Fundamentals of Mathematics Unit 2 - V1
Fundamentals of Mathematics Unit 2 - V1
FUNDAMENTALS OF MATHEMATICS
Unit 2
Composite Function
Table of Contents
SL Topic Fig No / Table SAQ / Page No
No / Graph Activity
1 Introduction - -
3-5
1.1 Objectives - -
2 Composite Function - -
2.3 Problems - -
3 Operations on a Function - - 12
4 Periodic Function - -
13-17
4.1 Properties of Even and Odd Function - -
5 Summary - - 17-18
6 Self-Assessment Questions - 1 18-20
7 Terminal Questions - - 20
8 Answers - - 21
1. INTRODUCTION
Unit 1 of our journey through the mathematical landscape in a Bachelor of Computer
Applications (BCA) course is a deep dive into the essential elements that constitute the
building blocks of advanced computational theories and practices. This unit, titled
"Introduction to Functions," unfolds the complexities and simplicities of mathematical
relations and functions, setting the stage for a comprehensive understanding of how data
elements interact within various sets. We begin by exploring the fundamental concept of a
relation, which establishes a connection between elements across different sets. This is
accompanied by the introduction of pictorial diagrams, providing a visual representation of
these abstract concepts, making them more accessible and easier to grasp.
As we delve deeper, the discussions pivot to the nuanced distinctions between the domain,
co-domain, and the range of a relation, elucidating how each plays a pivotal role in defining
the scope and output of mathematical interactions. Functions are then spotlighted as a
special kind of relation, one that ensures a unique output for every input, thus laying down
a foundational framework for understanding more complex operations in computer science.
Through pictorial representations, we visualize functions and their components, including
the domain, co-domain, and range, further solidifying our grasp of these concepts. The unit
also covers an array of functions—constant, identity, polynomial, rational, modulus, signum,
exponential, logarithmic, and the greater integer function—each elucidated with graphical
interpretations to enhance comprehension.
Moreover, the unit explores the intricate nature of relations and functions, dissecting types
of relations such as reflective, symmetric, transitive, and equivalence relations, and delving
into the specifics of one-to-one, onto functions, composite functions, inverses of functions,
and binary operations. This rich tapestry of mathematical concepts not only forms the
cornerstone of theoretical knowledge but also serves as a practical toolkit for solving real-
world problems in computing and beyond.
As we transition into Unit 2, the focus shifts towards "Composite Functions," a concept that
epitomizes the essence of mathematical elegance and functional complexity. This unit is
particularly crucial for students in computer applications as it mirrors the layered nature of
software development and algorithm design, where functions and procedures are often
The exploration of composite functions reveals how the output of one function can
seamlessly become the input for another, leading to the formation of a new, more complex
function. This chaining of functions is not just a mathematical exercise but a reflection of
real-world processes in computer science, where data is often passed through multiple
layers of processing and transformation. By mastering the principles of function
composition, students can better understand the flow of data and logic within software
systems, making it easier to debug, optimize, and innovate within their coding practices.
Navigating through the intricate concepts of relations and functions demands a strategic
approach to learning, one that embraces patience, practice, and a deep-seated curiosity.
Students are encouraged to start with the basics, ensuring a solid grasp of fundamental
definitions and properties before venturing into more complex territories. Visual aids such
as pictorial diagrams and graphs play a pivotal role in demystifying abstract concepts,
making them more tangible and relatable.
Engaging with a variety of examples and practical exercises is key to reinforcing theoretical
knowledge and gaining proficiency. Collaborative learning, through group discussions and
study sessions, can offer fresh perspectives and insights, making the learning journey less
daunting and more enriching. Moreover, leveraging online resources, interactive
simulations, and mathematical software can provide alternative avenues for exploration and
discovery, catering to different learning styles and preferences.
The study of relations and functions within the BCA curriculum is not merely an academic
endeavour but a foundational step towards cultivating a robust analytical framework,
critical for navigating the complexities of computer applications and the broader realm of
technology.
1.1 Objectives
In this topic you will learn about,
❖ Define the concept of composite functions and their significance in mathematics and
practical applications.
❖ Explain the process of creating composite functions and interpret the results.
❖ Apply composite functions to solve problems in various contexts, such as algorithm design,
data analysis, and cryptography.
❖ Analyse the properties and behaviour of composite functions through mathematical
operations and real-world examples.
2. COMPOSITE FUNCTION
Definition:
A composite function, also known as a composition of functions, is a mathematical concept
that involves applying one function to the output of another function. In other words, it's the
process of using the result of one function as the input for another function. This leads to the
creation of a new function that encapsulates the combined behaviour of the two original
functions.
Composite Function
This process involves applying one function to the output of another function. To illustrate
this concept, let's consider two functions, f(x) and g(x).
Example
Given two functions, f(x) and g(x), the composite function f(g(x)) is formed by applying
function g(x) to the input x and then taking the result and applying function f(x) to it. In
mathematical notation, the composite function f(g(x)) can be expressed as:
f(g(x)) = f(g(x))
g(x) = x + 3
2. Identity Function: The identity function, denoted as I(x)=x, is a neutral element for
function composition. Composing any function with the identity function results in the
original function, i.e., f∘I=I∘f=f.
4. Inverse Functions: If a function has an inverse, then the composition of the function
with its inverse yields the identity function. For example, if f has an inverse f −1, then
f∘f−1=I and f−1∘f=I, where I is the identity function.
5. Domain and Range: The domain of a composite function is determined by the domain
of the innermost function, while the range is determined by the range of the outermost
function.
6. Not Commutative: Function composition is not commutative, meaning that the order
of composition matters. In general, f∘g is not equal to g∘f, unless f and g are inverses of
each other.
7. Transitivity: If you have three functions, f, g, and h, and g∘f and h∘g are defined, then
you can compose them as (h∘g)∘(f∘h), leading to a new composite function.
Example:
Let's work through an example to solidify our understanding of composite functions:
Given functions f(x) = 2x and g(x) = x + 3, find the composite function f(g(x)).
2. Take the result of g(x) and apply f(x): f(g(x)) = f(x + 3) = 2(x + 3) = 2x + 6.
Real-world Applications
Composite functions find relevance beyond theoretical mathematics, influencing various
practical applications. In finance, they can model the effects of multiple financial
transactions. In physics, they describe the successive transformations of physical quantities.
By comprehending composite functions, we gain insights into real-world phenomena and
their mathematical representation.
Problems
Problem 1: Given functions f(x) = 2x + 1 and g(x) = x^2, find the composite function f(g(x)).
Solution: To find the composite function f(g(x)), we need to apply the function g(x) first and
then apply the function f(x) to the result.
Problem 2: Let h(x) = 3x - 4 and k(x) = x^3. Determine the composite function h(k(x)).
Solution: To find the composite function h(k(x)), apply function k(x) first and then function
h(x) to the result.
Problem 3: Consider f(x) = √x and g(x) = 2x. Find the composite function f(g(x)).
Solution: Apply function g(x) first and then function f(x) to the result to find f(g(x)).
Problem 4: Given u(x) = x + 5 and v(x) = x^2 - 3x. Calculate the composite function v(u(x)).
Solution: To find v(u(x)), apply function u(x) first and then function v(x) to the result.
Solution: To find m(n(x)), apply function n(x) first and then function m(x) to the result.
Ans: m(n(x)) = 2x - 6
Problem 6: Given f(x) = x^2 and g(x) = 2x - 1, determine the composite function g(f(3)).
Solution: Substitute 3 into f(x) and then the result into g(x) to find g(f(3)).
Ans: g(f(3)) = 17
Problem 7: Consider h(x) = √(x + 4) and k(x) = 3x. Calculate the composite function h(k(2)).
Solution: Substitute 2 into k(x) and then the result into h(x) to find h(k(2)).
Problem 8: Given functions f(x) = x^3 and g(x) = x + 2, find the composite function g(f(x)).
Solution: Apply function f(x) first and then function g(x) to the result to find g(f(x)).
Problem 9: Let p(x) = x^2 + 1 and q(x) = 4x. Determine the composite function q(p(x)).
Solution: Apply function p(x) first and then function q(x) to the result to find q(p(x)).
Problem 10: Consider r(x) = x - 2 and s(x) = x^2. Calculate the composite function s(r(x)).
Solution: Apply function r(x) first and then function s(x) to the result to find s(r(x)).
3. OPERATIONS ON A FUNCTION
When dealing with functions, you can perform various operations such as addition,
subtraction, multiplication, and division. These operations can be applied to functions to
create new functions, often referred to as the sum, difference, product, and quotient of
functions. Let's explore each of these concepts:
1. Sum of Functions: The sum of two functions, denoted as (f+g)(x), is a new function
obtained by adding the values of the two functions at the same input: (f+g)(x)=f(x)+g(x).
For example, if you have two functions f(x)=2x and g(x)=3x2, then the sum of these
functions is (f+g)(x)=2x+3x2.
For instance, if you have two functions f(x)=5x and g(x)=2x3, then the difference of
these functions is (f−g)(x)=5x−2x3.
As an example, if you have two functions f(x)=x2 and g(x)=3x, then the product of
these functions is (f⋅g)(x)=x2⋅3x=3x3.
For instance, if you have two functions f(x)=2x and g(x)=x2, then the quotient of these
f 2x 2
functions is (g) (x) = x2 = x.
4. PERIODIC FUNCTION
A periodic function is a type of mathematical function that repeats its values at regular
intervals. These intervals are often called "periods," and the function's behaviour within each
period is consistent. Periodic functions have widespread applications in various fields,
including physics, engineering, and signal processing. Let’s see about periodic functions:
1. Period: The period of a periodic function is the length of one complete cycle or
repetition of the function. Mathematically, if f(x) is a periodic function, the period is
denoted as T, and it satisfies the condition:
f(x)=f(x+T)
This means that for any value of x, f(x) at x and f(x+T) at x+T are equal. The function's
values repeat with a period of T.
3. Amplitude: The amplitude of a periodic function is the maximum absolute value of the
function within one period. It represents the vertical distance from the midline (if
present) to the highest or lowest point in the function.
4. Midline: Some periodic functions have a midline, which is a horizontal line that
represents the average or central value of the function over a period. The midline helps
identify the amplitude and understand whether the function oscillates above and below
it.
2. Square Wave: The square wave is another common periodic function. It alternates
between two values, typically 1 and −1, and has a period that determines how often it
switches between these values.
3. Sawtooth Wave: The sawtooth wave is a periodic function that rises linearly and then
drops suddenly before repeating the pattern. The period of the sawtooth wave defines
how long it takes to complete this rise-and-fall cycle.
4. Triangular Wave: The triangular wave is similar to the sawtooth wave but has a
symmetric, triangular shape within each period.
Applications:
Periodic functions have diverse applications, including:
• Modeling periodic phenomena in science and engineering, such as oscillations,
vibrations, and waveforms.
In conclusion, periodic functions hold a basic position in the realm of mathematics and
possess extensive applications across diverse domains. A comprehensive grasp of the
characteristics of these functions, such as their period, frequency, amplitude, and midline, is
crucial for effectively manipulating them and comprehending the recurring patterns they
depict.
Even Functions:
An even function is a function f(x) that satisfies the following property:
Even Function
In other words, if you reflect the graph of an even function across the y-axis, it remains
unchanged. The key properties of even functions include:
1. Symmetry: The graph of an even function is symmetric with respect to the y-axis. This
means that if you fold the graph along the y-axis, the two halves will coincide.
2. Even Powers: Even functions often contain even powers of x, such as x2, x4, etc.
However, not all functions with even powers are even functions. It's the symmetry
property that defines even functions.
3. Examples: The most well-known even functions are f(x)=x2 and f(x)=cos(x), where the
cosine function has even symmetry.
• f(0)=0.
• The integral of an even function over a symmetric interval about the y-axis is zero:
a
∫−a f(x)dx = 0.
Odd Functions:
An odd function is a function f(x) that satisfies the following property:
Odd Function
In other words, if you reflect the graph of an odd function across the origin, it is flipped and
negated. The key properties of odd functions include:
1. Symmetry: The graph of an odd function is symmetric with respect to the origin (0,0).
This means that if you rotate the graph by 180 degrees about the origin, it remains
unchanged.
2. Odd Powers: Odd functions often contain odd powers of x, such as x, x3, x5, etc.
However, not all functions with odd powers are odd functions. It's the symmetry
property that defines odd functions.
3. Examples: Common examples of odd functions are f(x)=x, f(x)=sin(x), and f(x)=tan(x),
where the sine and tangent functions have odd symmetry.
• f(0)=0.
• The integral of an odd function over a symmetric interval about the origin is zero:
a
∫−a f(x)dx = 0
• A function can be both even and odd if it satisfies both properties. In this case, the
function is identically equal to zero.
• A function can be either even or odd, but not both. These two properties are mutually
exclusive.
5. SUMMARY
So, we've journeyed through the mathematical realms of relations, functions, and now,
composite functions in our BCA curriculum. It's quite the adventure, isn't it? We kicked off
with Unit 1, delving into the basics of relations and functions, painting pictures with pictorial
diagrams, and understanding the critical elements like domains, co-domains, and ranges. It's
like setting the stage before the actors come on – each part playing a crucial role in the grand
scheme of mathematical relationships.
Then we ventured into the world of functions, a special kind of relation, where every input
has its unique output. We explored various functions – constant, identity, polynomial, you
name it. It's like having different tools in our toolkit, each serving a unique purpose, from the
simplest of tasks to solving complex problems. And let's not forget the fascinating types of
relations we encountered – reflective, symmetric, transitive, and equivalence relations,
alongside one-to-one and onto functions, composite functions, and more. It's like learning
the different moves in a chess game, where each move opens up new possibilities and
strategies.
Now, moving onto Unit 2, we dove into composite functions, a concept that's like combining
spices to create a new flavor. Here, we see how the output of one function can seamlessly
flow into another, creating a new function that's a blend of both. It's like passing the baton
in a relay race, where the performance of the team hinges on the seamless handoff between
runners. This idea of function composition is not just a mathematical exercise but mirrors
real-world processes, especially in computer science, where functions and procedures are
often nested and combined to achieve sophisticated outcomes.
This journey through the mathematical foundations in our BCA course is more than just
learning theories; it's about equipping ourselves with a robust analytical framework. It's
fascinating how these abstract concepts find their way into practical applications, be it in
As we wrap up this unit, remember that mastering these concepts is akin to sharpening our
tools, preparing us to tackle more complex challenges ahead. Engaging with these ideas,
experimenting with examples, and collaborating with peers not only solidifies our
understanding but also makes this journey an enriching experience. So, as we move forward,
let's keep the curiosity alive, continue to question, and explore the vast landscape of
mathematics and its applications in the world of computer applications.
6. SELF-ASSESSMENT QUESTIONS
SELF-ASSESSMENT QUESTIONS – 1
d) 3x−1−2(x−2)
7. TERMINAL QUESTIONS
1. Why is understanding composite functions important in mathematical analysis and
real-world applications?
2. How does the order of composition, that is, f(g(x)) vs. g(f(x)), impact the resulting
composite function?
3. Given f(x) = 2x + 1 and g(x) = x^2 - 3x, find the composite function f(g(x)).
4. If h(x) = x^3 and k(x) = 2x - 5, calculate the composite function h(k(x)).
5. Consider p(x) = x^2 + 3 and q(x) = √x. Determine the composite function p(q(x)).
6. Given m(x) = 3x + 2 and n(x) = x^2 - 4x + 5, calculate the composite function m(n(x)).
7. For f(x) = 4x - 1 and g(x) = x^2 + 2x, find the composite function g(f(x)).
8. If u(x) = x^2 and v(x) = √x, determine the composite function u(v(x)).
9. Consider r(x) = x^2 + 4 and s(x) = 3x - 2. Calculate the composite function s(r(x)).
10. Given functions a(x) = x + 5 and b(x) = 2x - 3, find the composite function a(b(x)).
8. ANSWERS
SAQ Answers:
1. b) A function that combines two or more functions to create a new function.
2. a) Applying one function to the output of another function.
3. a) f(g(x)) = 3x^2
4. a) f ∘ g(x)
5. d) Composite functions allow the creation of complex processes by combining simpler
functions.
6. a) 6x2+2x+1
2
7. c)3x−1− x−2
8. b) f(x)=sin(x)
9. b) f(x)=−f(−x)