg is defined by g:x↦e∣2−x∣ g:x\mapsto e^{|2-x|}, x∈Zx\in\mathbb Z. Explain why composite g2 g^2 does not exist. mark

[2021/EJC/Promo/8]

Total marks: 11

Solution

If this part uses an earlier result, revisit (iv) Equality of composite functions or open all working together.

(v)

Existence of composites

g(x)=e∣2−x∣g(x)=e^{|2-x|} for x∈Zx\in\mathbb Z. Explain why g2g^2 does not exist.

Hint

  1. g2g^2 exists if Rg⊆DgR_g\subseteq D_g.

  2. Find one output that is not in the domain.

Answer · (v)

g2g^2 does not exist: g(0)=e2∉Z=Dgg(0)=e^2\notin\mathbb Z=D_g.