Function Zeros and Inverses
Finding the zeros of a function means solving the equation f(x) = 0. For example, with f(x) = x² - 9, we factor it to x−3x+3 = 0, giving us zeros at x = 3 and x = -3. These points are where the function's graph crosses the x-axis.
An inverse function reverses the input-output relationship of the original function. If f(x) takes x and gives y, then f⁻¹(x) takes y and gives x back. This flips the domain and range—the domain of f(x) becomes the range of f⁻¹(x), and vice versa.
To find an inverse function, follow three simple steps: write the function as y = f(x), swap the variables to get x = f(y), and then solve for y. For example, with f(x) = 2x + 3, after swapping and solving, the inverse function is f⁻¹(x) = x−3/2.
🔄 Remember: Not all functions have inverses! A function must pass the horizontal line test beone−to−one to have an inverse that is also a function.