Function Input and Output

Lesson 2.1
 The Magic Box
Consider a box that 14
3
receives numbers in
the top
And alters them
somehow and sends
a (usually) different -33
number out the spout 1
Today we look at the
mathematical way of
For each of the number
combinations, can you figure
talking about the
out the "rule" which alters the
"rule"
number?
2
 The Magic Box
Consider a box that
receives numbers in
the top
And alters them
somehow and sends
a (usually) different
number out the spout

3
 Output Values
Input Value

Output Value
Evaluating the Function
f(x)

Substitute the input value for

Output value
every instance of the independent
variable in the function

x 5
h( x )  2
x 1
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 Evaluating a Function
x 5
Given h( x )  2
x 1

Determine the value of the function h

when x = 2 h(2) = ? 2  5 3
h(2)    1
2 1
2
3
Determine h(-4) 4  5 9
h(4)  
(4)  1 15
2

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 Evaluating a Function
Calculator can evaluate functions

Also possible to evaluate for symbolic

values of the independent variable

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 Finding Input Values
Independent Variable

Consider the function

as a box with a funnel
and spout …
x 5 h(x)
h( x )  2
x 1
Dependent variable

What if we knew what was coming

out and wished to know what went in that
gave that result h( x)  3
x  ??
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 Finding Input Values
Try using the “solve ( )” command on your
calculator

Press Diamond,
Enter to force
decimal answer

8
 Finding Input Values
Given g(x) = x2 – 2x + 4
g(x) = 12 x=?
Create an equation using the formula and
the output
12 = x2 – 2x + 4
Solve for all possible values of x which
make that statement true 0  x 2  2 x  8
0  ( x  4)  ( x  2)
x  4 or x  2 9
 Possible Solution Strategies
Algebraic
– factor the quadratics
Look at tables of values
Graph the function
– create a horizontal line (i.e. at y = 4.4)
– note the intersection

Use the solve command on the calculator

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 For You to Try
Try together in class on page 64
– Ex 8, 9
Assignment
– Page 66
– Exercises 3, 5, 10, 13, 15, 19, 25,
29, 31, 35, 37

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