Mathematics – Introduction to Functions
■ Page 1 – What is a Function?
In mathematics, a function is a rule that assigns each input value to exactly one output value.
Functions are the foundation of algebra, calculus, and many real-world applications. They allow us
to describe relationships between quantities in a precise way. For example: - f(x) = x + 2 means that
the output is always 2 greater than the input. - g(x) = 3x means that the output is three times the
input. Functions are essential to modeling growth, motion, finance, and science.
■ Page 2 – Domain and Range
The **domain** of a function is the set of all possible input values (x-values) for which the function
is defined. The **range** is the set of all possible outputs (y-values). Example: f(x) = 1/x - Domain:
All real numbers except 0. - Range: All real numbers except 0. Understanding the domain and
range helps us know the limits of a function’s behavior.
■ Page 3 – Types of Functions
Functions come in many different forms: 1. **Linear Functions**: f(x) = mx + b (straight-line graphs).
2. **Quadratic Functions**: f(x) = ax² + bx + c (parabolic graphs). 3. **Exponential Functions**: f(x)
= a·b^x (growth and decay). 4. **Logarithmic Functions**: f(x) = log(x). 5. **Trigonometric
Functions**: f(x) = sin(x), cos(x), tan(x), etc. Each type of function has unique properties and
applications in science and engineering.
■ Page 4 – Function Notation
Functions are usually written as f(x), which means "the function f applied to x". Example: If f(x) = 2x
+ 5, then: - f(3) = 2(3) + 5 = 11 - f(-1) = 2(-1) + 5 = 3 This notation is useful for evaluating functions
at specific points.
■ Page 5 – Graphs of Functions
A graph is a visual representation of a function. The x-values are placed on the horizontal axis, and
the corresponding y-values are placed on the vertical axis. Linear functions create straight lines,
quadratic functions create parabolas, and exponential functions create curves that rise or fall
rapidly. Graphs allow us to quickly understand the behavior of a function.
■ Page 6 – Real-Life Applications of Functions
Functions are not only mathematical objects but also real-world models: - Physics: Distance =
speed × time (a linear function). - Economics: Profit = revenue – cost. - Biology: Population growth
modeled by exponential functions. - Engineering: Stress-strain curves. Understanding functions
helps us connect mathematics to real-life problems.
■ Page 7 – Inverse Functions
The inverse of a function "undoes" the effect of the original function. Example: - If f(x) = 2x + 3, then
its inverse is f■¹(x) = (x - 3) / 2. Inverse functions are important in algebra and calculus, as they
allow us to reverse processes and solve equations.
■ Page 8 – Composite Functions
A composite function is formed when one function is applied to the result of another function.
Example: - If f(x) = x + 2 and g(x) = 3x, then (f ■ g)(x) = f(g(x)) = (3x) + 2 = 3x + 2. Composite
functions are useful when describing processes that happen in steps.
■ Page 9 – Example Problems
1. If f(x) = 4x - 7, find f(5). Solution: f(5) = 4(5) - 7 = 20 - 7 = 13. 2. If g(x) = x², what is g(-3)?
Solution: g(-3) = (-3)² = 9. 3. If h(x) = √x, find the domain and range. Solution: Domain = {x ≥ 0},
Range = {y ≥ 0}.
■ Page 10 – Summary
Functions are fundamental tools in mathematics and science. They allow us to describe, analyze,
and predict relationships between variables. Key points reviewed: - Definition of functions. - Domain
and range. - Types of functions. - Graphs, applications, inverses, and composites. Mastering
functions prepares you for higher-level mathematics, including calculus and beyond.
