MAT406

CHAPTER 2: FUNCTIONS
2.2 Composite Functions

2.2 COMPOSITE FUNCTIONS

Definition: Consider two functions f(x) and g(x). We define (𝑔 ∘ 𝑓)(𝑥) = 𝑔𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑔[𝑓(𝑥)], read
as the composite function of g and f.

Note:

• (𝑓 ∘ 𝑔)(𝑥) ≠ (𝑓 ⋅ 𝑔)(𝑥)
• (𝑓 ∘ 𝑔)(𝑥) ≠ (𝑔 ∘ 𝑓)(𝑥)
• 𝑓 2 (𝑥) = 𝑓𝑓(𝑥), 𝑓 3 (𝑥) = 𝑓𝑓𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑓 2 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑓𝑓 2 (𝑥)

Example: Find gf(x) and fg(x). Hence, evaluate gf(4) and fg(1/3).
1. Given 𝑓(𝑥) = 5𝑥 and 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑥 + 3.
 MAT406
CHAPTER 2: FUNCTIONS
2.2 Composite Functions

2. If 𝑓(𝑥) = 5𝑥 − 1 and 𝑔(𝑥) = 2𝑥 + 3.

3. Given 𝑓(𝑥) = 3𝑥 2 and 𝑔(𝑥) = 3𝑥 − 4.
5
4. Given 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 and 𝑔(𝑥) = 1 − 2𝑥.

6. Function f and g are defined as 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 + 2 and 𝑔(𝑥) = 3𝑥 − 4 respectively. Find

a) 𝑓 2 (𝑥), 𝑓 2 (2)

b) 𝑔2 (𝑥), 𝑔2 (3)
 MAT406
CHAPTER 2: FUNCTIONS
2.2 Composite Functions

Exercise: