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f^-1(x) = √x

Definition

The equation f^-1(x) = √x represents an inverse function that takes x as input and returns its square root as output. It is commonly used when finding inverses of quadratic functions.

Analogy

Think of this equation as a "reverse squaring" machine. You put in a number x, and it gives you back its square root (√x). It's like feeding your phone into a machine that reverses time and turns it back into raw materials for making new phones.

Related terms

Square Root Function: The square root function (√x) is a mathematical operation that finds the non-negative number whose square equals x. It is the opposite operation of squaring (raising to power 2).

Quadratic Function: A quadratic function is a polynomial function with degree 2, meaning its highest power term has an exponent of 2. It can be written in standard form as f(x) = ax^2 + bx + c, where a, b, and c are constants.

Inverse Trigonometric Functions: Inverse trigonometric functions are functions that "undo" the actions of trigonometric functions. They allow us to find angles or values that produce a specific trigonometric ratio, such as finding the angle whose sine is 0.5.