MA-F1 Functions

Glossary

Term Description
Conjugate The conjugate of a binomial expression is an expression with the same terms but
different signs. e.g. √𝑎 − 𝑏 is the conjugate of √𝑎 + 𝑏.

Rationalise the To rationalise a denominator means to change the form of the denominator so that it is
denominator expressed in terms of a rational number.

Domain The domain of a function is the set of 𝑥 values of 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥) for which the function is
defined. Also known as the ‘input’ of a function.

Even function Algebraically, a function is even if 𝑓(−𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑥), for all values of 𝑥 in the domain.
An even function has line symmetry about the 𝑦-axis.

Function (notation) A function 𝑓 is a rule that associates each element 𝑥 in a set 𝑆 with a unique element
𝑓(𝑥) from a set 𝑇.
The set 𝑆 is called the domain of 𝑓 and the set 𝑇 is called the co-domain of 𝑓. The
subset of 𝑇 consisting of those elements of 𝑇 which occur as values of the function is
called the range of 𝑓. The functions most commonly encountered in elementary
mathematics are real functions of a real variable, for which both the domain and co-
domain are subsets of the real numbers.
If we use function notation to write 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥), then we say that 𝑥 is the independent
variable and 𝑦 is the dependent variable.
Interval notation Interval notation is a notation for representing an interval by its endpoints.
Parentheses and/or square brackets are used respectively to show whether the
endpoints are excluded or included.

Odd function Algebraically, a function is odd if 𝑓(−𝑥) = −𝑓(𝑥), for all values of 𝑥 in the domain.
An odd function has point symmetry about the origin.

1|Page Notes by Garry Ng

MA-F1.1 Algebraic Techniques

Index Laws

Noting that 𝑎𝑛 = ⏟
𝑎 × 𝑎 × 𝑎 … × 𝑎:

𝑎𝑚 × 𝑎𝑛 = 𝑎𝑚+𝑛 𝑎𝑚 ÷ 𝑎𝑛 = 𝑎𝑚−𝑛 (𝑎𝑚 )𝑛 = 𝑎𝑚𝑛

(𝑎𝑏)𝑚 = 𝑎𝑚 𝑏 𝑚 𝑎 𝑚 𝑎𝑚 𝑎0 = 1
( ) = 𝑚
𝑏 𝑏

1 1 1 1
𝑛
𝑎 𝑛 = √𝑎 𝑎−𝑛 = 𝑎 −𝑛 =
𝑎𝑛 𝑛
√𝑎

𝑚
𝑛 𝑚
−
𝑚 1 𝑎 −𝑛 𝑏 𝑛
𝑎 𝑛 = ( √𝑎 ) 𝑎 𝑛 = 𝑚 ( ) = 𝑛
𝑛
( √𝑎 ) 𝑏 𝑎

Examples

1. Simplify by rewriting all expressions without any negative or fractional indices:

1
a) (3𝑥 2 )3 b) 2𝑥 −2
= 27𝑥 6 2
=
√𝑥

𝑥 3
1 5
c) (𝑦) ÷ (𝑥 2 𝑦 −3 ) d) 𝑥 3 × 𝑥 3

𝑥3 𝑥2 = 𝑥2
= 3÷ 3
𝑦 𝑦
𝑥3 𝑦3
= ×
𝑦3 𝑥2
=𝑥

2|Page Notes by Garry Ng

 3𝑥 −1 2𝑥 4𝑥
e) f) (2𝑥 )3
𝑦 −2

3𝑦 2 2𝑥 22𝑥
= =
𝑥 23𝑥
=1

𝑎−1 +𝑏 −1 2−𝑥 ×42𝑥+1

g) h) (2−𝑥 )3
𝑎+𝑏
1 1 2−𝑥 × 24𝑥+2
+ =
= 𝑎 𝑏
2−3𝑥
𝑎+𝑏
𝑎+𝑏 23𝑥+2
= =
𝑎𝑏(𝑎 + 𝑏) 2−3𝑥

1 = 26𝑥+2
=
𝑎𝑏

2. Evaluate:
1 3
1
a) 9−2 = 81 b) 4−2 = 8

3. Rewrite the following expressions in index form:

1 3
√𝑥 = 3𝑥 −2
a) = 𝑥 −2 b) 𝑥2
𝑥

2
3 1
c) √𝑦 2 = 𝑦 3 3 2
d) √( √𝑥) = |𝑥 3 | (To be explained later)

4. (Extension) Solve the following indicial equations:

3|Page Notes by Garry Ng
a) 9𝑛 = 27 4
b) 𝑦 3 = 81
32𝑛 = 33 1
2𝑛 = 3 𝑦3 = 3
3 𝑦 = 33
𝑛=
2
= 27
c) 5𝑥+𝑦 = 125
7𝑥−𝑦 = 1

𝑥 + 𝑦 = 3 − Eqn 1
𝑥 − 𝑦 = 0 − Eqn 2
Eqn 1 + Eqn 2 → 2𝑥 = 3
3
𝑥=
2
3
∴ −𝑦 =0
2
3
𝑦=
2

Surd Properties

𝑛
A surd is an irrational number written in the form √𝑥 where 𝑛 ≥ 2.

Property 1: Property 2:

√𝑎𝑏 = √𝑎 × √𝑏 𝑎 √𝑎
√ =
𝑏 √𝑏
𝑎 𝑛 𝑎𝑛
This comes from the index law (𝑎𝑏)𝑛 = 𝑎𝑛 𝑏 𝑛 This comes from the index law (𝑏) = 𝑏𝑛 where
1 1
where 𝑛 = 2 𝑛=2

Property 3a: Property 3b:

𝑎√𝑥 + 𝑏 √𝑥 = (𝑎 + 𝑏)√𝑥 𝑎√𝑥 − 𝑏 √𝑥 = (𝑎 − 𝑏)√𝑥
𝒏 𝒏 𝑛
Note: The case of √𝑥 𝑛 and ( √𝑥) :

𝒏
√𝑥 𝑛 doesn’t always equal to 𝑥. Consider 𝑥 = −1 and 𝑛 = 2. √(−1)2 = √1 = 1, which is not the same as
−1!

4|Page Notes by Garry Ng

Examples:

1. Simplify:
a) √50 = 5√2 b) 4√18 = 4 × 3√2
= 12√2

c) 2√3 + √27 d) 3√2 + 5√18

= 2√3 + 3√3 = 3√2 + 5 × 3√2
= 5√3 = 18√2

e) 2√3 × 3√6 f) (2√3 + 1)(3√3 − 1)

2
= 6√18 = 6(√3) − 2√3 + 3√3 − 1
= 6 × 3√2 = 17 + √3
= 18√2

2
g) (2√3 + 1) h) (√3 + 1)(√3 − 1)
2 2
= (2√3) + 2 × 2√3 + 12 = (√3) − (1)2

= 13 + 4√3 =2

2. Express the following with a rational denominator:

3 3√2 5√3 5√6
a) = b) =
√2 2 4√2 8

5|Page Notes by Garry Ng

 2 √3+√2
c) d)
√3−1 2√3−√2

2 √3 + 1 √3 + √2 2√3 + √2
= × = ×
√3 − 1 √3 + 1 2√3 − √2 2√3 + √2
2√3 + 2 6 + √6 + 2√6 + 2
= =
3−1 12 − 2
= √3 + 1 8 + 3√6
=
10

3. Express √11 − 6√2 in the form of 𝑎 + 𝑏√2 where 𝑎 and 𝑏 are rational.

Let 𝑎 + 𝑏√2 = √11 − 6√2

𝑎2 + 2𝑏 2 + 2𝑎𝑏√2 = 11 − 6√2
𝑎2 + 2𝑏 2 = 11 − Eqn 1
2𝑎𝑏 = −6 → 𝑎𝑏 = −3 − Eqn 2
3
∴𝑏=−
𝑎
3 9
sub 𝑏 = into Eqn 1 → 𝑎2 + 2 ( 2 ) = 11
𝑎 𝑎
18
𝑎2 + 2 = 11
𝑎
𝑎4 − 11𝑎2 + 18 = 0
(𝑎2 − 9)(𝑎2 − 2) = 0
𝑎 = ±3 (since 𝑎 must be rational)
When 𝑎 = 3, 𝑏 = −1
When 𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = −3

∴ √11 − 6√2 = 3 − √2 or 1 − 3√2

since √11 − 6√2 > 0, the answer is 3 − √2 only.

1
4. If = (𝑥 + 𝑎)𝑚 , write down the value of 𝑚.
√𝑥+𝑎

1
𝑚=−
2

6|Page Notes by Garry Ng

Quadratic Equations

A quadratic equation is an equation of the form:

There are three approaches to solving quadratic equations:

Approach 1 - Solve by Factorisation:

1. 𝑦 2 = 6𝑦 2. 16𝑥 2 − 1 = 0
𝑦 2 − 6𝑦 = 0 (4𝑦 + 1)(4𝑦 − 1) = 0
𝑦(𝑦 − 6) = 0 1
𝑦=±
𝑦 = 0 or 6 4

3. 3𝑥 2 = 20 4. 9𝑥 2 − 25 = 0
3𝑥 2 − 20 = 0 (3𝑥 + 5)(3𝑥 − 5) = 0
(√3𝑥 + √20)(√3𝑥 − √20) = 0 5
𝑥=±
3
√20
𝑥=±
√3

5. 𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 − 12 = 0 6. 5𝑥 2 + 7𝑥 + 2 = 0
(𝑥 − 6)(𝑥 + 2) = 0 5𝑥 2 + 5𝑥 + 2𝑥 + 2 = 0
𝑥 = 6 or − 2 5𝑥(𝑥 + 1) + 2(𝑥 + 1) = 0
(𝑥 + 1)(5𝑥 + 2) = 0
2
𝑥 = −1 or −
5

Approach 2 - By Completing the Square:

1. (𝑣 − 2)2 = 16 2. 𝑤 2 + 4𝑤 + 4 = 7
𝑣 − 2 = ±4 (𝑤 + 2)2 = 7
𝑣 = 2±4 𝑤 + 2 = ±√7
𝑣 = −2 or 6 𝑤 = −2 ± √7

7|Page Notes by Garry Ng

3. 𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 − 12 = 0 4. 𝑥 2 + 5𝑥 + 6 = 0

𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 = 12 𝑥 2 + 5𝑥 = −6
𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 4 = 16 25 25
𝑥 2 + 5𝑥 + = −6 +
(𝑥 − 2)2 = 16 4 4

𝑥 − 2 = ±4 5 2 1
(𝑥 + ) =
2 4
𝑥 = −2 or 6
5 1
𝑥+ =±
2 2
5 1
𝑥=− ±
2 2
𝑥 = −3 or − 2

5. 5𝑥 2 + 7𝑥 + 2 = 0 6. 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0

7 2 𝑏 𝑐
𝑥2 + 𝑥 + = 0 𝑥2 + 𝑥 + = 0
5 5 𝑎 𝑎
7 2 𝑏 𝑐
𝑥2 + 𝑥 = − 𝑥2 + 𝑥 = −
5 5 𝑎 𝑎
7 49 2 49 𝑏 𝑏2 𝑐 𝑏2
𝑥2 + 𝑥 + =− + 𝑥2 + 𝑥 + 2 = − + 2
5 100 5 100 𝑎 4𝑎 𝑎 4𝑎
7 2 9 𝑏 2 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐
(𝑥 + ) = (𝑥 + ) =
10 100 2𝑎 4𝑎2
7 3
𝑥+ =± 𝑏 √𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐
10 10 𝑥+ =±
2𝑎 2𝑎
2
𝑥 = −1 or − −𝑏 ± √𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐
5 𝑥=
2𝑎

8|Page Notes by Garry Ng

Approach 3 – Solve by using the Quadratic Formula:

−𝑏 ± √𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐
𝑥=
2𝑎

1. 𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 − 12 = 0 2. 5𝑥 2 + 7𝑥 + 2 = 0

−(−4) ± √(−4)2 − 4(1)(−12) −7 ± √72 − 4(5)(2)

𝑥= 𝑥=
2(1) 2(5)
4 ± √64 −7 ± √9
= =
2 10
= 2±4 2
= −1 or −
= −2 or 6 5

3. 5𝑥 2 − 11𝑥 + 2 = 0 4. 2𝑥 2 − 7𝑥 − 1 = 0

11 ± √(−11)2 − 4(5)(2) −(−7) ± √(−7)2 − 4(2)(−1)

𝑥= 𝑥=
2(5) 2(2)
11 ± √81 7 ± √57
= =
10 4
11 ± 9
=
10
1
= 2 or
5

5. 8𝑡 2 = 1 − 10𝑡 6. 3𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 = 9
8𝑡 2 + 10𝑡 − 1 = 0 3𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 − 9 = 0
−10 ± √(10)2 − 4(8)(−1) −2 ± √(2)2 − 4(3)(−9)
𝑡= 𝑥=
2(8) 2(3)
−10 ± √132 −2 ± √112
= =
16 6
−10 ± 2√33 −2 ± 4√7
= =
16 6
−5 ± √33 −1 ± 2√7
= =
8 3

9|Page Notes by Garry Ng

Algebraic Fractions

1. Simplify:
𝑥 𝑥+1 1 1
a) − b) +𝑦
3 5 𝑥

5𝑥 − 3(𝑥 + 1) 𝑥+𝑦
= =
15 𝑥𝑦
2𝑥 − 3
=
15

𝑥−3 𝑥+2 2 3
c) + d) − 𝑥+2
6 2 𝑥 2 −4

𝑥 − 3 + 3(𝑥 + 2) 2 − 3(𝑥 − 2)
= =
6 𝑥2 − 4
4𝑥 + 3 8 − 3𝑥
= = 2
6 𝑥 −4

𝑥 2 +3𝑥+2 3𝑚−6𝑚2 8𝑚
e) f) × 𝑚2 −2𝑚
𝑥+2 4

(𝑥 + 2)(𝑥 + 1) 3𝑚(1 − 2𝑚) 8𝑚

= = ×
(𝑥 + 2) 4 𝑚(𝑚 − 2)
= (𝑥 + 1) 𝑥 ≠ −2 6𝑚(1 − 2𝑚)
=
𝑚−2

𝑥 2 −4 𝑥 3 −𝑥 𝑥 2 −6𝑥+9 𝑥 2 −5𝑥+6
g) × h) ÷ 𝑥 2 +4𝑥−5
𝑥 2 +2𝑥+1 𝑥+2 𝑥 2 −25

(𝑥 + 2)(𝑥 − 2) 𝑥(𝑥 2 − 1) (𝑥 − 3)2 (𝑥 + 5)(𝑥 − 1)

= × = ×
(𝑥 + 1)2 𝑥+2 (𝑥 + 5)(𝑥 − 5) (𝑥 − 2)(𝑥 − 3)
𝑥(𝑥 − 2)(𝑥 − 1) (𝑥 − 3)(𝑥 − 1)
= 𝑥 ≠ −2 = 𝑥 ≠ 3, −5
𝑥+1 (𝑥 − 5)(𝑥 − 2)

10 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Word Problems

1. Working alone, worker 𝐴 can complete a task 2. A thin lens has focal length 𝑝, while another
in 𝑎 hours, and worker 𝐵 can complete the thin lens has focal length 𝑞. The lenses are
same task in 𝑏 hours. Write an algebraic separated by a distance 𝑑. Find their combined
expression for the fraction of the task that focal length, which is given by the reciprocal of
could be completed in one hour if 𝐴 and 𝐵 1 1 𝑑
(𝑝 + 𝑞 − 𝑝𝑞).
worked together.

1 1
1 =
Worker A can complete of the task in 1 hour 1 1 𝑑 𝑞+𝑝−𝑑
𝑎 (𝑝 + 𝑞 − 𝑝𝑞 )
𝑝𝑞
1
Worker B can completely of the task in 1 hour 𝑝𝑞
𝑏 =
𝑝+𝑞−𝑑
∴ Together they can complete
1 1
+ of the task in 1 hour.
𝑎 𝑏
𝑎+𝑏
∴ They can complete task/hour.
𝑎𝑏

3. A company producing a certain product finds that the average cost of a product is given by
6000
+ 65 + 0.1𝑥, where 𝑥 is the number of units of the product.
𝑥

a) Write this expression as a single fraction. b) Find an expression for the total cost for the
producing 20 000 units by the company.
6000 6000 + 65𝑥 + 0.1𝑥 2
+ 65 + 0.1𝑥 =
𝑥 𝑥 60000 + 650𝑥 + 𝑥 2
Total Cost = 𝑥 ( )
60000 + 650𝑥 + 𝑥 2 10𝑥
=
10𝑥 60000 + 650𝑥 + 𝑥 2
=
10
When 𝑥 = 20 000
60000 + 650(20000) + (20000)2
Total Cost =
10
= 41306000

11 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
MA-F1.2 Introduction to Functions

Relations and Functions

A relation is a set of ordered pairs (𝑥, 𝑦) where 𝑥 and 𝑦 are related through some rule.

There are 4 types of relations. (Let 𝑥 be the independent variable and 𝑦 be the dependent variable for this
topic).

Type 1: One-to-one Type 2: Many-to-one

Every 𝑥 value maps to exactly one 𝑦 value. Some 𝑥 values map to the same 𝑦 value.
E. g. 𝑦 = 𝑥 E. g. 𝑦 = 𝑥 2

Type 3: One-to-many Type 4: Many-to-many

Some 𝑥 values map to more than one 𝑦 value. Some 𝑥 values map to more than one 𝑦 value and
E. g. 𝑥 = 𝑦 2 some 𝑥 values map to the same 𝑦 value.
E. g. 𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = 1

Types 1 and 2 are Functions.

They are functions because no 2 points on any part of the curve have the same 𝑥-coordinates.

12 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Graphs of Relations and Functions

Functions are typically denoted by 𝑓(𝑥), this means that 𝑥 is the independent variable in the expression.

√𝑥+4 √⋆+4 √1+4 √©+4

E.g. If 𝑓(𝑥) = , then 𝑓(⋆) = , 𝑓(1) = , 𝑓(©) = etc.
𝑥 2 −3 ⋆2 −3 12 −3 ©2 −3

If 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥) represents the graph of a function, then no two points on the graph will have the same

𝑥-coordinates In addition, if a vertical line is drawn on the same plane, this line can be slid across the
entire plane and it will NOT cut any the curve twice at any stage.

One-to-one (Function) Many-to-one (Function)

One-to-many (Not functions) Many-to-many (Not functions)

Vertical line test:

Used to determine whether a graph represents a function.

13 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Domain and Range

The domain of a function is the set of all possible values of the input (usually 𝑥).

The range of a function is the set of all possible values of the out put (usually 𝑦).

Examples:

Write down the domain and range of the following:

1. 2.

{𝑥: 𝑥 ∈ 𝑅} {𝑥: 𝑥 ∈ 𝑅, −2 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 2}
{𝑦: 𝑦 ∈ 𝑅, 𝑦 ≤ 4} {𝑦: 𝑦 ∈ 𝑅, −8 ≤ 𝑦 ≤ 8}

1
3. 𝑦 = 𝑥−2 4. 𝑦 = √𝑥 − 2

{𝑥: 𝑥 ∈ 𝑅, 𝑥 ≠ 2} {𝑥: 𝑥 ∈ 𝑅, 𝑥 ≥ 2}

{𝑦: 𝑦 ∈ 𝑅, 𝑦 ≠ 0} {𝑦: 𝑦 ∈ 𝑅, 𝑦 ≥ 0}

Note:
If no special restrictions are given, then the domain of the function is also known as the

Natural Domain.

14 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Interval Notation
Interval notations uses ( ) and [ ] to represent the maximum and minimum values of an interval.
• If the end points are included, then [ ] are used.
• If the end points are not included, then ( ) are used.
• ( ) are used for ±∞ since infinities are not values, and cannot be reached.
Examples
1. Express the following information using interval notation.
a) {𝑥: 𝑥 ∈ ℝ, −4 < 𝑥 < 7} b) {𝑦: 𝑦 ∈ ℝ, 5 ≤ 𝑦 ≤ 9}
𝑥 ∈ (−4,7) 𝑦 ∈ [5,9]

c) {𝑥: 𝑥 ∈ ℝ+ } d) {𝑦: 𝑦 ∈ ℝ, 𝑦 < −5}

𝑥 ∈ (−0, ∞) 𝑦 ∈ (−∞, −5)

e) {𝑥: 𝑥 ∈ ℝ, 𝑥 ≤ −5 ∪ 𝑥 > 1} f) {𝑦: 𝑦 ∈ ℝ}

𝑥 ∈ (−∞, −5] ∪ (1, ∞) 𝑦 ∈ (−∞, ∞)

2. Write down the domain and range of the following in interval notation:
a) b)

𝑥 ∈ [0, ∞)
𝑥 ∈ [−5,5]
𝑦 ∈ (−∞, ∞)
𝑦 ∈ [−5,5]

c) 𝑦 = 2𝑥 d) 𝑦 = √𝑥 2 − 4

𝑥 ∈ (−∞, ∞) 𝑥 ∈ (−∞, −2] ∪ [2, ∞)

𝑦 ∈ (0, ∞) 𝑦 ∈ [0, ∞)

15 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
MA-F1.3 Linear, Quadratic and Cubic Functions

Linear Functions

Linear graphs can be of the form:

Gradient intercept form:

𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑏

where 𝑚 and 𝑏 represents the gradient and y-intercept of the line respectively.

General form:

𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 + 𝑐 = 0

where:
• 𝑎, 𝑏 and 𝑐 are not fractions.

• 𝑎 and 𝑏 cannot be 0 simultaneously.

• 𝑎 ≥ 0.

Deriving Formulae of Linear Functions using Loci (Extension)

While the idea of a “locus” is not in the Mathematics

Extension 1 syllabus, it is helpful tool to help us
understand linear (and other) graphs. A locus is a set of
points whose coordinates satisfy a set of rules. When all
the points are plotted the locus can look like anything.
(We have been using the word “graph” to describe these
loci).

16 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
 Let a line go through two points 𝐴(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) and 𝐵(𝑥2 , 𝑦2 ).

We know that it only takes 2 points to fix the equation of a

straight line.

Suppose that 𝑃(𝑥, 𝑦) is a variable point that

moves can be moved to satisfy a particular rule.

The rule in this case is that:

The gradient of 𝐴𝑃 must be the same as that of

𝐵𝑃 at all times.

Therefore we can conclude that the rule for any coordinate (𝑥, 𝑦) is that it must satisfy the rule:

𝑦 − 𝑦1 𝑦 − 𝑦2
=
𝑥 − 𝑥1 𝑥 − 𝑥2

This is known as the 2 point formula.

𝑦 −𝑦
Alternatively, we can first find 𝑚, the gradient of 𝐴𝐵, given by 𝑚 = 𝑥2−𝑥1.
2 1

Then we conclude that the rule for any coordinate (𝑥, 𝑦) is that it must satisfy the rule:

𝑦 − 𝑦1 𝑦 − 𝑦1 = 𝑚(𝑥 − 𝑥1 )
=𝑚
𝑥 − 𝑥1

This is known as the point gradient formula.

These formulae can be applied to simplify them back into general form or gradient intercept form.

17 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Domain and Range of Linear Graphs

It is trivial to observe that the If the linear function has a zero If the line is vertical, that is, it is
standard linear function with a gradient, that is, it is of the form of the form 𝑥 = 𝑘, then its
defined, and non-zero gradient 𝑦 = 𝑐, then its domain and range domain and range will be
will have domain and range will be 𝑥 ∈ (−∞, ∞) and 𝑦 ∈ 𝑥 ∈ [𝑘, 𝑘] and 𝑦 ∈ (−∞, ∞)
𝑥 ∈ (−∞, ∞) and 𝑦 ∈ (−∞, ∞) [𝑐, 𝑐] respectively. respectively. (Note that this is
respectively. not a function)

Find the domain and range of the following:

1. 𝑥 = −3 2. 𝑦 = 4

𝑥 ∈ [−3, −3] 𝑥 ∈ (−∞, ∞)

𝑦 ∈ (−∞, ∞) 𝑦 ∈ [4,4]

3. 𝑦 = 3𝑥 + 1 4. 2𝑥 − 3𝑦 + 1 = 0 where − 2 ≤ 𝑥 < 1

𝑥 ∈ (−∞, ∞) 𝑥 = −2 ⇒ 2(−2) + 3𝑦 + 1 = 0
𝑦 ∈ (−∞, ∞) ∴𝑦=1
𝑥 = 1 ⇒ 2(1) + 3𝑦 + 1 = 0
∴ 𝑦 = −1
Domain: 𝑥 ∈ [−2,1)
Range: 𝑦 ∈ [−1,1)

18 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Example Questions

1. Find the value of 𝑘 if 3𝑥 − 4𝑦 = 7 is parallel to 2. Find value of 𝑘 if 3𝑥 − 4𝑦 = 7 is perpendicular

𝑘𝑥 + 5𝑦 = 10. to 𝑘𝑥 + 5𝑦 = 10.

𝑘 3 𝑘 4
− = − =−
5 4 5 3
15 20
𝑘=− 𝑘=
4 3

3. Find the equation of the line through 𝐴(4, −2) 4. Find the equation of the line through 𝐴(2, 3)
that is perpendicular to 3𝑥 − 7𝑦 = 10. that is parallel to 3𝑥 − 4𝑦 = 10.

7 3
𝑦 + 2 = − (𝑥 − 4) 𝑦 − 3 = (𝑥 − 2)
3 4
3𝑦 + 6 = −7𝑥 + 28 4𝑦 − 12 = 3𝑥 − 6
7𝑥 + 3𝑦 − 22 = 0 3𝑥 − 4𝑦 + 6 = 0

3
5. Prove that the figure bounded by the lines 𝑦 = 2 𝑥 − 4, 4𝑥 + 3𝑦 = 7, 3𝑥 − 2𝑦 = 12 and
4
𝑦 = − 3 𝑥 + 3 is a parallelogram.

3 3
The lines 𝑦 = 𝑥 − 4 and 3𝑥 − 2𝑦 = 12 both have gradients , therefore they ′ re parallel
2 2
4 4
The lines 4𝑥 + 3𝑦 = 7 and 𝑦 = − 𝑥 + 3 both have gradients − , therefore they ′ re parallel
3 3
Therefore the lines form a parallelogram (2 pairs of parallel lines).

19 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
6. Shalma uses a straight-line depreciation model of 9% of the original price per annum to depreciate
the cost of furniture originally values at $4000.
a) Construct a function to represent the value of the furniture after 𝑥 years.
b) State the domain and range of the function.

a) 𝑉 = 4000 − 360𝑥

100
b) 𝑥 ∈ [0, ]
9

𝑉 ∈ [0, 4000]

7. Peter owns a publishing company and sells calendars for $30 each. The cost of producing these
calendars includes a set-up cost of $5000 and additional costs of $5 per calendar. What is his break-
even point? (i.e. how many calendars does he need to sell to cover his costs?).

Let 𝐶 be the total cost of producting 𝑛 calendars, and 𝑅 be the revenue from selling the calendars.
𝐶 = 5000 + 5𝑛
𝑅 = 30𝑛
𝐶 = 𝑅 → 5000 + 5𝑛 = 30𝑛
25𝑛 = 5000
𝑛 = 200
Peter needs to sell 200 calendars.

20 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
8. It is estimated that a certain river can sustain 80 000 fish if there is no pollution, and that for each
tonne of pollution in the river, 2500 fewer fish can be supported. Assuming linear relationship, write
an equation linking the number of fish 𝑦 and the number of tonnes of pollution 𝑥 and sketch the
graph.
Let 𝑇 be the amount of polution in the river in tonnes and 𝐹 be the number of fish in the river.
𝐹 = 80000 − 2500𝑇

9. Margaret is obtaining quotes for a celebration. Caterer A charges $500 plus $20 per guest, while
Caterer B charges $200 plus $80 per guest.
a) Represent these costs both algebraically and graphically.
b) Find how many guests must be invited so that the cost of going with either caterer is the same.

a) Let 𝐴 and 𝐵 be the costs from Caterer 𝐴 b) 500 + 20𝑛 = 200 + 80𝑛
and Caterer 𝐵 for 𝑛 guests respectively. 300 = 60𝑛
𝐴 = 500 + 20𝑛 𝑛=5
𝐵 = 200 + 80𝑛 5 guests will mean the cost of going
with either caterer is the same.

21 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Quadratic Functions

The graph of a quadratic function is of the form

𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐

Properties of a quadratic graph:

• Parabolic shape in nature

➢ If 𝑎 > 0 then it is concave up.

➢ If 𝑎 < 0 then it is concave down.

• The 𝑥-intercepts (if they exist) are located at

−𝑏 ± √𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐
𝑥=
2𝑎

This is obtained by solving the quadratic equation 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0. Alternatively, factorising

𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 into 𝑦 = 𝑎(𝑥 − 𝛼)(𝑥 − 𝛽) will give the 𝑥-intercepts at (𝛼, 0) and (𝛽, 0)

respectively.

• The axis of symmetry (or 𝑥-coordinate vertex) is located at

𝑏
𝑥=−
2𝑎

This is obtained by finding the halfway point between the two intercepts.

• The vertex can also be obtained by re-writing the equation in the form (by completing the square).

𝑦 = 𝑎(𝑥 − ℎ)2 + 𝑘

where the vertex is (ℎ, 𝑘).

22 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Domain and Range of Parabolic Graphs

Given the parabola 𝑦 = 𝐴(𝑥 − ℎ)2 + 𝑘 has vertex (ℎ, 𝑘), the natural domain and (specifically) the range
will depend on the leading coefficient 𝐴. That is:

• 𝐴 > 0 ⇒ Parabola is concave up:

Domain: 𝑥 ∈ (−∞, ∞) Range: 𝑦 ∈ [𝑘, ∞)

• 𝐴 < 0 ⇒ Parabola is concave down:

Domain: 𝑥 ∈ (−∞, ∞) Range: 𝑦 ∈ (−∞, 𝑘]

Therefore to find the natural domain of any parabola 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐, we must find the coordinates of
the vertex and observe the sign of the leading coefficient.

Find the domain and range of the following:

1. 𝑦 = (𝑥 − 1)(𝑥 − 3) 2. 𝑦 = −2(𝑥 2 − 9)
𝑦 = 𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 3 𝑦 = −2𝑥 2 + 18 ⇒ vertex: (0,18)
𝑦 = (𝑥 − 2)2 + 2 ⇒ vertex: (2,2) Leading coefficient = −2
Leading coefficient = 1 𝑥 ∈ (−∞, ∞)
𝑥 ∈ (−∞, ∞) 𝑦 ∈ (−∞, 18]
𝑦 ∈ [2, ∞)
3. 𝑦 = 𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 + 1 4. 𝑦 = −𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 − 4 where 0 < 𝑥 ≤ 5
−3 3 2
vertex has 𝑥 − coordinate: 𝑥 = =− vertex has 𝑥 − coordinate: 𝑥 = − =1
2(1) 2 2(−1)
3 2 3 5 𝑦 − coordinate: −(1)2 − 2(1) − 4 = −7
𝑦 − coordinate: (− ) + 3 (− ) + 1 = −
2 2 4 Leading coefficient = −1
Leading coefficient = 1 CHECKING ENDPOINTS:
𝑥 ∈ (−∞, ∞) 𝑥 = 0 ⇒ 𝑦 = −4
5
𝑦 ∈ [− , ∞) 𝑥 = 5 ⇒ 𝑦 = −39
4
RESTRICTED DOMAIN:
𝑥 ∈ (0,5]
𝑦 ∈ (−39, −7]

23 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Examples

1. For the parabola 𝑦 = 2𝑥 2 − 16𝑥 + 24:

a) Find the coordinates of all the intercepts. b) Find the axis of symmetry.

𝑦 = 2(𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 12) 𝑏
𝑥=−
𝑦 = 2(𝑥 − 6)(𝑥 − 2) 2𝑎
=4
Therefore 𝑥 − intercepts are (2,0) and (6,0)
𝑥 = 4 is the axis of symmetry
𝑦 − intercept is (0,24)

c) Find the coordinates of the vertex by re-writing d) Sketch the parabola.

the parabola in the form 𝑦 = 𝐴(𝑥 − ℎ)2 + 𝑘

𝑦 = 2(𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 12)
𝑦
= (𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 16) − 4
2
𝑦
= (𝑥 − 4)2 − 4
2
𝑦 = 2(𝑥 − 4)2 − 8
Therefore vertex is at (4, −8)

2. A piece of wire of length 12𝑐𝑚 is bent in the shape of a rectangle. Find the maximum area of
rectangle.

Let the dimension of the rectangle be 𝑥 and 𝑦 respectively:

2𝑥 + 2𝑦 = 12 → 𝑥 + 𝑦 = 6 → 𝑦 = 6 − 𝑥
𝐴 = 𝑥𝑦
= 𝑥(6 − 𝑥)
Maximum Area occurs at the vertex as the leading coefficient of 𝑥(6 − 𝑥) is negative.
𝑥 − coordinate of the vertex is half way between the intercepts, ∴ 𝑥 = 3.
𝑥=3→𝑦=3
∴ 𝐴max = 3 × 3
= 9 𝑐𝑚2

24 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
3. David downs a block of 30 holiday units that he rents out. He estimates that 90% of the units are
occupied when he charges $250 rent per unit per night. David finds that if he increases the rent, the
demand for the unit decreases. For each $40 increase in charge, three more units are not occupied.
a) Express the number of units occupied as a b) Express the total revenue obtained by David as
function of the rent charged. a function of the rent charged.
Let 𝑦 be number of units occupied
and 𝑥 be the rent charged Let 𝑇 be the total revenue
3
𝑦 = − 𝑥 + 𝑏 (Information given in question) 𝑇 = 𝑥𝑦
40
𝑥
when 𝑥 = 250, 𝑦 = 27 = (1830 − 3𝑥)
40
3
∴ 27 = − (250) + 𝑏
40
183
𝑏=
4
3 183
∴𝑦=− 𝑥+
40 4
c) Assuming that the rent charged is a continuous variable, sketch the corresponding graphs.

d) Discuss the nature of the range and domain of e) What amount should David charge to maximise
each function. his revenue?
For 𝑦 vs 𝑥, 𝑇 is maximised at the vertex of the 𝑅 vs 𝑥 graph.
{𝑦: 𝑦 ∈ 𝑍, 0 ≤ 𝑦 ≤ 30} 610
∴𝑥=
{𝑥: 𝑥 ∈ 𝑅, 0 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 610} 2
= 305
∴ David should charge $305.
For 𝑇 vs 𝑥,
55815
{𝑇: 𝑇 ∈ 𝑅, 0 ≤ 𝑇 ≤ }
8
{𝑥: 𝑥 ∈ 𝑅, 0 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 610}
In reality, 𝑦 vs 𝑥 𝑠hould be the
3 183
step graph 𝑦 = ⌈− 𝑥+ ⌉ and
40 4
3 183
𝑇 can only take values where 𝑇 = 𝑥 ⌈− 𝑥+ ⌉
40 4

25 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
The Discriminant

−𝑏±√𝑏2 −4𝑎𝑐
If 𝑥 = represents the solutions to the equation 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0.
2𝑎

The expression 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 is known as the discriminant and it is denoted by ∆.

The discriminant determines what kind of solutions (if any) the quadratic equation has.

Diagram:

∆= 𝑏2 − 4𝑎𝑐, assuming that 𝑎, 𝑏, 𝑐 are rational

∆< 0 ∆≥ 0
No Real Roots Real Roots

∆= 0
∆> 0
Two equal
Two unequal roots
rational roots

∆≠ 𝑠 2 , 𝑠 ∈ ℚ ∆= 𝑠 2 , 𝑠 ∈ ℚ
Two irrational roots Two rational roots

Note: This diagram is only valid assuming that 𝑎, 𝑏 and 𝑐 are all rational.

Positive/Negative Definite

A quadratic function 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 is:

• Positive definite if the function is positive for its entire domain

• Negative definite if the function is negative for its entire domain

• Indefinite if the function is neither all negative nor all positive for its entire domain.

Positive Definite Negative Definite Indefinite

𝑎 > 0 and ∆ < 0 𝑎 < 0 and ∆ < 0 ∆≥0

26 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Examples

1. Use the discriminant to determine whether the following are positive definite, negative definite, or
indefinite.
a) 𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 + 6 b) −2𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 − 3 c) 𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 4
∆= (−3)2 − 4(1)(6) ∆= (−3)2 − 4(−2)(−3) ∆= (−4)2 − 4(1)(4)
= 9 − 24 = 9 − 24 =0
= −15 = −15 ∆= 0 → Indefinite
<0 <0
∆< 0, 𝑎 > 0 → Positive definite ∆< 0, 𝑎 < 0 → Negative definite

2. Use the discriminant to determine the number and type of roots for the following equations. (Be as
specific as possible)
a) 3𝑥 2 − 11𝑥 − 4 = 0 b) 4𝑥 2 − 20𝑥 + 25 = 0
∆= 121 − 48 ∆= 400 − 400
= 73 =0
≠ 𝑠2, 𝑠 ∈ ℚ ∴ 2 equal rational roots
∴ 2 unequal irrational roots

c) 𝑥 2 = 2𝑥 + 5 d) 2𝑥 2 + 𝑥 + 3 = 0
𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 − 5 = 0 ∆= 1 − 24
∆= 4 − (−20) <0
= 24 No real roots.
≠ 𝑠2, 𝑠 ∈ ℤ
∴ 2 unequal irrational roots

3. Find the values of 𝑚 for which the equation 𝑥 2 + (𝑚 − 2)𝑥 + 4 = 0 has:

a) Two equal roots b) Two unequal roots c) No real roots
∆= 0 ∆> 0 ∆< 0
(𝑚 − 2)2 − 4(1)(4) = 0 (𝑚 − 2)2 − 4(1)(4) > 0 (𝑚 − 2)2 − 4(1)(4) < 0
𝑚2 − 4𝑚 + 4 − 16 = 0 𝑚2 − 4𝑚 + 4 − 16 > 0 𝑚2 − 4𝑚 + 4 − 16 < 0
𝑚2 − 4𝑚 − 12 = 0 𝑚2 − 4𝑚 − 12 > 0 𝑚2 − 4𝑚 − 12 < 0
(𝑚 − 6)(𝑚 + 2) = 0 (𝑚 − 6)(𝑚 + 2) > 0 (𝑚 − 6)(𝑚 + 2) < 0
𝑚 = 6 or − 2 𝑚 ∈ (−∞, −2) ∪ (6, ∞) 𝑚 ∈ (−2,6)

27 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
4. Prove that the equation 𝑥 2 + (𝑘 − 3)𝑥 − 𝑘 = 0 has real roots for all values of 𝑘.
∆= (𝑘 − 3)2 − 4(1)(−𝑘)
= (𝑘 2 − 6𝑘 + 9) + 4𝑘
= (𝑘 2 − 2𝑘 + 9)
= (𝑘 − 1)2 + 8
>0
∴ real roots for all values of 𝑘.

5. Show that the roots of the equation 𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 − (𝑚2 − 1) = 0 are rational for all rational values of 𝑚.

∆= 22 − 4(1)(−𝑚2 + 1)
= 4 + 4𝑚2 − 4
= 4𝑚2
= (2𝑚)2
Since 𝑚 ∈ ℚ, 2𝑚 ∈ ℚ and all coefficients are rational,
the roots are rational for all rational values of m.

6. Show that the roots of the equation 𝑎𝑥 2 − (𝑎 + 𝑏)𝑥 + 𝑏 = 0, for 𝑎 ≠ 0, are rational for all rational
values of 𝑎 and 𝑏.

2
∆= (−(𝑎 + 𝑏)) − 4(𝑎)(𝑏)
= 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 + 2𝑎𝑏 − 4𝑎𝑏
= 𝑎2 − 2𝑎𝑏 + 𝑏 2
= (𝑎 − 𝑏)2
Since 𝑎, 𝑏 ∈ ℚ, (a − b) ∈ ℚ and all coefficients are rational,
the roots are rational for all rational values 𝑎 and 𝑏.

28 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Expressions, Equations and Graphs

At this point it is important to be familiar with the idea of what is an expression and an equation.

An expression in terms of 𝑥 is any mathematical sentence that consists of variable and constants (now
these constants may be numbers or represented by pronumerals, but their values do not change). An
expression DOES NOT HAVE AN EQUAL SIGN.

E.g. 𝑥2 − 4

You can factorise an expression, but you cannot solve an expression.

(𝑥 + 2)(𝑥 − 2)

An equation is a mathematical sentence that consists of variables and constants, THAT ARE ON EITHER
SIDE OF AN EQUAL SIGN. The values of the variables are to be determined. This is called “solving an
equation”.

E.g. 𝑥2 − 4 = 0

You can solve an equation by factorising one side of the equation.

(𝑥 + 2)(𝑥 − 2) = 0

∴ 𝑥 = ±2

If there are more than one variable to solve across multiple equations than they are called simultaneous
equations.

A Graph is expressed in the form 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥) (this is the simplest form) where 𝑓(𝑥) is an expression in terms

of 𝑥. The coordinates (𝑥, 𝑦) are plotted using the formula. It can be considered as an equation where all

the solutions to 𝑥 and its corresponding 𝑦 form coordinates of all the points that lie on this graph.

E.g.

Plotting 𝑦 = 𝑥 2 − 4 will show a graph where all the points 𝑃1 (𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ), 𝑃2 (𝑥2 , 𝑦2 ) … 𝑃𝑛 (𝑥𝑛 , 𝑦𝑛 ) are points
that represent the values of 𝑥 and 𝑦 that satisfy the equation 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥).

29 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Zeroes, Roots/Solutions and 𝑥-intercepts

Zeroes of an expression are values of that an variable can take so that the entire expression is equal to 0.

For example, the zeroes of the expression 𝑥 2 − 4 are 𝑥 = ±2.

Roots/Solutions of an equation are the values of the variable that makes LHS of the equation equal to the
RHS of it. Roots/solutions are expressed in the form 𝑥 = 𝑐.

For example:

The roots or solutions to the equation 𝑥 2 − 4 = 0 are 𝑥 = ±2.

The roots or solutions to the equation 𝑥 2 = 4 are 𝑥 = ±2.

The 𝒙-intercepts of a graph are points where the graph crosses the 𝑥-axis. Since 𝑥-intercepts are points
then then should be written as coordinates in the form (𝑝, 0).

For example, the 𝑥-intercepts of the graph 𝑦 = 𝑥 2 − 4 are found by substituting 𝑦 = 0, and solving the
corresponding equation 𝑥 2 − 4 = 0. Once again this can be done by various ways but once we get the
solutions 𝑥 = ±2, then the 𝑥-intercepts are (2, 0) and (−2, 0).

30 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Cubic Functions

Cubic functions are of the form.

𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑎𝑥 3 + 𝑏𝑥 2 + 𝑐𝑥 + 𝑑

However, to cubic functions of this form will be explored in more depth under the topic of “Polynomials”.

In this section, we will only be looking at cubics of the form:

𝑓(𝑥) = 𝐴𝑥 3 + 𝐵 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝐴(𝑥 − 𝛼)(𝑥 − 𝛽)(𝑥 − 𝛾)

or

Examples

Sketch:
a) 𝑦 = −(𝑥 − 1)2 (𝑥 − 4) b) 𝑦 = 2(𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 1)(𝑥 − 3)

c) 𝑦 = 2(𝑥 + 1)3 d) 𝑦 = −(𝑥 − 1)3 + 1

Food for thought: Can you explain why there must be at least one 𝑥-intercept for cubic graphs?

Since the cubic graph is continuous for 𝑥 ∈ ℝ, and 𝑦 → ±∞ on opposite extremities of 𝑥, the graph MUST
pass through 0.

31 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
MA-F1.4 Further Functions and Relations

Translation

Consider the graph 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥) where 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 .

a) Sketch 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥) using a table of values.

𝑥 −2 −1 0 1 2

𝑦 4 1 0 1 4

b) Sketch 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥 − 1) using a table of values.

𝑥 −2 −1 0 1 2

𝑦 9 4 1 0 1

c) Sketch 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥) − 2 using a table of values.

𝑥 −2 −1 0 1 2

𝑦 2 −1 −2 −1 2

d) Sketch 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥 + 1) + 2 using a table of values.

𝑥 −2 −1 0 1 2

𝑦 3 2 3 6 11

32 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
 Conclusion

𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥) + 𝑘 is a translation of the graph 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥) by 𝑘 units up.

𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥 − ℎ) is a translation of the graph 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥) by ℎ units to the right.

Consider a graph 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥):

𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥 − 1)

𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥) − 1

33 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Reflections about the axes

Consider the graph 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥) where 𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑥 − 1)2 .

a) Sketch 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥) using a table of values.

𝑥 −2 −1 0 1 2

𝑦 9 4 1 0 1

b) Sketch 𝑦 = −𝑓(𝑥) using a table of values.

𝑥 −2 −1 0 1 2

𝑦 −9 −4 −1 0 −1

c) Sketch 𝑦 = 𝑓(−𝑥) using a table of values.

𝑥 −2 −1 0 1 2

𝑦 1 0 1 4 9

d) Sketch 𝑦 = −𝑓(−𝑥) using a table of values.

𝑥 −2 −1 0 1 2

𝑦 −1 0 −1 −4 −9

34 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
 Conclusion:
𝑦 = −𝑓(𝑥) is a reflection of the graph 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥) about the 𝑥-axis.

𝑦 = 𝑓(−𝑥) is a reflection of the graph 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥) about the 𝑦-axis.

𝑦 = −𝑓(−𝑥) is a rotation of the graph 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥) about the origin.

Example

If 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥) is given as below, sketch 𝑦 = −𝑓(𝑥), 𝑦 = 𝑓(−𝑥) and 𝑦 = −𝑓(−𝑥)

𝑦 = 𝑓(−𝑥)

𝑦 = −𝑓(𝑥)

𝑦 = −𝑓(−𝑥)

35 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Odd and Even Functions

Functions can be odd, even or neither.

Odd Functions

Algebraically, 𝑓(𝑥) is an odd function if 𝑓(−𝑥) = −𝑓(𝑥).

Graphically, 𝑓(𝑥) is an odd function if the graph has rotational symmetry about the origin.

E.g.

Show that 𝑦 = 𝑥 3 − 𝑥 represents the graph of an Sketch 𝑦 = 𝑥 3 − 𝑥 on a number plane.

odd function.
Let 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 3 − 𝑥
𝑓(−𝑥) = (−𝑥)3 − (−𝑥)
= −𝑥 3 + 𝑥
= −(𝑥 3 − 1)
= −𝑓(𝑥)
∴ 𝑓(𝑥) is odd.

Even Functions

Algebraically, 𝑓(𝑥) is an even function if 𝑓(−𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑥).

Graphically, 𝑓(𝑥) is an even function if 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥) if the graph is symmetrical about the 𝑦-axis.

E.g.

Show that 𝑦 = 𝑥 2 − 1 represents the graph of an Sketch 𝑦 = 𝑥 2 − 1 on a number plane.

even function.
Let 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − 1
𝑓(−𝑥) = (−𝑥)2 − 1
= 𝑥2 − 1
= 𝑓(𝑥)
∴ 𝑓(𝑥) is even.

36 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Examples

1. Determine whether the following functions are odd, even or neither.

a) 𝑓(𝑥) = 4𝑥 b) 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑥 3 + 5
𝑓(−𝑥) = 4(−𝑥) 𝑔(−𝑥) = (−𝑥)3 + 5
= −4𝑥 = −𝑥 3 + 5
= −𝑓(𝑥) ≠ −𝑓(𝑥) nor 𝑓(𝑥)
∴ 𝑓(𝑥) is odd. ∴ 𝑓(𝑥) is neither.

c) ℎ(𝑥) = 𝑥 4 + 3𝑥 2 6𝑥 3
d) 𝑝(𝑥) = 𝑥 2+1
ℎ(−𝑥) = (−𝑥)4 + 3(−𝑥)2
6(−𝑥)3
= 𝑥 4 + 3𝑥 2 𝑝(−𝑥) =
(−𝑥)2 + 1
= 𝑓(𝑥) 6𝑥 3
=−
∴ 𝑓(𝑥) is even. 𝑥2+1
= −𝑝(𝑥)
∴ 𝑝(𝑥) is odd.

e) 𝑞(𝑥) = −√𝑥 f) 𝑟(𝑥) = 2𝑥

𝑞(−𝑥) = −√−𝑥 𝑟(−𝑥) = 2−𝑥

≠ −𝑓(𝑥) nor 𝑓(𝑥) 1

=
2𝑥
∴ 𝑞(𝑥) is neither.
≠ −𝑓(𝑥) nor 𝑓(𝑥)
∴ 𝑟(𝑥) is neither.

2. A function 𝑓(𝑥) has a domain [−2, 2] and a range of [−6, 6]. Sketch a possible graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥) if:
a) 𝑓(𝑥) is odd. b) 𝑓(𝑥) is even.

37 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Polynomials

Polynomial functions are of the form.

𝑃(𝑥) = 𝐴𝑛 𝑥 𝑛 + 𝐴𝑛−1 𝑥 𝑛−1 + ⋯ 𝐴1 𝑥 + 𝐴0 where 𝑛 ≥ 0, 𝑛 ∈ ℤ

• 𝐴𝑛 is the leading coefficient

• 𝐴𝑛 𝑥 𝑛 is the leading term
• 𝐴0 is the constant term
• 𝑛 is the degree

In this section, we will only be looking at polynomials that are factorised:

𝑃(𝑥) = 𝐴(𝑥 − 𝛼1 )(𝑥 − 𝛼2 ) … (𝑥 − 𝛼𝑛 )

Examples

Sketch:
a) 𝑦 = −(𝑥 + 1)2 (𝑥 − 1)(𝑥 − 3)2 b) 𝑦 = 2𝑥 2 (𝑥 + 3)3

38 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Note:

• Shape of the graph near (𝛼, 0) if (𝑥 − 𝛼)𝑛 is a factor:

➢ 𝑛 is even and large the graph will flatten and “bounce” back after reaching the intercept.

➢ 𝑛 is odd and large the graph will flatten and go through the intercept with a change of concavity.

• That means, functions we have previous looked at, including linear, quadratic and cubic functions are

all examples of polynomials.

• 𝑃(𝑥) = 𝐶 where 𝐶 is a constant is also a polynomial, it is known as a constant polynomial.

• The natural domain of any polynomial is 𝑥 ∈ (−∞, ∞) while the range is dependent on 𝑛. If 𝑛 is odd

then the natural range is 𝑦 ∈ (−∞, ∞). If 𝑛 is even then calculus is needed to locate turning points.

Examples

Write down a polynomial of:

a) Degree 4, with zeroes at −4, −1, 2 and 6 and b) Degree 2, monic, which has rational
𝑃(1) = 2. coefficients and has zero at 𝑥 = 1 + √2.
𝑃(𝑥) = 𝐴(𝑥 + 4)(𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 2)(𝑥 − 6) rational coefficients → other zero must be
𝑃(1) = 2 → 𝐴(5)(2)(−1)(−5) = 2 𝑥 = 1 − √2
1 let the polynomial be 𝑃(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 (monic).
𝐴=
25
1 𝑏 = −[(1 + √2) + (1 − √2)]
∴ 𝑃(𝑥) = (𝑥 + 4)(𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 2)(𝑥 − 6)
25 = −2
𝑐 = (1 + √2)(1 − √2)
= −1
∴ 𝑃(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 − 1

c) Degree 4, has a zero at 𝑥 = 1, with 𝑃(2) = −3 d) Degree 3, has a zero at -3 and is odd and
and is even and monic. monic.
Even → 𝑃(−1) = 0 also Odd → −3 and 0 are the other zeroes.
∴ 𝑃(𝑥) = (𝑥 2 − 1)(𝑥 2 − 𝛼) (even and monic quartic) Odd and monic → 𝑃(𝑥) = 𝑥(𝑥 + 3)(𝑥 − 3).
𝑃(2) = −3 → (3)(4 − 𝛼) = −3
12 − 3𝑎 = −3
3𝛼 = 15
𝛼=5
∴ 𝑃(𝑥) = (𝑥 2 − 1)(𝑥 2 − 5)

39 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Hyperbolae

The general hyperbolae is of the form

𝑐
𝑦= +𝑘
𝑥−ℎ

Properties:

• Horizontal Asymptote at 𝑦 = 𝑘. (This means it has range: 𝑦 ∈ (−∞, 𝑘) ∪ (𝑘, ∞)).

• Vertical Asymptote at 𝑥 = ℎ. (This means it has domain: 𝑥 ∈ (−∞, ℎ) ∪ (ℎ, ∞)).

Example

Sketch by first finding the domain and range:

2
a) 𝑦 = 𝑥 b) 𝑥𝑦 = −1
𝑥 ∈ (−∞, 0) ∪ (0, ∞), 𝑦 ∈ (−∞, 0) ∪ (0, ∞)
𝑥 ∈ (−∞, 0) ∪ (0, ∞), 𝑦 ∈ (−∞, 0) ∪ (0, ∞)

1 𝑥−1 𝑥−2 1 1
c) 𝑦 = 𝑥+2 d) 𝑦 = 𝑥−2 = 𝑥−2 + 𝑥−2 = 1 + 𝑥−2

𝑥 ∈ (−∞, −2) ∪ (−2, ∞), 𝑦 ∈ (−∞, 0) ∪ (0, ∞) 𝑥 ∈ (−∞, 2) ∪ (2, ∞), 𝑦 ∈ (−∞, 1) ∪ (1, ∞)

Note:

When sketching hyperbolae, make sure to mark a point on each branch!!!!

40 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Direct and Indirect Variation

Direct Variation

If 𝑦 is said to vary with 𝑥 directly, then it means 𝑦 = 𝑘𝑥, where 𝑘 is known as the constant of
proportionality or variation constant Another way of describing this relationship is to say that 𝑦 is
proportional to 𝑥, mathematically, 𝑦 ∝ 𝑥.

(Note: DO NOT ever write 𝑦 ∝ 𝑘𝑥 even though it is not technically wrong).

E.g.

• Since 𝐶 = 𝜋𝑑, the circumference of a circle varies directly with its diameter where 𝜋 is the variation
constant.
• Since 𝐴 = 𝜋𝑟 2 . the area of a circle varies directly with the square of its radius, where 𝜋 is the variation
constant.

If 𝑦 ∝ 𝑥, then if 𝑥 increases by a factor, then 𝑦 increases by the same factor.

That is, if the diameter doubles, then the circumference will also double.

If the square of the radius triples, then the area will also triple.

Examples

1. From physics, the kinetic energy, 𝐸 mJ, of a body in motion is directly proportional to the square of
its speed, 𝑣 m/s. If a body travelling at a speed of 10 m/s has energy 400 mJ, find:
a) the constant of proportionality b) the formula for 𝐸 in terms of 𝑣
𝐸 ∝ 𝑣 2 → 𝐸 = 𝑘𝑣 2
𝐸 = 400 → 𝑣 = 10 𝐸 = 4𝑣 2
∴ 400 = 𝑘(10)2
𝑘=4

c) the energy of the body when it travels at a d) the speed if the moving body has energy 500
speed of 15 m/s mJ
𝑣 = 15,
𝐸 = 4(15)2 𝐸 = 500,
= 900 mJ 500 = 4(𝑣 2 )
𝑣 2 = 125
𝑣 = 5√5 m/s

41 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
2. The mass, 𝑚 grams, of a plastic material required to mould a solid ball is directly proportional to the
cube of the radius, 𝑟 cm, of the ball. If 40 grams of plastic is needed to make a ball of radius 2.5 cm,
what size ball can be made from 200 grams of the same type of plastic?

𝑚 ∝ 𝑟3
𝑚 = 𝑘𝑟 3
when 𝑚 = 40, 𝑟 = 2.5
∴ 40 = 𝑘(2.5)3
125𝑘
∴ 40 =
8
320
𝑘=
125
64
=
25
64𝑟 3
𝑚=
25
25 × 200
𝑚 = 200 → 𝑟 3 =
64
625
=
8
3
√625
𝑟= cm
2

3. Given that 𝑦 ∝ √𝑥, what is the percentage change in:

a) 𝑦 when 𝑥 is increased by 20%? b) 𝑥 when 𝑦 is decreased by 30%?
Let 𝑦 = 𝑘√𝑥
𝑦1 = 𝑘√𝑥1 1
𝑦 ∝ 𝑥 2 → 𝑥 ∝ 𝑦2
𝑥2 = 1.2𝑥1
∴ when 𝑦 is multipled by 0.7,
∴ 𝑦2 = 𝑘√𝑥2 𝑥 is multiplied by 0.72
= 𝑘√1.2𝑥1 ∴ 𝑥 is multiplied by 0.49.
= √1.2(𝑘 √𝑥1 ) ∴ 𝑥 decreases by 51%.

= √1.2𝑦1
≈ 1.095𝑦1
∴ 𝑦 increases by 9.5%.

In summary, if 𝑦 ∝ 𝑥 𝑛 , then when 𝑥 is multiplied by a factor

of 𝑘, then 𝑦 is multiplied by a factor of 𝑘 𝑛 .

42 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Indirect Variation

𝑘
If 𝑦 is said to vary with 𝑥 indirectly, then it means 𝑦 = 𝑥 , where 𝑘 is known as the variation

constant or constant of proportionality Another way of describing this relationship is to say that 𝑦 is
1
inversely proportional to 𝑥, mathematically, 𝑦 ∝ 𝑥.

𝑘
(Note: DO NOT ever write 𝑦 ∝ 𝑥 even though it is not technically wrong).

E.g.

𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑇𝑟𝑎𝑣𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑑
• Since 𝐴𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑎𝑔𝑒 𝑆𝑝𝑒𝑒𝑑 = , then the average speed varies indirectly with time and
𝑇𝑖𝑚𝑒

distance acts as the indirect variation constant.

• If $600 is to be shared between 𝑛 people, then 𝐴, the amount of money each person receives varies
600
indirectly with 𝑛, since 𝐴 = . In this case the indirect variation constant is 600.
𝑛

1
If 𝑦 ∝ 𝑥 , then if 𝑥 increases by a factor, then 𝑦 decreases by the same factor.

That is, if the speed doubles, then time is halved.

If the number of people triples, then the amount of money each person received is divided by 3.

Examples

1. Suppose that two towns, 𝐴 and 𝐵, are 144 km apart.

a) Write down the formula for the time taken, 𝑡 b) Draw a graph of 𝑡 against 𝑣.
hours, to travel from 𝐴 to 𝐵 at a speed of 𝑣
km/h.
144
𝑡=
𝑣

c) If the car is driven at 24km/h, how long does it d) If the trip takes 90 minutes, at what speed is
take to complete the journey? the car driven?

𝑣 = 24, 𝑡 = 1.5
144 144
𝑡= 𝑣=
24 1.5
= 6 hours = 96 km

43 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
2. The volume, 𝑉 𝑐𝑚3 , of a quantity of gas kept at a constant temperature is inversely proportional to
the pressure, 𝑃 𝑘𝑃𝑎. If the volume is 500 𝑐𝑚3 when the pressure is 90 𝑘𝑃𝑎, find the volume when
the pressure is 25 𝑘𝑃𝑎.

1
𝑉∝
𝑃
𝑘
𝑉=
𝑃
when 𝑉 = 500, 𝑃 = 90
𝑘
∴ 500 =
90
𝑘 = 45000
45000
∴𝑉=
𝑃
When 𝑃 = 25
45000
𝑉=
25
= 1800𝑐𝑚3

1
3. Given that 𝑦 ∝ 𝑥 2, find, correct to the nearest 0.1%:

a) The percentage change in 𝑦 when 𝑥 is b) The percentage change in 𝑥 when 𝑦 is

decreased by 10%. increased by 10%.

𝑦 ∝ 𝑥 −2 𝑦 ∝ 𝑥 −2
∴ when 𝑥 is multiplied by 0.9, 1
𝑥 ∝ 𝑦 −2
𝑦 is multiplied by 0.9−2
∴ when 𝑦 is multiplied by 1.1,
𝑦 is multiplied by 1.23 1
𝑥 is multiplied by 1.1−2
∴ 𝑦 increases by 23%.
𝑥 is multiplied by 0.95
∴ 𝑥 decreases by 5%.

44 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
 1
4. (Extension) Suppose that 𝑦 is directly proportional to 𝑥 and inversely proportional to 𝑧. If 𝑦 = 5 when
2 3
𝑥 = 5 and 𝑧 = 5, find:
3 1
a) The value of 𝑦 when 𝑥 = 1 and 𝑧 = 8. b) The value of 𝑧 when 𝑥 = 2 and 𝑦 = 6.
𝑥 1
𝑦∝ ∴ when 𝑥 = 2, 𝑦 = ,
𝑧 6
𝑘𝑥
∴𝑦= 1 3(2)
𝑧 =
6 10𝑧
1 2 3
when 𝑦 = , 𝑥 = , 𝑧 = 3
5 5 5 =
2 5𝑧
1 𝑘 (5 )
∴ = 5𝑧 = 18
5 3
5 18
1 2𝑘
𝑧=
=
5
5 3
3
𝑘=
10
3𝑥
∴𝑦=
10𝑧
3
∴ when 𝑥 = 1, 𝑧 = ,
8
3(1) 24 4
𝑦= = =
3
10 ( ) 30 5
8

5. (Extension) Suppose that 𝑎 is directly proportional to the square of 𝑏 and inversely proportional to 𝑐.
Find the effect on 𝑎 when:
a) 𝑏 is halved and 𝑐 is doubled b) 𝑏 is increased by 10% and 𝑐 is decreased by
20%
𝑏2
𝑎∝
𝑐
when 𝑏 multiplied by1.1 and 𝑐 multiplied by 0.8,
𝑎 ∝ 𝑏 2 𝑐 −1
𝑎 is multiplied by (1.1)2 (0.8)−1
1
when 𝑏 multiplied by and 𝑐 multiplied by 2, 𝑎 is multiplied by 1.5125
2
1 2 ∴ 𝑎 increases by 51.25%
𝑎 is multiplied by ( ) (2)−1
2
1
𝑎 is multiplied by
8
∴ 𝑎 decreases by 87.5%.

45 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Solving Simultaneous Equations

Algebraically

1. Solve the following pair of simultaneous equations:

3𝑥 − 2𝑦 = 29
4𝑥 + 5𝑦 = 8
a) By substitution b) By elimination
29 + 2𝑦 Let 3𝑥 − 2𝑦 = 29 be Equation 1
3𝑥 − 2𝑦 = 29 → 𝑥 =
3
4𝑥 + 5𝑦 = 8 be Equation 2
29 + 2𝑦
sub 𝑥 = into 4𝑥 + 5𝑦 = 8
3 4 × (Equation 1) − 3 × (Equation 2):
29 + 2𝑦 (12𝑥 − 8𝑦) − (12𝑥 + 15𝑦) = (116 − 24)
4( ) + 5𝑦 = 8
3
−23𝑦 = 92
116 + 8𝑦 + 15𝑦 = 24
23𝑦 = −92 𝑦 = −4
∴ 𝑦 = −4 sub 𝑦 = 4 into Equation 1
29 + 2𝑦 3𝑥 − 2(4) = 29
sub 𝑦 = −4 into 𝑥 =
3
3𝑥 = 21
29 − 2(4)
𝑥= 𝑥=7
3
21
=
3
=7

2. Solve the following pair of simultaneous equations:

a) 𝑥 − 𝑦 = 5 b) 3𝑥 + 𝑦 = 9
𝑦 = 𝑥 2 − 11 𝑥𝑦 = 6

𝑥−𝑦 =5→𝑥 =𝑦+5 3𝑥 + 𝑦 = 9 → 3𝑥 2 + 𝑥𝑦 = 9𝑥 − Equation 1

sub 𝑥 = 𝑦 + 5 into 𝑦 = 𝑥 2 − 11: 𝑥𝑦 = 6 − Equation 2
𝑦 = (𝑦 + 5)2 − 11 Equation 1 − Equation 2:
𝑦 = (𝑦 2 + 10𝑦 + 25) − 11 3𝑥 2 = 9𝑥 − 6
𝑦 2 + 9𝑦 + 14 = 0 3𝑥 2 − 9𝑥 + 6 = 0
(𝑦 + 7)(𝑦 + 2) = 0 𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 + 2 = 0
𝑦 = −7 or − 2 (𝑥 − 2)(𝑥 − 1) = 0
When 𝑦 = −7, 𝑥 = −2 𝑥 = 2 or 1
when 𝑦 = −2, 𝑥 = 3 When 𝑥 = 2, 𝑦 = 3
when 𝑥 = 1, 𝑦 = 6

Note: When solving simultaneous equations that are not linear, it is imperative that you express your
answer in the correct corresponding pairs!!!!

46 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Graphically

By sketching an appropriate graphs, find an approximate solution to the following simultaneous equations.

a)
𝑦 = 𝑥2 − 2
𝑥 − 2𝑦 + 2 = 0

When 𝑥 ≈ −1.19, 𝑦 ≈ 0.41

𝑥 ≈ 1.69, 𝑦 ≈ 1.84

b)
𝑥𝑦 = 1
𝑦 = 𝑥2

when 𝑥 = 1, 𝑦 = 1

47 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Word Problems

1. Kathy paid $320 in cash for a CD player. If she paid in $20 and $10 notes only, and there were 23
notes altogether, how many of each type were there?

Let 𝑥 be the number of $20 notes and 𝑦 be the number of $10 notes:
𝑥 + 𝑦 = 23 − Equation 1
20𝑥 + 10𝑦 = 320 → 2𝑥 + 𝑦 = 32 − Equation 2
Equation 2 − Equation 1 → 𝑥 = 9
𝑦 = 14
Therefore there were 9 $20 notes and 14 $10 notes.

2. Two people are 16 km apart on a straight road. They start walking at the same time. If they walk
towards each other, they will meet in 2 hours, but if they walk in the same direction (so that the
distance between them is decreasing), they will meet in 8 hours. Find their walking speeds.

Let the speed of the two people be 𝑥 km per hour and 𝑦 km per hour respectively, 0 < 𝑥 < 𝑦.
2𝑥 + 2𝑦 = 16 → 𝑥 + 𝑦 = 8 − Equation 1 (Walking towards each other)
8𝑦 − 8𝑥 = 16 → 𝑦 − 𝑥 = 2 − Equation 2 (Walking in the same direction)
Equation 1 + Equation 2 → 2𝑦 = 10
𝑦 = 5 km per hour
𝑥 = 3 km per hour.

48 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
3. A start-up company has the following expenses:

𝑅𝑒𝑛𝑡 = $875 𝑝𝑒𝑟 𝑚𝑜𝑛𝑡ℎ

𝑈𝑡𝑖𝑙𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑒𝑠 = $115 𝑝𝑒𝑟 𝑚𝑜𝑛𝑡ℎ
𝐿𝑎𝑏𝑜𝑟 = $480 𝑝𝑒𝑟 𝑚𝑜𝑛𝑡ℎ
𝑀𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑎𝑙 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑎𝑠𝑠𝑒𝑚𝑏𝑙𝑦 = $5 𝑝𝑒𝑟 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡

If the product sells for $20 per unit, how many units must it sell per month to break even?

Let the total cost of making 𝑛 products be 𝐶 and the revenue generated be 𝑅
𝑅 = 20𝑛 per month
𝐶 = 1470 + 5𝑛 per month
𝑅 = 𝐶 ⇒ 20𝑛 = 1470 + 5𝑛
15𝑛 = 1470
𝑛 = 98
Therefore the company needs to make and sell 98 products each month to break even.

4. I sell a product for $21.50 and fill orders averaging 19 units per day. My cost to produce and
assemble each item is $8.47. If I am open for business five days a week, what is my contribution
margin each week?

Let my contribution margin be 𝑀 each week.

𝑀 = 5 × 19 × (21.50 − 8.47)
= $1237.85 each week.

49 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Absolute Value Functions

The absolute value of 𝑥, denoted by |𝑥| is defined by:

1.
|𝑥| = { 𝑥 when 𝑥 ≥ 0
−𝑥 when 𝑥 < 0

Consider:
| − 4| |3|
|−4| = −(−4) (since − 4 < 0) |3| = 3 (since 3 > 0)
=4 =3

2.

|𝑥| = √𝑥 2

Consider:
|−4| |3|
|−4| = √(−4)2 |3| = √32
= √16 = √9
=4 =3

3. a) |𝑥| = distance from 𝑥 to 0 on the number line.

Consider:
| − 4| |3|

b)
|𝑥 − 𝑦| =distance from 𝑥 to 𝑦 on the number line.

Consider:
|3 − 7| |7 − 4|

50 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Examples

1. Evaluate:
a) 4 − |5 − 13| b) |9 − 3 × 5|
=4−8 = |−6|
= −4 =6

2. Simplify:
𝑥 2 −4 |𝑥 2 −9|
a) |𝑥−2|
b) 2𝑥+6

𝑥 −4 2 𝑥2 − 9
when 𝑥 − 2 > 0 when 𝑥 2 − 9 ≥ 0
𝑥−2 2(𝑥 + 3)
= = , 𝑥 ≠ −3
𝑥2 − 4 −(𝑥 2 − 9)
when 𝑥 − 2 < 0 2
when 𝑥 − 9 ≤ 0
{−(𝑥 − 2) { 2(𝑥 + 3)
𝑥 + 2 when 𝑥 > 0 (𝑥 + 3)(𝑥 − 3)
{
−(𝑥 + 2) when 𝑥 < 0 when 𝑥 2 ≥ 9
2(𝑥 + 3)
=
−(𝑥 + 3)(𝑥 − 3)
when 𝑥 2 ≤ 9
{ 2(𝑥 + 3)
(𝑥 − 3)
when 𝑥 > 3 or 𝑥 < −3
={ 2
(𝑥 − 3)
− when − 3 < 𝑥 ≤ 3
2
3. Graph:
a) 𝑦 = |𝑥 − 2| b) 𝑦 = |3 − 2𝑥|

Note: The domain of |𝑓(𝑥)| is same as that of 𝑓(𝑥) while the range is from the smallest distance to the
largest distance of the furthest point to the 𝑥-axis.

51 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Absolute Value Equations

Type 1: |𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏| = 𝑐

Solve:
a) |𝑥 − 2| = 5 b) |3𝑥 − 2| = 1

𝑥 − 2 = ±5 3𝑥 − 2 = ±1
𝑥 = 2±5 3𝑥 = 2 ± 1
= −3 or 7 2±1
𝑥=
3
1
𝑥 = 1 or
3

Graphical Demonstration Graphical Demonstration

Note:
For obvious reasons |𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏| = 𝑐 will have no solutions if 𝑐 is negative.

52 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Type 2: |𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏| = |𝑐𝑥 + 𝑑|

Solve:
a) |3𝑥 − 2| = |5𝑥 + 4| b) |𝑥 − 2| = |1 − 𝑥|

3𝑥 − 2 = 5𝑥 + 4 or 3𝑥 − 2 = −5𝑥 − 4 𝑥 − 2 = 1 − 𝑥 or 𝑥 − 2 = 𝑥 − 1
2𝑥 = −6 8𝑥 = −2 2𝑥 = 3 No Solutions
1 3
𝑥 = −3 𝑥=− 𝑥=
4 2

Graphical Demonstration Graphical Demonstration

Food for thought:

• What do you notice about the number of solutions and the coefficient of 𝑥? Can you explain why?
If the coefficient of 𝑥 has the same magnitude, then there will only be 1 solution, unless the
equations are identitical.
• How many solutions do you expect |𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏| = −|𝑐𝑥 + 𝑑| to have?
At most one, if both functions have the same zero, otherwise there will be no solutions.

53 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Type 3: |𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏| = 𝑐𝑥 + 𝑑

Solve:
a) |𝑥 − 2| = 2𝑥 + 1 b) |2𝑥 − 4| = 𝑥 − 6

1 𝑥≥6
𝑥≥−
2 (Absolute value must be non − negative)
(Absolute value must be non − negative)
2𝑥 − 4 = 𝑥 − 6 or 2𝑥 − 4 = 6 − 𝑥
𝑥 − 2 = 2𝑥 + 1 or 𝑥 − 2 = −2𝑥 − 1
𝑥 = −2 or 3𝑥 = 10
𝑥 = −3 or 3𝑥 = 1
10
1 𝑥=
𝑥= 3
3 Since 𝑥 ≥ 6, there are no solutions.
1 1
Since 𝑥 ≥ − , 𝑥 = is the only solution
2 3

Graphical Demonstration Graphical Demonstration

54 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
c) |𝑥 − 2| = 𝑥 d) |2𝑥 − 4| = 𝑥 + 8

𝑥≥0 𝑥 ≥ −8
(Absolute value must be non − negative) (Absolute value must be non − negative)
𝑥−2=𝑥 or 𝑥 − 2 = −𝑥 2𝑥 − 4 = 𝑥 + 8 or 2𝑥 − 4 = −𝑥 − 8
No solution 2𝑥 = 2 𝑥 = 12 or 3𝑥 = −4
𝑥=1 4
𝑥=−
3

Graphical Demonstration
Graphical Demonstration

Note:
Solutions of |𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏| = 𝑐𝑥 + 𝑑 must be checked by either:
➢ Substituting them back into the original equation
➢ Checking that they lie within the restrictions given by the original equation

55 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Circles and Semi-circles

Recall that the definition of a circle is a shape such that every point on

the shape is equidistant from a fixed point (centre).

If a circle is to be plotted on the number plane with the centre as it’s

origin, then we can use the idea of locus to derive the equation of this
circle.

Let 𝑃(𝑥, 𝑦) be a variable that is representative of all the points that

follow the rule, that the distance from this point to the origin must be
the radius 𝑟.

Using the distance formula:

𝑑𝑃𝑂 = 𝑟 → √(𝑥 − 0)2 + (𝑦 − 0)2 = 𝑟

√𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = 𝑟
𝑥2 + 𝑦2 = 𝑟2

𝑥2 + 𝑦2 = 𝑟2

56 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Making 𝑦 the subject will give us the equation:

𝑦 = ±√𝑟 2 − 𝑥 2

𝑦 = √𝑟 2 − 𝑥 2 gives us the semi-circle that is above the 𝑥-axis.

𝑦 = −√𝑟 2 − 𝑥 2 gives us the semi-circle that is below the 𝑥-axis.

Making 𝑥 the subject will give us the equation:

𝑥 = ±√𝑟 2 − 𝑦 2

𝑥 = √𝑟 2 − 𝑦 2 gives us the semi-circle that is to the right of the 𝑦-axis.

𝑥 = −√𝑟 2 − 𝑦 2 gives us the semi-circle that is to the left the 𝑦-axis.

Let 𝑃(𝑥, 𝑦) be a variable that is representative of all the points that

follow the rule, that the distance from this point to a fixed point
𝑂(ℎ, 𝑘) must be the radius 𝑟.

Using the distance formula:

𝑑𝑃𝐶 = 𝑟 → √(𝑥 − ℎ)2 + (𝑦 − 𝑘)2 = 𝑟

(𝑥 − ℎ)2 + (𝑦 − 𝑘)2 = 𝑟 2

(𝑥 − ℎ)2 + (𝑦 − 𝑘)2 = 𝑟 2

Domain and Range of Circles

Given the circle (𝑥 − ℎ)2 + (𝑦 − 𝑘)2 = 𝑟 2 , the domain and range can be worked out by adding and
subtracting the radius from the respective coordinates of the centre. This gives:

Domain: 𝑥 ∈ [ℎ − 𝑟, ℎ + 𝑟] Range: 𝑦 ∈ [𝑘 − 𝑟, 𝑘 + 𝑟]

57 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Making 𝑦 the subject from the general equation of the circle will give us the equation:

𝑦 = 𝑘 ± √𝑟 2 − (𝑥 − ℎ)2

𝑦 = 𝑘 + √𝑟 2 − (𝑥 − ℎ)2 gives us the top half of the circle. 𝑥 ∈ [ℎ − 𝑟, ℎ + 𝑟] , 𝑦 ∈ [𝑘, 𝑘 + 𝑟]

𝑦 = 𝑘 − √𝑟 2 − (𝑥 − ℎ)2 gives us the bottom half of the circle. 𝑥 ∈ [ℎ − 𝑟, ℎ + 𝑟] , 𝑦 ∈ [𝑘 − 𝑟, 𝑘]

Making 𝑥 the subject from the general equation of the circle will give us the equation:

𝑥 = ℎ ± √𝑟 2 − (𝑦 − 𝑘)2

𝑥 = ℎ + √𝑟 2 − (𝑦 − 𝑘)2 gives us the right hand side of the circle. 𝑥 ∈ [ℎ, ℎ + 𝑟] , 𝑦 ∈ [𝑘 − 𝑟, 𝑘 + 𝑟]

𝑥 = ℎ − √𝑟 2 − (𝑦 − 𝑘)2 gives us the left hand side of the circle. 𝑥 ∈ [ℎ − 𝑟, ℎ] , 𝑦 ∈ [𝑘 − 𝑟, 𝑘 + 𝑟]

Examples

1. State the domain and range, and sketch the following graphs showing all important features:
a) (𝑥 − 3)2 + (𝑦 + 2)2 = 4 b) (𝑥 + 1)2 + (𝑦 − 3)2 = 25
Domain: 𝑥 ∈ (1,5) Range: 𝑦 ∈ (−4,0) Domain: 𝑥 ∈ (−6,4) Range: 𝑦 ∈ (−2,8)
Centre (3, −2) and radius = 2 Centre (−1, 3) and radius = 5

𝑥 = 0 → 12 + (𝑦 − 3)2 = 25
𝑦 − 3 = ±√24
𝑦 = 3 ± √24
𝑦 = 0 → (𝑥 + 1)2 + (−3)2 = 25
(𝑥 + 1)2 = 16
𝑥 = −1 ± 4
𝑥 = −5 or 3

58 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
c) 𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 𝑦 2 + 6𝑦 + 4 = 0 d) 𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 𝑦 2 + 8𝑦 + 4 = 0

(𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 4) + (𝑦 2 + 6𝑦 + 9) = 9 (𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 4) + (𝑦 2 + 8𝑦 + 16) = 16
(𝑥 + 2)2 + (𝑦 + 3)2 = 9 (𝑥 − 2)2 + (𝑦 + 4)2 = 16
Circle with centre (−2, −3) and radius 3 Circle with centre (2, −4) and radius 4
𝑥 = 0 → 22 + (𝑦 + 3)2 = 9 𝑥 = 0 → (−2)2 + (𝑦 + 4)2 = 16
(𝑦 + 3)2 = 5 (𝑦 + 4)2 = 12
𝑦 + 3 = ±√5 𝑦 + 4 = ±√12
𝑦 = −3 ± √5 𝑦 = −4 ± √12
𝑦 = 0 → (𝑥 + 2)2 + 9 = 9 𝑦 = 0 → (𝑥 − 2)2 + 16 = 16
(𝑥 + 2)2 = 0 (𝑥 − 2)2 = 0
𝑥 = −2 𝑥=2

Domain: 𝑥 ∈ (−5,1) Range: 𝑦 ∈ (−6,0)

Domain: 𝑥 ∈ (−2,6) Range: 𝑦 ∈ (−8,0)

59 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
e) 𝑦 = √2 − 𝑥 2 f) 𝑦 = 4 − √1 − (𝑥 + 3)2

Top semi − circle with centre (0,0) and radius √2 Bottom semi − circle with centre (−3,4) and radius 1

Domain: 𝑥 ∈ (−√2, √2) Range: 𝑦 ∈ (0, √2)

Domain: 𝑥 ∈ (−4, −2) Range: 𝑦 ∈ (3,4)

g) 𝑥 = −√3 − 𝑦 2 h) 𝑥 = 2 + √1 − (𝑦 − 2)2

Left semi − circle with centre (0,0) and radius √3. Right semi − circle with centre (2,2) and radius 1

Domain: 𝑥 ∈ (−√3, 0) Range: 𝑦 ∈ (−√3, √3) Domain: 𝑥 ∈ (2,3) Range: 𝑦 ∈ (1,3)

Note: The domain and range of parts of a circle (E.g. semi-circle, quadrants etc.) are derived on the case by
case basis depending on what remains from the original circle.

60 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
MA-F1.2 Introduction to Functions (continued…)

Composite Functions

Suppose we have two functions 𝑓(𝑥) and 𝑔(𝑥), we can put them together by placing one of the functions
entirely into another.

1. If 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 and 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑥 + 3, then find:

a) 𝑓[𝑔(𝑥)] b) 𝑔[𝑓(𝑥)]
2
= (𝑔(𝑥)) = (𝑓(𝑥)) + 3

= (𝑥 + 3)2 = 𝑥2 + 3

c) 𝑓[𝑓(𝑥)] d) 𝑔[𝑔(𝑥)]

= (𝑥 2 )2 = (𝑥 + 3) + 3

= 𝑥4 =𝑥+6

2. If 𝑓(𝑥) = 3𝑥 + 1 and 𝑔(𝑥) = 2𝑥 2 then find:

a) 𝑓[𝑔(𝑥)] b) 𝑔[𝑓(𝑥)]

= 3(2𝑥 2 ) + 1 = 2(3𝑥 + 1)2

= 6𝑥 2 + 1

c) 𝑓[𝑓(𝑥)] d) 𝑔[𝑔(𝑥)]

= 3(3𝑥 + 1) + 1 = 2(2𝑥 2 )2

= 9𝑥 + 4 = 8𝑥 4

61 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
 1
3. If 𝑓(𝑥) = √𝑥 and 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 then find:

a) 𝑓[𝑔(𝑥)] b) 𝑔[𝑓(𝑥)]

1
1 = 2
=√ 2 (√𝑥)
𝑥

1
=
|𝑥|

c) 𝑓[𝑓(𝑥)] d) 𝑔[𝑔(𝑥)]

1
= √ √𝑥 =
1 2
( )
𝑥2
4
= √𝑥
1
=
1
𝑥4

= 𝑥 4 (𝑥 ≠ 0)

4. Write down suitable options for 𝑓(𝑥) and 𝑔(𝑥) such that 𝑓[𝑔(𝑥)] is equal to:
a) 𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 + 2 b) 2𝑥+1
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 + 2 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥
𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 𝑔(𝑥) = 2𝑥

c) √𝑥 2 − 4 d) 𝑥

𝑓(𝑥) = √𝑥 𝑓(𝑥) = 3𝑥
𝑥
𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − 4 𝑔(𝑥) =
3

Note:
• Example 4 d) is an example of two relations that are inverses of each other. We will explore into it
later in the year.
• Another way 𝑓[𝑔(𝑥)] and 𝑓[𝑓(𝑥)] is 𝑓𝑜𝑔(𝑥) and 𝑔𝑜𝑓(𝑥) respectively.

62 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Further Domain and Range

So far, we have looked at the domain and range of polynomial functions up to degree 2, circles and
hyperbolas. There are two more types of functions that should require special attention in this topic. These
are the reciprocal functions, square root functions, square functions and a combination of them. Consider
the following fundamentals:

Domain Range
The domain of 𝑦 = √𝑥 is all real 𝑥 ≥ 0 The range of 𝑦 = √𝑥 is all real 𝑦 ≥ 0
1 The range of 𝑦 = 𝑥 2 is all real 𝑦 ≥ 0
The domain of 𝑦 = is all real 𝑥 except 𝑥 = 0
𝑥
1
The domain of 𝑦 = is all real 𝑥 > 0
√𝑥
Examples

1. Find the domain of: 1. Find the range of:

a) √3 − 𝑥 a) (𝑥 − 3)2 + 7

b)
𝑥 b) 𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 + 13
𝑥+1
1 c) 10 − (𝑥 + 2)2
c) (2𝑥−3)2
d) −2√𝑥
3
d)
√2𝑥−1 e) 4 − √𝑥
1
e) 𝑥 2 −3𝑥+2
f) √𝑥 − 10

a) 3 − 𝑥 ∈ [0, ∞) a) (𝑥 − 3)2 ∈ [0, ∞)

−𝑥 ∈ [3, ∞) (𝑥 − 3)2 + 7 ∈ [7, ∞)
𝑥 ∈ (−∞, −3] 𝑦 ∈ [7, ∞)
𝑥 1
b) 𝑥+1
=1− 𝑥−1 b) 𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 + 13 = (𝑥 + 3)2 + 4
∴ 𝑥 ∈ (−∞, 1) ∪ (1, ∞) ∴ 𝑦 ∈ [4, ∞)
3
c) 2𝑥 − 3 ≠ 0 ⇒ 𝑥 ≠ 2 c) (𝑥 + 3)2 ∈ [0, ∞)
3 3 −(𝑥 + 3)2 ∈ (−∞, 0]
∴ 𝑥 ∈ (−∞, ) ∪ ( , ∞ )
2 2
10 − (𝑥 + 3)2 ∈ (−∞, 10]
d) 2𝑥 − 1 ∈ (0, ∞)
𝑦 ∈ (−∞, 10]
1
𝑥 ∈ ( , ∞)
2 d) √𝑥 ∈ [0, ∞)
1 1
e) 𝑥 2 −3𝑥+2
= (𝑥−2)(𝑥−1) −2√𝑥 ∈ (−∞, 0] ⇒ 𝑦 ∈ (−∞, 0]
∴ 𝑥 ∈ (−∞, ∞), 𝑥 ≠ 1, 2 e) √𝑥 ∈ [0, ∞) ⇒ −√𝑥 ∈ (−∞, 0]
4 − √𝑥 ∈ (−∞, 4] ⇒ 𝑦 ∈ (−∞, 4]
f) √𝑥 ∈ [0, ∞) → √𝑥 − 10 ∈ [−10, ∞)
∴ 𝑦 ∈ [−10, ∞)

63 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Combining Two Functions

Consider two functions 𝑓(𝑥) and 𝑔(𝑥):

Sums and Differences of Functions 𝒇(𝒙) ± 𝒈(𝒙)

• For a real number 𝑎 to be in the domain of 𝑓(𝑥) ± 𝑔(𝑥), 𝑎 must be in the domain of both 𝑓(𝑥) and 𝑔(𝑥). That
is, the domain of 𝑓(𝑥) ± 𝑔(𝑥) is the intersection of the domain of 𝑓(𝑥) and the domain of 𝑔(𝑥).

Product of Functions 𝒇(𝒙) × 𝒈(𝒙)

• For a real number 𝑎 to be in the domain of 𝑓(𝑥) × 𝑔(𝑥), 𝑎 must be in the domain of both 𝑓(𝑥) and 𝑔(𝑥). That
is, the domain of 𝑓(𝑥) × 𝑔(𝑥) is the intersection of the domain of 𝑓(𝑥) and the domain of 𝑔(𝑥).

𝒇(𝒙)
Quotient of Functions 𝒈(𝒙)

𝑓(𝑥)
• For a real number 𝑎 to be in the domain of 𝑔(𝑥), 𝑎 must be in the domain of both 𝑓(𝑥) and 𝑔(𝑥), and 𝒈(𝒂) ≠ 𝟎.
𝑓(𝑥)
That is, the domain of is the intersection of the domain of 𝑓(𝑥) and the domain of non-zero 𝑔(𝑥).
𝑔(𝑥)

Composite Functions 𝒇[𝒈(𝒙)]

• For a real number 𝑎 to be in the domain of 𝑓[𝑔(𝑥)], 𝑎 must be in the domain of 𝑔(𝑥), and then 𝑔(𝑎)
must be in the domain of 𝑓(𝑥).
• The range of 𝑓[𝑔(𝑥)] is the range of 𝑓(𝑥) when it is restricted to just the range of 𝑔(𝑥).

Note: It is almost always easier to read the domain and range after finding the equation first

The empty function

Let 𝑓(𝑥) = −𝑥 2 − 1 and 𝑔(𝑥) = √𝑥. Then 𝑔(𝑓(𝑥)) = √−𝑥 2 − 1.

This is a problem, because √−𝑥 2 − 1 is undefined, whatever the value of 𝑥. The range of 𝑓(𝑥) is all real numbers less than or
equal to −1, and 𝑔(𝑥) is undefined for all of these because you can’t take the square root of a negative. Thus 𝑔(𝑓(𝑥)) has
domain the empty set, and its range is therefore also the empty set. It is the empty function.

The empty function has domain the empty set, and its range is therefore also the empty set. For those interested trivialities, the
empty function is considered one-to-one.

64 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Examples

1. Find the domain and range of the following:

1
a) 𝑦 = √16 − 9𝑥 2 b) 𝑦 = √4+𝑥 2

16 − 9𝑥 2 ≥ 0 4 + 𝑥 2 > 0 ⇒ 𝑥 2 > −4
16 ≥ 9𝑥 2 ∴ 𝑥 ∈ (−∞, ∞)
2
9𝑥 ≤ 16 𝑥 2 ∈ [0, ∞) ⇒ 4 + 𝑥 2 ∈ [4, ∞)
16
𝑥2 ≤ √4 + 𝑥 2 ∈ [2, ∞)
9
4 4 3 3 1 1
− ≤ 𝑥 ≤ ⇒ 𝑥 ∈ (−∞, − ] ∪ [ , ∞) ∈ (0, ]
3 3 4 4 √4 + 𝑥 2 2
𝑥 2 ∈ [0, ∞) ⇒ −9𝑥 2 ∈ (−∞, 0] 1
𝑦 ∈ (0, ]
2
16 − 9𝑥 2 ∈ (−∞, 16]
√16 − 9𝑥 2 ∈ (0,4]
𝑦 ∈ (0, 4]

1 𝑥2
c) 𝑦 = (𝑥+1)(𝑥−1) d) 𝑦 = √𝑥 2
+1

𝑥 ∈ (−∞, ∞), 𝑥 ≠ −1, 1 𝑥 ∈ (−∞, ∞)

(𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 1) = 𝑥 2 − 1 𝑥 2 ∈ [0, ∞)
𝑥 2 − 1 ∈ [−1, ∞) √𝑥 2 + 1 ∈ [1, ∞)
1 1
∈ (−∞, ∞), 2 ≠0 𝑥2 1
𝑥2 −1 𝑥 −1 = 𝑥2 × ∈ [0, ∞)
√𝑥 2 + 1 √𝑥 2 + 1
𝑦 ∈ (−∞, ∞), 𝑦 ≠ 0
𝑦 ∈ [0, ∞)

(The lower limit of 𝑦 was obtained by

multiplying the lower limit of 𝑥 2 and the

upper limit of √𝑥 2 + 1, and vice versa for

the upper limit)

65 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
 1
2. Find the domain of 𝑔(𝑓(𝑥)) if 𝑓(𝑥) = √𝑥 − 4 and 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑥.

Domain and range of 𝑓(𝑥) is 𝑥 ∈ [4, ∞) and 𝑦 ∈ [0, ∞) respectively.

Domain and range of 𝑔(𝑥) is 𝑥 ∈ (−∞, 0) ∪ (0, ∞) and 𝑦 ∈ (−∞, 0) ∪ (0, ∞) respectively.
1
𝑔(𝑓(𝑥)) =
√𝑥 − 4
Domain is 𝑥 ∈ (4, ∞) and range is 𝑦 ∈ (0, ∞).

3. Let 𝑓(𝑥) be any function with domain 𝐷 and range 𝑅, and let 𝑧(𝑥) be the 𝑧𝑒𝑟𝑜 𝑓𝑢𝑛𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 defined by
𝑧(𝑥) = 0. What are these functions (specify the domain and range of each)? Assume 0 ∈ 𝐷.
a) 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥) + 𝑧(𝑥) b) 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥) × 𝑧(𝑥)
= 0 with domain 𝐷 and range 𝑦 ∈ {0}.
Domain of 𝑧(𝑥) is ℝ (All real 𝑥)
Range of 𝑧(𝑥) is {0} Domain of 𝑓(𝑥) × 𝑔(𝑥) is the intersection set
of 𝐷 and ℝ, which is 𝐷.
𝑓(𝑥) + 𝑧(𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑥)
Domain of 𝑓(𝑥) + 𝑔(𝑥) is the intersection set Range of 𝑓(𝑥) is {0}
of 𝐷 and ℝ, which is 𝐷.
Range of 𝑓(𝑥) + 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑅 + 0 = 𝑅

c) 𝑦 = 𝑧[𝑓(𝑥)] d) 𝑦 = 𝑓[𝑧(𝑥)]
=0 = 𝑓(0)

Let 𝑢 = 𝑓(𝑥) therefore 𝑦 = 𝑧(𝑢) Let 𝑢 = 𝑧(𝑥) therefore 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑢)

𝑥∈𝐷 𝑢∈ℝ 𝑥∈ℝ 𝑢∈𝐷
𝑢∈𝑅 𝑦 ∈ {0} 𝑢 ∈ {0} 𝑦∈𝑅

Take the intersection set of 𝑢 from both Take the intersection set of 𝑢 from both
relationships: relationships:
𝑢∈𝑅 𝑢 ∈ {0}
∴𝑥∈𝐷 ∴𝑥∈ℝ
The range 𝑦 is the new range after 𝑢 has The range 𝑦 is the new range after 𝑢 has
been restricted to 𝑅, which is still {0} been restricted to 𝑅, which is still {𝑓(0)}

66 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
Examination Style Questions (to be completed prior to assessment tasks)

1. (HSC Adv 2021 Q8) The graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥) is shown.

Which of the following could be the equation of this graph?

A. 𝑦 = (1 − 𝑥)(2 + 𝑥)3
B. 𝑦 = (𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 2)3
C. 𝑦 = (𝑥 + 1)(2 − 𝑥)3
D. 𝑦 = (𝑥 − 1)(2 + 𝑥)3

2
2. For rational numbers 𝑥 and 𝑦, (√𝑥 + √𝑦) = 𝑥 + 𝑦 + 2√𝑥𝑦, write √16 + 2√55 in the form √𝑥 + √𝑦.
2

Let √𝑥 + √𝑦 = √16 + 2√55

𝑥 + 𝑦 + 2√𝑥𝑦 = 16 + 2√55
𝑥 + 𝑦 = 16 − Eqn 1
55
𝑥𝑦 = 55 → 𝑦 = − Eqn 2
𝑥
55
sub 𝑦 = into Eqn 1
𝑥
55
𝑥+ = 16
𝑥
𝑥 2 − 16𝑥 + 55 = 0
(𝑥 − 11)(𝑥 − 5) = 0
∴ 𝑥 = 11 or 5
When 𝑥 = 11, 𝑦 = 5
When 𝑥 = 5, 𝑦 = 11

∴ √16 + 2√55 = √11 + √5

67 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
 1
3. (HSC Adv 2021 Q19) Without using calculus, sketch the graph of 𝑦 = 2 + 𝑥+4, showing the asymptotes

and the 𝑥 and 𝑦 intercepts. 3

4. (HSC Adv 2020 Q24) The circle 𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 + 𝑦 2 + 4𝑦 − 3 = 0 is reflected in the 𝑥-axis. 3

Sketch the reflected circle, showing the coordinates of the centre and the radius.
(𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 + 9) + (𝑦 2 + 4𝑦 + 4) = 3 + 9 + 4
(𝑥 − 3)2 + (𝑦 + 2)2 = 16
Therefore, the circle has centre (3, −2) and radius 4.
The reflected circle will have centre (3,2) and radius 4.

68 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng
5. There are two tanks on a property, Tank 𝐴 and Tank 𝐵. Initially, Tank 𝐴 holds 1000 litres of water and
Tank 𝐵 is empty.
a) Tank 𝐴 begins to lose water at a constant rate of 20 litres per minute. The volume of water in Tank
𝐴 is modelled by 𝑉 = 1000 − 20𝑡 where 𝑉 is the volume in litres and 𝑡 is the time in minutes from
when the tank begins to lose water. On the grid below, draw the graph of this model and label it as
Tank 𝐴. 1

b) tank 𝐵 remains empty until 𝑡 = 15 when water is

added to it at a constant rate of 30 litres per Tank A Tank B
minute. By drawing a line on the grid on the
previous page, or otherwise, find the value of 𝑡
when the two tanks contain the same volume of
water. 2
c) Using the graphs drawn, or otherwise, find the
value of 𝑡 (where 𝑡 > 0) when the total volume of
water in the two tanks is 1000 litres. 1

b) From graph: 𝑡 ≈ 29
Algebraically: Solve 1000 − 20𝑡 = (𝑡 − 15) × 30
1000 − 20𝑡 = 30𝑡 − 450
50𝑡 = 1450
𝑡 = 29

c) From Graph: 𝑡 = 45, Tank A has 100 litres and Tank B has 900 litres.
Algebraically: Solve 1000 − 20𝑡 + 30𝑡 − 450 = 1000
10𝑡 = 450
𝑡 = 45.

69 | P a g e Notes by Garry Ng