Functions

Term Explanation
function A relation for which each element of the domain (𝑥) corresponds to
exactly one element of the range (𝑦). For every 𝑥 −value there is
only one possible 𝑦 −value.

To test for a function on a graph, use the ‘vertical line test’ – run a
ruler from left to right. If your ruler only ever touches the graph in
one spot, it is a function.
inverse function An inverse function is a function that undoes the action of another
function. A function 𝑔 is the inverse of a function 𝑓 if whenever 𝑦 =
𝑓(𝑥) then 𝑥 = 𝑔(𝑦)

parabola A function of the form 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 or y = a (𝑥 − 𝑝) + 𝑞

hyperbola A function of the form 𝑦 = +𝑞

exponential A function of the form 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑏 +𝑞

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logarithm A logarithm is a mathematical operation that determines how many
times a certain number, called the base, is multiplied by itself to
reach another number.

For example, the base ten logarithm of 100 is 2, because ten

raised to the power of two is equal to100

logarithmic A logarithmic function is the inverse of an exponential function

function

increasing function A function that is going ‘uphill’ when looking at it from left to right.

If a function has a turning point, this is the point at which a function

could change from increasing to decreasing.

decreasing A function that is going ‘downhill’ when looking at it from left to

function right.

If a function has a turning point, this is the point at which a function

could change from decreasing to increasing.

horizontal shift A translation of the graph either to the left or the right

vertical shift A translation of the graph either up or down

average gradient The gradient between two points on a curved graph.

domain All the possible x-values that are covered by the function/graph.

(To find the domain always study the graph from left to right)

range All the possible y-values that are covered by the function/graph.

(To find the range always study the graph from bottom to top)

x-intercept Where a function crosses (intercepts) the x-axis

y-intercept Where a function crosses (intercepts) the y-axis

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axis of symmetry A line that cuts the function exactly in half.

A parabola has a vertical line of symmetry (𝑥 = …)

and a hyperbola has 2 axes of symmetry (which form a cross → X.

These are in the form 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑐)

An exponential graph does not have an axis of symmetry.

asymptote A straight line that a curved graph gets closer and closer to but
never touches it.

turning point The point at which a function (parabola, sin or cos graph) changes
from increasing to decreasing OR from decreasing to increasing.

maximum Only involves functions that have a turning point. The maximum is
the highest the graph can be and is always the y-value of the
turning point.

minimum Only involves functions that have a turning point. The minimum is
the lowest the graph can be and is always the y-value of the
turning point.

period The distance required for the function to complete a full cycle. This
is given in degrees.

convex A convex curve is rounded like the exterior of a sphere or a circle

(a convex curve is similar to a mountain). In a convex curve, a
straight line joining any two points lies totally above the curve.

concave A concave curve rounds inward (a concave curve is similar to a

valley). In a concave curve, a straight line connecting any two
points on the curve lies entirely under the curve

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Revision of the concept of a function
Look carefully at the following relations and functions:

Only the parabola and the hyperbola are functions. For every x −value there is only one
corresponding y −value.
The circle and heart are not functions because:
there are 2 𝑦 −values for some of the 𝑥 −values. In a function there is only one possible
𝑦 −value for each 𝑥 −value).
This can be demonstrated by placing a ruler vertically (the vertical line test) and noting that
as the ruler moves from left to right, both the circle and the heart relation has many points
where the ruler crosses it in more than one place – in other words, this shows that there is
more than one possible 𝑦 −value for every 𝑥 −value.
When performing the vertical line test on the parabola and the hyperbola, there is no time
that that the ruler touches the graph in more than one place – in other words, this shows that
there is only one possible 𝑦 −value for every 𝑥 −value.

Definition of a function:
A function is a relation for which each element of the domain (𝑥) corresponds to exactly
one element of the range (𝑦). For every 𝑥 −value there is only one possible 𝑦 −value.

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Function notation

Three examples of functions are shown:

𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 + 2𝑥 − 3 −3 ℎ(𝑥) = 2 − 1
𝑔(𝑥) =
𝑥−2

Find 𝑓(3), 𝑔(−1) and ℎ(4)

𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 + 2𝑥 − 3 −3 ℎ(𝑥) = 2 − 1
𝑔(𝑥) =
𝑥−2
𝑓(3) = 12 𝑔(−1) = 1 ℎ(4) = 15

What was found in these three questions?

(the value 𝑦 was found after being given the value of 𝑥. The point found is a point on the
graph)
In other words, (3; 12) is a coordinate on the parabola represented by 𝑓(𝑥); (−1; 1) is a
coordinate on the hyperbola represented by 𝑔(𝑥) and (4; 15) is a coordinate on the
exponential graph represented by ℎ(𝑥).
Similarly, we can find the value of 𝑥, given the 𝑦 −value.

If 𝑓(𝑥) = 5, find the value(s) If 𝑔(𝑥) = −3, find the If ℎ(𝑥) = 1, find the value(s)
of 𝑥 value(s) of 𝑥 of 𝑥
Note that the entire function has now been given a value. In other words, the 𝑦 −value has
been given. To find the possible 𝑥 −values, solving an equation will be required.
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 + 2𝑥 − 3 −3 ℎ(𝑥) = 2 − 1
𝑔(𝑥) =
𝑓(𝑥) = 5 𝑥−2 ℎ(𝑥) = 1
𝑔(𝑥) = −3
5 = 𝑥 + 2𝑥 − 3 1=2 −1
−3
0 = 𝑥 + 2𝑥 − 8 −3 = 2=2
𝑥−2
0 = (𝑥 + 4)(𝑥 − 2) −3(𝑥 − 2) = −3 ∴𝑥=1
𝑥 = −4 or 𝑥 = 2 −3𝑥 + 6 = −3
−3𝑥 = −9
𝑥=3

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 Fully worked examples from Grade 11 assessments:

Given 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 + 4𝑥 − 6 and 𝑔(𝑥) = −2𝑥 − 6

Question Notes
a) Determine the average To find the gradient, we need two points. One is
gradient from the turning given. The 𝑦 −intercept is (0 ; −6)
point to the 𝑦 −intercept of To find the other point required:
that parabola −𝑏
𝑥=
2𝑎
Substitute this value into the equation to find the
corresponding 𝑦 −value
Use 𝑚 = to find the average gradient.

b) Find an expression to Expression of (top graph minus bottom graph) and

represent the length of CB simplify
c) Find the maximum possible Find the 𝑦 −coordinate of the turning point of the
length of CB. expression found in (b)
d) For what value of 𝑥 is First read the question as:
𝑓(𝑥) < 𝑔(𝑥)? Parabola less than straight line
This means: where is the parabola underneath the
straight line
Tip: colour or highlight this section.
Now focus on the corresponding 𝑥 −values

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 e) Find the equation of ℎ(𝑥), To reflect in the 𝑦 −axis, the 𝑥 −value changes
the reflection of 𝑓(𝑥) in the signs and the 𝑦–value remains the same.
𝑦 −axis. Perform this rule on the function’s equation and
simplify.
Solutions
a) b) 𝐶𝐵 = −2𝑥 − 6 − (2𝑥 + 4𝑥 − 6)
−𝑏 𝐶𝐵 = −2𝑥 − 6 − 2𝑥 − 4𝑥 + 6
𝑥=
2𝑎
𝐶𝐵 = −2𝑥 − 6𝑥
−(4)
𝑥=
2(2)
𝑥 = −1
2
∴ 𝑦 = 2(−1) + 4(−1) − 6
∴ 𝑦 = −8
Turning point: (−1 ; −8)
𝑦 −intercept: (0 ; −6)
−6−(−8)
Average gradient: 𝑚 =
0−(−1)
𝑚=2

c) 𝐶𝐵 = −2𝑥 − 6𝑥 d) 𝑥 𝜖 (−3 ; 0)
𝑥= e) ℎ(𝑥) = 2(−𝑥) + 4(−𝑥) − 6

𝑥=
( ) ℎ(𝑥) = 2𝑥 − 4𝑥 − 6
( )

𝑥=
2
−3 −3
∴ 𝑦 = −2 −6
2 2
9
∴𝑦=
2
The maximum length of CB is units

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The diagram below shows the graph of 𝑓(𝑥) = − 1 and 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑥

The graph of 𝑓 intersects the 𝑥 −axis at A and the 𝑦 −axis at B.

The graph of 𝑓 and 𝑔 intersect at points C and D.

Question Notes
a) Write down the equations Note the different format that this hyperbola takes – it
of the asymptotes of 𝑓 has a ‘+’ in the denominator.
Remember that the asymptote is the value of 𝑥 that
makes the denominator equal to zero
b) Determine the domain of 𝑓 Domain (all the possible 𝑥 −values) and range (all the
possible 𝑦 −values)
To find the domain of the hyperbola (use a ruler and
move from left to right with a focus on the 𝑥 −values)
Note how it was not possible to keep the ruler running
smoothly along but the need to ‘hop’ over the
asymptote was necessary and therefore showed that
there was a value that was not possible for 𝑥.
c) Calculate the length of OB Consider what is ‘happening’ at B and A.
and OA B is the 𝑦 −intercept and A is the 𝑦 −intercept.
Therefore, these values will need to be found in order
to find the lengths.
Remember that lengths are always positive

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 d) Determine the co- Consider what is ‘happening’ at C and D.
ordinates of C and D They are the two points of intersection of the 2 graphs.
To find the point of intersection, make the two graphs
equal to each other and solve.
Once the values of 𝑥 have been found, substitute them
into any of the other 2 equations and find the
corresponding 𝑦 −values.
e) Use the graphs to obtain This is a rather difficult question that many learners

the solution to ≥ may struggle with. Look carefully at the inequality to try
and see any connection between the two expressions
in the question and the functions given in the question.
(The one on the left is the hyperbola without the ‘-1’)
Can you ‘find’ the ‘-1’ in the expression on the right-
hand side (but note that on the RHS it would be a ‘+1’)
Expand into + = +1

Now re-write the question to make it easier to deal

with:
1 𝑥+2
≥
𝑥+3 2
1 𝑥
≥ +1
𝑥+3 2
1 𝑥
−1≥
𝑥+3 2
The question is actually asking: for what values of 𝑥 is
the hyperbola above or equal to the straight line.
Solutions
a) b)
𝑥 = −3 𝑦 = −1 𝑥 𝜖 𝑅 ; 𝑥 ≠ −3
c) d)
1 −1= 𝑥
𝑓(𝑥) = −1
𝑥+3
𝑥 − 𝑖𝑛𝑡 ; 𝑦 = 0 LCD 2(𝑥 + 3)
1 2 − 2(𝑥 + 3) = 𝑥(𝑥 + 3)
0= −1
𝑥+3 2 − 2𝑥 − 6 = 𝑥 + 3𝑥
1
1= 0 = 𝑥 + 5𝑥 + 4
𝑥+3
𝑥+3=1 0 = (𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 + 4)

𝑥 = −2 ∴ 𝑥 = −1 and 𝑥 = −4

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(−2; 0) 1
Substitute into 𝑦 = 2 𝑥
∴ 𝑂𝐴 = 2 units
1
𝑦= (−1)
2
𝑦 − 𝑖𝑛𝑡 ; 𝑥 = 0 1
𝑦=−
1 2
𝑦= −1
0+3
1 1
𝑦 = −1 𝑦= (−4)
3 2
−2 𝑦 = −2
𝑦=
3
The two points are:
(0; )
(−1 ; )
∴ 𝑂𝐵 = units
(−4 ; −2)
∴ 𝐶 (−1 ; )

𝐷 (−4 ; −2)
Look carefully at the sketch to check
which points match C and D.

e) Note regarding (e):

1 𝑥+2 Note that the use of the < sign at the −3
≥
𝑥+3 2
instead of the ≤ sign. Ensure you
1 𝑥
≥ +1 understand it is because of the
𝑥+3 2
1 𝑥 asymptote.
−1≥
𝑥+3 2
𝑓(𝑥) ≥ 𝑔(𝑥)
∴ 𝑥 ≤ −4 𝑜𝑟 − 3 < 𝑥 ≤ −1

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The graphs of the form 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 and 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑑 + 𝑒 are sketched below. The
𝑦 −intercept of the parabola is (0 ; 3.5) and the 𝑥 −intercepts are (-1 ; 0) and
(7 ; 0)

Question Notes
a) Find the values of As the 𝑥 −intercepts and one other point is given,
𝑎, 𝑏 and 𝑐 use 𝑦 = 𝑎(𝑥 − 𝑥 )(𝑥 − 𝑥 ) to find the equation of the
parabola and hence find 𝑎, 𝑏 and 𝑐
Check if your answers make sense.
‘a’ is easy to check – should it be positive or negative?
‘c’ is also an easy check - it should be the 𝑦 −intercept
b) Find the values of Substitute the 𝑦 −intercept to find ‘e’ (𝑑 = 1 so the ‘d’ will
𝑑 and 𝑒 no longer be in the equation so ‘e’ will be found)
Use the other point and the value of ‘e’ to find ‘d’.
c) Determine the co- −𝑏
𝑥=
ordinate of the turning 2𝑎
Substitute this value into the equation to find the
point of 𝑓(𝑥)
corresponding 𝑦 −value
d) Find the range of 𝑓(𝑥) Domain (all the possible 𝑥 −values) and range (all the
possible 𝑦 −values).

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 e) Determine the equation Use 𝑥 = or symmetry from the 𝑥 −intercepts
of the axis of symmetry
of 𝑓(𝑥)
f) Determine the equation This has essentially already been found in (b)
of the asymptote of 𝑔(𝑥) Remember to write the equation properly (𝑦 =…) and not
just put the number down.
g) Determine the values of Use your finger to trace the parabola and note where you
𝑥 for which the graph were going ‘uphill’ (increasing). It would be a good idea to
𝑓(𝑥) increases highlight or colour this part of the graph a different colour.
Now focus your attention on the 𝑥 −values that match with
this part of the graph.
The graph cannot be increasing or decreasing at the
turning point and this is why a round bracket is used to
show where the list ends.
h) Determine the equation In order to answer this question, you need to have a good
of ℎ(𝑥), which is the understanding of which part of a function’s equation
graph formed by moving represents the horizontal shift and the vertical shift.
𝑔(𝑥) 2 units to the left
and 5 units down.
Solutions
a) b)
𝑦 = 𝑎(𝑥 − 𝑥 )(𝑥 − 𝑥 ) 𝑦 =𝑑 +𝑒
𝑦 = 𝑎(𝑥 − (−1))(𝑥 − 7) Substitute (0 ; 2)
𝑦 = 𝑎(𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 7) 2=𝑑 +𝑒
Substitute (0 ; 3.5)
2 = 1+𝑒
3.5 = 𝑎(0 + 1)(0 − 7)
1=𝑒
3.5 = 𝑎(1)(−7)
Substitute (-1 ; 4)
3.5 = −7𝑎
−1 4=𝑑 +1
=𝑎
2 3=𝑑
𝑦 = 𝑎(𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 7) 1
−1 3=
𝑦= (𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 7) 𝑑
2 3𝑑 = 1
−1
𝑦= (𝑥 − 6𝑥 − 7) 1
2 𝑑=
−1 7 3
𝑦= 𝑥 + 3𝑥 +
2 2
∴ 𝑎= 𝑏=3 𝑐=

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c) d)
−𝑏 𝑦 𝜖 (−∞ ; 8]
𝑥=
2𝑎
−3
𝑥=
2

𝑥=3
−1 7
𝑦= (3) + 3(3) +
2 2
𝑦=8
Turning point: (3 ; 8)
e) f)
𝑥=3 𝑦=1
g) h)
𝑥 𝜖 (−∞ ; 3) 1
ℎ(𝑥) = +1−5
3
1
ℎ(𝑥) = −4
3

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Inverse functions and their graphs
Note the cartesian plane with the line 𝑦 = 𝑥 drawn in.
Note the point (−4; 3).
When reflected in the line 𝑦 = 𝑥, the 𝑥 −value and the
𝑦 −value are interchanged.

Look carefully at the following 2 sketches:

Note the following for the linear function:
 One function is the reflection of the other
function in the line 𝑦 = 𝑥
(In other words, if a fold was made along the line
𝑦 = 𝑥, the graphs would land on top of one
another)
 The coordinates have changed according to the
rule (𝑥; 𝑦) → (𝑦; 𝑥)
 This includes the 𝑥 −intercept and 𝑦 −intercept

Note the following for the quadratic function:

 One function is the reflection of the other
function in the line 𝑦 = 𝑥
 The coordinates have changed according to the
rule (𝑥; 𝑦) → (𝑦; 𝑥)
 Although this includes the 𝑥 −intercept and
𝑦 −intercept it isn’t so easy to see as they were
both zero originally.
What is the domain and range of the quadratic
function passing through the point (2; 4)?
𝑥 ∈ ℝ and 𝑦 ≥ 0
(𝑥 can be any real value and 𝑦 is positive or zero)
What is the domain and range of the quadratic
function passing through the point (4; 2)?
𝑦 ∈ ℝ and 𝑥 > 0
(𝑦 can be any real value and 𝑥 is positive or zero)

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The question regarding the domain and range is an important one. You shouldn’t have had
to look at the sketch to answer the question for the domain and range of the reflected
function. It should have been clear that it was the opposite to the domain and range of the
original function because when a function is reflected all 𝑥 −values become the 𝑦 −values
and all 𝑦 −values become the 𝑥 −values.

These are inverse functions. Definition:

An inverse function is a function that undoes the action of another function.
A function 𝑔 is the inverse of a function 𝑓 if, whenever 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥) then 𝑥 = 𝑔(𝑦)

Using the above two examples to explain further. First the linear function.
The original linear function’s equation is: 𝑦 = 2𝑥 + 3. To find the inverse function:
Interchange the 𝑥 −values and 𝑦 −values 𝑥 = 2𝑦 + 3
Although this is the equation for the inverse 2𝑦 = 𝑥 − 3
function, it is not in standard form. A linear function 2𝑦 𝑥 3
= −
should be in the form 2 2 2
1 3
𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑐 𝑦= 𝑥−
2 2
Note the correct notation for inverse functions If 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 + 3
then 𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑥 −

Refer back to the sketch of the two functions and note that:
 The 𝑦 −intercept of the original function is 3 and the 𝑥 −intercept is −

 The 𝑦 −intercept of the inverse function is − and the 𝑥 −intercept is 3

Note that the inverse graph of the function was called an inverse function.
Is this true? Is it a function? (yes – every 𝑥 −value has only one possible 𝑦 −value)

Now, let’s take a look at the quadratic function:

The original quadratic function’s equation is: 𝑦 = 𝑥 . To find the inverse:
Interchange the 𝑥 −values and 𝑦 −values 𝑥=𝑦
Although this is the equation for the inverse of the function, 𝑥=𝑦
it is not in standard form. y should be the subject of the ±√𝑥 = 𝑦
formula. To do this we need to use the inverse operation of 𝑦 = ±√𝑥
squaring – square rooting. Remember that a square root of
a number could produce two possible solutions.

15
Look at the diagram again of these two graphs. Is the inverse graph a function?
(no – for every possible 𝑥 −value there are two possible 𝑦 −values)
This is a very important concept.
Let us discuss what changes we can make to the original function so that when we find the
inverse it would also be a function.
Using the original sketch, erase parts of the original function to change the parabola so that
its inverse will be a function. Note that there are two options.

Diagram 1 Diagram 2

Note that the inverse of the original is still a function: every 𝑥 −value has only one possible
𝑦 −value.
What part of the parabola was drawn in the diagram 1?
(the part that corresponded only with the positive values of 𝑥)
What part of the parabola was drawn in the diagram 2?
(the part that corresponded only with the negative values of 𝑥)
This means that the domain has been restricted.

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To ensure that the inverse of a quadratic is still a function, the domain of the quadratic must
be restricted.

Summary so far:
An inverse function is a reflection of a function in the line 𝑦 = 𝑥
Rule to follow to find the inverse of a given function: (𝑥; 𝑦) → (𝑦; 𝑥)
𝑓(𝑥) → denotes a function
𝑓 (𝑥) → denotes the inverse of a function
The domain of a quadratic function (the parabola) would have to be restricted to make the
inverse a function.

Fully worked example:

Given ℎ(𝑥) = 2𝑥 − 3 for −2 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 4. The 𝑥 −intercept of ℎ is Q.

17
 a) Determine the coordinates of Q.
b) Write down the domain of ℎ
c) Sketch the graph of ℎ , clearly indicating the 𝑦 −intercept and the end points.
d) For which values of 𝑥, will ℎ(𝑥) = ℎ (𝑥)?
Notes:
a) This should be easy– to find the 𝑥 −intercept of any graph, make 𝑦 = 0
b) Note that there is no need to find or draw the inverse function to answer this
question. Remember that the domain of the inverse function is the same as the
range of the function. Hence, you should find the range of the function given. This
can be done by substituting the two end values of the domain to find the 2 end
values of the range.
c) Remember that the 𝑦 −intercept of the inverse function is the same value as the
𝑥 −intercept of the function. This was found in (a).
The end points can be shown either using the answer found above or by using the
domain of the original function and showing these values as the range of the
inverse function.
d) Before finding the point of intersection of the function with its inverse function, the
equation of the inverse function will need to be found. Note that the full point of
intersection is not asked for.
Solutions:
a) Let 𝑦 = 0
2𝑥 − 3 = 0
𝑥= ∴ 𝑄( ; 0)

b) ℎ(−2) = 2(−2) − 3 and ℎ(4) = 2(4) − 3

ℎ(−2) = −7 ℎ(4) = 5
∴ domain of ℎ : −7 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 5
c)
Showing the endpoints using Showing the endpoints using
𝑥 −values 𝑦 −values

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d) ℎ(𝑥) = 2𝑥 − 3
Inverse: 𝑥 = 2𝑦 − 3
𝑥 + 3 = 2𝑦
𝑦= +
1 3
ℎ (𝑥) = 𝑥 +
2 2
ℎ(𝑥) = ℎ (𝑥)
1 3
2𝑥 − 3 = 𝑥 +
2 2
4𝑥 − 6 = 𝑥 + 3
4𝑥 − 𝑥 = 3 + 6
3𝑥 = 9
𝑥=3

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Revision of Exponential laws and Exponential functions
Exponential laws
With variables: Basic example: Explanation in words:
Laws:
1 𝑎 ×𝑎 =𝑎 2 ×2 ×2 When multiplying powers with like
=2 bases keep the bases the same
=2 and add the exponents.
2 𝑎 6𝑥 When dividing powers with like
=𝑎
𝑎 2𝑥 bases keep the base and subtract
= 3𝑥 the exponent. Divide coefficients
(numbers) as per normal.
3 (𝑎 ) = 𝑎 (3 ) When raising exponents to a
=3 power, keep the base and multiply
the exponents.
4 (𝑎𝑏) = 𝑎 𝑏 (2𝑏 ) When more than one base is
𝑎 𝑎 2 𝑏 raised to an exponent, each base
=
𝑏 𝑏 is raised to the exponent.
When a fraction is raised to an
exponent, the numerator and
denominator must be raised to that
exponent.
Definitions:
1 𝑎 =1 2 =1 Any base raised to the power of
2𝑥 = 2 zero is equal to 1. (𝑥 ≠ 0 𝑎𝑠 0 is
undefined)
2 1 1 A base raised to a negative
𝑎 = 3 =
𝑎 3 exponent is equal to its reciprocal
3
3𝑎 𝑏 = raised to the same positive
𝑏
exponent.

Your exponent work needs to be good – exponents are part of many topics such as algebra,
finance, probability and functions.

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The function 𝑦 = 2 is drawn below.

Note the following aspects of exponential functions:

 There is one asymptote. It is a horizontal line and therefore in the form 𝑦 = 𝑞
 The 𝑦 −intercept will be (0; 1) providing there have been no vertical or horizontal
shifts
 The domain of an exponential function is 𝑥 ∈ ℝ
 The range is limited by the asymptote
 There is no axis of symmetry
A reminder of the complete form of an exponential function and what each variable
represents.

The effect of 𝑎 and 𝑏 can be summarised as follows:

Note that the horizontal line represents the asymptote.

21
For each of the following functions, we will draw them, then consider each of the points listed
below.

𝑦= 3 +2 𝑦 = (−1). 4 + 1 𝑦= −2

 Decide if the function is increasing or decreasing and whether it is positive or negative

Note that ‘positive’ means above the horizontal asymptote and ‘negative’ means below the horizontal
asymptote.

 Find the equation of the asymptote and draw it in if it is not 𝑦 = 0 (the 𝑥 −axis)
 Find the 𝑦 −intercept (𝑥 = 0).

Solutions:
𝑦 = 3 +2
The function is increasing (3 > 0)
The function is positive (𝑎 = 1)
Asymptote: 𝑦=2
𝑦 −intercept: (𝑥 = 0)

𝑦 = (−1). 4 + 1
The function is decreasing (4 > 0 but -1 < 0)
The function is negative (𝑎 = −1)
Asymptote: 𝑦=1
𝑦 −intercept: (𝑥 = 0)

1
𝑦= −2
3
The function is decreasing 0 < < 1

The function is positive (𝑎 = 1)

Asymptote: 𝑦 = −2
𝑦 −intercept: (𝑥 = 0)
1
𝑦= −2
3
𝑦 =1−2
𝑦 = −1 (0; −1)

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The inverse of an exponential function
Consider the following exponential functions:
𝑦=2 1
𝑦=
3

Remember how we can find the inverse of a function – the 𝑥 − and 𝑦 −values are
interchanged (because the inverse is a reflection in the line 𝑦 = 𝑥)
𝑦=2 1
𝑦=
3
Interchange the 𝑥 − and 𝑦 −values
𝑥=2 1
𝑥=
3

Note: These are not in standard form (𝑦 = . . )

Making the exponent the subject of the formula requires a knowledge of logarithms.

Logarithms

Introduction to and understanding logarithms

How many twos do we multiply to get 8? (3)
2 =8
If we are trying to find the exponent, logarithms are used. A logarithm is an exponent.

In the above example, the logarithm would be 3.

Note how we write it:
𝑙𝑜𝑔 8 = 3
This means: The number of twos we need to multiply to get 8 is 3.
We read it as: log base 2 of 8 equals 3.
Note then that the following represents the same concept:

The base of a log is the base of an exponential statement. (The base goes to the bottom in
the log)

23
Using 𝑙𝑜𝑔 8 = 3 again
The base (2) is the number being multiplied
The answer (3) shows how often the base is being multiplied – this is the logarithm
The number we want to get to (8) by multiplying the base

Examples
𝑙𝑜𝑔 125 𝑙𝑜𝑔 64
How many 5’s are needed to be multiplied 8 to the power of what number is equal to
to get 125? 64?
𝑙𝑜𝑔 125 = 3 𝑙𝑜𝑔 64 = 2

You should be able to complete this table without the use of a calculator.
(Solutions for any missing values are at the end of the notes)
Example Words to think it through Solution Because:
𝑙𝑜𝑔 81 How many 3’s are needed to be multiplied to get
81? Or
3 to the power of what number is equal to 81? 4 3 = 81
𝑙𝑜𝑔 49
𝑙𝑜𝑔 81
𝑙𝑜𝑔 64
𝑙𝑜𝑔 1 *
𝑙𝑜𝑔 10000**

Example Discussion
* Can you see that any log question that must equal 1 will have an answer
𝑙𝑜𝑔 1 = 0 of zero?
This is because any number to the exponent zero is equal to 1
(except 0 as that is undefined)
Make up a few more log statements that would equal zero.
Possible examples: log 1; log 1 ; log 1 ; log 1
** Base 10 is considered a common logarithm. If a logarithm is written
𝑙𝑜𝑔 10000 without a base, the base is 10.
=4 This question could have been written as: log 10000 = 4. There is no need
to write a base in the logarithm if it is 10.
Press log 10000 and confirm you get 4.
Try log 100 (2) or log 1000000 (6).

24
Use the previous information regarding base 10 and use your calculator to find:
𝑙𝑜𝑔 26 𝑙𝑜𝑔 2000
So far, all the answers to logarithms seemed to have been whole numbers.
You should note that decimals are also possible.
𝑙𝑜𝑔 26 = 1,415 𝑙𝑜𝑔 2000 = 3,301

Do you think negative logarithms are possible?

 Although logarithms deal with multiplying, a negative logarithm just means we
deal with dividing
 A negative logarithm means how many times to divide by a number.
For example:
log 0.5
Because 1 ÷ 2 = 0.5 the logarithm above is equal to −1.
If the number that we need to get to is smaller than the base, dividing is required which
means there will be a negative answer.

Converting between exponential statements and logarithms

You must be able to change between exponents and logarithms.
Using,
2 =8
Note that we have seen this as a logarithm before so let’s use it to note where each number
goes in the logarithm statement.

Note:
 The exponent is the answer to a logarithm
 The base of the power is the base of the logarithm – it goes to the bottom
The general rule:
If 𝑦 =𝑏 then 𝑥 = 𝑙𝑜𝑔 𝑦

25
Change the following exponential statements into logarithms.
Exponential form Logarithmic form
5 = 625
7 = 343
64 = 4
59049 = 9

Change the following logarithms into exponential form.

Logarithmic form Exponential form
𝑙𝑜𝑔 32 = 5
𝑙𝑜𝑔 279936 = 7
𝑙𝑜𝑔 3375 = 3
𝑙𝑜𝑔 1000 = 3

You will need to be able to change exponential equations into logarithms in order to solve for
the exponent.
Exponential Change to Use the calculator to solve:
equation: logarithm
12 = 144 𝑥 = 𝑙𝑜𝑔 1728 Using this button on your calculator,
𝑥=2
2 = 42 𝑥 = 𝑙𝑜𝑔 42
𝑥 = 5,392 press this then fill the numbers in and press
equals. The first answer is a whole number and
an easy one so that you can see that it is
correct. The second answer involves a decimal.

Try these examples.

Equation: Solution
2 = 64 𝑥 = 𝑙𝑜𝑔
𝑥 = _____
6 = 120

3 = 145,62

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Logarithm laws

Exponent law Logarithm law Example:

𝑎 ×𝑎 =𝑎 𝑙𝑜𝑔 (𝑎𝑏) = 𝑙𝑜𝑔 𝑎 + 𝑙𝑜𝑔 𝑏 𝑙𝑜𝑔 27 + 𝑙𝑜𝑔 9
= 𝑙𝑜𝑔 (27 × 9)
= 𝑙𝑜𝑔 81
= 𝑙𝑜𝑔 3
= 4 𝑙𝑜𝑔 3
= 4(1) = 4
𝑎 𝑎 𝑙𝑜𝑔 27 − 𝑙𝑜𝑔 9
=𝑎 𝑙𝑜𝑔 = 𝑙𝑜𝑔 𝑎 − 𝑙𝑜𝑔 𝑏
𝑎 𝑏
27
= 𝑙𝑜𝑔
9
= 𝑙𝑜𝑔 3
=1
(𝑎 ) = 𝑎 𝑙𝑜𝑔𝑎 = 𝑛 𝑙𝑜𝑔𝑎 𝑙𝑜𝑔 8 = 𝑙𝑜𝑔 2
= 3 𝑙𝑜𝑔 2
𝑎 =𝑎 𝑙𝑜𝑔 𝑎 = 1 = 3(1)
=3
𝑎 =1 𝑙𝑜𝑔 1 = 0 or 𝑙𝑜𝑔 1 = 0 𝑙𝑜𝑔 1
=0

27
Logarithmic functions
A reminder what an inverse function is: a reflection of the function in the line 𝑦 = 𝑥
The line 𝑦 = 𝑥 has been drawn onto the cartesian plane below.

The function 𝑦 = 2 is plotted on the same cartesian plane.

The inverse function is also drawn on the same cartesian plane.
If you folded the paper along the 𝑦 = 𝑥 line the two graphs should land on top of one
another.
Also, remember that all 𝑥 −values become 𝑦 −values and all 𝑦 −values become 𝑥 −values.
Focus on the asymptote of the exponential function and think about where the asymptote will
be of the inverse function.

Ensure that you note:

 the 𝑦 −intercept of the exponential graph and the 𝑥 −intercept of the inverse
function.
 It should also be clear that the line 𝑦 = 0 (the 𝑥 −axis) is the asymptote of the
exponential function and that the line 𝑥 = 0 (the 𝑦 −axis) is the asymptote of the
inverse function.

28
Consider: Is the exponential function increasing or decreasing? (increasing)
Is the inverse function increasing or decreasing? (increasing)
Ensure you write the inverse of a function correctly: 𝑓 (𝑥)

Using the equation of the exponential function:

𝑦=2
Find the equation of the inverse function (by interchanging the 𝑥 − and 𝑦 −values
𝑥=2
Use logarithms to make 𝑦 the subject of the formula.
𝑦 = log 𝑥

Consider the function 𝑦 = .

Note: because the base lies between 0 and 1, the function will decrease.

Note:
 The exponential function is decreasing. The inverse function is also decreasing
 The 𝑦 −intercept of the exponential function is 1. The 𝑥 −intercept of the inverse
function is 1.
 The asymptote of the exponential function is 𝑦 = 0. The asymptote of the inverse
function is 𝑥 = 0.
Other possible questions concerning the function and its inverse:

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Question Solution Notes
Write down the range of 𝑦 𝜖(0; ∞) Once the range of the function has

𝑓(𝑥) = or 𝑦 > 0 been determined, it should be clear that

the domain of the inverse function will
Write down the domain of 𝑥 𝜖(0; ∞)
be made up of the same set of
𝑓 (𝑥) = log 𝑥 or 𝑥 > 0
numbers.
Write down the values of 𝑥 for 𝑥 𝜖[−2; ∞) These values can be read directly from
which 𝑓(𝑥) ≤ 4 or 𝑥 ≥ −2 the graph or calculated algebraically.
Write down the values of 𝑥 for 𝑥 𝜖(0; 4)
which 𝑓 (𝑥) > −2 or 0 < 𝑥 < 4

Past paper question:

Given: 𝑓(𝑥) = log 𝑥 where 𝑎 > 0. 𝑆 ; −1 is a point on the graph of 𝑓.

a) Prove that 𝑎 = 3
b) Write down the equation of ℎ, the inverse of 𝑓, in the form 𝑦 = . ..
c) If 𝑔(𝑥) = −𝑓(𝑥), determine the equation of 𝑔.
d) Write down the domain of 𝑔.
e) Determine the values of 𝑥 for which 𝑓(𝑥) ≥ −3
Notes:
a) Remember that when you are asked to prove, you may not use the given
information. Rather see the question as: Find the value of 𝑎 and use what has been
given as a check. The point S needs to be used in the given equation and then
𝑎 can be solved for. Knowledge of exponent and logarithm laws will be used to
change the logarithm statement into an exponential statement. From this point, it will
be possible to solve for 𝑎

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 b) Remember the key points to finding the inverse of a given function. Change the 𝑥
and 𝑦 (but know why! – it is a reflection on the line 𝑦 = 𝑥). Then an understanding of
logarithms and functions will be required to make 𝑦 the subject of the formula.
c) Consider: what transformation has happened to a function of it has become a
negative function? (it is a reflection in the line 𝑦 = 0 or the 𝑥 −axis)
What rule will make this transformation? (𝑥; 𝑦) → (𝑥; −𝑦)
d) It would be useful to sketch the function 𝑔 onto the cartesian plane with 𝑓(𝑥) so you
can visually see the domain of the function. It would also be worthwhile to note that
the domain of 𝑔 should be the same as the domain of 𝑓 as it has been reflected in
the 𝑥 −axis and therefore the same 𝑥 −values are used.
e) You will first need to find the corresponding 𝑥 −value when 𝑦 = −3. Once this has
been found it would be a good idea to show this point on the diagram to assist you
in seeing visually where the function is equal to or larger than −3. Once it has been
added to the sketch, draw the line 𝑦 = −3 and highlight the part of the function that
lies above it. Then re-focus your attention to what the 𝑥 −values are for that part of
the graph.
Solution:
a) 𝑓(𝑥) = log 𝑥
1
−1 = log
3
1
∴𝑎 =
3

𝑎=

𝑎=3
b) 𝑓(𝑥) = log 𝑥
𝑥 = log 𝑦
𝑦=3
c) 𝑓(𝑥) = log 𝑥
∴ −𝑓(𝑥) = − log 𝑥
∴ 𝑔(𝑥) = − log 𝑥 (other options: 𝑔(𝑥) = log ; 𝑔(𝑥) = log 𝑥)

d) 𝑥 > 0 or 𝑥𝜖 (0; ∞)
e) log 𝑥 = −3
𝑥=3
1 1
𝑥= ∴𝑥≥
27 27

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Solutions:

32