Chapter 2: Problem 118
If \(f\) is an even function defined on the interval \([-5,5]\), then the real values of \(x\) satisfying the equation $$ f(x)=f\left(\frac{x+1}{x+2}\right) \text { are } $$ (A) \(\frac{-1 \pm \sqrt{5}}{2}\) (B) \(\frac{-3 \pm \sqrt{5}}{2}\) (C) \(\frac{-2 \pm \sqrt{5}}{2}\) (D) None of these
Short Answer
Step by step solution
Understanding Even Functions
Setting Up the Equation
Solving for Equality
Factoring the Quadratic
Solving for Opposites
Solving the Second Quadratic
Conclusion and Answer Selection
Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!
-
Full Textbook Solutions
Get detailed explanations and key concepts
-
Unlimited Al creation
Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...
-
Ads-free access
To over 500 millions flashcards
-
Money-back guarantee
We refund you if you fail your exam.
Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with 91Ó°ÊÓ!
Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Symmetry about y-axis
When visualizing a graph, imagine plotting a point for \( f(x) \) and then see a corresponding point at \( f(-x) \) directly opposite the y-axis. This reflection property is crucial for solving equations involving even functions.
- For example, if \( f(2) = 5 \), then \( f(-2) \) must also equal 5.
- This property helps in identifying solutions because the value of \( f \) is purely based on the magnitude of \( x \), not its sign.
Quadratic Equations
To solve quadratic equations, we often use:
- Factoring: If the quadratic can easily be rewritten as a product of two binomials.
- Completing the square: This method involves rearranging the equation into a perfect square.
- Quadratic formula: For any quadratic \( ax^2 + bx + c = 0 \), solutions are given by the formula \( x = \frac{-b \pm \sqrt{b^2 - 4ac}}{2a} \).
- If positive, there are two distinct real roots.
- If zero, the roots are real and equal.
- If negative, the roots are complex.
Domain of Functions
Knowing the domain is critical because it imposes limitations on the solutions you seek. If a solution falls outside the domain, it becomes invalid for that particular function.
- Considerations about domain help prevent extraneous solutions from factoring into final answers.
- This is especially important when dealing with rational functions or expressions whereby certain values might make the function undefined (like division by zero).