2 Functions

2.1 Revision EMCF6

In previous grades we learned about the characteristics of linear, quadratic, hyperbolic
and exponential functions. In this chapter we will demonstrate the ability to work with
various types of functions and relations including inverses. In particular, we will look
at the graphs of the inverses of:
Linear functions: y = mx + c or y = ax + q
Quadratic functions: y = ax
2
Exponential functions: y = b
x
(b > 0, b = 1)
Worked example 1: Linear function
QUESTION
Draw a graph of 2y + x 8 = 0 and determine the signicant characteristics of this
linear function.
SOLUTION
Step 1: Write the equation in standard form y = mx + c
2y + x 8 = 0
2y = x + 8
y =
1
2
x + 4
m =
1
2
And c = 4
Step 2: Draw the straight line graph
To draw the straight line graph we can use the gradient-intercept method:
y intercept : (0; 4)
m =
1
2
48 2.1. Revision