INVERSES

A function is a rule, which uniquely associates elements of one set (A) with the elements of
another set (B). Each element in set (A) maps to only one element in set (B).
Functions can be one-to-one relations or many-to-one relations. For a one to one function, for
every value of 𝑥 i.e. independent (input) variable, there is one value for 𝑦 the dependent
(output) variable. A many-to-one relation associates two or more values of the independent
(input) variable with a single value of the dependent (output) variable.
However not all relations are functions and hence the vertical and horizontal tests can be used
to determine if a graph or a relation is a function or not and what type of function it is.

Vertical Line Test

We use a ruler to perform the “vertical line test” on a graph to see whether it is a function or
not. Hold a clear plastic ruler parallel to the 𝑦-axis, i.e. vertically. Move it from left to right over
the axes. If the ruler only ever cuts the curve or graph in one place only throughout the
movement from left to right, then the graph is a function. If the ruler ever passes through two
or more points on the graph, the graph will not be a function but a relation.

1
When the vertical line cuts the graph once the graph is a function. When it cuts twice then the
graph is not a function.

Horizontal Line Test

Once you have confirmed that a graph or curve is a function, you can find out what type of
function it is by using the horizontal test. Hold a clear plastic ruler parallel to the 𝑥-axis, i.e.
horizontally. Move it from up to down over the axes. If the ruler only ever cuts the curve or
graph in one place only throughout the movement from up to down, then the graph is a one-to-
one function. If it cuts twice then it is a many to-one function.

Inverse of a graph
An inverse of a function is a mapping of all the output values to the input values. The inverse of
a function has all the same points as the original function, except that the 𝑥′𝑠 and 𝑦′𝑠 have
been reversed.
The inverse of a function may not be a function. It is a reflection about the line 𝑦 = 𝑥. A
function must be a one-to-one relation if its inverse is to be a function. A function 𝑓(𝑥) has
an inverse function 𝑓 −1 (𝑥), then 𝑓(𝑥) is said to be invertible.

Given the function 𝑓(𝑥), we determine the inverse 𝑓 −1 (𝑥) by:

 interchanging 𝑥 and 𝑦 in the equation;
 making 𝑦 the subject of the equation;
 expressing the new equation in function notation.

Inverse graphs exist for the straight line, parabola and exponential graphs as summarized
below:

Inverse graph for straight line

Function: 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑞

2
 𝑥 𝑞
Inverse: 𝑦 = 𝑎 − 𝑎

The inverse of a straight line graph is a function.

Inverse graph for parabola

Function: 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 2
𝑥
Inverse: 𝑦 = ±√𝑎

The inverse of a parabola is NOT a function

3
Inverse graph of an exponential graph
Function: 𝑦 = 𝑎 𝑥
Inverse : 𝑦 = 𝑙𝑜𝑔𝑎 𝑥
The inverse of an exponential graph is a function

Restricting the domain of a parabola

As noted above the inverse of a parabola is not a function. However, we can limit the domain
of the parabola so that the inverse of the parabola is a function.

4
Consider the graph example ℎ(𝑥 ) = 𝑥 2
1. If we restrict the domain of ℎ so that 𝑥 ≥ 0, then the inverse passes the vertical line
test and is a function.

2. In the graph of 𝑞 (𝑥) = 7𝑥 2 ,if we restrict the domain of 𝑞 to 𝑥 ≤ 0 then the inverse
would also be a function.

The domain of the function is equal to the range of the inverse. The range of the function is
equal to the domain of the inverse. Similarly, a restriction on the domain of the function
results in a restriction on the range of the inverse and vice versa.

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6
PAST EXAM PAPERS PRACTISE QUESTIONS
2010 November Paper 1 Q 6
The graph of 𝑓(𝑥 ) = 𝑎𝑥 2 , 𝑥 ≤ 0 is sketched below. The point P (−6 ; −8) lies on the graph
of 𝑓.

6.1 Calculate the value of 𝑎. (2)

6.2 Determine the equation of 𝑓 −1 (𝑥), in the form 𝑦 =.… (3)
6.3 Write down the range of 𝑓 −1 . (1)
6.4 Draw the graph of 𝑓 −1 on your ANSWER BOOK. Indicate the coordinates of a point on the
graph different from (0; 0). (2)
6.5 The graph of 𝑓 is reflected across the line 𝑦 = 𝑥 and thereafter it is reflected across
the 𝑥-axis. Determine the equation of the new function in the form 𝑦 …. (3)

2015 Gauteng June Paper 1 Q 5

9
The graph of 𝑓(𝑥 ) = 𝑎 𝑥 where 𝑎 > 1 is shown below. T (2; 4 ) is a point on the graph of 𝑓.

7
5.1 Calculate the value of 𝑎. (2)
5.2 If 𝑔(𝑥 ) = 𝑓(−𝑥) determine the equation of 𝑔. (1)
5.3 Write down the equation of 𝑓 −1 . (2)
5.4 Determine the values of 𝑥 for which 𝑓 −1 (𝑥) ≥ 2. (2)
5.5 Is the inverse of 𝑓 a function? Explain your answer. (2)

2011 March Paper 1 Q 7

1 𝑥
Consider the function: 𝑓 (𝑥 ) = (3)

7.1 Is 𝑓 an increasing or decreasing function? Give a reason for your answer. (2)
7.2 Determine 𝑓 −1 (𝑥) in the form 𝑦 = … (2)
7.3 Write down the equation of the asymptote of 𝑓(𝑥 ) − 5 . (1)
7.4 Describe the transformation from 𝑓 to g if 𝑔(𝑥 ) = 𝑙𝑜𝑔3 𝑥. (2)

2013 November Paper 1 Q 5

5.1 Sketched below are the graphs of 𝑔(𝑥 ) = 𝑘 𝑥 , where 𝑘 > 0 and 𝑦 = 𝑔−1 (𝑥).
(2; 36) is a point on 𝑔.

5.1.1 Determine the value of 𝑘. (2)

5.1.2 Give the equation of 𝑔 −1 (𝑥) in the form 𝑦 = …. (2)
5.1.3 For which value(s) of 𝑥 is 𝑔−1 (𝑥) ≤ 0 . (2)

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5.1.4 Write down the domain of ℎ if ℎ(𝑥 ) = 𝑔−1 (𝑥 − 3). (1)
5.2.1 Sketch the graph of the inverse of 𝑦 = 1 . (2)
5.2.2 Is the inverse of 𝑦 = 1 a function? Motivate your answer. (2)

2015 November Paper 1 Q 5

Given ℎ(𝑥 ) = 2𝑥 − 3 for −2 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 4. The 𝑥 intercept of ℎ is Q.

5.1 Determine the coordinated of Q. (2)

5.2 Write down the domain of ℎ−1 . (3)

5.3 Sketch the graph of ℎ−1 in your ANSWER BOOK, clearly indicating the 𝑦-intercept

and the end points. (3)

5.4 For which value(s) of 𝑥 will ℎ(𝑥 ) = ℎ−1 (𝑥 ). (3)

5.5 P(𝑥 ; 𝑦) is the point on the graph of ℎ that is closest to the origin. Calculate the

distance of OP. (5)

5.6 Given ℎ(𝑥 ) = 𝑓 ′ (𝑥 ) where 𝑓 is a function defined for −2 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 4.

5.6.1 Explain why 𝑓 has a local minimum. (2)

5.6.2 Write down the value of the maximum gradient of the tangent to the graph of 𝑓. (1)

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2013 March Paper 1 Q 4
1 𝑥
The graph of 𝑓(𝑥 ) = (3) is sketched below.

4.1 Write down the domain of 𝑓 . (1)

4.2Write down the equation of the asymptote of 𝑓. (1)

4.3 Write down the equation of 𝑓 −1 in the form 𝑦 = ….. (2)

4.4 Sketch the graph of 𝑓 −1 in your ANSWER BOOK. Indicate the 𝑥-intercept and

ONE other point. (3)

4.5 Write down the equation of the asymptote 𝑓 −1 (𝑥 + 2). (2)

4.6 Prove that:

[𝑓(𝑥 )]2 − [𝑓(−𝑥 )]2 = 𝑓(2𝑥 ) − 𝑓(−2𝑥) for all values of 𝑥. (3)

2014 March Paper 1 Q 8

1
Given the graph of 𝑔(𝑥 ) = 𝑙𝑜𝑔 1 𝑥 . A is the 𝑥-intercept of 𝑔 . P ( 9 ; 2) is a point on 𝑔.
3

10
8.1 Write down the coordinates of A. (1)
8.2 Sketch the graph of 𝑔−1 indicating an intercept with the axes and ONE other point
on the graph. (3)
8.3 Write down the domain of 𝑔−1 . (1)

2015 Western Cape Preliminary Paper 1 Q 6

The graph of 𝑓(𝑥 ) = 3𝑥 is sketched below .

6.1.1 Give the coordinates of A. (1)

6.1.2 Write the equation of 𝑓 −1 in the form 𝑦 =… (1)

6.1.3 For which value(s) of 𝑥 will 𝑓 −1 ≤ 0. (2)

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6.1.4 Write down the equation of the asymptote of 𝑓 (𝑥 − 1). (1)

6.2 Sketched is the graph of 𝑓, the inverse of a restricted parabola. The point A (8; 2) lies
on the graph of 𝑓.

6.2.1 Determine the equation of 𝑓 in the form 𝑦 = ⋯ (2)

6.2.2 Hence, write down the equation of 𝑓 −1 in the form 𝑦 =… (2)

6.2.3 Give the coordinates of the turning point of 𝑔(𝑥 ) = 𝑓 −1 ( 𝑥 + 3) − 1 . (1)

2014 Exemplar Paper 1 Q 6

The graph of 𝑔 is defined by the equation 𝑔(𝑥) = √𝑎𝑥 . The point (8; 4) lies on 𝑔.
6.1 Calculate the value of 𝑎. (2)
6.2 If 𝑔(𝑥) > 0, for what values of 𝑥 will 𝑔 be defined? (1)
6.3 Determine the range of 𝑔. (1)
6.4 Write down the equation of 𝑔−1 , the inverse of 𝑔, in the form 𝑦 =... (2)
6.5 If ℎ(𝑥 ) = 𝑥 − 4 is drawn, determine ALGEBRAICALLY the point(s) of
intersection of ℎ and 𝑔. (4)

6.6 Hence, or otherwise, determine the values of 𝑥 for which 𝑔(𝑥 ) > ℎ(𝑥) (2)

2016 Eastern Cape June Paper 1 Q 5.1.1 – Q 5.1.4

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5.1 The graph of 𝑓 (𝑥 ) = 𝑎 𝑥 where 𝑎 > 0 and 𝑎 ≠ 1 passes through the point ( 3 ; ).
8

12
Use the sketch and the given information to answer the following questions.
5.1.1 Determine the value of 𝑎. (2)
5.1.2 Write down the equation of 𝑓 −1 in the form 𝑦 =… (2)
5.1.3 Determine the value(s) of 𝑥 for which 𝑓 −1 (𝑥) = 1. (2)
5.1.4 If ℎ(𝑥 ) = 𝑓(𝑥 − 5) write down the domain of ℎ. (1)

2012 March Paper 1 Q 6

Given 𝑓 (𝑥 ) = 3𝑥 .
6.1 Determine an equation for 𝑓 −1 in the form 𝑓 −1 (𝑥 ) = ⋯. (1)
6.2 Sketch, in your ANSWER BOOK, the graphs of 𝑓 and 𝑓 −1 , showing clearly ALL
intercepts with the axes. (4)
6.3 Write down the domain of 𝑓 −1 . (2)
6.4 For which values of 𝑥 will 𝑓 (𝑥 ). 𝑓 −1 (𝑥 ) ≤ 0? (2)
6.5 Write down the range of ℎ(𝑥 ) = 3−𝑥 − 4. (2)
6.6 Write down an equation for 𝑔 if the graph of 𝑔 is the image of the graph of 𝑓 after
𝑓 has been translated two units to the right and reflected about the 𝑥-axis. (2)

2017 Johannesburg South Cluster June Paper 1 Q 5

5.1 Study the diagram which shows the sketch graphs of 𝑣(𝑥 ) = ±√𝑥 and 𝑤(𝑥 ) = 𝑙𝑜𝑔𝑥
then answer the questions that follow.

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5.1.1 State whether 𝑣(𝑥 ) is a function or not, motivate your answer. (2)
5.1.2 Write down a condition that will make 𝑣 a function. (2)
5.1.3 Determine all values of :
5.1.3.1 𝑦 for which 𝑤(𝑥 ) < 0. (1)
7
5.1.3.2 𝑥 for which 𝑤 (𝑥 ) ≤ − 10. (2)

5.1.4 If a function 𝑣 (𝑥 ) is as determined in 5.1.2, write down the equation(s) of

𝑣 −1 (𝑥 ). (3)
5.1.5 If ℎ(𝑥 ) = 𝑤 (𝑥 ) − √𝑥 where the range of √𝑥 is ( 0; ∞). Calculate the range of
ℎ (𝑥 ). (1)

2016 Eastern Cape Preliminary Paper 1 Q 7.2

Given: 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑙𝑜𝑔 1 𝑥.
2

7.2.1 Write down the equation of 𝑓 −1 the inverse of 𝑓 in the form 𝑦 =… (2)
7.2.2 Draw a neat sketch graph of 𝑓 −1 . Clearly show all intercepts with the axes
and any other point on the graph. (3)
7.2.3 Write down the equation of the function 𝑔 if 𝑔 is the mirror image of 𝑓 −1
in the 𝑦-axis. (2)
7.2.4 For which value(s) of 𝑥 is: 𝑓 (𝑥 ). 𝑓 −1 (𝑥 ) < 0? (2)

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2009 March Paper 1 Q 7
1
The graph of ℎ(𝑥 ) = 𝑎 𝑥 is sketched below. A ( −1 ; ).
2

7.1 Explain why the coordinates of Q are (0; 1). (2)

7.2 Calculate the value of 𝑎. (2)
7.3 Write down the equation for the inverse function, in the form 𝑦 = ⋯ (2)
7.4 Draw a sketch graph, of ℎ−1 . Indicate on this graph the coordinates of two points
that lie on this graph. (3)
7.5 Read off from your graph the values of 𝑥 for which 𝑙𝑜𝑔2 𝑥 > −1. (2)
7.6 If 𝑔(𝑥) = (100). 3𝑥 determine the value of 𝑥 for which ℎ(𝑥 ) = 𝑔(𝑥). (3)

2016 March Paper 1 Q 6

1
Given 𝑓(𝑥 ) = 𝑥 2 ; 𝑥 ≤ 0.
4

6.1 Determine the equation of 𝑓 −1 in the form 𝑓 −1 (𝑥 ) = ⋯ (3)

6.2 On the same system of axes, sketch the graphs of 𝑓 and 𝑓 −1 . Indicate clearly the
intercept with the axes, as well as another point on the graph of each of 𝑓 and 𝑓 −1 . (3)
6.3 Is 𝑓 −1 a function? Give a reason for your answer. (2)

15
2012 November Paper 1 Q 5
The graph of 𝑓(𝑥 ) = −√27𝑥 for 𝑥 ≥ 0 is sketched below. The point P ( 3 ; −9) lies on the
graph of 𝑓.

5.1 Use your graph to determine the values of 𝑥 for which 𝑓 (𝑥 ) ≥ −9. (2)
5.2 Write down the equation of 𝑓 −1 in the form 𝑦 =... Include ALL restrictions. (3)
5.3 Sketch 𝑓 −1 , the inverse of 𝑓, in your ANSWER BOOK. . Indicate the intercept(s)
with the axes and the coordinates of ONE other point. (3)
5.4 Describe the transformation from 𝑓 to 𝑔 if 𝑔(𝑥 ) = √27𝑥 where 𝑥 ≥ 0. (1)

2017 Senior Certificate Paper 1 Q 6

In the sketch below, P is the 𝑦-intercept of the graph of 𝑓(𝑥 ) = 𝑏 𝑥 . T is the 𝑥-intercept of the
graph of 𝑔 , the inverse of 𝑓 . R is the point of intersection of 𝑓 and 𝑔. Straight lines are drawn
through O and R and through P and T.

16
6.1 Determine the equation of 𝑔 ( in terms of 𝑏) in the form 𝑦 =… (2)
6.2 Write down the equation of the line passing through O and R. (1)
6.3 Write down the coordinates of point P. (1)
6.4 Determine the equation of the line passing through P and T. (2)
6.5 Calculate the value of 𝑏. (5)

2014 November Paper 1 Q 5

1
Given: 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑙𝑜𝑔 𝑎 𝑥 where 𝑎 > 0. S (3 ; −1 ) is a point on the graph of 𝑓.

17
5.1 Prove that 𝑎 = 3. (2)
5.2 Write down the equation of ℎ, the inverse of 𝑓, in the form 𝑦 =… (2)
5.3 If 𝑔(𝑥 ) = −𝑓(𝑥), determine the equation of 𝑔. (1)
5.4 Write down the domain of 𝑔. (1)
5.5 Determine the values of 𝑥 for which 𝑓(𝑥 ) ≥ −3. (3)

2009 November Paper 1 Q 8

Sketched below is the graph of 𝑓 (𝑥 ) = −𝑙𝑜𝑔 2 𝑥.

8.1 Write down the domain of 𝑓. (1)

8.2 Write down the equation of 𝑓 −1 , in the form 𝑦 = … (1)
8.3 Write down the equation of the asymptote of 𝑓 −1 . (1)
8.4 Explain how, using the graph of f, you would sketch the graphs of :
8.4.1 𝑔(𝑥 ) = 𝑙𝑜𝑔2 𝑥. (1)
8.4.2 ℎ(𝑥 ) = 2𝑥 − 5. (3)
8.5 Use the graph of 𝑓 to solve for 𝑥 where 𝑙𝑜𝑔2 𝑥 < 3. (3)

2015 Gauteng Preliminary Paper 1 Q 9

The graph shows the graph of 𝑔(𝑥 ) = 𝑙𝑜𝑔𝑎 𝑥, where 𝑎 is a positive real number. The graph
9
passes through (4 ; −2 ) .

18
9.1 Calculate the value of 𝑎. (3)
9.2 Determine the equation of the function ℎ, the reflection of 𝑔 in the 𝑥-axis. (1)
9
9.3 Use the graph to determine the values of 𝑔(𝑥) for which 𝑥 < . (1)
4

9.4 Write down the domain of 𝑔−1 . (1)

2015 Kwazulu Natal Preliminary Paper 1 Q 8

Given 𝑝(𝑥) = 𝑙𝑜𝑔3 𝑥.
8.1 Write down the equation of 𝑝−1 , the inverse of 𝑝, in the form 𝑦 = … (2)
8.2 Sketch in your ANSWER BOOK the graphs of 𝑝 and 𝑝−1 on the same system of axes.
Show clearly all intercepts with the axes and at least one other point on each graph. (4)
8.3 Determine the values of 𝑥 for which 𝑝(𝑥 ) ≤ 2. (2)
8.4 Write down the 𝑥-intercept of ℎ if ℎ(𝑥 ) = 𝑝(−𝑥 ). (2)

2015 Mpumalanga Preliminary Paper 1 Q 5

−8
Sketched below are the graphs of: 𝑔(𝑥 ) = 𝑎 𝑥 and 𝑓 (𝑥 ) = , 𝑥 < 0.
𝑥

P is the reflection of the point Q (4; −2) about the line 𝑦 = 𝑥.

19
5.1 Write down the coordinates of P. (2)
5.2 Write down the coordinates of A. (1)
5.3 Calculate the value of 𝑎. (2)
5.4 Determine the equation of 𝑔−1 (𝑥) in the form 𝑦 = …. (2)
5.5 For which values of 𝑥 will 𝑓 (𝑥 ) > 𝑔(𝑥 )? (2)
5.6 Write down the domain of 𝑘 if 𝑘(𝑥 ) = 𝑓 (𝑥 − 2). (1)

2016 Gauteng Preliminary Paper 1 Q 5

9
Given 𝑓 (𝑥 ) = 𝑎 𝑥 with 𝑎 > 0, and point Q (−2; 1 16 ) lies on the graph of 𝑓.
4
5.1 Show that the value of 𝑎 = 5. (2)

5.2 Write down the equation of 𝑓 −1 ,the inverse graph of 𝑓.Leave your answer in the
form 𝑦 =…. (2)
5.3 Sketch the graphs of 𝑓 and 𝑓 −1 on the axes provided on the ANSWER SHEET. (3)
5.4 For which values of 𝑥 is 𝑓 (𝑥) < 1? (1)
5.5 Write down the equation of ℎ if ℎ is a reflection of 𝑓 about the 𝑥-axis. (1)
5.6 Write down the equation of a line that 𝑓 has to be reflected about in order to obtain
the graph of 𝑓 −1 . (1)
5.7 Determine the range of the graph of 𝑓(𝑥 ) − 1. (1)

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2016 Gauteng Preliminary Paper 1 Q 6
The graph of ℎ is sketched below, with 𝑥 ≥ 0.

6.1 Determine the equation of ℎ. (3)

6.2 Determine the 𝑥-coordinate of point T if the equation of ℎ(𝑥 ) = 4𝑥 2 . (2)
3
6.3 Calculate the average gradient of ST if the coordinates of point are T ( 2 ; −9 ). (2)

6.4 Determine the equation of ℎ−1 in the form 𝑦 = …. (4)

6.5 Sketch the graph of ℎ−1 on the axes provided on the ANSWER SHEET.
Clearly indicate the axis of symmetry of ℎ and ℎ−1 . (3)

2017 Gauteng Preliminary Paper 1 Q 5.2

4 𝑥
The diagram below shows the graphs of 𝑔; ℎ and 𝑓(𝑥) = (3) .

21
5.2.1 Write down the equation of 𝑔 if 𝑔(𝑥 ) = 𝑓 −1 (𝑥 ). (2)
5.2.2 Write down the equation of ℎ, the reflection of 𝑓 in the 𝑦-axis. (2)
5.2.3 Determine, with the aid of the sketch above, the 𝑥-value(s) for which:
a) 𝑓 (𝑥 ) − ℎ(𝑥 ) = 0. (1)
b) 𝑙𝑜𝑔 4 𝑥 ≤ 0. (2)
3

2017 Eastern Cape Preliminary Paper 1 Q 6

Given ℎ(𝑥 ) = 2−𝑥 .
6.1 Draw a neat sketch of ℎ . (3)
6.2 Determine the equation of 𝑞, the graph obtained by reflecting ℎ in the line 𝑦 = 0. (1)

6.3 Write down the equation of ℎ−1 , the inverse of ℎ, in the form 𝑦 = … (2)
6.4 Write down the range of ℎ. (1)
6.5 Sketch the graph of ℎ−1 on the same set of axes as ℎ . (2)
6.6 Determine the 𝑥-value(s) for which ℎ−1 ≥ −3. (2)

2018 Eastern Cape June Paper 1 Q 5

The diagram represents a sketch graph of the function,𝑓(𝑥 ) = 𝑙𝑜𝑔3 𝑥, with P (𝑘; −2) a point
on the curve.

22
5.1 Determine the equation of 𝑓 −1 in the form 𝑓 −1 (𝑥 ) =… (2)
5.2 Explain how you would use the graph of 𝑓 to sketch the graph of 𝑓 −1 . (2)
5.3 Find the value of 𝑘. (2)
5.4 Hence, or otherwise, solve for 𝑥, if 𝑙𝑜𝑔3 𝑥 < −2. (2)
5.5 For which value(s) of 𝑥, will 𝑓 (𝑥 ). 𝑓 ′ (𝑥 ) ≥ 0 ? (2)

2018 Senior Certificate Paper 1 Q 4

16
The graph of 𝑓(𝑥 ) = 𝑙𝑜𝑔4 𝑥 is drawn below. B ( ; 𝑝 ) is a point on 𝑓.
3 9

4.1 For which value(s) of 𝑥 is 𝑙𝑜𝑔 4 𝑥 ≤ 0? (2)

3

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4.2 Determine the value of 𝑝, without use of a calculator. (3)
4.3 Write down the equation of the inverse of 𝑓 in the form 𝑦 = … (2)
4.4 Write down the range of 𝑦 = 𝑓 −1 (𝑥 ). (2)
3 𝑥
4.5 The function ℎ(𝑥 ) = (4) is obtained after applying two reflection on 𝑓. Write down

the coordinates of B′′, the image of B on ℎ. (2)

2018 Winelands Preliminary Paper 1 Q 5

The graph of 𝑔(𝑥 ) = 𝑙𝑜𝑔2 𝑥 is given below. A is the point of intersection of 𝑔 with the 𝑥-axis.

5.1 Write down the coordinates of A. (2)

5.2 Determine the equation of 𝑔−1 in the form 𝑦 = .... (2)
5.3 Sketch the graph of 𝑝(𝑥 ) = −𝑔(𝑥). Clearly indicate all intercept(s) with the axes as
well as the coordinates of any other point on the graph. (2)
5.4 Use the graph to determine for which value(s) of 𝑥 will 𝑙𝑜𝑔 1 𝑥 ≥ 0. (2)
2

2018 North West Preliminary Paper 1 Q 6

1
The diagram below shows the curves of 𝑓 (𝑥 ) = 4 𝑥 2 , where 𝑥 ≥ −2 and 𝑔(𝑥 ) = 𝑎 𝑥 ,

where 𝑎 > 0. The point A (−1; 3) lies on the graph of 𝑔.

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 1 𝑥
6.1 Show that 𝑔(𝑥 ) = (3) . (1)

6.2 For which value(s) of 𝑥 is the graph of 𝑓 strictly decreasing? (2)

6.3 Determine the inverse of 𝑓 in the form 𝑦 =…. (2)
6.4 Sketch the graph of 𝑓 −1 in your ANSWER BOOK. (2)
6.5 Write down the range of 𝑓 −1 . (2)
6.6 Determine the inverse of 𝑔 in the form 𝑦 =… (2)
6.7 For which values of 𝑥 will 𝑔−1 (𝑥) ≥ −1 ? (2)

2018 Free State Preliminary Paper 1 Q 6

Given: 𝑓(𝑥 ) = 3−𝑥 .
6.1.1 Write down the equation of 𝑓 −1 (𝑥), the inverse of 𝑓(𝑥 ), in the form 𝑓 −1 (𝑥 ) =…. (2)
6.2 On the same axes, sketch the graphs of 𝑓(𝑥) and 𝑓 −1 (𝑥) in your ANSWER BOOK.
Clearly indicate the intercepts with the axes and one other point on the graphs and
label the TWO graphs. (4)
6.3 A linear function satisfies the following conditions 𝑝(−3) = 10 and 𝑝′ (𝑥 ) = −2.
Determine the inverse of 𝑝 in the form 𝑝−1 (𝑥 ) =…. (4)

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2018 Eastern Cape Preliminary Paper 1 Q 4
The diagram below shows the graph of 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑘 𝑥 ; where 𝑘 > 0 and (2; 36) is a point on 𝑔.

4.1 Determine the value of 𝑘. (2)

4.2 Determine the equation of 𝑔−1 (𝑥) in the form 𝑦 = … (2)
4.3 For which values of 𝑥 is 𝑔−1 (𝑥 ) ≤ 0 ? (2)
4.4 Write down the range of ℎ if ℎ(𝑥 ) = 𝑔(𝑥 − 3) + 2 . (2)

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