Functions

Function
When two quantities x and y are related so that for some range of values of x the value of y is
determined by that of x, we can say that y is a function of x.
𝑦 = 1 − 𝑥2
The value of y as a function of x.
Input Output Equation
Domain Range
Independent Variable Dependent Variable
x y=f(x) 𝑓(𝑥) = 1 − 𝑥 2

NOTE: “f” is a function name.

The symbol f(x) is read as the value of f at x or simply f of x
Function Notation
Although f is often used as a convenient function name and is often used as the independent
variable, you can use other letters.

Input Output Equation

Domain Range
Independent Variable Dependent Variable
x y=f(x) 𝑓(𝑥) = 1 − 𝑥 2
t y=f(t) 𝑓(𝑡) = 1 − 𝑡 2
s y=g(s) 𝑔(𝑠) = 1 − 𝑠 2
Examples:
evaluate the function at each specified value of the independent variable and simplify.
Parent Functions
The eight graphs shown represent the most commonly used functions in algebra.
Parent Functions
The eight graphs shown represent the most commonly used functions in algebra.
Piecewise-Defined Function
A function defined by two or more equations over a specified domain
evaluate the function at each specified value of the independent variable and simplify
Example
graph the ff function
Classification of Functions
Functions

Algebraic Transcendental
Rational Irrational Elementary Higher

Trigonometric
Exponential and
Integral Fractional and Inverse
Logarithmic
Trigonometric
One-valued and Many-valued Functions
Single-valued function or • When the relation y=f(x) is such that there is only one value of y
for each admissible x, then f(x) is said to be one valued function
one valued function of x of x.

• It is then possible to group the values of y so as to form n distinct

Many-valued function one-valued function, called the branches

We shall restrict ourselves to the study of one-valued functions except when the contrary is specifically
stated. The word “function” is to denote a one-valued function without constant reiteration of its single
valued character.
Vertical Line Test for Functions
A set of points in a coordinate plane is the graph of as a function of if and only if no vertical line
intersects the graph at more than one point.

Example: Use the Vertical Line Test to decide whether the graphs represent y as a function of x.
Arithmetic Combinations of Functions
Example
Evaluate the indicated function for 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥 2 + 1 and 𝑔 𝑥 = 𝑥 − 4