VCE Math Methods Unit 2 AOS 1

VCE Math Methods – Unit 2, AoS 1: Interactive Study Guide

Relations, Functions, Domain & Range

This section covers the essential language of functions. A relation is any set of ordered pairs, while a function is a special relation where each input has only one output. This is checked using the Vertical Line Test.

Domain

The set of all possible input values (x-values) for which a function is defined.

Range

The set of all possible output values (y-values) that a function can produce.

A Unified Theory of Transformations

All transformations can be understood with the framework . Use the controls below to see how each parameter dilates, reflects, and translates a parent function.

Equation:

Inverse Functions

An inverse function, f⁻¹(x), reverses the action of f(x). It only exists if f(x) is one-to-one. Graphically, the inverse is a reflection in the line y = x.

Click the buttons below to explore the properties of the inverse function.

Function:
,

Inverse:
,

Exponential Functions

Functions of the form y = A·bˣ + k model growth and decay. They are characterized by a horizontal asymptote at y = k.

Key Features of

  • Parent Function: y = eˣ
  • Transformations: Dilation by a factor of 2 from the x-axis, translated 1 unit left and 3 units down.
  • Horizontal Asymptote: The line . The range is (-3, ∞).
  • Y-Intercept: Found by setting x=0. The y-intercept is at .

Logarithmic Functions

As the inverse of exponentials, logarithmic functions like y = a·logₑ(x-h) + k are characterized by a vertical asymptote at x = h.

Key Features of

  • Parent Function: y = ln(x)
  • Transformations: Dilation by a factor of 2 from the x-axis, translated 2 units left and 1 unit up.
  • Vertical Asymptote: The line . The domain is (-2, ∞).
  • X-Intercept: Found by setting y=0. The x-intercept is at .

Circular Functions

Sine and Cosine functions model periodic behavior. Their key features are Amplitude, Period, Phase Shift, and Vertical Shift (Mean Position).

Solving Trigonometric Equations

Solving trig equations requires a systematic process to find all solutions within a specified domain. Click through the steps for solving over .