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Composite functions,
transformations and
3 inverses
LEARNING SEQUENCE
3.1 Overview ................................................................................................................................................................. 168
3.2 Composite functions .......................................................................................................................................... 169
3.3 Transformations ....................................................................................................................................................174
3.4 Inverse graphs ...................................................................................................................................................... 182
3.5 Inverse functions ..................................................................................................................................................192
3.6 Literal equations ...................................................................................................................................................201
3.7 Review ..................................................................................................................................................................... 206

Fully worked solutions for this topic are available online.

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3.1 Overview
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3.1.1 Introduction
Although functions themselves have been around
for hundreds of years, it was mathematician
Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz, in 1673, who was
the first to use the term ‘function’ to describe
these different mathematical relationships.
Around 1734, Leonhard Euler extended this
further and introduced the notation for a function,
y = f(x). The modern definition of a function —
a relation where every x element has a unique y
element — was provided in the 1830s by Nikolai
Lobachevsky and Peter Dirichlet.
The notation for an inverse function (y = f −1 (x)) was first used by John Herschel in 1813. Inverse functions
are important because they ‘undo’ the effects of a given function. For example, if you type something into a
computer, such as a number, the computer converts this number to binary for internal storage, then converts
it back to the number again where it appears on the screen. Converting money from Australian dollars to US
dollars and vice versa also uses inverse functions.

KEY CONCEPTS
This topic covers the following key concepts from the VCE Mathematics Study Design:
• graphs of the following functions: power functions, y = xn , n ∈ Q; exponential functions, y = ax ,
a ∈ R+ in particular y = ex ; logarithmic functions, y = loge (x) and y = log10 (x); and circular functions,
y = sin(x), y = cos(x) and y = tan(x) and their key features
• transformation from y = f(x) to y = Af (n (x + b)) + c, where A, n, b and c ∈ R, A, n ≠ 0, and the inverse
transformation
• the relation between the graph of an original function and the graph of a corresponding transformed
function (including families of transformed functions for a single transformation parameter)
• graphs of sum, difference, product and composite functions involving functions of the types specified
above (not including composite functions that result in reciprocal or quotient functions)
• functions and their inverses, including conditions for the existence of an inverse function, and use of
inverse functions to solve equations involving exponential, logarithmic, circular and power functions
• composition of functions, where f composite g, f ◦ g, is defined by ( f ◦ g) (x) = f (g (x)) given rg ⊆ df
• solution of literal equations and general solution of equations involving a single parameter.

Note: Concepts shown in grey are covered in other topics.

Source: VCE Mathematics Study Design (2023–2027) extracts © VCAA; reproduced by permission.

168 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 3 & 4 Third Edition
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3.2 Composite functions

LEARNING INTENTION
At the end of this subtopic you should be able to:
• determine the equations of composite functions
• determine if a composite function exists
• restrict the domain of the inner function, if needed, in order for a composite function to exist.

3.2.1 The composite function

Composition of two functions occurs when the output of one f (x) g( f (x))
x f g
function becomes the input for a second function. g º f (x)

Suppose f(x) = x2 and g(x) = 3x − 1.

The composite function f ◦ g(x) = f(g(x)) (pronounced ‘f of g g(x) f (g(x))
x g f
of x’) involves expressing f(x) in terms of g(x). f º g(x)

f ◦ g(x) = f(g(x)) = f(3x − 1)

= (3x − 1)2
= 9x2 − 6x + 1

The domain of f(g(x)) = dom g(x) = R.

On the other hand, the composite function g ◦ f(x) = g( f(x)) involves expressing g(x) in terms of f(x).

g ◦ f(x) = g( f(x)) = g(x2 )

= 3(x2 ) − 1
= 3x2 − 1

The domain of g( f(x)) = dom f(x) = R.

Note that the order of the composition will affect the result of the composition. This means that f(g(x)) will
generally not equal g( f(x)).

WORKED EXAMPLE 1 Composite functions

√
If f(x) = 3 − x, g(x) = 2x3 − 5 and h(x) = x + 4, determine:
a. g(h(x)) b. h ◦ f (x)

THINK WRITE
a. Determine g(h(x)) by substituting h(x) into g(x). g(h(x)) = g(x + 4)
= 2 (x + 4)3 − 5

b. 1. Rewrite h ◦ f(x) as h( f(x)). h ◦ f(x) = h( f(x))

(√ )
2. Determine h( f(x)) by substituting f(x) into h(x). =h 3−x
√
= 3−x+4

TOPIC 3 Composite functions, transformations and inverses 169

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Resources
Resourceseses
Interactivity Composite functions (int-6417)

3.2.2 Existence of composite functions

When two functions are composed, the output of the first function (the inner function) becomes the input for
the second function (the outer function). This means that if the composition is possible, the range of the inner
function must be a subset of or equal to the domain of the outer function. It may be necessary to restrict the
domain of the inner function to ensure that its range lies completely within the domain of the outer function.
The domain of the inner function is always the domain of the composite function.

Existence of composite functions

For f (g (x)) to exist, ran g ⊆ dom f. The domain of g(x) = dom f (g (x)).
For g ( f (x)) to exist, ran f ⊆ dom g. The domain of f(x) = dom g( f(x)).

Looking again at the functions f(x) = x2 and g(x) = 3x − 1, we can investigate why they exist by listing the
domains and ranges.

Function Domain Range

f(x) R [0, ∞)
g(x) R R

For f(g(x)), the range of g is R, which is equal to the domain of f, R.

R⊆R
ran g ⊆ dom f
Therefore, f(g(x)) exists.
For g( f(x)), the range of f is [0, ∞), which is a subset of the domain of g, R.

[0, ∞) ⊆ R
ran f ⊆ dom g
Therefore, g( f(x)) exists.

WORKED EXAMPLE 2 Existence of composite functions

√
If f(x) = ex and g(x) = x − 2, investigate whether the composite functions f(g(x)) and g( f(x)) exist.
If they do, form the rule for the composite function and state the domain.
THINK WRITE
√
1. Construct a table to investigate the domains f(x) = ex and g(x) = x−2
and ranges of the two functions.
Function Domain Range
f(x) R (0, ∞)
g(x) [2, ∞) [0, ∞)

170 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 3 & 4 Third Edition
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2. Investigate whether f(g(x)) exists by comparing [0, ∞) ⊆ R

the range of g to the domain of f. ran g ⊆ dom f
Therefore, f(g(x)) exists.
(√ )
3. Form the rule for f(g(x)) and state the domain. f(g(x)) = f x−2
√
= e x −2
Domain = dom g
= [2, ∞)

4. Investigate whether g( f(x)) exists. (0, ∞) ⊈ [2, ∞)

ran f ⊈ dom g
Therefore, g( f(x)) does not exist.

TI | THINK DISPLAY/WRITE CASIO | THINK DISPLAY/WRITE

1. On a Calculator page, press 1. On a Main screen, select:
MENU, then select: • Action
1: Actions • Command
1: Define • Define
Complete the entry line as: Complete the entry line as:
Define f(x) = ex Define f(x) = ex
then press ENTER. then press EXE.
Complete the next entry Complete the next entry
line as: √ line as: √
Define g(x) = x − 2 Define g(x) = x − 2
then press ENTER. then press EXE.

2. Investigate whether f(g(x)) [0, ∞) ⊆ R 2. Investigate whether f(g(x)) [0, ∞) ⊆ R

and g( f(x)) exists. ran g ⊆ dom f. and g( f(x)) exists. ran dom f
Therefore, f(g(x)) exists. Therefore, f(g(x))
(0, ∞) ⊈ [2, ∞) exists.
ran f ⊈ dom g (0, ∞) ⊈ [2, ∞)
Therefore, g( f(x)) does not exist. ran f ⊈ dom g
Therefore, g( f(x)) does
not exist.
3. To find f(g(x)), complete 3. To find f(g(x)), complete
the next entry line as: the next entry line as:
f(g(x)) f(g(x))
then press ENTER. then press EXE.

√ √
x−2 x−2
4. The answer appears on the f(g(x)) = e 4. The answer appears on the f(g(x)) = e
screen. screen.

TOPIC 3 Composite functions, transformations and inverses 171

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WORKED EXAMPLE 3 Restricting the domain

√
For the functions f(x) = 4 − x and g(x) = x − 1:
a. state why f(g(x)) is not defined
b. restrict the domain of g(x) to form a new function, h(x), such that f(h(x)) is defined
c. determine f(h(x)).

THINK WRITE
√
a. 1. Construct a table to investigate the domains a. f(x) = 4 − x and g(x) = x − 1
and ranges of the two functions.
Function Domain Range
f(x) (−∞, 4] [0, ∞)
g(x) R R

2. For f (g(x)) to be defined, the range of g must R ⊈ (−∞, 4]

be a subset of the domain of f. ran g ⊈ dom f
∴ f(g(x)) is not defined.
b. 1. For f(g(x)) to be defined, the range g must be b. We want ran g = dom f = (−∞, 4].
a subset of or equal to the domain
of y. The maximal range of g will be when
ran g = dom f.
2. Use the restriction of the range of g to solve x−1 ≤ 4
for the new domain of g. x≤5
3. Define h(x). h(x) = x − 1, x ∈ (−∞, 5]
√
c. Find f(h(x)) by substituting h(x) into f(x). c. f(h(x)) = 4 − (x − 1)
√
Make sure the domain is stated. = 5 − x, x ∈ (−∞, 5]

3.2 Exercise

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Technology free
√
1. WE1 If f(x) = −x2 + 1, g(x) = 2x − 3 and h(x) = x, determine:
a. g(h(x)) b. f ◦ g(x)

1
2. If f(x) = , g(x) = (x − 3)2 and h(x) = 1 − x4 , determine:
x+2
a. g(h(x)) b. h ◦ f(x)

3. WE2 If f(x) = (x − 1)(x + 3) and g(x) = x2 , investigate whether the composite functions f(g(x)) and g( f(x))
exist. If they do, form the rule for the composite function and state the domain.

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1
4. If f(x) = 2x − 1 and g(x) = , investigate whether the composite functions f(g(x)) and g( f(x)) exist, and if
x−2
they do, form the rule for the composite function.
√ 1
5. For the functions f(x) = x2 + 1, g(x) = x, and h(x) = , determine whether the following compositions are
x
defined or undefined. If the composite function exists, identify its domain.
a. f ◦ g(x) b. g( f(x)) c. h(g(x)) d. h ◦ f(x)
√ 1
6. For the functions f(x) = x2 , g(x) =x, and h(x) = − , determine whether the following compositions are
x
defined or undefined. If the composite function exists, state the rule and its domain.
a. f ◦ g(x) b. g( f(x)) c. h( f(x)) d. g(h(x))
√
7. The functions f and g are defined by f ∶ R → R, f (x) = x2 + 1 and g ∶ [−2, ∞) → R, g(x) = x + 2. Show that
f(g(x)) exists and find the rule for f(g(x)), stating its domain and range.
1 1
8. If f ∶ (0, ∞) → R, f(x) = and g ∶ R → R, g (x) = 2 :
x x
a. prove that g( f(x)) exists
b. determine g( f(x)) and state its domain and range
c. sketch the graph of y = g( f(x)).
√
9. WE3 For the functions f(x) = x + 3 and g(x) = 2x − 5:
a. state why f(g(x)) is not defined
b. restrict the domain of g to form a new function, h(x), such that f(h(x)) is defined
c. determine f(h(x)).
1
10. For the functions f(x) = x2 and g(x) = :
x−4
a. state why g( f(x)) is not defined
b. restrict the domain of f to form a new function, h(x), such that g(h(x)) is defined
c. determine g(h(x)).

Technology active
1 √
11. If g(x) = − 2 and f(x) = x:
2
(x − 3)
a. prove that f(g(x)) is not defined
b. restrict the domain of g to obtain a function g1 (x) such that f(g1 (x)) exists.
√ 1
12. For the equations f ∶ (−∞, 2] → R, f(x) = 2 − x and g ∶ R\[1] → R, g(x) = − + 2:
x−1
a. prove that g( f(x)) is not defined
b. restrict the domain of f to obtain a function f1 (x) such that g( f1 (x)) exists
c. determine g( f1 (x)).
√
13. For the equations f ∶ [4, ∞) → R, f(x) = x − 4 and g ∶ R → R, g (x) = x2 − 2:
a. prove that g( f(x)) is defined
b. determine the rule for g( f(x)) and state the domain
c. sketch the graph of y = g( f(x))
d. prove that f(g(x)) is not defined
e. restrict the domain of g to obtain a function g1 (x) such that f(g1 (x)) exists
f. determine f(g1 (x)).
√
14. If f ∶ [1, ∞) → R, f(x) = − x + k and g ∶ (−∞, 2] → R, g(x) = x2 + k, where k is a positive constant, calculate
the value(s) for k such that both f(g(x)) and g( f(x)) are defined.

TOPIC 3 Composite functions, transformations and inverses 173

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3.2 Exam questions

Question 1 (1 mark) TECH-ACTIVE

Source: VCE 2020 Mathematical Methods Exam 2, Section A, Q1; © VCAA.
MC Let f and g be functions such that f(−1) = 4, f(2) = 5, g(−1) = 2, g(2) = 7 and g(4) = 6.
The value of g( f(−1)) is
A. 2 B. 4 C. 5 D. 6 E. 7

Question 2 (1 mark) TECH-ACTIVE

Source: VCE 2018, Mathematical Methods Exam 2, Section A, Q6; © VCAA.
MC Let f and g be two functions such that f(x) = 2x and g(x + 2) = 3x + 1.
The function f(g(x)) is
A. 6x − 5 B. 6x + 1 C. 6x2 + 1 D. 6x − 10 E. 6x + 2

Question 3 (1 mark) TECH-ACTIVE

2
MC If f(x) = 4x and g(x) = 3x + 1, then f(g(a)) is equal to
2 2
A. 4(3a + 1) B. 36a2 + 4 C. (3a + 1) D. 3a + 1 E. 12a2 + 1
More exam questions are available online.

3.3 Transformations
LEARNING INTENTION
At the end of this subtopic you should be able to:
• sketch the graph resulting from a set of transformations
• determine the equation of a transformed function
• describe the transformations that have been applied to a function.

3.3.1 Dilations, reflections and translations

There are three commonly used transformations.
• Dilations:
The point (1, 2) when dilated by factor 2 parallel to the y-axis, or from the x-axis, becomes the point (1, 4).
1
The point (2, 7) when dilated by factor parallel to the x-axis, or from the y-axis, becomes the point (1, 7).
2
• Reflections:
When the point (1, 2) is reflected in the x-axis, it becomes the point (1, −2).
When the point (1, 2) is reflected in the y-axis, it becomes the point (−1, 2).
• Translations:
The point (2, 7) when translated 2 units in the positive x-direction becomes (4, 7).
The point (2, 7) when translated 4 units in the negative y-direction becomes (2, 3).

Resources
Resourceseses
Interactivity Transformations of functions (int-2576)

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The general rule for transformations

When a function of the form y = f(x) has a number of different transformations applied to it, the
general equation becomes

y = Af(n (x + b)) + c.

The following transformations have been applied to y = f(x):

• It has been dilated by a factor of |A| parallel to the y-axis or from the x-axis.
( )
Each y-value has been multiplied by |A|, so each point is now x, |A|y .
1
• It has been dilated by a factor of parallel to the x-axis or from the y-axis.
|n|
( )
1 x
Each x-value has been multiplied by , so each point is now ,y .
|n| |n|
• If A is negative, the graph has been reflected in the x-axis.
Each y-value has changed sign, so each point is now (x, −y).
• If n is negative, the graph has been reflected in the y-axis.
Each x-value has changed sign, so each point is now (−x, y).
• It has been translated b units parallel to the x-axis.
Each x-value has increased by b, so each point is now (x − b, y).
• It has been translated c units parallel to the y-axis.
Each y-value has increased by c, so each point is now (x, y + c).
As a general rule, when functions are written in the form y = Af(n(x + b)) + c, transformations should be read
from left to right, as the order is important. Sometimes there may be more than one way to describe the order of
transformations, but reading from left to right is a consistent and safe approach.

WORKED EXAMPLE 4 Key transformations

i. Describe the transformation that has been applied to the graph of y = x2 in each of the following
examples. Sketch both graphs on the one set of axes.
ii. Determine the image of the point (2, 4) after it has undergone each of the transformations.
b. y = (2x) d. y = (x + 1) e. y = (x − 2)2
2 2
a. y = 2x2 c. y = −x2 f. y = x2 − 2

THINK WRITE
a. i. Specify the transformation that has been a. y = x2 has been dilated by factor 2 parallel to
applied to y = x2 , then sketch both graphs on the y-axis or from the x-axis.
the one set of axes. y
8
y = x2
7
y = 2x2 6
5
4
3
2 (1, 2)
1 (1, 1)
x
–5 –4 –3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3 4 5
–1
ii. Each y-value is doubled for its corresponding (2, 4) → (2, 8)
x-value.

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1
b. i. Specify the transformation that has been b. y = x2 has been dilated by factor parallel to
applied to y = x2 , then sketch both graphs on 2
the x-axis or from the y-axis.
the one set of axes. y
8
7 y = x2
6
y = (2x)2 5
4
3
2
(1–2 , 1)
1 (1, 1)
x
–5 –4 –3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3 4 5
–1
ii. Each x-value is halved for its corresponding (2, 4) → (1, 4)
y-value.
c. i. Specify the transformation that has been c. y = x2 has been reflected in the x-axis.
applied to y = x2 , then sketch both graphs on y
the one set of axes. 8
7 y = x2
6
5
4
3
2
1 (1, 1)
x
–5 –4 –3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3 4 5
–1
–2 (1, –1)
–3
–4 y = –x2
–5
–6
–7
–8

ii. All y-values change sign. (2, 4) → (2, −4)

d. i. Specify the transformation that has been d. y = x2 has been translated 1 unit to the left.
applied to y = x2 , then sketch both graphs on y
the one set of axes. 8
y = (x + 1)2 7 y = x2
6
5
4
3
(0, 1)
2
1 (1, 1)
x
–5 –4 –3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3 4 5
–1

ii. All x-values subtract 1 unit. (2, 4) → (1, 4)

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e. i. Specify the transformation that has been e. y = x2 has been translated 2 units to the right.
2
applied to y = x , then sketch both graphs on y
the one set of axes. y = x2
8
7
6
5 (0, 4) y = (x – 2)2
4
3
2 (1, 1)
1 (3, 1)
x
–5 –4 –3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3 4 5
–1
ii. All x-values gain 2 units. (2, 4) → (4, 4)
f. i. Specify the transformation that has been f. y = x2 has been translated down 2 units.
2
applied to y = x , then sketch both graphs on y
the one set of axes. 8
7 y = x2
6
5
4 y = x2 – 2
3
2 (1, 1)
1
0 x
–5 –4 –3 –2 –1
–1 1 2 3 4 5
(1, –1)
(0, –2)

ii. All y-values subtract 2 units. (2, 4) → (2, 2)

TI | THINK DISPLAY/WRITE CASIO | THINK DISPLAY/WRITE

a. 1. On a Graphs page, a. 1. On a Graph & Table screen,
complete the entry line complete the entry line for
for function 1 as: y1 as:
f 1(x) = x2 y1 = x2
then press ENTER. then press EXE.
Complete the entry line complete the entry line for
for function 2 as: y2 as:
f2(x) = x2 y2 = x2
then press ENTER. then press EXE.

2. Press MENU, then select: 2. Select:

5: Trace • Analysis
1: Graph Trace • Trace
Select the graph of then type ‘2’, select OK and
function 1, then type ‘2’ press EXE.
and press ENTER twice.
Use the up/down arrows
to move to the graph of
function 2, then press
ENTER.

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3. Click and drag the graph 3. Select:

of function 2 until its • Analysis
equation becomes • Modify
f2(x) = 2x2 . then set the Step value to 1
and select OK.
Highlight the ‘1’ in the
function entry line at the
bottom of the screen and press
EXE, then use the left/right
arrows modify the graph until
its equation becomes 2x2 .

4. The answer appears on The image of (2, 4) is (2, 8). 4. The image of (2, 4) can be The modified graph
the screen. read from the screen. goes through the point
(2, 8); hence, the image
of (2, 4) is (2, 8).

WORKED EXAMPLE 5 Describing transformations

1
The graph y = x2 is transformed so that its equation becomes y = (2x + 3)2 − 4. Define the
2
transformations that have been applied to y = x2 .
THINK WRITE
( ( ))2
1 3
1. Rewrite the equation with x by itself. y= 2 x+ −4
2 2
y = x2 has been:
2. Define the transformations, reading from left
1
1. dilated by factor parallel to the y-axis or from the
to right. 2
x-axis
Note: There are other ways of writing the 1
order of the transformations. However, the best 2. dilated by factor parallel to the x-axis or from the
2
method is to read the transformations from left y-axis
to right. 3 3
3. translated units to the left or units in the
2 2
negative x-direction
4. translated 4 units down or 4 units in the negative
y-direction.

3.3.2 Creating equations from transformations

Sometimes you may be asked to build up an equation from a series of transformations. In these cases, you must
apply the transformation in the order that it is mentioned.

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WORKED EXAMPLE 6 Equations resulting from transformations

√
The graph of g(x) = x undergoes the following transformations:
• translation 2 units right
• dilation of factor 3 from the x-axis
1
• dilation of factor from the y-axis
2
• translation 1 unit down
• reflection in the x-axis.
Determine the rule of the image of the graph.
THINK WRITE
√ √
1. Translation 2 units right means to replace x x→ x−2
with x − 2 in the equation.
√ √
2. Dilation of factor 3 from the x-axis means x−2→3 x−2
multiply the equation by 3.
1 √ √
3. Dilation of factor from the y-axis means 3 x − 2 → 3 2x − 2
2
replace x with 2x in the equation.
√ √
4. Translation 1 unit down means to subtract 3 2x − 2 → 3 2x − 2 − 1
1 unit from the equation.
√ √
5. Reflection in the x-axis means to multiply the 3 2x − 2 − 1 → −3 2x − 2 + 1
equation through by –1.
√ √
6. Write the final answer. g(x) = x → h(x) = −3 2x − 2 + 1
Note: g(x) has not been used to denote the
transformed equation because
√ g(x) has already
been defined as g(x) = x.

3.3 Exercise

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1. WE4 i. Describe the transformation that has been applied to the graph of y = x3 in each of the following
examples. Sketch both graphs on the one set of axes.
ii. Determine the image of the point (−2, −8) after it has undergone each of the following transformations.
3
a. y = 3x3 b. y = (x + 2) c. y = −x3 d. y = x3 + 1

2. Describe the transformation that has been applied to the graph of y = sin(x) for x ∈ [0, 2𝜋] in each of the
following cases. In each case, sketch both graphs on the one set of axes.
( )
𝜋
a. y = 4 sin(x) b. y = sin(2x) c. y = sin x + d. y = sin(x) + 2
2

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3. Describe and sketch the transformation that has been applied to the graph of y = cos(x) for x ∈ [0, 2𝜋] in
each of the following cases.
1
a. y = cos(x) b. y = cos(2x) c. y = − cos(x) d. y = cos(x) − 1
2
1
4. Describe and sketch the transformation that has been applied to the graph of f(x) = in each of the
x
following cases. Give the equations of any asymptotes in each case.
a. y = f(x − 2) b. y = −f(x) c. y = 3f(x) d. y = f(2x)
[ ]
𝜋
5. WE5 The graph of y = sin(x) is transformed so that its equation becomes y = −2 sin 2x − + 1. Define
2
the transformations that have been applied to y = sin(x).
( )
1 x+1
x
6. The graph of y = e is transformed so that its equation becomes y = e 2 − 2. Define the transformations
3
that have been applied to y = ex .

7. State the sequence of transformations that has been applied to the first function in order to achieve the
transformed function.
1 2 2 3 1 3
a. y = x2 → y = (x + 3) − b. y = x3 → y = −2(1 − x) + 1 c. y = →y= −1
3 3 x (2x + 6)
8. For the corresponding sequence of transformations in question 7, determine the image of the point:
( )
1
a. (–2, 4) b. (1, 1) c. 2, .
2
9. State the sequence of transformations that has been applied to the first function in order to obtain the second
function. [ ( )]
𝜋
a. y = cos(x) → y = 2 cos 2 x− +3 b. y = tan(x) → y = − tan(−2x) + 1
2
c. y = sin(x) → y = sin(3x − 𝜋) − 1

Technology active
10. WE6 MC The graph of g(x) = x2 undergoes the following transformations:
• reflection in the y-axis
• translation 4 units right
• dilation of factor 2 from the y-axis
• translation 3 units down
1
• dilation of factor from the x-axis.
3
Determine the rule of the image of the graph.
( )2 ( )2
1 x−8 1 2 1 x−8
A. f(x) = −1 B. f(x) = − (2x − 4) − 3 C. f(x) = − −1
3 2 3 3 2
( )2 ( )2
x−8 1 x−4
D. f(x) = 3 −3 E. f(x) = −3
2 3 2

180 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 3 & 4 Third Edition
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1
11. MC The graph of h(x) = undergoes the following transformations:
x
• dilation of factor 3 parallel to the x-axis
• translation 2 units up
• reflection in the y-axis
• translation 1 unit left
• reflection in the x-axis.
Determine the rule of the image of the graph.
3 3 1
A. f(x) = +2 B. f(x) = − −2 C. f(x) = −2
x+1 1−x 3 (x + 1)
3 1
D. f(x) = −2 E. f(x) = +2
x+1 3x + 1
√
12. The graph of h(x) = 3 x undergoes the following transformations:
reflection in the y-axis, then a translation of 3 units in the positive x-direction, followed by a dilation of
factor 2 parallel to the x-axis.
Determine the rule of the image of the graph.
1
13. The graph of h(x) = undergoes the following transformations:
x2
translation of 2 units left and 3 units down, then a reflection in the x-axis, followed by a dilation of factor 3
from the x-axis, and a reflection in the y-axis.
Determine the rule of the image of the graph.
14. The graph of h(x) = 2x2 − 3 undergoes the following transformations:
1
reflection in the x-axis, then a dilation of factor from the y-axis, followed by a translation of 1 unit in the
3
positive x-direction and 2 units in the negative y-direction.
Determine the rule of the image of the graph.
1
15. The graph of h(x) = undergoes the following transformations:
x+2
1
dilation of factor parallel to the x-axis, then a translation of 3 units down and 3 units left, then a reflection
2
in the y-axis, followed by a dilation of factor 2 from the x-axis.
Determine the rule of the image of the graph.
2x − 5 3 1
16. Show that =2− and hence describe the transformations that have been applied to y = . Sketch
x−1 x−1 x
2x − 5
the graph of y = . State the domain and range and give the equations of any asymptotes.
x−1
17. State the transformations that have been applied to the first function in order to obtain the second function.
Hint: Remember dilations can affect translations.
√
5−x √
y=3− →y= x
2

18. State the transformations that have been applied to the first function in order to obtain the second function.

y = −2(3x − 1)2 + 5 → y = (x + 2)2 − 1

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3.3 Exam questions

Question 1 (1 mark) TECH-ACTIVE

Source: VCE 2019, Mathematical Methods Exam 2, Section A, Q13; © VCAA.
MC The graph of the function f passes through the point (−2, 7).
( )
x
If h(x) = f + 5, then the graph of the function h must pass through the point
2
A. (−1, −12) B. (−1, 19) C. (−4, 12) D. (−4, −14) E. (3, 3.5)

Question 2 (1 mark) TECH-ACTIVE

Source: VCE 2016, Mathematical Methods Exam 2, Section A, Q12; © VCAA.
√
MC The graph of a function f is obtained from the graph of the function g with rule g(x) = 2x − 5 by a
1
reflection in the x-axis followed by a dilation from the y-axis by a factor of .
2
√ f?
Which one of√the following is the rule for the function √
A. f(x) = √ 5 − 4x B. f(x) = √ x−5 C. f(x) = x + 5
D. f(x) = − 4x − 5 E. f(x) = − 4x − 10

Question 3 (1 mark) TECH-ACTIVE

Source: VCE 2015, Mathematical Methods (CAS) Exam 2, Section 1, Q11; © VCAA.
√ √
MC The transformation that maps the graph of y = 8x3 + 1 onto the graph of y = x3 + 1 is a
A. dilation by a factor of 2 from the y-axis.

B. dilation by a factor of 2 from the x-axis.

1
C. dilation by a factor of from the x-axis.
2
D. dilation by a factor of 8 from the y-axis.
1
E. dilation by a factor of from the y-axis.
2
More exam questions are available online.

3.4 Inverse graphs

LEARNING INTENTION
At the end of this subtopic you should be able to:
• define an inverse
• state the conditions required for an inverse function
• sketch the graph of an inverse function.

Note: Relations are not specifically covered in the VCE Mathematics Study Design. However, the content has
been included in this topic to help with understanding functions.

3.4.1 Inverses
The relation A = {(−1, 4), (0, 3), (1, 5)} is formed by the mapping

−1 → 4
0→3
1→5

182 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 3 & 4 Third Edition
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The inverse relation is formed by the ‘undoing’ mapping:

4 → −1
3→0
5→1

The inverse of A is the relation {(4, −1), (3, 0), (5, 1)}.
The x- and y-coordinates of the points in relation A have been interchanged in its inverse. This causes the
domains and ranges to be interchanged also.
The domain of A = {−1, 0, 1} = the range of its inverse, and the range of A = {3, 4, 5} = the domain of its inverse.

Inverses
• For any relation, the inverse is obtained by interchanging the x- and y-coordinates of the
ordered pairs.
• Domains and ranges are interchanged between a pair of inverse relations.

Graphs of inverses
When finding the inverse of a relation graphically, we reflect the relation in the line y = x. Consider the equation
y = 2x + 1.

y
y = 2x + 1

y=x

(0, 1)

(–0.5, 0) (1, 0) Inverse

0 x
(–1, –1) (0, –0.5)

The line y = x acts as a mirror. The inverse is the same distance from the line as the original graph. The
coordinates of known points, such as the axial intercepts, are interchanged by this reflection through the mirror.
We can see that the line y = 2x + 1 cuts the y-axis at (0, 1) and the x-axis at (−0.5, 0), whereas the inverse graph
cuts the x-axis at (1, 0). When sketching a graph and its inverse, the line y = x should always be sketched. If
the graphs intersect, they will do so on the line y = x, since interchanging the coordinates of any point on y = x
would not cause any alteration to the coordinates.

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WORKED EXAMPLE 7 Sketching inverses

a. Sketch the graph of y = x2 − 2x − 3.

b. On the same set of axes, sketch the graph of the inverse.
c. State the type of mapping for the parabola and its inverse, and whether the relations are functions.
d. Give the domain and range for each of the graphs.
THINK WRITE
a. 1. Determine where the given function cuts the a. y-intercept, x = 0∶
x- and y-axes. y = −3
x-intercept, y = 0∶
x2 − 2x − 3 = 0
(x − 3)(x + 1) = 0
x = 3 or x = −1
A turning point occurs when x = 1:
y = (1)2 − 2(1) − 3
= −4
∴ TP = (1, −4)

2. Sketch the graph of the parabola. y

Note: When sketching graphs and their
inverses, the scales on both axes need to be
y = x2 – 2x – 3
relatively accurate so that distortions do not
occur.
(–1, 0) (3, 0)
0 x

(0, –3)
(1, –4)

b. On the same set of axes, sketch the inverse by b. y

interchanging the coordinates of all important
points such as axial intercepts and the turning y=x
point. y = x2 – 2x – 3 (0, 3)

(–4, 1)
(–1, 0) (3, 0)
(–3, 0) 0 (0, –1) x

Inverse
(0, –3)

(1, –4)

184 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 3 & 4 Third Edition
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c. Comment on the types of mapping for the two c. The parabola y = x2 − 2x − 3 is a many-to-
graphs. one mapping, so it is a function. However, the
inverse is a one-to-many mapping and as such
is not a function.
d. State the domains and ranges for both graphs. d. For y = x2 − 2x − 3:
Remember that the domain of the original graph Domain = R
becomes the range of the inverse and vice versa. Range = [−4, ∞)
For the inverse:
Domain = [−4, ∞)
Range = R

TI | THINK DISPLAY/WRITE CASIO | THINK DISPLAY/WRITE

a. 1. On a Graphs page, a. 1. On a Graph & Table screen,
complete the entry line complete the entry line for
for function 1 as: y1 as:
f 1(x) = x2 − 2x − 3 y1 = x2 − 2x − 3
then press ENTER. then press EXE.
Select the y = icon and change
the input format to x =.
Complete the entry line for
x2 as:
x2 = y1(y)
then press EXE.
Select the graph icon.
2. To find the x-intercepts, 2. To find the x-intercepts of y1,
press MENU, then select: select:
6: Analyze Graph • Analysis
1: Zero • G-Solve
Move the cursor to the left • Root
of the x-intercept when Press EXE to mark the
prompted for the lower coordinates of the first
bound, then press ENTER. x-intercept on the graph, use
Move the cursor to the the left/right arrows to move to
right of the x-intercept the next x-intercept, then press
when prompted for the EXE.
upper bound, then press
ENTER. Repeat this
step to find the other
x-intercept.
3. To find the y-intercept, 3. To find the y-intercept of y1,
press MENU, then select: select:
5: Trace • Analysis
1: Graph Trace • G-Solve
Type ‘0’, then press • y-Intercept
ENTER twice. then press EXE.

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4. To find the minimum, 4. To find the minimum, select:

press MENU, then select: • Analysis
6: Analyze Graph • G-Solve
2: Minimum • Min
Move the cursor to the then press EXE.
left of the minimum when
prompted for the lower
bound, then press ENTER.
Move the cursor to the
right of the minimum when
prompted for the upper
bound, then press ENTER.
b. 1. To sketch the graph of the b. 1. To find the points of interest on
inverse, press MENU, then the inverse graph, select:
select: • Analysis
3: Graph Entry/Edit • Trace.
2: Relation Use the up/down arrows to
Complete the entry line as: move from the graph of y1 to
f 1(y) = x the graph of x2, then use the
then press ENTER. left/right arrows to locate the
x- and y-intercepts and
the turning point.

2. To find the points of

interest on the inverse
graph, press MENU, then
select:
5: Trace
1: Graph Trace
Use the up/down arrows to
move from the graph to the
inverse graph, then use the
left/right arrows to locate
the x- and y-intercepts and
the turning point.

3.4.2 Inverse functions

As we have seen in the previous examples, the inverses produced are not always functions. Any function that is
many-to-one will have an inverse that is one-to-many, and hence this inverse will not be a function.

Conditions for an inverse function

Only one-to-one functions will have an inverse that is also a function.

If we require the inverse of a many-to-one function to also be a function, the domain of the original graph must
be restricted in order to ensure its correspondence is one-to-one. Achieving the maximum possible domain is
always preferred, so many-to-one graphs are often restricted about the turning point or an asymptote.

186 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 3 & 4 Third Edition
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WORKED EXAMPLE 8 Sketching inverse functions

a. Consider the graph of y = x2 − 2x − 3 from Worked example 7. The domain is restricted to

x ∈ (− ∞, a], where a is the largest possible value such that the inverse function exists. Determine
the value of a.
b. Sketch the restricted graph of y and its inverse on the same set of axes.
c. Give the domain and range for both graphs.

THINK WRITE
a. The turning point is (1, −4), so to maximise the a. The x-value of the turning point is 1, so a = 1.
domain, we restrict y about this point.

b. Sketch the graph of y = x2 − 2x − 3 for x ∈ b. For y = x2 − 2x − 3, x ∈ (−∞, 1]:

(−∞, 1]. Due to the restriction, there is only one x-intercept = (–1, 0),
x-intercept. Interchange the coordinates of the y-intercept = (0, –3) and TP = (1, –4).
x-intercept and turning point, and sketch the For the inverse,
graph of the inverse by reflecting the graph in x-intercept = (–3, 0),
the line y = x. y-intercept = (0, –1)
and sideways TP = (–4, 1).
y
y = x2 – 2x – 3
y=x

(–4, 1) (–1, 0)
0 (0, –1) x
(–3, 0)

Inverse
(0, –3)

(1, –4)

c. State the domain and range for this function and c. For y = x2 − 2x − 3:
its inverse. Domain: x ∈ (−∞, 1]
Range: y ∈ (−4, ∞]
Inverse:
Domain: x ∈ (−4, ∞]
Range: y ∈ (−∞, 1]

TOPIC 3 Composite functions, transformations and inverses 187

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3.4 Exercise

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1. WE7 a. Sketch the graph of y = (1 − x)(x + 5) and its inverse on the one set of axes. Show all axis intercepts
and turning point coordinates.
b. State the mapping for each graph and whether it is a function or a relation.
c. Give the domain and range for the function and its inverse.
√
2. a. Sketch the graph of y = x.
b. By reflecting this function in the line y = x, sketch the graph of the inverse relation.
c. State the type of mapping for y and its inverse and state whether the inverse is a relation or a function.

3. For each of the following relations, sketch the graph and its inverse on the same set of axes.
Include the line y = x.
a. y b. y
4 4
3 3
2 2
1 1
x
–4 –3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3 4
x –4 –3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3 4
–1 –1
–2 –2
–3 –3
–4 –4

c. y d. y
4 4
3 3
2 2
1 1

–2 –1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6
x –4 –3 –2 –1 1 2 3 4x
–1 –1
–2 –2
–3 –3
–4 –4

1
4. a. Sketch the graph of y = − x − 1, showing all important features.
3
b. On the same set of axes, sketch the inverse function, again showing axis intercepts.

5. Identify which of the following functions are one-to-one functions.

a. f(x) = cos (x) b. g(x) = 1 − x3
1
c. h(x) = 4 − x2 d. k(x) = 2 + ,x≠3
x−3

188 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 3 & 4 Third Edition
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Technology active
6. MC Identify which of the following functions has an inverse that is a function.
1 1
A. y = x2 − 1 B. y = C. y =
2 x−1
(x + 2)
D. y = x3 − x2 E. y = 10

7. MC Identify the function and inverse function pair.

A. y y=x B. y y=x C. y y=x
5 5 4
4 4 3
3 3 2
2 2 1
1 1 x
–4 –3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3 4
x x –1
–3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3 4 5 –3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3 4 5 –2
–1 –1
–2 –2 –3
–3 –3 –4

D. y y=x E. y
2 4 y=x
3
1 2
1
0 x x
–2 –1 1 2 –4 –3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3 4
–1
–1 –2
–3
–2 –4

2
8. The graph of x = (y − 2) is shown in blue. The inverse relation is one of the other two graphs shown.
Choose whether option A or option B is the inverse, giving clear reasons for your decision.
y
4
3
A
x = (y – 2)2 2
1
x
–4 –3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3 4
–1
–2
B –3
–4

9. a. Use CAS to sketch the graph of y = 9x − x3 and its inverse on the one set of axes.
b. Determine the points of intersection of y and its inverse that occur along the line y = x, correct to
3 decimal places.
1
10. a. Use CAS to sketch the graph of y = 3 + √ , x ∈ R+ and its inverse on one set of axes.
x
b. Determine the points of intersection of y and its inverse, correct to 3 decimal places.

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11. WE8 a. Consider the graph of y = (1 − x)(x + 5). The domain is restricted to x ∈ (−∞, a], where a is the
largest possible value such that the inverse function exists. Determine the value of a.
b. Sketch the restricted graph of y and its inverse on the same set of axes.
c. Give the domain and range for both graphs.
2
12. Consider the graph of y = −(x − 3) . State the largest positive domain for the given function so that its
inverse is a function. Sketch the restricted function with its inverse on the one set of axes.
13. a. Sketch the graph of y = (x + 4)(x − 2).
b. On the same set of axes, sketch the graph of the inverse relation.
c. State the type of mapping for the parabola and its inverse.
d. State whether the inverse a function. Give a reason for your answer.
e. Give the domain and range for each of the graphs.
f. Find the largest domain to which y could be restricted so that its inverse is a function.
14. a. Sketch the graph of y = x3 and its inverse on the same set of axes.
b. State the type of mapping for the graph and its inverse.
c. State whether the inverse is a function. Give a reason for your answer.
d. Give the domain and range for each of the graphs.
1
15. a. Sketch the graph of y = .
x2
b. On the same set of axes, sketch the inverse relation.
c. State the mapping for each graph and indicate whether the rule describes a function or a relation.
1
d. Restrict the domain of y = , where x consists of negative values only, so that its inverse is a function.
x2
State this domain.
e. Using this restricted domain for y, sketch the graph of y and its inverse on a new set of axes. State the
domain and range of each function.
16. Given y = 2x2 − 12x + 13 with a domain of (−∞, a], find the largest value of a so that the inverse of y is a
function.

3.4 Exam questions

Question 1 (1 mark) TECH-ACTIVE

Source: VCE 2017 Mathematical Methods Exam 2, Section A, Q6; © VCAA.
MC Part of the graph of the function f is shown below. The same scale has been used on both axes.

190 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 3 & 4 Third Edition
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The corresponding part of the graph of the inverse function f −1 is best represented by
A. y B. y

x x

C. y D. y

x x

E. y

Question 2 (1 mark) TECH-ACTIVE

Source: VCE 2013, Mathematical Methods (CAS) Exam 2, Section 1, Q7; © VCAA.
( ( ))
𝜋
MC The function g: [−a, a] → R, g(x) = sin 2 x − has an inverse function.
6
The maximum possible value of a is
𝜋 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋
A. B. 1 C. D. E.
12 6 4 2
Question 3 (1 mark) TECH-ACTIVE
MC Select the rule that does not describe a function.
A. y = x2 − 5
B. y = −5
C. x = −5
√
D. y = 5 − x2
1
E. y =
x−5
More exam questions are available online.

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3.5 Inverse functions

LEARNING INTENTION
At the end of this subtopic you should be able to:
• determine the equation of an inverse function
• restrict the domain of the original function, so that the inverse is a function
• determine the point of intersection between a function and its inverse.

3.5.1 Finding the equation of an inverse

In the previous section, we saw that an inverse is graphed by reflecting the given function in the line y = x. We
follow the same procedure to determine the rule of an inverse. That is, the x and y variables are interchanged.
Consider the linear function f (x) = 2x + 1. As f is a one-to-one function, its inverse will also be a function. To
obtain the rule for the inverse function, the x and y variables are interchanged.

Inverse: Let y = f (x) , swap x and y.

x = 2y + 1

Rearrange the rule to make y the subject of the equation.

2y = x − 1
1
y = (x − 1)
2

The function f (x) = 2x + 1 has a domain of R and range of R.

1
The inverse function y = (x − 1) has a domain of R and range of R.
2
Notation for inverse functions
If the inverse of a function f is itself a function, then the inverse function is denoted by f −1 .
√
For example, the equation of the inverse of the square root function, f(x) = x, can be written as
f −1 (x) = x2 , x ≥ 0.
√
In mapping notation, if f ∶ [0, ∞) → R, f(x) = x, then the inverse function is f −1 ∶ [0, ∞) → R, f −1 (x) = x2 .
The domain of f −1 equals the range of f, and the range of f −1 equals the domain of f ; that is, df −1 = rf
and rf −1 = df .
Note that f −1 is a function notation and thus cannot be used for relations that are not functions.
1 1
Note also that the inverse function f −1 and the reciprocal function represent different functions: f −1 ≠ .
f f

WORKED EXAMPLE 9 Determining equations of inverses

Consider the function y = (x + 2)2 . Determine the rule for the inverse and indicate whether this inverse
is a function or a relation. Give the domain and range for both.
THINK WRITE
1. To obtain the inverse, interchange the x and y y = (x + 2)2
variables. Inverse: swap x and y.
x = (y + 2)2

192 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 3 & 4 Third Edition
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2. Rearrange to make y the subject of the (y + 2)2 = x

equation. √
y+2 = ± x
√
y = ± x−2
3. Comment on whether the inverse is a function As y = (x + 2)2 is a many-to-one function, the inverse
or a relation. will be a one-to-many relation. Therefore, it is not a
function.
4. State the domain and range for both rules. + 2)2 has a domain of R and a range of [0, ∞).
y = (x √
y = ± x − 2 has a domain of [0, ∞) and a range of R.

TI | THINK DISPLAY/WRITE CASIO | THINK DISPLAY/WRITE

1. On a Calculator page, 1. On a Main screen,
press MENU, then select: select:
1: Actions • Action
1: Define • Command
Complete the entry line • Define
as: Complete the entry
Define f(x) = (x + 2)2 line as:
then press ENTER. Define f(x) = (x + 2)2
then press EXE.

2. Press MENU, then select: 2. Complete the next

3: Algebra entry line as:
1: Solve solve ( f(y) = x, y)
Complete the entry line then press EXE.
as:
solve( f(y) = x, y)
then press ENTER.

3. The answer appears on The inverse

√ function is 3. The answer appears on The inverse
√ function
the screen. y = ± x − 2 with domain [0, ∞) the screen. is y = ± x − 2 with
and range R. It is not a function. domain [0, ∞) and range
R. It is not a function.

Resources
Resourceseses
Interactivity Inverse functions (int-2575)

3.5.2 Restricting domains

In some cases, the domain will need to be included√ when we state the equation of the inverse.
√ For example, to
find the equation of the inverse of the function y = x, interchanging coordinates gives x = y. Expressing
√
x = y with y as the subject gives y = x2 . This rule is not unexpected since ‘square root’ and ‘squaring’ are
√
inverse operations. However, as the range of the function y = x is [0, ∞), this must be the domain of its
√
inverse. Hence, the equation of the inverse of y = x is y = x2 with the restriction that x ≥ 0.
Other examples involve restricting the domain of f so that the inverse is a function.

TOPIC 3 Composite functions, transformations and inverses 193

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WORKED EXAMPLE 10 Equations of inverse functions

Consider the function f ∶ [0, ∞) → R, f(x) = x2 + 2. Fully define the inverse, f−1 .
THINK WRITE
1. Let y = f(x), then interchange the x and y variables. Let y = f(x).
Swap x and y.
Inverse: x = y2 + 2
2. Rearrange to make y the subject of the equation. y2 = x − 2
√
y = ± x−2

3. Use the domain of f(x) to determine the inverse. dom f = ran f −1

√
∴y = x−2

4. Determine the domain of f −1 . dom f −1 = ran f = [2, ∞]

√
5. Use the full function notation to define the inverse. f −1 ∶ [2, ∞) → R, f −1 (x) = x−2

3.5.3 The point of intersection of f(x) and f −1 (x)

The point where f(x) intersects with its inverse can be found by solving f(x) = f −1 (x). However, this can often be
a difficult equation to solve. As y = f(x) intersects with y = f −1 (x) along the line y = x, there is actually a three-
way point of intersection: f(x) = f −1 (x) = x. Therefore, it is preferable to solve either f(x) = x or f −1 (x) = x to find
the point of intersection.

WORKED EXAMPLE 11 Intersection of f(x) and f −1 (x) (1)

Consider the quadratic function defined by f(x) = 2 − x2 .

a. Form the rule for its inverse and explain why the inverse is not a function.
b. If the domain of f is restricted to (−∞, a), determine the maximum value of a so that the inverse
exists.
c. Sketch the graph of f(x) = 2 − x2 over this restricted domain and use this to sketch its inverse on the
same diagram.
d. Form the equation of the inverse, y = f−1 (x).
e. Determine the point at which the two graphs intersect.

THINK WRITE

a. 1. Interchange x and y coordinates to form the a. Let y = f(x).

rule for the inverse. Inverse: swap x and y.
x = 2 − y2
y2 = 2 − x
√
y = ± 2−x

2. Explain why the inverse is not a function. The quadratic function is many-to-one, so its
inverse has a one-to-many correspondence.
Therefore, the inverse is not a function.

194 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 3 & 4 Third Edition
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b. To maximise the domain, restrict the graph about b. TP = (0, 2)

the turning point. Therefore, a = 0.
c. 1. Sketch the graph of the function for the c. f(x) = 2 − x2
restricted domain. y-intercept: (0, 2)
x-intercept: let y = 0.
2 − x2 = 0
x2 = 2
√
x=± 2
√
⇒x = − 2 since x ∈ (−∞, 0).
√
x-intercept: (− 2, 0)
Turning point: (0, 2)
y

(0, 2)
y = f (x)

(– 2, 0) 0 x

2. Deduce the key features of the inverse. Sketch For the inverse, √ (2, 0) is an open point on the
its graph and the line y = x on the same x-axis and (0, − 2) is the y-intercept.
diagram as the graph of the function. Its graph is the reflection of the graph of
f(x) = 2 − x2 , x ∈ (−∞, 0) in the line y = x.
y y=x

(0, 2)
2
y = f (x)
(2, 0)
(– 2, 0) 0 x
2
(0, – 2)

y = f –1(x)

d. Use the range of the inverse to help deduce its d. From part a, the inverse of f(x) = 2 − x2 is:
equation. Note: When you write the answer, the y2 = 2 − x
√
domain must also be included. ∴ y = ± 2−x
The range of the inverse must be (−∞, 0) (the
domain of the original graph), so the branch
with the negative square root is required.
Therefore,
√ the equation of the inverse is
y = − 2 −√x.
f −1 (x) = − 2 − x, domain = (−∞, 2)

TOPIC 3 Composite functions, transformations and inverses 195

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e. Choose two of the three equations that contain e. The point of intersection lies on y = x.
the required point and solve this system of Solving x = f(x):
simultaneous equations. Note: As the graph and x = 2 − x2 , x ∈ (−∞, 0)
its inverse intersect along the line y = x, the x2 + x − 2 = 0
y-value of the coordinate will be the same as the (x + 2)(x − 1) = 0
x-value. x = −2, 1
Reject x = 1 since x ∈ (−∞, 0); therefore,
x = −2.
Therefore, the point of intersection is (–2, –2).

WORKED EXAMPLE 12 Intersection of f(x) and f −1 (x) (2)

Consider the function f ∶ (−∞, a] → R, f (x) = x2 − 6x + 4.

a. Determine the largest possible value of a so that f−1 exists.
−1
b. Determine f (x) and sketch both graphs on the same set of axes.
c. Calculate the point(s) of intersection between y = f (x) and y = f−1 (x).

THINK WRITE
a. 1. To find the largest possible value of a for a. Let y = f(x)
which f −1 exists, find the turning point. To ⇒ y = x2 − 6x + 4
do this, complete the square.
y = (x − 3)2 − 9 + 4
y = (x − 3)2 − 5

2. State the turning point. TP = (3, −5)

−1
3. The largest possible value of a for which f ∴a=3
exists is the x-value of the TP.
4. Rewrite the full function. f ∶ (−∞, 3] → R, f (x) = x2 − 6x + 4
b. 1. Interchange x- and y-coordinates in turning y = (x − 3)2 − 5
point form to form the rule for the inverse. Inverse: swap x and y.
x = (y − 3)2 − 5
x + 5 = (y − 3)2
√
± x+5 = y−3
√
3± x+5 = y
√
2. Since f (x) has a restricted domain of (−∞, 3], f −1 (x) = 3 − x + 5 √
this implies that the ‘range’ of the inverse is f −1 : [−5, ∞) → R, f −1 (x) = 3 − x + 5
(−∞, 3] .
3. Sketch the graph of y = f (x) from the restricted f (x) = (x − 3)2 − 5
domain. y-intercept: (0, 4)
TP: (3, −5)
x-intercept:
0 = (x − 3)2 − 5
5 = (x − 3)2
√
± 5 = x−3
√
3± 5 = x
( √ )
Since x ≤ 3, the x-intercept is 3 − 5, 0 .

196 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 3 & 4 Third Edition
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y
y = f (x)
(0, 4)

0 (3 – 5, 0) x

(3, –5)

4. Deduce the features in the inverse function. For the inverse, there is a closed point at
Sketch its graph on the same axes as the graph (−5, 3). There
( is a point (4, 0) on the x-axis
√ )
of y = f (x) and the line y = x. and a point 0, 3 − 5 on the y-axis.
x ∈ [−5, ∞] .
y
y = f (x)
(–5, 3) y = (x)
(0, 4)

y = f –1(x)
(0, 3 – 5 )
0 (4, 0) x

(3 – 5, 0)

(3, –5)

c. To determine the point(s) of intersection between f (x) = (x − 3)2 − 5

−1
y = f (x) and y = f (x), let f (x) = x as any point of Let f (x) = x.
intersection will lie on the line y = x. x2 − 6x + 4 = x
Rewrite the equation into general form and solve
x2 − 7x + 4 = 0
using the quadratic formula. √
− (−7) ± (−7)2 − 4 (1) (4)
x=
√ 2 (1)
7 ± 33
x=
2
√ √
7 + 33 7 + 33
Disregard x = as > 3.
2 2
√
7 − 33
When x = ,
2√
7 − 33
y=
2
Therefore, the point of intersection is
( √ √ )
7 − 33 7 − 33
, .
2 2

TOPIC 3 Composite functions, transformations and inverses 197

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3.5.4 Composite functions with inverse functions

x f y f –1 x

Because each output of a one-to-one function is different for each input, it is possible to reverse the process and
turn the outputs back into the original inputs. The inverse is the function that results from reversing a one-to-one
function. Essentially, the inverse function is an ‘undoing’ function.
So, if we take the inverse function of the original function or evaluate the function of the inverse function, in
effect the two operations cancel each other out, leaving only x.
Therefore, the following applies.

Composite function properties

f( f−1 (x)) = x and f−1 ( f(x)) = x.

WORKED EXAMPLE 13 Composite functions with inverses

If f(x) = 3x )+ 1, verify that:

( −1 −1
a. f f (x) = x b. f ( f(x)) = x

THINK WRITE

a. 1. First determine the equation of f −1 (x) by Let y = 3x + 1.

interchanging x and y. Inverse: swap x and y.
x = 3y + 1
x − 1 = 3y
x−1
y=
3
−1 x−1
∴ f (x) =
3
( )
( −1 ) x−1
2. Substitute f −1 (x) into f(x) and evaluate. f f (x) = f
( 3 )
x−1
=3 +1
3
= x−1+1
=x
( )
3. State the answer. Therefore, f f −1 (x) = x.

b. 1. Substitute f(x) into f −1 (x) and evaluate. f −1 ( f(x)) = f −1 (3x + 1)

3x + 1 − 1
=
3
3x
=
3
=x
2. State the answer. Therefore, f −1 ( f(x)) = x.

198 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 3 & 4 Third Edition
“c03CompositeFunctionsTransformationsAndInverses_PrintPDF” — 2022/8/5 — 13:42 — page 199 — #33

3.5 Exercise

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1. WE9 Consider the function y = x3 . Determine the rule for the inverse and indicate whether this inverse is a
function or a relation. Give the domain and range for both.
1
2. Consider the function y = . Determine the rule for the inverse and indicate whether this inverse is a
x2
function or a relation. Give the domain and range for both.

3. For each of the following functions, determine the rule for the inverse and indicate whether this inverse is a
function or a relation. Give the domain and range for the inverse.
1 2
√
3
a. y = (x − 3) b. y = (x − 5) c. y = x+1−2
3
3
√ 1
d. y = (x − 1) e. y = x f. y = +2
(x − 1)2
1
4. WE10 Consider the function f ∶ (−∞, 2) → R, f(x) = − . Fully define the inverse, f −1 .
(x − 2)2
√
5. Consider the function f ∶ [3, ∞) → R, f(x) = x − 3. Fully define the inverse, f −1 .
6. WE11 Consider the quadratic function f(x) = (x + 1)2 defined on its maximal domain.
a. Form the rule for its inverse and explain why the inverse is not a function.
b. If the domain of f is restricted to [b, ∞), find the minimum value of b so that the inverse exists.
2
c. Sketch the graph of f(x) = (x + 1) over this restricted domain and use this to sketch its inverse on the
same diagram.
d. Form the equation of the inverse, y = f −1 (x).
e. Determine the point at which the two graphs intersect.
√
7. Calculate the point of intersection between f (x) = 2 x + 2 and its inverse.
8. WE12 Consider the function f ∶ (− ∞, a] → R, f(x) = x2 − 2x − 1.
a. Determine the largest possible value of a so that f −1 exists.
b. Determine f −1 (x) and sketch both graphs on the same set of axes.
c. Calculate the point(s) of intersection between y = f(x) and y = f −1 (x).
1
9. WE13 If f(x) = , x ≠ −2, verify that:
x+2
a. f( f −1 (x)) = x b. f −1 ( f(x)) = x.

10. If k(x) = x3 − 1, verify that:

a. k(k−1 (x)) = x b. k−1 (k(x)) = x.

TOPIC 3 Composite functions, transformations and inverses 199

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11. Indicate whether each of the following functions has an inverse function. In each case, give a reason for your
decision. If the inverse is a function, write the rule for the inverse in function notation and sketch y = f(x) and
y = f −1 (x) on the one set of axes, including the point of intersection if it exists.
a. f ∶ R → R, f(x) = x4 b. f ∶ R → R, f(x) = 2x2 − 7x + 3
1 √
c. f ∶ R\ {3} → R, f(x) = +2 d. f ∶ [−2, ∞) → R, f(x) = x+2
2
(x − 3)
4x − 7
12. Given f(x) = , determine the rule for f −1 , then sketch y = f(x) and y = f −1 (x) on the same set of axes.
x−2
Include the point(s) of intersection on your graph.
Technology active
2
13. Given f(x) = (x + 2) , restrict the maximal domain of f to only negative x-values so that its inverse is also a
function. Write the inverse in function notation.
√
x2
14. Given that f(x) = 1 − , use CAS to view the graph and hence define two inverse functions, f −1 , using
4
function notation with maximal domains. Sketch each pair of functions on separate axes.

15. Given f(x) = x2 − 10x + 25 with a domain of [a, ∞), determine:

a. the smallest value of a so that f −1 exists b. f −1 (x).
x
16. Consider f ∶ [−2, 4) → R, f(x) = 1 − .
3
a. State the domain and determine the range of f.
b. Obtain the rule for f −1 and state its domain and range.
c. Sketch y = f (x) and y = f −1 (x) on the same diagram.
d. Calculate the coordinates of any point of intersection of the two graphs.
√
17. Consider f ∶ D → R, f(x) = 1 − 3x.
Determine D, the maximal domain of f.
a.
Obtain the rule for f −1 (x) and state its domain and range.
b.
Evaluate the point(s) of intersection between y = f(x) and y = f −1 (x).
c.
Sketch y = f(x) and y = f −1 (x) on the same set of axes.
d.
√
18. Consider the function f ∶ [1, ∞] → R, f(x) = x − 1.
a. Determine f −1 (x).
b. Sketch the graph of y = f −1 ( f(x)) over its maximal domain.
( ( ))
−1 x+2
c. Evaluate f f .
3

200 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 3 & 4 Third Edition
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3.5 Exam questions

Question 1 (3 marks) TECH-FREE

Source: VCE 2018, Mathematical Methods Exam 1, Q5; © VCAA.
1
Let f: (2, ∞) → R, where f(x) = .
(x − 2)2
State the rule and domain of f −1 .
Question 2 (1 mark) TECH-ACTIVE
Source: VCE 2016, Mathematical Methods Exam 2, Section A, Q5; © VCAA.
√
MC Which one of the following is the inverse function of [3, ∞) → R, g(x) = 2x − 6?
x2 + 6 2
A. g−1 : [3, ∞) → R, g−1 (x) = B. g−1 : [0, ∞) → R, g−1 (x) = (2x − 6)
√ 2
x x2 + 6
C. g−1 : [0, ∞) → R, g−1 (x) = +6 D. g−1 : [0, ∞) → R, g−1 (x) =
2 2
2
x + 6
E. g−1 : R → R, g−1 (x) =
2
Question 3 (1 mark) TECH-ACTIVE
Source: VCE 2015, Mathematical Methods (CAS) Exam 2, Section 1, Q2; © VCAA.
1
MC The inverse function of f: (−2, ∞) → R, f(x) = √ is
x+2
1 1
A. f −1 : R+ → R f −1 (x) = 2 − 2 B. f −1 : R\ {0} → R f −1 (x) = −2
x x2
1
C. f −1 : R+ → R f −1 (x) = 2 + 2 D. f −1 : (−2, ∞) → R f −1 (x) = x2 + 2
x
1
E. f −1 : (2, ∞) → R f −1 (x) = 2
x −2
More exam questions are available online.

3.6 Literal equations

LEARNING INTENTION
At the end of this subtopic you should be able to:
• solve literal equations
• solve simultaneous literal equations.

3.6.1 Solutions of literal equations

Equations with several pronumerals are called literal equations. Rather than the solution having a numerical
answer, the solution will be expressed in terms of pronumerals, also called parameters.

TOPIC 3 Composite functions, transformations and inverses 201

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WORKED EXAMPLE 14 Solving literal equations

Solve the following equations for x.

p 2m 3y
a. mx + ny = kx − z b. − =
x m+x x

THINK WRITE
a. 1. Collect the x terms on the left-hand side. a. mx + ny = kx − z
mx − kx = −z − ny
2. Take out the common factor of x to leave only x(m − k) = −z − ny
one instance of x on the left-hand side.
−z − ny
3. Divide both sides by m − k. x=
m−k
z + ny
=−
m−k
z + ny
=
k−m

p 2m 3y
b. 1. Multiply both sides by the common b. − =
denominator of x(m + x). x m+x x
p(m + x) − 2mx = 3y(m + x)

2. Expand the brackets. pm + px − 2mx = 3my + 3xy

3. Collect the x terms on the left-hand side. px − 2mx − 3xy = 3my − pm
4. Take out the common factor of x to leave only x(p − 2m − 3y) = 3my − pm
one instance of x on the left-hand side.
3my − pm
5. Divide both sides by p − 2m − 3y. x=
p − 2m − 3y

TI | THINK DISPLAY/WRITE CASIO | THINK DISPLAY/WRITE

a. 1. On a Calculator page, press a. 1. On a Main screen, complete the
MENU, then select: entry line as:
3: Algebra solve (m × x + n × y =
1: Solve k × x − z, x)
Complete the entry line as: then press EXE.
solve (m × x + n × y = Select the simplify icon.
k × x − z, x) Note: Be sure to include the
then press ENTER. multiplication operator between
Note: Be sure to include the variables in the terms
the multiplication operator mx, ny and kx.
between the variables in
the terms mx, ny and kx.
ny + z ny + z
2. The answer appears on the x = 2. The answer appears on the x=
screen. k−m screen. k−m

3.6.2 Simultaneous literal equations

These equations are solved by applying the methods of elimination and substitution. Once again, the solutions
will be in terms of parameters. As a rule, if you are solving for n pronumerals, you will need n equations to solve
for all the unknowns.

202 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 3 & 4 Third Edition
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WORKED EXAMPLE 15 Solving simultaneous literal equations

Solve the pair of simultaneous equations for x and y.

mx − y = k
x + ny = 2d

THINK WRITE
1. Label the equations. mx − y = k [1]
x + ny = 2d [2]
2. Use the elimination method to solve these [2] × m:
equations. Multiply equation [2] by m so ⇒ mx + mny = 2dm [3]
that the coefficients of x are the same in both
equations, and label this equation [3].
3. Subtract [3] from [1] to eliminate the x terms. mx − y = k [1]
mx + mny = 2dm [3]
[1] − [3]:
− y − mny = k − 2dm

4. Take out the common factor of y to leave only y(−1 − mn) = k − 2dm
one instance of y on the left-hand side.
k − 2dm
5. Divide both sides by −1 − mn and simplify. y=
−1 − mn
k − 2dm
=−
1 + mn
( )
k − 2dm k − 2dm
6. Substitute y = − into [1]. mx − − =k
1 + mn 1 + mn
Note: Equation [2] could have also been k − 2dm
chosen. mx + =k
1 + mn
k − 2dm
mx = k −
1 + mn
k − 2dm
7. Simplify the right-hand side. mx = k −
1 + mn
k (1 + mn) k − 2dm
x= −
1 + mn 1 + mn
k + kmn − (k − 2dm)
x=
1 + mn
kmn + 2dm
x=
1 + mn
m (kn + 2d)
x=
1 + mn

m (kn + 2d)
8. Divide both sides by m. x=
m (1 + mn)
kn + 2d
x=
1 + mn

TOPIC 3 Composite functions, transformations and inverses 203

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TI | THINK DISPLAY/WRITE CASIO | THINK DISPLAY/WRITE

1. On a Calculator page, 1. On a Main screen,
press MENU, then complete the entry line
select: as:
3: Algebra solve ({m × x - y = k, x + n
1: Solve × y = 2d}, {x, y})
Complete the entry line then press EXE.
as: Note: Be sure to include
solve (m × x − y = k and the multiplication operator
x + n × y = 2d, x, y) between the variables in the
then press ENTER. terms mx and ny.
Note: Be sure to include
the multiplication
operator between the
variables ·in the terms
mx and ny.
2d + kn 2dm − k 2d + kn 2dm − k
2. The answer appears on x= and y = 2. The answer appears on the x= and y =
the screen. mn + 1 mn + 1 screen. mn + 1 mn + 1

3.6 Exercise

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1. WE14 Solve the following equations for x.
2p m 3c
a. my − nx = 4x + kz b. − =
x x−c x
x − my
2. Given that = 2, solve the equation for y.
px + y
3. Solve the following equations for x.
kx + dy mx + ny m 3k k 2d
a. = −2k b. =x+q c. −k= +m d. =
x + 3y p x x m+x m−x
√
4. Given that b ax + cd = 3, solve the equation for x.

5. WE15 Solve the pair of simultaneous equations for x and y.

x + y = 2k
mx + ny = d

Technology active
6. Solve the following pairs of simultaneous equations for x and y.
a. nx − my = k b. nx + my = m
nx + my = 2d mx + ny = n

204 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 3 & 4 Third Edition
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7. Solve the following pairs of simultaneous equations for x and y.

x y
a. 2mx + ny = 3k b. + =2
mx + ny = −d 2a b
2x 4y
+ =8
b a
8. Solve the following system of simultaneous equations in terms of a.

2x − y + az = 4
(a + 2) x + y − z = 2
6x + (a + 1) y − 2z = 4

3.6 Exam questions

Question 1 (1 mark) TECH-ACTIVE

1 b
MC The solution to the equation = in terms of x is
x+a x
b ab ab a 1
A. 1 + B. C. D. E.
a 1−b 1+b 1−b a+b
Question 2 (1 mark) TECH-ACTIVE
MC mx + n = nx + m solved for x is
m+n m−n m
A. B. C. D. 0 E. 1
m−n m+n n
Question 3 (1 mark) TECH-ACTIVE
MC The solutions for the pair of simultaneous equations ax + by = r and ax − by = s in terms of x and y are
r+s −s + r r − by r − ax s + by s − ax
A. x = , y= B. x = , y= C. x = , y=
2a 2b a b a −b
r+s s+r r−s −s + r
D. x = , y= E. x = , y=
2a 2b 2a 2b
More exam questions are available online.

TOPIC 3 Composite functions, transformations and inverses 205

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3.7 Review
3.7.1 Summary
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3.7 Exercise
Technology free: short answer
√
1. Consider the equations f(x) = x + 2 and g(x) = 2x2 − 5. Determine if f(g(x)) or g( f(x)) exist. If they do exist,
state the rule for the composite function and state the domain and range.
x−1
2. A function has the rule y = , x ≠ 2.
x−2
x−1 m
a. Evaluate the values of m and n if is expressed in the form + n.
x−2 x−2
1 x−1
b. Describe the transformations that have been applied to y = to obtain y = , x ≠ 2.
x x−2
x−1
c. Sketch the graph of y = , x ≠ 2. State the domain and range, and give the equations of any
x−2
asymptotes.
d. Determine the rule for the inverse, and state its domain and range.
e. Specify whether the inverse is a function or a relation. Give reasons for your answer.
f. Sketch the graph of the inverse on the same set of axes as the original function. Include the points of
intersection on your graph
3. Indicate whether each of the following functions has an inverse function. In each case, give a reason for your
decision. If the inverse is a function, write the rule for the inverse function in function notation.
x3
a. f ∶ R → R, f(x) = b. f ∶ R → R, f(x) = 2x4
3
2
√
c. f ∶ R → R, f(x) = (3x − 1) d. f ∶ [3, ∞] → R, f(x) = x − 3
√
4. a. The graph of f(x) = x undergoes the following transformations:
reflection in the x-axis, then a dilation of factor 2 from the y-axis, followed by a translation of 3 units right
1
and 1 unit down, and a dilation of factor from the x-axis.
2
State the equation of the transformed function, g(x).
2
b. The graph of f(x) = (x − 2) undergoes the following transformations:
1
dilation of factor parallel to the x-axis, reflection in the x-axis, and a translation of 3 units in the
3
negative x-direction and 2 units in the positive y-direction.
State the equation of the transformed function, g(x).
5. State the transformations that have been applied to the first function in order to obtain the second function.
√
2 3 5−x √
2
a. y = x → y = 3(2x − 5) + 1 b. y = − +1→ 3 x
2
5 − cd 2k
6. Given that = − , solve the equation for x.
x+2 x
206 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 3 & 4 Third Edition
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Technology active: multiple choice

7. MC If g(x) = 2x − 1 and h(x) = (x + 1)2 , then g (h(x)) is equal to:
2 2
A. 2x2 + 4x + 1 B. 4x2 C. 2x2 + 4x − 1 D. (2x − 1)(x + 1) E. 4(x + 1)

8. MC For the functions below, state which of the following compositions is not defined.
√
f(x) = x+1
g(x) = x2 − 1
h(x) = 2x + 1

A. g (h(x)) B. g ( f(x)) C. h ( f(x)) D. f (g(x)) E. h (g(x))

√
9. MC If g(x) =x − 1, then g (h(x)) would exist if:
1 2
A. h: R\ {0} → R, h(x) = +1 B. h: R → R, h(x) = (x − 1)
x2
2 1
C. h: [−1, ∞) → R, h(x) = − (x + 1) D. h: R\ {−1} → R, h(x) =
x+1
E. h: R → R, h(x) = x

10. MC The graph of y = f(x) has been transformed so that its equation becomes y = −f(3x + 1) − 2. The image

of the point (3, 5) is:

( ) ( ) ( )
26 2 4
A. , −7 B. (0, −7) C. , −7 D. (0, 3) E. − , 3
3 3 3
11. MC If the graph of y = sin(x) is reflected in the x-axis and dilated by a factor of 4 from the x-axis and by a
1
factor of from the y-axis, then the resulting equation will be:
3
( ) ( )
x x
A. y = 4 sin − B. y = −4 sin C. y = 4 sin (−3x)
3 3
1
D. y = − sin(3x) E. y = −4 sin(3x)
4
1
12. MC The graph of the function f(x) = x3 is transformed so that its new rule is f(x) = (2(x − 1))3 + 4. The
2
transformations that have been applied to f(x) = x3 are:
1
A. dilation by a factor of parallel to the y-axis, dilation by a factor of 2 parallel to the x-axis, a translation
2
of 1 unit in the negative x-direction and a translation of 4 units up.
1
B. dilation by a factor of parallel to the y-axis, dilation by a factor of 2 parallel to the x-axis, a translation
2
of 1 unit in the positive x-direction and a translation of 4 units up.
1 1
C. dilation by a factor of parallel to the y-axis, dilation by a factor of parallel to the x-axis, a translation
2 2
of 1 unit in the negative x-direction and a translation of 4 units up.
1 1
D. dilation by a factor of parallel to the y-axis, dilation by a factor of parallel to the x-axis, a translation
2 2
of 1 unit in the positive x-direction and a translation of 4 units up.
1
E. dilation by a factor of 2 parallel to the y-axis, dilation by a factor of parallel to the x-axis, a translation
2
of 1 unit in the negative x-direction and a translation of 4 units up.

TOPIC 3 Composite functions, transformations and inverses 207

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13. MC The rule for the inverse of the graph shown would be: y
1 1
A. y = + 1 B. y =
x x+1
1 1
C. y = − 1 D. y =
x x−1
(0, 1)
1
E. y = −1
x−1 y=0
0 x
14. MC For the function f(x) = (x + 1)(x − 3) to have an inverse
function, its maximal domain:
A. must be restricted to [0, ∞)
B. must be restricted to [1, ∞)
C. must be restricted to [−4, ∞)
D. is R
E. must be restricted to (−∞, 0] x = –1

15. MC The inverse of the function defined by f ∶ [−1, ∞] → R, f(x) = (x + 1)2 would be:
√ √
A. f −1 ∶ [−1, ∞) → R, f −1 (x) = x − 1 B. f −1 ∶ [−1, ∞) → R, f −1 (x) = − x − 1
2
√
C. f −1 ∶ [−1, ∞) → R, f −1 (x) = (x + 1) D. f −1 ∶ [0, ∞) → R, f −1 (x) = x − 1
√
E. f −1 ∶ [0, ∞) → R, f −1 (x) = − x − 1
p n
16. MC Solve = for x.
2x + n 2x + p
n2 − p2 n+p −(n + p) n−p n+p
A. x = B. x = C. x = D. x = E. x =
2(p − n) 2 2 2 n−p
Technology active: extended response
1
17. Consider the equations f: R → R, f(x) = x2 − 4 and g ∶ (2, ∞) → R, g(x) = .
x−2
Prove that f (g(x)) is defined.
a.
Determine the rule for f (g(x)) and state the domain and range.
b.
Prove that g ( f(x)) is not defined.
c.
Restrict the domain of f(x) to obtain a function f1 (x) such that g ( f1 (x)) exists.
d.
Determine g ( f1 (x)) and state the domain.
e.
√
18. Consider the function defined by the rule f ∶ D → R, f(x) = (3x − 6) − 1, where D is the maximal domain
for f.
a. Determine D. √
b. Describe the transformations that would have been applied to y = x in order to achieve y = f(x).
c. Define the rule for the inverse function f −1 and give its domain and range.
d. Sketch the graphs of y = f(x) and y = f −1 (x) on the same set of axes.
1
19. If f ∶ [3, ∞) → R, f(x) = x2 + k and g: [2, ∞) → R, g(x) = + k, where k is a positive constant, calculate the
x
value(s) of k such that both f (g(x)) and g ( f(x)) are defined.
2
20. Consider the function defined by f(x) = 2(x − 3) .
a. Sketch this graph, giving the domain and range of the function.
b. Determine the rule for the inverse.
c. Sketch this inverse on the same set of axes that you used for f(x) = 2(x − 3)2 .
d. Restrict the domain of f to the form of [a, ∞] so that the inverse is also a function.
e. State the rules for the restricted f and f −1 using function notation.
−1
f. Sketch the graphs
( −1 of) f and f on one set of axes.
g. Show that f f (x) = x.

208 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 3 & 4 Third Edition
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3.7 Exam questions

Question 1 (1 mark) TECH-ACTIVE

Source: VCE 2017, Mathematical Methods Exam 2, Section A, Q4; © VCAA.
MC Let f and g be functions such that f(2) = 5, f(3) = 4, g(2) = 5, g(3) = 2 and g(4) = 1.
The value of f(g(3)) is
A. 1 B. 2 C. 3 D. 4 E. 5

Question 2 (1 mark) TECH-ACTIVE

Source: VCE 2015, Mathematical Methods (CAS) Exam 2, Section 1, Q5; © VCAA.
MC Part of the graph of y = f(x) is shown below.

x
O

The corresponding part of the graph of the inverse function y = f −1 (x) is best represented by
A. y B. y

x x
O O

C. y D. y

x x
O O

E. y

x
O

TOPIC 3 Composite functions, transformations and inverses 209

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Question 3 (1 mark) TECH-ACTIVE

Source: VCE 2018, Mathematical Methods Exam 2, Section A, Q4; © VCAA.
MC The point A (3, 2) lies on the graph of the function f. A transformation maps the graph of f to the graph of g,
1
where g (x) = f (x − 1) . The same transformation maps the point A to the point P.
2
The coordinates of the point P are
A. (2, 1)
B. (2, 4)
C. (4, 1)
D. (4, 2)
E. (4, 4)

Question 4 (3 marks) TECH-FREE

Source: VCE 2019, Mathematical Methods Exam 1, Q2; © VCAA.
1 1
Let f ∶ R\ { } → R, f (x) = .
3 3x − 1
a. Find the rule of f −1 . (2 marks)
b. State the domain of f −1 . (1 mark)
Question 5 (5 marks) TECH-FREE
Source: VCE 2017, Mathematical Methods Exam 1, Q7; © VCAA.
√
Let f ∶ [0, ∞) → R, f (x) = x + 1
a. State the range of f. (1 mark)
b. Let g: (−∞, c] → R, g (x) = x2 + 4x + 3, where c < 0.
i. Find the largest possible value of c such that the range of g is a subset of the domain of f. (2 marks)
ii. For the value of c found in part b.i., state the range of f (g (x)). (1 mark)
c. Let h: R → R, h (x) = x2 + 3.
State the range of f (h (x)). (1 mark)
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210 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 3 & 4 Third Edition
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Answers 11. a. ran g ⊆ dom f

(2, ∞) ⊈ [0, ∞)
Topic 3 Composite functions, Therefore, g( f(x)) is not defined.
[ ) ( ]
transformations and inverses b. g1 (x) =
1 1
− 2, x ∈ 3 − √ , 3 ∪ 3, 3 + √
1
(x − 3)2 2 2
3.2 Composite functions
12. a. ran f ⊈ dom g
3.2 Exercise [0, ∞) ⊈ R\ {1}
√
1. a. g (h(x)) = 2 x − 3 Therefore, g( f(x)) is not defined.
√ ]
f ◦ g(x) = − (2x − 3)2 + 1
b. b. f1 (x) = 2 − x, x ∈ (−∞, 2 \ {1}
( 4 )2 ]
2. a. g (h(x)) = x + 2 1
c. g( f1 (x)) = − √ + 2, x ∈ (−∞, 2 \{1}
1 2−x−1
b. h ◦ f(x) = 1 − 4 13. a. ran f ⊆ dom g
(x + 2)
[0, ∞) ⊆ R
3. f(g(x)) = (x − 1)(x + 1)(x2 + 3), domain = R
Therefore, g( f(x)) is defined.
g( f(x)) = (x − 1)2 (x + 3)2 , domain = R
b. g( f(x)) = x − 6, domain = [4, ∞)
2 c.
4. f(g(x)) = − 1, domain = R\ {2} y
x−2
g( f(x)) does not exist.
y = g( f (x))
5. a. f ◦ g(x) is defined, domain = [0, ∞).
b. g( f(x)) is defined, domain = R.
(6, 0)
c. h(g(x)) is not defined.
x
d. h ◦ f(x) is defined, domain = R.
6. a. f ◦ g(x) is defined, f◦g(x) = x, domain = [0, ∞). (4, –2)
b. g( f(x)) is defined, g( f(x)) = |x|, domain = R.
( )
c. h f(x) is not defined.
d. g(h(x)) is not defined.
d. ran g ⊈ dom f
7. ran g ⊆ dom f [−, 2, ∞) ⊈ [4, ∞)
[0, ∞) ⊆ R Therefore, f(g(x)) is not defined.
Therefore, f(g(x)) is defined. ( √ ] [√ )
2
f(g(x)) = x + 3, where domain = [−2, ∞) and e. g1 (x) = x − 2, x ∈ −∞, − 6 ∪ 6, ∞
√
range = [1, ∞). f(g1 (x)) = x2 − 6.
8. a. ran f ⊆ dom g
( √ ) [√ ]
f. Domain = −∞, − 6 ∪ 6, ∞
(0, ∞) ⊆ R\ {0}
Therefore, g( f(x)) is defined. 14. k ∈ [1, 3]
2
b. g( f(x)) = x , domain x ∈ (0, ∞), range = (0, ∞)
c.
3.2 Exam questions
y
Note: Mark allocations are available with the fully worked
solutions online.
1. D
y = g( f (x))
2. D
(0, 0) x
3. A

3.3 Transformations

9. a. ran g ⊈ dom f
3.3 Exercise
R ⊈ [−3, ∞) 1. a. i. Dilated by factor 3 parallel to the y-axis or from the
b. h(x) = 2x − 5, x ∈ [1, ∞) x-axis
√
c. f(h(x)) = 2x − 2, x ∈ [1, ∞)
10. a. ran f ⊈ dom g
[0, ∞) ⊈ R\ {4}
b. h(x) = x2 , x ∈ R\{−2, 2}
1
c. g(h(x)) = , x ∈ R\{−2, 2}
x2 − 4

TOPIC 3 Composite functions, transformations and inverses 211

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y 2. a. Dilated by factor 4 parallel to the y-axis or from the

2 x-axis
y
1 6
y = 3x3 y = x3
y = 4 sin(x)
4
0 x
–2 –1 1 2
2 y = sin(x)
–1

π 0 π π 3π 2π x
–2 –– – —
2 –2 2 2
ii. (−2, −8) → (−2, −24)
–4
b. i. Translated 2 units to the left or in the negative
x-direction –6
y
y = (x + 2)3 3 y = x3 1
b. Dilated by factor parallel to the x-axis or from the
2 2
y-axis
1 y
(–2, 0) 1.5
(0, 0)
0 x y = sin(2x)
–3 –2 –1 1 2 3 1
–1
0.5
–2
0 3π 2π x
–3 –π
– π
– π
–
2 2 2
–0.5
(−2, −8) → (−4, −8)
ii.
c. i. Reflected in the x-axis –1
y = sin(x)
y
3 –1.5

2 𝜋
c. Translated units to the left or in the negative
2
y = –x3 1 y = x3 x-direction

y y = sin(x + π
–)
2
0 x
–3 –2 –1 1 2 3 1
–1
0.5
–2
0 x
–3 –π
– π
– π 3π
–
2π
2 2 2
–0.5
ii. (−2, −8) → (−2, 8)
d. i. Translated up 1 unit or in the positive y-direction –1 y = sin(x)
y
3 d. Translated up 2 units or in the positive y-direction
y
2 4
(0, 1) y = sin(x) + 2
1 y = x3 2
y = x3 + 1 y = sin(x)

0 (0, 0) x 0 x
–3 –2 –1 1 2 3 –π
– π
– π 3π 2π
2 –2 2 –
–1 2

–2

–3

ii. (−2, −8) → (−2, −7)

212 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 3 & 4 Third Edition
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1 1
3. a. Dilated by factor parallel to the y-axis or from the b. Reflected in the x axis, y = − ; asymptotes x = 0, y = 0
2 x
x-axis y
y
1
y = –f (x)
(0, 0.5) (2π, 0.5)
0.5 y=0
0 x
0 x
π
–
π 3π 2π
2 –
–0.5 2
1
y = – cos(x)
2 x=0
–1
c. Dilated by factor 3 parallel to the y-axis or from the
1 3
b. Dilated by factor parallel to the x-axis or from the x-axis, y = ; asymptotes x = 0, y = 0
2 x
y-axis y
y (2π, 1)
1 (0, 1) y = 3 f (x)
y = cos(2x)
0.5
0 y=0 x
0 x
π
– π
– 3π
–
π 5π
– 3π
– 7π
– 2π
4 2 4 4 2 4
–0.5
x=0
–1
1
d. Dilated by factor parallel to the x-axis or from the
c. Reflected in the x-axis 2
y 1
1 y = –cos(x) y-axis, y = ; asymptotes x = 0, y = 0
2x
0.5 y

0 x y = f (2x)
π
– π 3π 2π
2 –
–0.5 2
0 y=0 x
–1 (0, –1) (2π, 1)
d. Translated down 1 unit or in the negative y-direction
y
0.5 x=0
(0, 0) (2π, 0) x 5. Reflected in the x-axis, dilated by factor 2 parallel to the
1
0 π π 3π 2π y-axis or from the x-axis, dilated by factor parallel to the
– – 2
2 2 𝜋
–0.5
x-axis or from the y-axis, translated units to the right or
4
–1 in the positive x-direction and translated up 1 unit or in the
positive y-direction
–1.5
1
6. Dilated by factor parallel to the y-axis or from the x-axis,
–2
y = cos(x) – 1 3
dilated by factor 2 parallel to the x-axis or from the y-axis,
4. a. Translated 2 units to the right or in the positive translated 1 unit to the left or in the negative x-direction and
1 translated down 2 units or in the negative y-direction
x-direction, y = ; asymptotes x = 2, y = 0
x−2 1
y 7. a. y = x2 has been dilated by factor parallel to the y-axis
3
or from the x-axis, translated 3 units to the left or in the
y = f (x – 2) 2
negative x-direction, and translated down units or in
3
the negative y-direction.
0 xy=0
b. y = x3 has been reflected in the x-axis, dilated by factor
2 parallel to the y-axis or from the x-axis, reflected in
the y-axis, translated 1 unit to the right or in the positive
x=2 x-direction, and translated 1 unit up or in the positive
y-direction.

TOPIC 3 Composite functions, transformations and inverses 213

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1 positive y-direction. Domain = R\ {1} and range = R\ {2};

c. y= has been dilated by a factor of 3 parallel to the
x asymptotes x = 1 and y = 2
1
y-axis or from the x-axis, dilated by factor parallel to y
2
the x-axis or from the y-axis, translated 3 units to the left
or in the negative x-direction, and translated down 1 unit
or in the negative y-direction.
( )
2
8. a. (−2, 4) → −5, b. (1, 1) → (0, −1)
3 y=2
( )
1
c. 2, → (−2, 0)
2 0 x
9. a. y = cos (x) has been dilated by factor 2 parallel to the
1
y-axis or from the x-axis, dilated by factor parallel x=1
2
𝜋
to the x-axis or from the y-axis, translated units to 17. Reflection in the x-axis, reflection in the y-axis, translation
2
the right or in the positive x-direction, and translated up 1
5 units right, dilation by factor parallel to the x-axis or
3 units up or in the positive y-direction. 2
from the y-axis, translation 3 units up.
b. y = tan (x) has been reflected in both axes, dilated by
1 1
factor parallel to the x-axis or from the y-axis, and 18. Reflection in the x-axis, dilation by factor parallel to the
2 2
translated up 1 unit or in the positive y-direction. y-axis or from the x-axis, dilation by factor 3 parallel to the
1 x-axis or from the y-axis, translation 3 units left, translation
c. y = sin (x) has been dilated by factor parallel to 3
3 units up.
𝜋 2
the x-axis or from the y-axis, translated units to the
3 3.3 Exam questions
right or in the positive x-direction, and translated down
1 unit or in the negative y-direction. Note: Mark allocations are available with the fully worked
10. A solutions online.
11. D 1. C
√ 2. D
3 x−6
12. f(x) = − 3. A
2
3 3.4 Inverse graphs
13. f(x) = − +9
(2 − x)2
3.4 Exercise
14. f(x) = −18(x − 1)2 + 1
1. a. y
1
15. f(x) = −6 (–2, 9)
4−x
y = (1 – x)(x + 5) y=x
2x − 5
16. y =
x−1
2(x − 1) − 3 (0, 5)
=
x−1
2 (x − 1) 3
= − (0, 1)
x−1 x−1
(–5, 0) (5, 0)
3
= 2− 0 (1, 0) x
x−1
1 2x − 5 (9, –2)
Relative to y = , y = has been reflected in the
x x−1
y-axis or the x-axis, dilated by factor 3 parallel to the (0, –5) Inverse
y-axis or from the x-axis, translated 1 unit to the right or
in the positive x-direction, and translated 2 units up or in the
b. y = (1 − x)(x + 5) is a many-to-one function.
The inverse is a one-to-many relation.
c. y = (1 − x)(x + 5): domain = R, range = (−∞, 9]
Inverse: domain = (−∞, 9], range = R

214 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 3 & 4 Third Edition
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2. a. and b. d. y
y y=x
4
Inverse
Inverse 3

y=x 2
1
y= x
x
–4 –3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3 4
–1
(0, 0) –2
x –3
–4

√ 4. a. and b.
c. y = x is a one-to-one function. The inverse is a y
one-to-one function.
3. a. y y=x
6 y=x
5
4
3 (–1, 0)
2
Inverse 0 (0, –1) x
1 (–3, 0)
x (0, –3)
–6 –5 –4 –3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 1x – 1
–1 y = ––
3
–2
Inverse
–3
–4
–5
–6 5. b, d

b.
6. C
y
6 y=x 7. C
5 8. A is the correct option, as the given function has a turning
4 point at (0, 2) and option A has a turning point at (2, 0).
3 9. a. y
2 y = 9x – x3
1 y=x

x
–6 –5 –4 –3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6
–1
–2
Inverse
–3 (0, 3)
–4
–5 (–3, 0)
–6 Inverse 0 (3, 0) x

c. y
(0, –3)
4
Inverse
3 y=x
2
1
b. (2.828, 2.828), (0, 0), (−2.828, −2.828)
x
–4 –3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3 4
–1
–2
–3
–4

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10. a. y 13. a. and b.

y

y= x
y=x

y = (x + 4)(x – 2)
1
y=3+–
x Inverse (0, 2)
y=3 (–8, 0)
Inverse (–4, 0) 0 (2, 0) x
(–9, –1)
0 x (0, –4)
(0, –8)
(–1, –9)

x=3 c. y = (x + 4)(x − 2): many-to-one

b. Point of intersection = (3.532, 3.532) Inverse: one-to-many
11. a. a = −2 d. The inverse is not a function, as a one-to-many
correspondence indicates a relation. Also, the inverse
b. y
(–2, 9)
can only be a function if the original graph is a
one-to-one function, and this graph is a many-to-one
y = (1 – x)(x + 5) function.
e. y: domain = R, range = [−9, ∞)
Inverse: domain = [−9, ∞), range = R
f. (−∞, −1] or [−1, ∞)
y=x 14. a. y

(–5, 0) y = x3 y=x
0 x
Inverse
(9, –2) (0, 0)
(0, –5) x
Inverse

c.y: domain (−∞, −2], range (−∞, 9]

Inverse: domain (− ∞, 9], range (−∞, −2]
12. Domain = [3, ∞)
y
b. y = x3 : one-to-one; inverse: one-to-one
c. The inverse of y is a function because y is a one-to-one
Inverse function.
3
d. y = x : domain = R, range = R
(0, 3) y=x
Inverse: domain = R, range = R
15. a. and b.
y
(3, 0) y=x
0 x

1
y = –2 (1, 1)
x

0 x
y = –(x – 3)2
Inverse

216 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 3 & 4 Third Edition
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1 5. f −1 : [0, ∞) → R, f −1 (x) = x2 + 3
c. y= : many-to-one function
x2 −1 1
Inverse: one-to-many relation 6. f (x) = − 2
x
d. (−∞, 0) 1
−1
a. f( f (x)) =
1 1
e. y= : domain = (−∞, 0), range = (0, ∞) x −2+2
x2 1
Inverse: domain = (0, ∞), range = (−∞, 0) = 1
y
x
=x
y=x
1
b. f −1 ( f(x)) = 1
−2
x+2
1
y = –2
= x+2−2
x =x
√
3
x 7. k−1 (x) = x+1
0 (√ )3
−1 3
Inverse a. k(k (x)) = x+1 −1
= x+1−1
=x
√3
−1
b. k (k(x)) = x3 − 1 + 1
√3
= x3
16. a=3 =x
√
8. a. y= ± x − 1; the inverse is not a function as f(x) is not a
3.4 Exam questions one-to-one function.
Note: Mark allocations are available with the fully worked b. b = −1
solutions online. c.
y = (x + 1)2
1. C y
2. A y= x
3. C

(0, 1) Inverse
3.5 Inverse functions (1, 0)
(–1, 0)
0 x
3.5 Exercise (0, –1)
√
1. Inverse: y = 3 x, one-to-one function.
Domain for both = R, range for both = R
1
2. Inverse: y = ± √ , one-to-many relation (therefore not a
x √
function) f −1 (x) = x − 1, domain = [0, ∞)
d.
e. No intersection
y: domain = R\ {0}, range = (0, ∞) √ √
Inverse: domain = (0, ∞), range = R\ {0} 9. (2 + 2 3, 2 + 2 3)

3. a. y = 3(x + 1); one-to-one function with domain = R and 10. a. a = 1

√
−1
range = R b. f (x) = − x + 2 + 1, x ∈ [−2, ∞)
√
b. y = 5 ± x; one-to-many relation with domain = [0, ∞) y = f(x)
y
and range = R y=x
3
c. y = (x + 2) − 1; one-to-one function with domain = R (– 2 +1 , 0)
and range = R
√ (–2, 1)
d. y = 1 + 3 x; one-to-one function with domain = R and
range = R (0, – 2 + 1)
2 0 x
e. y = x ; one-to-one function with domain = [0, ∞) and (–1, 0)
range = [0, ∞) (0, –1)
1 y = f –1(x)
y=1± √
f. ; one-to-many relation with
x−2 (1, –2)
domain = (2, ∞) and range = R\ {1}
√
−1 −1 1 ( √ √ )
4. f : (−∞, 0) → R, f (x) = − − + 2 3− 13 3 − 13
x c. The point of intersection is , .
2 2

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11. a. f (x) = x4 : many-to-one function; inverse: one-to-many y

relation
2
b. f(x) = 2x − 7x + 3: many-to-one function; inverse:
one-to-many relation y=x
y = f(x) (0, 1)
1
c. f(x) = + 2; many-to-one function; inverse:
(x − 3)2 (–2, 0) (1, 0)
one-to-many relation.
√ 0 x
d. f(x) = x + 2, x ∈ [−2, ∞): one-to-one function;
f −1 ∶ [0, ∞) → R, f −1 (x) = x2 − 2
y = f–1(x)
y
y=x

(0, –2)
(0, 2 )
(2, 2) 15. a. a=5
√
y = x+2 y = x2 – 2 b. f −1 (x) = 5 + x, x ∈ [0, ∞)
( ]
x
1 5
(–2, 0) 0 ( 2, 0) 16. a. Domain = [−2, 4), range = − ,
3 3
(0, –2) ( ]
−1 1 5
b. f (x) = −3(x − 1); domain = − , ,
3 3
range = [−2, 4)
c. y
−1 1
12. f (x) = 2 +
x−4
y y=x

y=x ( )1
– –, 4
3
(0, 3)
y = f –1(x)

y=4 ( )0, 7–
2
y = f(x) (3 + 2, 3 + 2)
y = f(x)
(0, 1) (3, 0)
0 x
y=2 (0, 7–4) (4, – –13 )
y = f –1(x) (3 – 2, 3 – 2)
(1, 0)
( )
5
– , –2
3
0 x
(7–2 , 0)
( )
(7–4 , 0) d. The point of intersection is
3 3
, .
4 4
x=2 ( ]
1
x=4 17. a. D = −∞,
3
( ]
1 x2 1
13. Restrict the domain to (−∞, −2]. b. f −1 (x) =
− ; domain = [0, ∞), range = −∞,
√ 3 3 3
f −1 ∶ [0, ∞) → R, f −1 (x) = − x − 2 ( √ √ )
14. Two possible domains are [–2, 0] and [0, 2]. Both have a −3 + 13 −3 + 13
c. The point of intersection is , .
range of [0, 1]. √ 2 2
f −1 (x) ∶ [0, 1] → R, f −1 (x) = −2 2
√ 1 − x or d. y
−1 −1
f (x) : [0, 1] → R, f (x) = 2 1 − x . 2 y = f(x) y=x

y
(0, 2) y = f –1(x) (–3———13, –3
+ —
2
——— 13
+ —
2
) (0, 1)

(0, 1)
(0, –31) (1, 0)
y = f(x) 0 1 x
( )
–, 0
3

x y = f –1(x)
0

(1, 0) (2, 0)

y=x

218 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 3 & 4 Third Edition
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18. a. f −1 (x) = x2 + 1, x ∈ [0, ∞) 3.6 Exam questions

−1
b. f ( f(x)) = x; domain = [1, ∞) Note: Mark allocations are available with the fully worked
y solutions online.
1. B
y= x
2. E
3. A

3.7 Review
1
(1, 1)
3.7 Exercise
Technology free: short answer
0 x
1 1. f(g(x)) does not exist; g( f(x)) exists.
g( f(x)) = 2x − 1. The domain is [−2, ∞) and the range is
x+2 [−5, ∞).
c.
3 2. a. m = 1 and n = 1
b. Translation of 2 units right and 1 unit up
3.5 Exam questions
1
Note: Mark allocations are available with the fully worked c. y= + 1; domain = R\ {2} and range = R\ {1}
solutions online. x−2
1 Asymptotes: x = 2 and y = 1
−1
1. f (x) = 2 + √ , dom = (0, ∞) y
x
2. D
y=–1 +1
3. A x–2

3.6 Literal equations

3.6 Exercise y=1
(0, 0.5) (1, 0)
my − kz x
1. a. x = 0
n+4
2pc − 3c2
x=
b.
2p − m − 3c
( )
x 1 − 2p x=2
2. y =
m+2
1
y (6k + d) d. y= + 2, domain = R\ {1} and range = R\ {2}
3. a. x = − x−1
3k
pq − ny e. The inverse is a one-to-one function.
b. x = f.
m−p y y=–1 +1
x–2
m − 3k y=x
c. x= y=–1 +2
m+k x–1 3+ 5 3+ 5
–, –
km − 2dm 2 2
d. x =
2d + k
9 − 6cd + c2 d2 y=2
4. x= (0, 1)
ab2
(0.5, 0) y=1
d − 2kn 2km − d
5. x= , y= (0, 0.5)
m−n m−n
0 x
k + 2d 2d − k 3 – 5, 3 – 5 (1, 0)
6. a. x = , y= 2 2
2n 2m
b. x = 0, y = 1
3k + d 2d + 3k
7. a. x = , y=−
m n
4ab 2ab
b. x = , y=
a+b a+b x=1 x=2
2(a + 2) 4(a + 2) 4 √
8. x= , y= , z= 3. a.One-to-one inverse function: f −1 : R → R, f −1 (x) =
3
3x
a(a + 4) a(a + 4) a
b. Not a function, as it is a one-to-many mapping

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Not a function, as it is a one-to-many mapping 1

c. c. f −1 : [−1, ∞] → R, f −1 (x) = (x + 1)2 + 2 with
d. One-to-one inverse function: 3
range = [2, ∞)
f −1 : [0, ∞) → R, f −1 (x) = x2 + 3
√ d.
1 x−3 1 y 1 (x + 1)2 + 2
y=–
4. a. g(x) = − − 3
2 2 2
y=x
b. g(x) = −(3x + 7)2 + 2
5. a. Dilation of factor 3 from the x-axis or parallel to the
1
y-axis, dilation of factor from the y-axis or parallel to
2
5
the x-axis, and translation of units right and 1 unit up
2
( ) 7
0, –
3
y = 3x – 6 – 1

b. Translation down 1 unit, reflection in the x-axis and

1 (–1, 2)
y-axis, translation 5 units right, and dilation of factor
2 ( ) 7,0
–
3
from the y-axis or parallel to the x-axis 0 x
4k
6. x = (2, –1)
cd − 2k − 5
Technology active: multiple choice 19. k≥3
7. A 20. a. and c. The domain of f is R and the range of f is [0, ∞).
y
8. D (0, 18) y = 2(x – 3)2
9. A
10. C
11. E
12. D
13. C x
y=3± –
2
14. B
15. D (0, 3)
16. C
(18, 0)
Technology active: extended response
( ) 0 (3, 0) x
17. a. For f g (x) to exist, the range of the inner function, g(x),
must be a subset of or equal to the domain of the outer √
x
function, f(x). b. y = 3 ± ; domain = [0, ∞) and range = R
2
(0, ∞) ⊆ R d. [3, ∞).
ran g ⊆ dom f
( ) e. f: [3, ∞) → R, f(x) = 2 (x√− 3)2
Therefore, f g (x) is defined. x
f −1 : [0, ∞) → R, f (x) = +3
( ) 1 2
b. f g (x) = −4
(x − 2)2 f. y
Domain = (2, ∞), range = (−4, ∞) y = 2(x – 3)2
( )
c. For g f (x) to exist the range of the inner function, f(x)
must be a subset of or equal to the domain of the outer y=x
function, g(x).
[−4, ∞] ⊄ (2, ∞)
ran f ⊄ dom g x
( ) y=3+ –
Therefore, g f (x) is not defined.
( √ ) (√ ) ( )
9,–
– 9
2 2
2

d. f1 : −∞, − 6 ∪ 6, ∞ → R, f(x) = x2 − 4 (0, 3)

( ) 1
e. g f1 (x) = 2
x −6 0 x
( √ ) (√ ) (3, 0)
Domain = −∞, − 6 ∪ 6, ∞
(√ )2
( ) x
18. a. D = [2, ∞) g. f f −1 (x) = 2 +3−3
2
b. One possible answer is: (√ )2
1 x
Dilated by a factor of parallel to the x-axis or from the =2
3 2
y-axis, translated 2 units to the right or in the positive x
x-direction and translated 1 unit down or in the negative = 2×
2
y-direction =x
220 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 3 & 4 Third Edition
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3.7 Exam questions

Note: Mark allocations are available with the fully worked
solutions online.
1. E
2. E
3. C
x+1
4. a.
3x
b. Domain of f −1 = range of f = R\{0}
5. a. Range of f = [1, ∞)
b. i. c = −3
ii. Range of f(g(x)) = [1, ∞)
c. Range of f(h(x)) = [2, ∞)

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