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Inverting Rational Functions

Age 16 to 18
Challenge Level Yellow starYellow star
  • Problem
  • Student Solutions
In this problem use the definition that a rational function is defined to be any function which can be written as the ratio of two polynomial functions.

Consider these two rational functions

$$
f(x)=\frac{2x+9}{x+2}\quad\quad g(x)=\frac{9-2x}{x-2}
$$
Show that they are inverses of each other, in that
$$
g(f(x))=f(g(x))=x
$$
What happens for the values $x=\pm 2$?

Can you invert the rational function

$$
h(x)=\frac{x-7}{2x+1}
$$

Do rational functions always have inverse functions? Why?

In the examples given here, the inverses of our rational functions were also rational functions. Will this be the case more generally? Why not explore more generally or try to find inverse pairs of rational functions?

As you consider these rational functions, many questions might emerge in your mind such as: "do rational functions have fixed points?" or "Is there a relationship between the asymptotes in a function and the zeroes of its inverse?". Why not make a note of these questions and ask your teacher, yourself or your friends to try to solve them?





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The NRICH Project aims to enrich the mathematical experiences of all learners. To support this aim, members of the NRICH team work in a wide range of capacities, including providing professional development for teachers wishing to embed rich mathematical tasks into everyday classroom practice.

NRICH is part of the family of activities in the Millennium Mathematics Project.

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