3

Transformations

Objectives
I To introduce a notation for considering transformations of the plane, including
translations, reflections in an axis and dilations from an axis.
I To determine a sequence of transformations given the equation of a curve and its
image.
I To use transformations to help with graph sketching.
I To consider transformations of power functions.
I To determine the rule for a function given sufficient information.

Many graphs of functions can be described as transformations of graphs of other functions,

or ‘movements’ of graphs about the Cartesian plane. For example, the graph of the function
y = −x2 can be considered as a reflection in the x-axis of the graph of the function y = x2 .

y y

y = x2

x (mirror line) x
O O
y = −x2

A good understanding of transformations, combined with knowledge of the ‘simplest’

function and its graph in each family, provides an important tool with which to sketch graphs
and identify rules of more complicated functions.
Transformations of the plane with rules of the form (x, y) → (ax + by, cx + dy) can be
implemented through 2 × 2 matrices. An alternative approach to transformations using
matrices is available on-line if you wish to pursue this method.
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 3A Translations 91

3A Translations
The Cartesian plane is represented by the set R2 of all ordered pairs of real numbers.
That is, R2 = { (x, y) : x, y ∈ R }. The transformations considered in this book associate
each ordered pair of R2 with a unique ordered pair. We can refer to them as examples of
transformations of the plane.
For example, the translation 3 units in the positive direction of the x-axis (to the right)
associates with each ordered pair (x, y) a new ordered pair (x + 3, y). This translation is a
transformation of the plane. Each point in the plane is mapped to a unique second point.
Furthermore, every point in the plane is an image of another point under this translation.

Notation
Consider the translation 2 units in the positive
direction of the x-axis (to the right) and 4 units in (0, 8)
the positive direction of the y-axis (up). This can be (5, 6)
described by the rule (x, y) → (x + 2, y + 4). This reads
(−2, 4)
as ‘(x, y) maps to (x + 2, y + 4)’.
For example, (3, 2) → (3 + 2, 2 + 4). (3, 2)
(1, 2)
In applying this translation, it is useful to think of
every point (x, y) in the plane as being mapped to a
new point (x0 , y0 ). This point (x, y) is the only point
(−1, −2)
which maps to (x0 , y0 ). The following can be written
for this translation:
x0 = x + 2 and y0 = y + 4

 A translation of h units in the positive direction of the x-axis and k units in the positive
direction of the y-axis is described by the rule
(x, y) → (x + h, y + k)
or x0 = x + h and y0 = y + k
where h and k are positive numbers.
 A translation of h units in the negative direction of the x-axis and k units in the negative
direction of the y-axis is described by the rule
(x, y) → (x − h, y − k)
or x0 = x − h and y0 = y − k
where h and k are positive numbers.

Notes:
 Under a translation, if (a0 , b0 ) = (c0 , d0 ), then (a, b) = (c, d).
 For a translation (x, y) → (x + h, y + k), for each point (a, b) ∈ R2 there is a point (p, q)
such that (p, q) → (a, b). (It is clear that (p − h, q − k) → (p, q) under this translation.)

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 92 Chapter 3: Transformations

Applying translations to sketch graphs

A translation moves every point on the graph the same distance in the same direction.

Translations parallel to an axis

We start by looking at the images of the graph of y = x2 y
shown on the right under translations that are parallel to
an axis.

(x, y)
x
O

Translation of 1 unit in the positive Translation of 1 unit in the negative

direction of the x-axis direction of the x-axis
y y

(x, y)
(x − 1, y)
(x + 1, y) (x, y)
1 unit x 1 unit x
O O
‘to the right’ ‘to the left’

The point (x, y) is mapped onto (x + 1, y), The point (x, y) is mapped onto (x − 1, y),
i.e. (x, y) → (x + 1, y). i.e. (x, y) → (x − 1, y).
The image has equation y = (x − 1)2 . The image has equation y = (x + 1)2 .

Translation of 1 unit in the positive Translation of 1 unit in the negative

direction of the y-axis direction of the y-axis
y y

(x, y + 1) (x, y)
1 unit (x, y)
‘up’ x 1 unit x
O ‘down’ O (x, y − 1)

The point (x, y) is mapped onto (x, y + 1), The point (x, y) is mapped onto (x, y − 1),
i.e. (x, y) → (x, y + 1). i.e. (x, y) → (x, y − 1).
The image has equation y = x2 + 1. The image has equation y = x2 − 1.

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 3A Translations 93

General translations of a curve

Every translation of the plane can be described by giving two components:
 a translation parallel to the x-axis and
 a translation parallel to the y-axis.
Consider a translation of 2 units in the positive direction of the x-axis and 4 units in the
positive direction of the y-axis applied to the graph of y = x2 .
Translate the set of points defined by the function y
2
{ (x, y) : y = x }
by the translation defined by the rule
(x, y) → (x + 2, y + 4)
x0 = x + 2 and y0 = y + 4 (1, 5) (2, 4) (3, 5)

For each point (x, y) there is a unique point (x0 , y0 )

and vice versa.
We have x = x0 − 2 and y = y0 − 4. (−1, 1) (1, 1)
x
(0, 0)
This means the points on the curve with equation
y = x2 are mapped to the curve with equation
y0 − 4 = (x0 − 2)2 .

Hence { (x, y) : y = x2 } maps to { (x0 , y0 ) : y0 − 4 = (x0 − 2)2 }.

For the graph of y = f (x), the following two processes yield the same result:
 Applying the translation (x, y) → (x + h, y + k) to the graph of y = f (x).
 Replacing x with x − h and y with y − k in the equation to obtain y − k = f (x − h) and
graphing the result.

Proof A point (a, b) is on the graph of y = f (x)

⇔ f (a) = b
⇔ f (a + h − h) = b
⇔ f (a + h − h) = b + k − k
⇔ (a + h, b + k) is a point on the graph of y − k = f (x − h)
Note: The double arrows indicate that the steps are reversible.

Example 1
1
Find the equation for the image of the curve with equation y = f (x), where f (x) = ,
x
under a translation 3 units in the positive direction of the x-axis and 2 units in the negative
direction of the y-axis.

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 94 Chapter 3: Transformations 3A

Solution Explanation
0 0
Let (x , y ) be the image of the point (x, y), The rule is (x, y) → (x + 3, y − 2).
where (x, y) is a point on the graph of y = f (x).
Then x0 = x + 3 and y0 = y − 2.
Hence x = x0 − 3 and y = y0 + 2.
The graph of y = f (x) is mapped to the graph of Substitute x = x0 − 3 and
y0 + 2 = f (x0 − 3) y = y0 + 2 into y = f (x).
1 1
i.e. y = is mapped to y0 + 2 = 0 .
x x −3
The equation of the image can be written as
1
y= −2
x−3

Recognising that a transformation has been applied makes it easy to sketch many graphs.
√
For example, in order to sketch the graph of y = x − 2, note that it is of the form
√ √
y = f (x − 2) where f (x) = x. That is, the graph of y = x is translated 2 units in the positive
direction of the x-axis.
Examples of two other functions to which this translation is applied are:
f (x) = x2 f (x − 2) = (x − 2)2
1 1
f (x) = f (x − 2) =
x x−2

Summary 3A
For the graph of y = f (x), the following two processes yield the same result:
 Applying the translation (x, y) → (x + h, y + k) to the graph of y = f (x).
 Replacing x with x − h and y with y − k in the equation to obtain y − k = f (x − h) and
graphing the result.

Exercise 3A

1 Find the image of the point (−2, 5) after a mapping of a translation:

a of 1 unit in the positive direction of the x-axis and 2 units in the negative direction
of the y-axis
b of 3 units in the negative direction of the x-axis and 5 units in the positive direction
of the y-axis
c of 1 unit in the negative direction of the x-axis and 6 units in the negative direction
of the y-axis
d defined by the rule (x, y) → (x − 3, y + 2)
e defined by the rule (x, y) → (x − 1, y + 1).

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 3A 3A Translations 95

1
Example 1 2 Find the equation for the image of the curve y = f (x), where f (x) = , under:
x
a a translation 2 units in the positive direction of the x-axis and 3 units in the negative
direction of the y-axis
b a translation 2 units in the negative direction of the x-axis and 3 units in the positive
direction of the y-axis
c a translation 21 unit in the positive direction of the x-axis and 4 units in the positive
direction of the y-axis.

3 Sketch the graph of each of the following. Label asymptotes and axis intercepts, and
state the domain and range.
1 1 1
a y= +3 b y= 2 −3 c y=
x x (x + 2)2
√ 1 1
d y= x−2 e y= f y= −4
x−1 x
1 1 1
g y= h y= i f (x) =
x+2 x−3 (x − 3)2
1 1 1
j f (x) = k f (x) = +1 l f (x) = +2
(x + 4)2 x−1 x−2
1
4 For y = f (x) = , sketch the graph of each of the following. Label asymptotes and axis
x
intercepts.
a y = f (x − 1) b y = f (x) + 1 c y = f (x + 3)
d y = f (x) − 3 e y = f (x + 1) f y = f (x) − 1

5 For each of the following, state a transformation which maps the graph of y = f (x) to
the graph of y = f1 (x):
1 1
a f (x) = x2 , f1 (x) = (x + 5)2 b f (x) = , f1 (x) = + 2
x x
1 1 1 1
c f (x) = 2 , f1 (x) = 2 + 4 d f (x) = 2 − 3, f1 (x) = 2
x x x x
1 1
e f (x) = , f1 (x) =
x−3 x
6 Write down the equation of the image when the graph of each of the functions below is
transformed by:
i a translation of 7 units in the positive direction of the x-axis and 1 unit in the
positive direction of the y-axis
ii a translation of 2 units in the negative direction of the x-axis and 6 units in the
negative direction of the y-axis
iii a translation of 2 units in the positive direction of the x-axis and 3 units in the
negative direction of the y-axis
iv a translation of 1 unit in the negative direction of the x-axis and 4 units in the
positive direction of the y-axis.
1 √ 1 1
a y = x4 b y= 3x c y= 3 d y= 4
x x
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 96 Chapter 3: Transformations 3A

7 Find the equation for the image of the graph of each of the following under the stated
translation:
a y = (x − 2)2 + 3 Translation: (x, y) → (x − 3, y + 2)
2
b y = 2(x + 3) + 3 Translation: (x, y) → (x + 3, y − 3)
1
c y= +3 Translation: (x, y) → (x + 4, y − 2)
(x − 2)2
d y = (x + 2)3 + 1 Translation: (x, y) → (x − 1, y + 1)
√3
e y= x−3+2 Translation: (x, y) → (x − 1, y + 1)
8 For each of the following, state a transformation which maps the graph of y = f (x) to
the graph of y = f1 (x):
1 1 1 1
a f (x) = 2 , f1 (x) = +3 b f (x) = , f1 (x) = −3
x (x − 2)2 x x+2
√ √
c f (x) = x, f1 (x) = x + 4 + 2

3B Dilations
We start with the example of a circle, as it is easy to visualise y
the effect of a dilation from an axis.
(x, y)
A dilation of a graph can be thought of as the graph
‘stretching away from’ or ‘shrinking towards’ an axis. x
O

1
Dilation of factor 2 from the x-axis Dilation of factor 2 from the x-axis
y y

(x, 2y)
(x, y)
(x, y) 1
x, y
2
x x
O O

The graph is ‘stretched’ to twice the The graph is ‘shrunk’ to half the height.
height.
The point (x, y) is mapped onto (x, 2y), The point (x, y) is mapped onto (x, 12 y),
i.e. (x, y) → (x, 2y). i.e. (x, y) → (x, 21 y).

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 3B Dilations 97

1
Dilation of factor 2 from the y-axis Dilation of factor 2 from the y-axis
y y

(2x, y) (x, y)
1
(x, y) x, y
x 2 x
O O

The graph is ‘stretched’ to twice the The graph is ‘shrunk’ to half the width.
width.
The point (x, y) is mapped onto (2x, y), The point (x, y) is mapped onto ( 12 x, y),
i.e. (x, y) → (2x, y). i.e. (x, y) → ( 12 x, y).

Dilation from the x-axis

We can determine the equation of the image of a curve under a dilation by following the same
approach used for translations.
A dilation of factor 2 from the x-axis is defined by the rule (x, y) → (x, 2y).
Hence the point with coordinates (1, 1) → (1, 2).
√
Consider the curve with equation y = x and the dilation y
of factor 2 from the x-axis.
y = 2√x
 Let (x0 , y0 ) be the image of the point with coordinates
(x, y) on the curve. (1, 2)
y0 y = √x
 Hence x0 = x and y0 = 2y, and thus x = x0 and y = .
2
 Substituting for x and y, we see that the curve with (1, 1)
√ x
equation y = x maps to the curve with equation O
y0 √ 0 √
= x , i.e. the curve with equation y = 2 x.
2

For b a positive constant, a dilation of factor b from the x-axis is described by the rule
(x, y) → (x, by)
or x0 = x and y0 = by
For the graph of y = f (x), the following two processes yield the same result:
 Applying the dilation from the x-axis (x, y) → (x, by) to the graph of y = f (x).
y
 Replacing y with in the equation to obtain y = b f (x) and graphing the result.
b

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 98 Chapter 3: Transformations

Dilation from the y-axis

A dilation of factor 2 from the y-axis is defined by the rule (x, y) → (2x, y). Hence the point
with coordinates (1, 1) → (2, 1).
√ y
Again, consider the curve with equation y = x.
 Let (x0 , y0 ) be the image of the point with coordinates y = √x
(x, y) on the curve.
x0
 Hence x0 = 2x and y0 = y, and thus x = and y = y0 . x
√ 2 (1, 1) y=
 The curve withrequation y = x maps to the curve with (2, 1) 2
x0 x
equation y0 = . O
2

For a a positive constant, a dilation of factor a from the y-axis is described by the rule
(x, y) → (ax, y)
or x0 = ax and y0 = y
For the graph of y = f (x), the following two processes yield the same result:
 Applying the dilation from the y-axis (x, y) → (ax, y) to the graph of y = f (x).
x  x
 Replacing x with in the equation to obtain y = f and graphing the result.
a a

Example 2
1
Determine the rule of the image when the graph of y = is dilated by a factor of 4:
x2
a from the x-axis b from the y-axis.

Solution
a (x, y) → (x, 4y) y

Let (x0 , y0 ) be the coordinates of the image of (x, y),

(1, 4)
so x0 = x, y0 = 4y.
y0
Rearranging gives x = x0 , y = .
4
1 y0 1
Therefore y = 2 becomes = 0 2 .
x 4 (x ) (1, 1)
4 x
The rule of the transformed function is y = 2 . O
x
b (x, y) → (4x, y) y
Let (x0 , y0 ) be the coordinates of the image of (x, y),
so x0 = 4x, y0 = y.
x0
Rearranging gives x = , y = y0 .
4
1 1 (4, 1)
Therefore y = 2 becomes y0 = 0
2 .
x x (1, 1)
4 x
16 O
The rule of the transformed function is y = 2 .
x

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 3B Dilations 99

Example 3
√
Determine the factor of dilation when the graph of y = 3x is obtained by dilating the
√
graph of y = x:
a from the y-axis b from the x-axis.

Solution
a Note that a dilation from the y-axis ‘changes’ the x-values. So write the transformed
function as
√
y0 = 3x0
where (x0 , y0 ) are the coordinates of the image of (x, y).
Therefore x = 3x0 and y = y0 (‘changed’ x). y
x
Rearranging gives x0 = and y0 = y. 1, 1
3 x  3
So the mapping is given by (x, y) → , y .
3 (1, 1)
√
The graph of y = x is dilated by a factor of 13 from x
√ O
the y-axis to produce the graph of y = 3x.

b Note that a dilation from the x-axis ‘changes’ the y-values. So write the transformed
function as
y0 √
√ = x0
3
where (x0 , y0 ) are the coordinates of the image of (x, y).
y0
Therefore x = x0 and y = √ (‘changed’ y). y
3 √
Rearranging gives x0 = x and y0 = 3 y. (1, √3)
√
So the mapping is given by (x, y) → (x, 3 y).
√ √ (1, 1)
The graph of y = x is dilated by a factor of 3 from
√ x
the x-axis to produce the graph of y = 3x. O

Summary 3B
For the graph of y = f (x), we have the following two pairs of equivalent processes:
1  Applying the dilation from the x-axis (x, y) → (x, by) to the graph of y = f (x).
y
 Replacing y with in the equation to obtain y = b f (x) and graphing the result.
b
2  Applying the dilation from the y-axis (x, y) → (ax, y) to the graph of y = f (x).
x  x
 Replacing x with in the equation to obtain y = f and graphing the result.
a a

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 100 Chapter 3: Transformations 3B

Exercise 3B
1
Example 2 1 Determine the rule of the image when the graph of y = is dilated by a factor of 3:
x
a from the x-axis b from the y-axis.

1
2 Determine the rule of the image when the graph of y = is dilated by a factor of 2:
x2
a from the x-axis b from the y-axis.
√
3 Determine the rule of the image when the graph of y = x is dilated by a factor of 2:
a from the x-axis b from the y-axis.

4 Determine the rule of the image when the graph of y = x3 is dilated by a factor of 2:
a from the x-axis b from the y-axis.

5 Sketch the graph of each of the following:

4 1 √ 2
a y= b y= c y = 3x d y=
x 2x x2
1
6 For y = f (x) = , sketch the graph of each of the following:
x2  x
a y = f (2x) b y = 2 f (x) c y= f
2
 x
d y = 3 f (x) e y = f (5x) f y= f
4
7 Sketch the graphs of each of the following on the one set of axes:
1 3 3
a y= b y= c y=
x x 2x
√
8 Sketch the graph of the function f : R+ → R, f (x) = 3 x.
√
Example 3 9 Determine the factor of dilation when the graph of y = 5x is obtained by dilating the
√
graph of y = x:
a from the y-axis b from the x-axis.

10 For each of the following, state a transformation which maps the graph of y = f (x) to
the graph of y = f1 (x):
1 5 √ √
a f (x) = 2 , f1 (x) = 2 b f (x) = x, f1 (x) = 4 x
x x
√ √ x √
r
c f (x) = x, f1 (x) = 5x d f (x) = , f1 (x) = x
3
1 1
e f (x) = 2 , f1 (x) = 2
4x x

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 3B 3C Reflections 101

11 Write down the equation of the image when the graph of each of the functions below is
transformed by:
i a dilation of factor 4 from the x-axis
2
ii a dilation of factor 3from the x-axis
1
iii a dilation of factor from the y-axis
2
iv a dilation of factor 5 from the y-axis.
1 √3 1
a y = x2 b y= 2 c y= x d y=
x x3
1 √ 1
e y= 4 f y= 4x g y = x5
x

3C Reflections
The special case where the graph of a function is reflected in the line y = x to produce the
graph of the inverse relation is discussed separately in Section 1F.
In this chapter we study reflections in the x- or y-axis only.
First consider reflecting the graph of the function shown y
here in each axis, and observe the effect on a general point
(x, y) on the graph.
(x, y)

x
O

Reflection in the x-axis Reflection in the y-axis

y y

(−x, y) (x, y)
(x, y)
x
x O
O
(x, −y)

The x-axis
acts as a ‘mirror’ line. The y-axis
The point (x, y) is mapped onto (x, −y), acts as a ‘mirror’ line.
i.e. (x, y) (x, −y) The point (x, y) is mapped onto (−x, y),
i.e. (x, y) (−x, y)

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 102 Chapter 3: Transformations

y
Reflection in the x-axis
A reflection in the x-axis can be defined by
the rule (x, y) → (x, −y). Hence the point with
coordinates (1, 1) → (1, −1).
y = √x
 Let (x0 , y0 ) be the image of the point (x, y).
(1, 1)
 Hence x0 = x and y0 = −y, which gives
x
x = x0 and y = −y0 . O
√ (1, −1)
 The curve with equation y = x maps to the
√
curve with equation −y0 = x0 , i.e. the curve y = − √x
√
with equation y = − x.

A reflection in the x-axis is described by the rule

(x, y) → (x, −y)
or x0 = x and y0 = −y
For the graph of y = f (x), the following two processes yield the same result:
 Applying the reflection in the x-axis (x, y) → (x, −y) to the graph of y = f (x).
 Replacing y with −y in the equation to obtain y = − f (x) and graphing the result.

Reflection in the y-axis

A reflection in the y-axis can be defined by the rule (x, y) → (−x, y). Hence the point with
coordinates (1, 1) → (−1, 1).
 Let (x0 , y0 ) be the image of the y
point (x, y).
 Hence x0 = −x and y0 = y, which
gives x = −x0 and y = y0 . y = √−x
√ y = √x
 The curve with equation y = x (−1, 1)
maps to the curve with equation
√ (1, 1)
y0 = −x0 , i.e. the curve with
√ x
equation y = −x. O

A reflection in the y-axis is described by the rule

(x, y) → (−x, y)
or x0 = −x and y0 = y
For the graph of y = f (x), the following two processes yield the same result:
 Applying the reflection in the y-axis (x, y) → (−x, y) to the graph of y = f (x).
 Replacing x with −x in the equation to obtain y = f (−x) and graphing the result.

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 3C 3C Reflections 103

Example 4
√
Find the equation of the image when the graph of y = x is reflected:
a in the x-axis b in the y-axis.

Solution
a Note that a reflection in the x-axis changes the y-values, y
and so (x, y) → (x, −y). Let (x0 , y0 ) be the coordinates of the (1, 1)
image of (x, y). Then x0 = x, y0 = −y.
Rearranging gives x = x0 , y = −y0 . x
√ √ O
Therefore y = x becomes −y0 = x0 .
√
The rule of the transformed function is y = − x. (1, −1)
b Note that a reflection in the y-axis changes the y
0 0
x-values, and so (x, y) → (−x, y). Let (x , y ) be (−1, 1) (1, 1)
the coordinates of the image of (x, y).
Then x0 = −x, y0 = y.
x
Rearranging gives x = −x0 , y = y0 . O
√ √
Therefore y = x becomes y0 = −x0 .
√
The rule of the transformed function is y = −x.

Summary 3C
For the graph of y = f (x), we have the following two pairs of equivalent processes:
1  Applying the reflection in the x-axis (x, y) → (x, −y) to the graph of y = f (x).
 Replacing y with −y in the equation to obtain y = − f (x) and graphing the result.

2  Applying the reflection in the y-axis (x, y) → (−x, y) to the graph of y = f (x).
 Replacing x with −x in the equation to obtain y = f (−x) and graphing the result.

Exercise 3C

Example 4 1 Find the equation of the image when the graph of y = (x − 1)2 is reflected:
a in the x-axis b in the y-axis.

2 Sketch the graph and state the domain of:

 1
a y = − x3 b y = (−x)3
√ √
3 State a transformation which maps the graph of y = x to the graph of y = −x.

4 Find the equation of the image when the graph of each of the functions below is
transformed by: i a reflection in the x-axis ii a reflection in the y-axis.
√ 1 1 1 1 1
a y = x3 b y = 3 x c y = 3 d y = 4 e y = x 3 f y = x5 g y = x4
x x

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 104 Chapter 3: Transformations

3D Combinations of transformations
In the previous three sections, we considered three types of transformations separately. In the
remainder of this chapter we look at situations where a graph may have been transformed by
any combination of dilations, reflections and translations.
For example, first consider:
 a dilation of factor 2 from the x-axis
 followed by a reflection in the x-axis.
The rule becomes
(x, y) → (x, 2y) → (x, −2y)
First the dilation is applied and then the reflection. For example, (1, 1) → (1, 2) → (1, −2).
Another example is:
 a dilation of factor 2 from the x-axis
 followed by a translation of 2 units in the positive direction of the x-axis and 3 units in the
negative direction of the y-axis.
The rule becomes
(x, y) → (x, 2y) → (x + 2, 2y − 3)
First the dilation is applied and then the translation. For example, (1, 1) → (1, 2) → (3, −1).

Example 5
√
Find the equation of the image of y = x under:
a a dilation of factor 2 from the x-axis followed by a reflection in the x-axis
b a dilation of factor 2 from the x-axis followed by a translation of 2 units in the positive
direction of the x-axis and 3 units in the negative direction of the y-axis.

Solution
a From the discussion above, the rule is (x, y) → (x, 2y) → (x, −2y).
y0
If (x, y) maps to (x0 , y0 ), then x0 = x and y0 = −2y. Thus x = x0 and y = .
√ −2
So the image of y = x has equation
y0 √
= x0
−2
√ √
and hence y0 = −2 x0 . The equation can be written as y = −2 x.

b From the discussion above, the rule is (x, y) → (x, 2y) → (x + 2, 2y − 3).
y0 + 3
If (x, y) maps to (x0 , y0 ), then x0 = x + 2 and y0 = 2y − 3. Thus x = x0 − 2 and y = .
√ 2
So the image of y = x has equation
y0 + 3 √ 0
= x −2
2
√ √
and hence y0 = 2 x0 − 2 − 3. The equation can be written as y = 2 x − 2 − 3.

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 3D Combinations of transformations 105

Example 6
y
Sketch the image of the graph shown under the
following sequence of transformations:
 a reflection in the x-axis
1
 a dilation of factor 3 from the x-axis O x
 a translation 2 units in the positive direction
of the x-axis and 1 unit in the positive direction (0, 0)
of the y-axis. 1, − 1
3

Solution y
Consider each transformation in turn and sketch the
graph at each stage. 1, 1
3
A reflection in the x-axis produces the graph shown (0, 0)
on the right. x
O
−1

Next apply the dilation of factor 3 from the x-axis. y

(1, 1)
(0, 0)
x
O

−3

Finally, apply the translation 2 units in the positive y

direction of the x-axis and 1 unit in the positive (3, 2)
direction of the y-axis. (2, 1)

x
O
−2

Example 7
√
Find the equation of the image when the graph of y = x is translated 6 units in the
negative direction of the x-axis, reflected in the y-axis and dilated by a factor of 2 from
the x-axis.

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 106 Chapter 3: Transformations

Solution
 The translation 6 units in the negative direction of the x-axis maps (x, y) → (x − 6, y).
 The reflection in the y-axis maps (x − 6, y) → (−(x − 6), y).
 The dilation of factor 2 from the x-axis maps (−(x − 6), y) → (−(x − 6), 2y).

In summary: (x, y) → (−(x − 6), 2y).

Let (x0 , y0 ) be the coordinates of the image of (x, y). Then x0 = −(x − 6) and y0 = 2y.
y0
Rearranging gives x = −x0 + 6 and y = .
2
√ y0 √ 0
Therefore y = x becomes = −x + 6.
2
√
The rule of the transformed function is y = 2 6 − x.

Example 8
For the graph of y = x2 :
a Sketch the graph of the image under the sequence of transformations:
 a translation of 1 unit in the positive direction of the x-axis and 2 units in the positive
direction of the y-axis
 a dilation of factor 2 from the y-axis
 a reflection in the x-axis.
b State the rule of the image.

Solution
a Apply each transformation in turn and sketch the graph at each stage.
1 The translation: 2 The dilation of factor 2 3 The reflection in the x-axis:
from the y-axis:
y y y

(2, −2)
3 (2, 3) 3
(4, 3) x
x x O (4, −3)
O O
(2, 2) −3
(1, 2)

b The mapping representing the sequence of transformations is

(x, y) → (x + 1, y + 2) → (2(x + 1), y + 2) → (2(x + 1), −(y + 2))
Let (x0 , y0 ) be the image of (x, y). Then x0 = 2(x + 1) and y0 = −(y + 2).
Rearranging gives x = 12 (x0 − 2) and y = −y0 − 2.
Therefore y = x2 becomes −y0 − 2 = 21 (x0 − 2) 2 .

The rule of the image is y = − 14 (x − 2)2 − 2.

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 3D Combinations of transformations 107

Using the TI-Nspire

 Define f (x) = x2 .
 The rule for the transformed function is
− f 12 (x − 2) − 2.
 The calculator gives the equation of the
image of the graph under this sequence of
transformations.

 The new function can also be entered in

the transformation format in a Graphs
page as shown.

Using the Casio ClassPad

 Define f (x) = x2 .
 Enter
 the rule
 for the transformed function as
− f 12 (x − 2) − 2.
 Highlight the resulting expression and select
Interactive > Transformation > simplify to obtain
the simplified form.
Note: This result can be achieved more simply by
tapping on t at the top of the screen.

 To graph both functions, tap on $.

 Highlight each function and drag into the graph
window.
 Use 6 to adjust the window.

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 108 Chapter 3: Transformations 3D

Summary 3D
A sequence of transformations can be applied, and the rule for transforming points of the
plane can be described. For example, the sequence
 a dilation of factor 3 from the x-axis
 followed by a translation of 2 units in the positive direction of the x-axis and 3 units in
the negative direction of the y-axis
 followed by a reflection in the x-axis
can be described by the rule (x, y) → (x, 3y) → (x + 2, 3y − 3) → (x + 2, 3 − 3y).
3 − y0
Let x0 = x + 2 and y0 = 3 − 3y. Then x = x0 − 2 and y = .
0
3
3−y
The graph of y = f (x) maps to = f (x0 − 2). That is, the graph of y = f (x) maps to
3
the graph of y = 3 − 3 f (x − 2).

Skill-
sheet Exercise 3D

1 Find the rule of the image when the graph of each of the functions listed below
undergoes each of the following sequences of transformations:
Example 5 i a dilation of factor 2 from the x-axis, followed by a translation 2 units in the positive
direction of the x-axis and 3 units in the negative direction of the y-axis
ii a dilation of factor 3 from the y-axis, followed by a translation 2 units in the negative
direction of the x-axis and 4 units in the negative direction of the y-axis
iii a dilation of factor 2 from the x-axis, followed by a reflection in the y-axis.
√ 1
a y = x2 b y= 3x c y= 2
x
Example 6 2 Sketch the image of the graph shown under the y
following sequence of transformations:
 a reflection in the x-axis
(5, 3)
 a dilation of factor 2 from the x-axis
 a translation 3 units in the positive direction of
the x-axis and 4 units in the positive direction of x
O 2
the y-axis.

3 Sketch the image of the graph shown under the y

following sequence of transformations:
 a reflection in the y-axis (2, 3)
 a translation 2 units in the negative direction of
the x-axis and 3 units in the negative direction of
x
the y-axis −2 O 4
 a dilation of factor 2 from the y-axis.

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 3D 3D Combinations of transformations 109

Example 7 4 Find the rule of the image when the graph of each of the functions listed below
undergoes each of the following sequences of transformations:
i a dilation of factor 2 from the x-axis, followed by a reflection in the x-axis, followed
by a translation 3 units in the positive direction of the x-axis and 4 units in the
negative direction of the y-axis
ii a dilation of factor 2 from the x-axis, followed by a translation 3 units in the positive
direction of the x-axis and 4 units in the negative direction of the y-axis, followed by
a reflection in the x-axis
iii a reflection in the x-axis, followed by a dilation of factor 2 from the x-axis, followed
by a translation 3 units in the positive direction of the x-axis and 4 units in the
negative direction of the y-axis
iv a reflection in the x-axis, followed by a translation 3 units in the positive direction of
the x-axis and 4 units in the negative direction of the y-axis, followed by a dilation
of factor 2 from the x-axis
v a translation 3 units in the positive direction of the x-axis and 4 units in the negative
direction of the y-axis, followed by a dilation of factor 2 from the x-axis, followed
by a reflection in the x-axis
vi a translation 3 units in the positive direction of the x-axis and 4 units in the negative
direction of the y-axis, followed by a reflection in the x-axis, followed by a dilation
of factor 2 from the x-axis.
√ 1
a y = x2 b y= 3x c y= d y = x4
x
1 1
e y= 3 f y= 4 g y = x−2
x x
√
5 Find the rule of the image when the graph of y = x is translated 4 units in the negative
direction of the x-axis, reflected in the x-axis and dilated by factor 3 from the y-axis.
3
Example 8 6 For the graph of y = :
x2
a Sketch the graph of the image under the sequence of transformations:
 a dilation of factor 2 from the x-axis
 a translation of 2 units in the negative direction of the x-axis and 1 unit in the
negative direction of the y-axis
 a reflection in the x-axis.
b State the rule of the image.
1
7 For the graph of y = x 3 :
a Sketch the graph of the image under the sequence of transformations:
 a reflection in the y-axis
 a translation of 1 unit in the positive direction of the x-axis and 2 units in the
negative direction of the y-axis
 a dilation of factor 21 from the y-axis.
b State the rule of the image.

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 110 Chapter 3: Transformations

3E Determining transformations
The method that has been used to find the effect of a transformation on a graph can be used in
reverse to find a sequence of transformations that takes a graph to its image.
√ √
For example, to find a sequence of transformations which maps y = x to y0 = −2 x0 , work
backwards through the steps in the solution of Example 5a:
√ y0 √
 y = x maps to = x0 .
−2
y0
 Hence x = x0 and y = , and therefore x0 = x and y0 = −2y.
−2
 The transformation is a dilation of factor 2 from the x-axis followed by a reflection in
the x-axis.
This can also be done by inspection, of course, if you recognise the form of the image. For
the combinations of transformations in this course, it is often simpler to do this.

Example 9
a Find a sequence of transformations which takes the graph of y = x2 to the graph of
y = 2(x − 2)2 + 3.
√
b Find a sequence of transformations which takes the graph of y = x to the graph of
√
y = 5x − 2.

Solution
a The transformation can be found by inspection, but we shall use the method.
The graph of y = x2 maps to y0 = 2(x0 − 2)2 + 3. Rearranging this equation gives
y0 − 3
= (x0 − 2)2
2
y0 − 3
We choose to write y = and x = x0 − 2.
2
Solving for x0 and y0 gives
x0 = x + 2 and y0 = 2y + 3
So we can write the transformation as
(x, y) → (x, 2y) → (x + 2, 2y + 3)
This transformation is a dilation of factor 2 from the x-axis followed by a translation
of 2 units in the positive direction of the x-axis and 3 units in the positive direction of
the y-axis.
√ √
b We have y = x and y0 = 5x0 − 2. We choose to write y = y0 and x = 5x0 − 2. Hence
x+2 x 2
x0 = = + and y0 = y
5 5 5
The transformation is a dilation of factor 15 from the y-axis followed by a translation of
2
5 units in the positive direction of the x-axis.

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 3E Determining transformations 111

Example 10
3
a Find a sequence of transformations which takes the graph of y = + 6 to the
1 (x − 1)2
graph of y = .
x2
b Find a sequence of transformations which takes the graph of y = (5x − 1)2 + 6 to the
graph of y = x2 .

Solution
y−6 1 1 y−6 1
a Write = 2
and y0 = 0 2 . The points (x, y) satisfying = are
3 (x − 1) (x ) 3 (x − 1)2
1
mapped to the points (x0 , y0 ) satisfying y0 = 0 2 .
(x )
Hence we choose to write
y−6
y0 = and x0 = x − 1
3
We can write this transformation as
 y − 6
(x, y) → (x − 1, y − 6) → x − 1,
3
This is a translation of 1 unit in the negative direction of the x-axis and 6 units in the
negative direction of the y-axis followed by a dilation of factor 31 from the x-axis.
b Write y − 6 = (5x − 1)2 and y0 = (x0 )2 . The points (x, y) satisfying y − 6 = (5x − 1)2 are
mapped to the points (x0 , y0 ) satisfying y0 = (x0 )2 .
Hence we choose to write
y0 = y − 6 and x0 = 5x − 1
One transformation is a dilation of factor 5 from the y-axis followed by a translation
of 1 unit in the negative direction of the x-axis and 6 units in the negative direction of
the y-axis.

We note that the transformations we found are far from being the only possible answers. In
fact there are infinitely many choices.

Summary 3E
The notation developed in this chapter can be used to help find the transformation that
takes the graph of a function to its image.
For example, if the graph of y = f (x) is mapped to the graph of y0 = 2 f (x0 − 3), we can
see that the transformation
x0 = x + 3 and y0 = 2y
is a suitable choice. This is a translation of 3 units to the right followed by a dilation of
factor 2 from the x-axis.
There are infinitely many transformations that take the graph of y = f (x) to the graph of
y0 = 2 f (x0 − 3). The one we chose is conventional.

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 112 Chapter 3: Transformations 3E

Skill-
sheet Exercise 3E

1 For each of the following, find a sequence of transformations that takes:

a the graph of y = x3 to the graph of:
i y = 2(x − 1)3 + 3 ii y = −(x + 1)3 + 2 iii y = (2x + 1)3 − 2
1
Example 9 b the graph of y = to the graph of:
x2
2 1 1
i y= 2
ii y = +2 iii y = −2
(x + 3) (x + 3)2 (x − 3)2
√
c the graph of y = 3 x to the graph of:
√3 √3 √
i y= x+3+2 ii y = 2 3x iii y = − 3 x + 2

Example 10 2 a Find a sequence of transformations that takes the graph of y = (x − 1)2 + 6 to the
graph of y = x2 .
b Find a sequence of transformations that takes the graph of y = 2(x − 1)2 − 3 to the
graph of y = x2 .
1
c Find a sequence of transformations that takes the graph of y = − 6 to the
1 (x − 1)2
graph of y = 2 .
x 2
d Find a sequence of transformations that takes the graph of y = − 5 to the
1 (x − 1)2
graph of y = 2 .
x
e Find a sequence of transformations that takes the graph of y = (2x − 1)2 + 6 to the
graph of y = x2 .
5
3 a Find a sequence of transformations that takes the graph of y = − 7 to the
1 (x − 3)2
graph of y = .
x2
b Find a sequence of transformations that takes the graph of y = (3x + 2)2 + 5 to the
graph of y = x2 .
c Find a sequence of transformations that takes the graph of y = −3(3x + 1)2 + 7 to the
graph of y = x2 .
√
d Find a sequence of transformations that takes the graph of y = 2 4 − x to the graph
√
of y = x.
√
e Find a sequence of transformations that takes the graph of y = 2 4 − x + 3 to the
√
graph of y = − x + 6.

4 In each case below, state a sequence of transformations that transforms the graph of the
first equation into the graph of the second equation:
1 2 1 2 1 4
a y= , y= +3 b y = 2, y = − 7 c y = 3, y = −5
x x−1 x (x + 4)2 x (1 − x)3
√ √3 1 2 2 1
d y = 3 x, y = 2 − x + 1 e y = √ , y = √ +3 f y= + 4, y =
x −x 3−x x

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 3F Using transformations to sketch graphs 113

3F Using transformations to sketch graphs

By considering a rule for a graph as a combination of transformations of a more ‘simple’ rule,
we can readily sketch graphs of many apparently ‘complicated’ functions.

Example 11
1
Identify a sequence of transformations that maps the graph of y = onto the graph of
4 4 x
y= − 3. Use this to sketch the graph of y = − 3, stating the equations of
x+5 x+5
asymptotes and the coordinates of axis intercepts.
Solution
1
Rearrange the equation of the transformed graph to have the same ‘shape’ as y = :
x
y0 + 3 1
= 0
4 x +5
0 0
where (x , y ) are the coordinates of the image of (x, y).
y0 + 3
Therefore x = x0 + 5 and y = . Rearranging gives x0 = x − 5 and y0 = 4y − 3.
4
The mapping is (x, y) → (x − 5, 4y − 3), and so a sequence of transformations is:
1 a dilation of factor 4 from the x-axis
2 a translation of 5 units in the negative direction of the x-axis
3 a translation of 3 units in the negative direction of the y-axis.
y

1
The original graph y = is shown on the right.
x
The effect of the transformations is shown below. (1, 1)
O x
(−1, −1)

1 Dilation from x-axis: 2 Translation in negative 3 Translation in negative

direction of x-axis: direction of y-axis:
y
y y
(1, 4) (−4, 4) (−4, 1)
x
O x O
x
O
y = −3
(−1, −4) (−6, −4) x = −5
(−6, −7)

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 114 Chapter 3: Transformations

Find the axis intercepts in the usual way, as below.

The transformed graph, with asymptotes and x = −5 y
intercepts marked, is shown on the right.
−11 , 1
4 3
0 0, −2
When x = 0, y = − 3 = −2 15 5
5
x
4 O
When y = 0, −3=0
x+5 y = −3
4 = 3x + 15
3x = −11
11 4
∴ x=− y= −3
3 x+5

Once you have done a few of these types of exercises, you can identify the transformations
more quickly by carefully observing the rule of the transformed graph and relating it to the
‘shape’ of the simplest function in its family. Consider the following examples.

Example 12
√
Sketch the graph of y = − x − 4 − 5.
Solution y
√
The graph is obtained from the graph of y = x by:
 a reflection in the x-axis, followed by a translation
of 5 units in the negative direction of the y-axis, and x
O
 a translation of 4 units in the positive direction of
the x-axis.
(4, −5)

Example 13
3
Sketch the graph of y = + 5.
(x − 2)2
Solution y
1
This is obtained from the graph of y = 2 by:
x
 a dilation of factor 3 from the x-axis, followed by a
translation of 5 units in the positive direction of the 3
0, 5
y-axis, and 4
 a translation of 2 units in the positive direction of
y=5
the x-axis.
x
O
x=2

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 3F 3F Using transformations to sketch graphs 115

Summary 3F
In general, the function given by the equation
y = A f n(x + c) + b

where b, c ∈ R+ and A, n ∈ R+ , represents a transformation of the graph of y = f (x) by:

 a dilation of factor A from the x-axis, followed by a translation of b units in the positive
direction of the y-axis, and
 a dilation of factor n1 from the y-axis, followed by a translation of c units in the negative
direction of the x-axis.
Similar statements can be made for b, c ∈ R− . The case where A ∈ R− corresponds to a
reflection in the x-axis and a dilation from the x-axis. The case where n ∈ R− corresponds
to a reflection in the y-axis and a dilation from the y-axis.

Exercise 3F

Example 11 1 Sketch the graph of each of the following. State the equations of asymptotes and the
axis intercepts. State the range of each function.
3 2 3
a f (x) = b g(x) = −1 c h(x) =
x−1 x+1 (x − 2)2
2 −1 −1
d f (x) = −1 e h(x) = f f (x) = +3
(x − 1)2 x−3 x+2
2
g f (x) = +4
(x − 3)2
2 Sketch the graph of each of the following without using your calculator. State the range
Example 12
of each.
Example 13
√ √ p
a y=− x−3 b y=− x−3+2 c y = 2(x + 3)

1 √ √
d y= e y=5 x+2 f y = −5 x + 2 − 2
2x − 3
−3 −2 3
g y= h y= −4 i y= −5
x−2 (x + 2)2 2x
5
j y= +5 k y = 2(x − 3)2 + 5
2x
3x + 2 1
3 Show that =3− and hence, without using your calculator, sketch the
x+1 x+1
graph of
3x + 2
f : R \ {−1} → R, f (x) =
x+1

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 116 Chapter 3: Transformations 3F

4x − 5 7
4 Show that =2− and hence, without using your calculator, sketch the
2x + 1 2x + 1
graph of
4x − 5
f : R \ {− 12 } → R, f (x) =
2x + 1
7
Hint: f (x) = 2 −
2(x + 12 )
5 Sketch the graph of each of the following without using your calculator. State the range
of each.
2 4 2
a y= +4 b y= +4 c y= +1
x−3 3−x (x − 1)2
√ √ √
d y=2 x−1+2 e y = −3 x − 4 + 1 f y = 5 2x + 4 + 1

3G Transformations of power functions with

positive integer index
We recall that every quadratic polynomial function can be written in the turning point form
y = a(x − h)2 + k. This is not true for polynomials of higher degree. However, there are many
polynomials that can be written as y = a(x − h)n + k.
In Chapter 1 we introduced power functions, which include functions with rule f (x) = xn ,
where n is a positive integer. In this section we continue our study of such functions and, in
particular, we look at transformations of these functions.

The function f(x) = xn where n is an odd positive integer

The diagrams below show the graphs of y = x3 and y = x5 .

y y

(3, 27) (3, 243)

x x
O O
(−3, −27) (−3, −243)

y = x3 y = x5

Assume that n is an odd integer with n ≥ 3. From Mathematical Methods Units 1 & 2, you
will recall that the derivative function of f (x) = xn has rule
f 0 (x) = nxn−1
Hence the gradient is zero when x = 0. Since n is odd and therefore n − 1 is even, we
have f 0 (x) = nxn−1 > 0 for all non-zero x. That is, the gradient of the graph of y = f (x) is
positive for all non-zero x and is zero when x = 0. Recall that, for functions of this form,
the stationary point at (0, 0) is called a stationary point of inflection.

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 3G Transformations of power functions with positive integer index 117

Comparing the graphs of y = xn and y = xm for n and m odd

Assume that n and m are odd positive integers y
with n > m. Then:
y = x3 (1, 1)
n m
 x = x for x = −1, 0, 1
 xn > xm for −1 < x < 0 and for x > 1 O
x
n m
 x < x for 0 < x < 1 and for x < −1.
y = x5
(−1, −1)

It should be noted that the appearance of graphs is y

dependent on the scales on the x- and y-axes.
Power functions of odd degree are often depicted as
shown.
x
O

Transformations of f(x) = xn where n is an odd positive integer

Transformations of these functions result in graphs with rules of the form y = a(x − h)n + k
where a, h and k are real constants.

Example 14
Sketch the graph of:
a y = (x − 2)3 + 1 b y = −(x − 1)3 + 2 c y = 2(x + 1)3 + 2

Solution
a The translation (x, y) → (x + 2, y + 1) maps the y
graph of y = x3 onto the graph of y = (x − 2)3 + 1.
So (2, 1) is a point of zero gradient.
Find the axis intercepts: (2, 1)
 When x = 0, y = (−2)3 + 1 = −7 x
O 1
 When y = 0,
0 = (x − 2)3 + 1
−1 = (x − 2)3 −7
−1 = x − 2
∴ x=1

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 118 Chapter 3: Transformations

b A reflection in the x-axis followed by the y

translation (x, y) → (x + 1, y + 2) maps the graph
of y = x3 onto the graph of y = −(x − 1)3 + 2.
So (1, 2) is a point of zero gradient. 3 (1, 2)
Find the axis intercepts: 1
 When x = 0, y = −(−1)3 + 2 = 3 1 + 23 x
O
 When y = 0,
0 = −(x − 1)3 + 2
(x − 1)3 = 2
1
x − 1 = 23
1
∴ x = 1 + 2 3 ≈ 2.26

c A dilation of factor 2 from the x-axis followed y

by the translation (x, y) → (x − 1, y + 2)
maps the graph of y = x3 onto the graph
of y = 2(x + 1)3 + 2.
4
So (−1, 2) is a point of zero gradient.
(−1, 2)
Find the axis intercepts:
 When x = 0, y = 2 + 2 = 4 x
 When y = 0, −2 O

0 = 2(x + 1)3 + 2
−1 = (x + 1)3
−1 = x + 1
∴ x = −2

Example 15
The graph of y = a(x − h)3 + k has a point of zero gradient at (1, 1) and passes through the
point (0, 4). Find the values of a, h and k.
Solution
Since (1, 1) is the point of zero gradient,
h=1 and k=1
So y = a(x − 1)3 + 1 and, since the graph passes through (0, 4),
4 = −a + 1
∴ a = −3

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 3G Transformations of power functions with positive integer index 119

Example 16
a Find the rule for the image of the graph of y = x5 under the following sequence of
transformations:
 reflection in the y-axis
 dilation of factor 2 from the y-axis
 translation 2 units in the positive direction of the x-axis and 3 units in the positive
direction of the y-axis.
b Find a sequence of transformations which takes the graph of y = x5 to the graph of
y = 6 − 2(x + 5)5 .

Solution
a (x, y) → (−x, y) → (−2x, y) → (−2x + 2, y + 3)
Let (x0 , y0 ) be the image of (x, y) under this transformation.
x0 − 2
Then x0 = −2x + 2 and y0 = y + 3. Hence x = and y = y0 − 3.
−2
Therefore the graph of y = x5 maps to the graph of
 x0 − 2 5
y0 − 3 =
−2
i.e. to the graph of
1
y = − (x − 2)5 + 3
32
y0 − 6
b Rearrange y0 = 6 − 2(x0 + 5)5 to = (x0 + 5)5 .
−2
y0 − 6
Therefore y = and x = x0 + 5, which gives y0 = −2y + 6 and x0 = x − 5.
−2
The sequence of transformations is:
 reflection in the x-axis
 dilation of factor 2 from the x-axis
 translation 5 units in the negative direction of the x-axis and 6 units in the positive
direction of the y-axis.

The function f(x) = xn where n is an even positive integer

Assume that n is an even integer with n ≥ 2. From Mathematical Methods Units 1 & 2, you
will recall that the derivative function of f (x) = xn has rule
f 0 (x) = nxn−1
Hence the gradient is zero when x = 0. Since n is even and therefore n − 1 is odd, we have
f 0 (x) = nxn−1 > 0 for x > 0, and f 0 (x) = nxn−1 < 0 for x < 0. Thus the graph of y = f (x) has
a turning point at (0, 0); this point is a local minimum.

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 120 Chapter 3: Transformations

Comparing the graphs of y = xn and y = xm for n and m even

Assume that n and m are even positive integers with y
n > m. Then:
 xn = xm for x = −1, 0, 1
(−1, 1) (1, 1)
 xn > xm for x < −1 and for x > 1
 xn < xm for −1 < x < 0 and for 0 < x < 1. x
O
y = x4 y = x2

Example 17
The graph of y = a(x − h)4 + k has a turning point at (2, 2) and passes through the
point (0, 4). Find the values of a, h and k.
Solution
Since (2, 2) is the turning point,
h=2 and k=2
So y = a(x − 2)4 + 2 and, since the graph passes through (0, 4),
4 = 16a + 2
1
∴ a=
8

Summary 3G
 A graph with rule of the form y = a(x − h)n + k can be obtained as a transformation of
the graph of y = xn .
 Odd index If n is an odd integer with  Even index If n is an even integer with
n ≥ 3, then the graph of y = xn has a n ≥ 2, then the graph of y = xn has a
shape similar to the one shown below; shape similar to the one shown below;
there is a point of zero gradient at (0, 0). there is a turning point at (0, 0).
y
y

x x
O O

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 3G 3G Transformations of power functions with positive integer index 121

Exercise 3G

Example 14 1 Sketch the graph of each of the following. State the coordinates of the point of zero
gradient and the axis intercepts.
a f (x) = 2x3 b g(x) = −2x3
c h(x) = x5 + 1 d f (x) = x3 − 4
e f (x) = (x + 1)3 − 8 f f (x) = 2(x − 1)3 − 2
g g(x) = −2(x − 1)3 + 2 h h(x) = 3(x − 2)3 − 4
i f (x) = 2(x − 1)3 + 2 j h(x) = −2(x − 1)3 − 4
k f (x) = (x + 1)5 − 32 l f (x) = 2(x − 1)5 − 2

Example 15 2 The graph of y = a(x − h)3 + k has a point of zero gradient at (0, 4) and passes through
the point (1, 1). Find the values of a, h and k.

3 Find the equation of the image of y = x3 under each of the following transformations:
a a dilation of factor 3 from the x-axis
b a translation with rule (x, y) → (x − 1, y + 1)
c a reflection in the x-axis followed by the translation (x, y) → (x + 2, y − 3)
d a dilation of factor 2 from the x-axis followed by the translation (x, y) → (x − 1, y − 2)
e a dilation of factor 3 from the y-axis.

Example 16 4 a Find the rule for the image of the graph of y = x3 under the following sequence of
transformations:
 reflection in the y-axis
 dilation of factor 3 from the y-axis
 translation 3 units in the positive direction of the x-axis and 1 unit in the positive
direction of the y-axis.
b Find a sequence of transformations which takes the graph of y = x3 to the graph of
y = 4 − 3(x + 1)3 .

5 Find the rule for the image of the graph of y = x4 under the following sequence of
transformations:
 reflection in the y-axis
 dilation of factor 2 from the y-axis
 translation 2 units in the negative direction of the x-axis and 1 unit in the negative
direction of the y-axis.

6 Find a sequence of transformations which takes the graph of y = x4 to the graph of

y = 5 − 3(x + 1)4 .

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 122 Chapter 3: Transformations 3G

7 By applying suitable transformations to y = x4 , sketch the graph of each of the

following:
a y = 3(x − 1)4 − 2 b y = −2(x + 2)4 c y = (x − 2)4 − 6
d y = 2(x − 3)4 − 1 e y = 1 − (x + 4)4 f y = −3(x − 2)4 − 3

Example 17 8 The graph of y = a(x − h)4 + k has a turning point at (−2, 3) and passes through the
point (0, −6). Find the values of a, h and k.

9 The graph of y = a(x − h)4 + k has a turning point at (1, 7) and passes through the
point (0, 23). Find the values of a, h and k.

3H Determining the rule for a function from its graph

Given sufficient information about a curve, we can determine its rule. For example, if we
know the coordinates of two points on a hyperbola of the form
a
y= +b
x
then we can find the rule for the hyperbola, i.e. we can find the values of a and b.
Sometimes the rule has a more specific form. For example, the curve may be a dilation of
√ √
y = x. Then we know its rule is of the form y = a x, and the coordinates of one point on
the curve (with the exception of the origin) will be enough to determine the value of a.

Example 18
a
The points (1, 5) and (4, 2) lie on a curve with equation y = + b. Find the values of a
x
and b.
Solution
When x = 1, y = 5 and so
5=a+b (1)
When x = 4, y = 2 and so
a
2= +b (2)
4
Subtract (2) from (1):
3a
3=
4
∴ a=4
Substitute in (1) to find b:
5=4+b
∴ b=1
4
The equation of the curve is y = + 1.
x

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 3H 3H Determining the rule for a function from its graph 123

Example 19
√
The points (2, 1) and (10, 6) lie on a curve with equation y = a x − 1 + b. Find the values
of a and b.
Solution
When x = 2, y = 1 and so
√
1=a 1+b
i.e. 1=a+b (1)
When x = 10, y = 6 and so
√
6=a 9+b
i.e. 6 = 3a + b (2)
Subtract (1) from (2):
5 = 2a
5
∴ a=
2
3
Substitute in (1) to find b = − .
2
5√ 3
The equation of the curve is y = x−1− .
2 2

Skill-
sheet Exercise 3H
a
1 The points (1, 4) and (3, 1) lie on a curve with equation y = + b. Find the values of a
x
Example 18
and b.

2 The graph shown has the rule y

A
y= +B
x+b
Find the values of A, b and B.

(0, 1) y=2

x
O

x=1
√
Example 19 3 The points (3, 1) and (11, 6) lie on a curve with equation y = a x − 2 + b. Find the
values of a and b.

4 The points with coordinates (1, 5) and (16, 11) lie on a curve which has a rule of the
√
form y = A x + B. Find A and B.

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 124 Chapter 3: Transformations 3H

5 The points with coordinates (1, 1) and (0.5, 7) lie on a curve which has a rule of the
A
form y = 2 + B. Find the values of A and B.
x
6 The graph shown has the rule y
A
y= +B
(x + b)2
Find the values of A, b and B.

O x
(0, −1)

y = −3
x = −2

7 The points with coordinates (1, −1) and (2, 43 ) lie on a curve which has a rule of the form
a
y = 3 + b. Find the values of a and b.
x
8 The points with coordinates (−1, 4) and (1, −8) lie on a curve which has a rule of the
√
form y = a 3 x + b. Find the values of a and b.

3I A notation for transformations

The following table gives a summary of some basic transformations of the plane. In each row
of the table, the point (x0 , y0 ) is the image of the point (x, y) under the mapping.

Mapping Rule
x0 = x
Reflection in the x-axis
y0 = −y
x0 = −x
Reflection in the y-axis
y0 = y
x0 = ax
Dilation of factor a from the y-axis
y0 = y
x0 = x
Dilation of factor b from the x-axis
y0 = by
• h units in the positive direction of the x-axis x0 = x + h
• k units in the positive direction of the y-axis y0 = y + k

The transformations in the table and combinations of these transformations all have rule of
the form
(x, y) → (ax + h, by + k) where a , 0 and b , 0

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 3I A notation for transformations 125

We can consider transformations of the plane as functions with two variables and use a
similar notation to that we have used for functions of one variable.
T : R2 → R2 , T (x, y) = (ax + h, by + k), a , 0, b , 0
We note that both the maximal domain and range of transformations of this type is R2

Linear transformations
Dilations, reflection in the x-axis and reflection in the y-axis and combinations of these are
examples of linear transformations. Linear transformations can be defined by having a rule
of the form
T : R2 → R2 , T (x, y) = (ax + by, cx + dy)
A further example of a linear transformation is reflection in the line y = x.

Mapping Rule The graph of y = f(x) maps to

Reflection in the line y = x x0 = y, y0 = x x = f (y)

You have met this transformation in the study of inverse functions.

We note that linear transformations of the form T : R2 → R2 , T (x, y) = (ax + h, by + k) are
not linear unless h = k = 0

Example 20
Let T : R2 → R2 , T (x, y) = (3x + 2, 4y − 6)
a Evaluate
i T (4, 5) ii T (−1, 2)
b Find the equation of the image of the graph y = f (x), where f (x) = 2 x , under this
transformation.

Solution
a i T (4, 5) = (3 × 4 + 2, 4 × 5 − 6) = (14, 14)
ii T (−1, 2) = (3 × (−1) + 2, 4 × 2 − 6) = (−1, 2)
b T (x, y) = (3x + 2, 4y − 6) an let (x0 , y0 ) = (3x + 2, 4y − 6).
Then:
x0 − 2
x0 = 3x + 2 ⇒ x =
3
0 y0 + 6
y = 4y − 6 ⇒ y =
4 0
x y +6 x0 −2
The image of y = 2 is =2 3
4
x−2
That is, the image has equation y = 4 × 2 3 − 6

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 126 Chapter 3: Transformations

Example 21
Let T : R2 → R2 , T (x, y) = (ax + h, by + k). Given that T (1, 6) = (−7, −3) and
T (−2, 3) = (11, 12) determine the values of a, b, h and k.
Solution
Since T (1, 6) = (−7, −3) we have the equations:
a + h = −7 . . . (1) and 6b + k = −3 . . . (2)
Since T (−2, 3) = (11, 12) we have the equations:
−2a + h = 11 . . . (3) and 3b + k = 12 . . . (4)
Subtract (3) from (1): Subtract (4) from (2):
3a = −18 3b = −15
a = −6 b = −5
∴ h = −1 ∴ k = 27
a = −6, b = −5, h = −1, k = 27

Composition of transformations
In section 3D we looked at combinations of transformations. This can be formalised with our
new notation by turning to composition of transformations which is the same idea that we
implemented in our study of functions.

Example 22
Let T 1 (x, y) = (x + 3, 2y) and T 2 (x, y) = (3x + 2, y − 3). Find the rule for;
a T 2 (T 1 (x, y)) b T 1 (T 2 (x, y))

Solution
a T 2 (T 1 (x, y)) = T 2 (x + 3, 2y) b T 1 (T 2 (x, y)) = T 1 (3x + 2, y − 3)
= (3(x + 3) + 2, 2y − 3) = (3x + 2 + 3, 2(y − 3))
= (3x + 11, 2y − 3) = (3x + 5, 2y − 6)

Notes:
 Note that two transformatons of the plane T 1 and T 2 are equal if T 1 (x, y) = T 2 (x, y) for all
(x, y) ∈ R2 .
 The composition of transformations T and S can be written as T ◦ S .
 In general, for transformations T and S , T (S (x, y)) , S (T (x, y)). That is, T ◦ S , S ◦ T .
 Some familes of transformations do commute. For example if S and T are translations
then, T (S (x, y)) = S (T (x, y)).

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 3I A notation for transformations 127

Inverses of transformations
A transformation T is one-to-one if T (x1 , y1 ) = T (x2 , y2 ) implies x1 = x2 and y1 = y2 . All of
the transformations that we are considering in this section are one-to-one transformations.
Given a transformation T we can define a new transformation T −1 , the inverse of T , by
defining:

T −1 (x0 , y0 ) = (x, y) if T (x, y) = (x0 , y0 )

Note: The function T −1 is also a one-to one function, and T is the inverse of T −1 .
Furthermore we have:
T ◦ T −1 (x, y) = (x, y) for all (x, y) ∈ R2
T −1 ◦ T (x, y) = (x, y) for all (x, y) ∈ R2

Example 23
Find the inverse of the transformation
T : R2 → R2 , T (x, y) = (3x − 2, −5y + 3)
Solution
We know T ◦ T −1 (x, y) = (x, y)
Let T −1 (x, y) = (w, z). Then
T (T −1 (x, y)) = (x, y)
T (w, z) = (x, y)
(3w − 2, −5z + 3) = (x, y)
∴ 3w − 2 = x and − 5z + 3 = y
x+2 3−y
∴w= and z =
3 5
x 2 3−y
!
−1 +
Hence,T (x, y) = ,
3 5
You can check that T ◦ T −1 (x, y) = T −1 ◦ T (x, y) = (x, y).

Transformations on subsets of R2
When you deal with functions for which the domain is not R it is of interest to see how the
domain (and range) are transformed.

Example 24
Consider the function f : [0, 3] → R, f (x) = −x2 + 2x.
a Find the range of f
b Find the image of f under the transformation with rule T (x, y) = (2x, −2y + 3). State the
domain and range of this image.

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 128 Chapter 3: Transformations 3I

Solution
a The graph of y = f (x) has a local maximum at (1, 1). The endpoints have coordinates
(0, 0) and (3, −3). Therefore range is [−3, 1]
b Let T (x, y) = (x0 , y0 )
Therefore, x0 = 2x and y0 = −2y + 3.
x0 y0 − 3
Thus, x = and y =
2 −2 !2
y0 − 3 x0 x0
!
2
Hence y = −x + 2x is mapped to =− +2
−2 2 2
Simplifying,
x2
The image has equation y = − 2x + 3
2
The domain is calculated as [2 × 0, 2 × 3] = [0, 6].
The turning point of the image, which is a local minimum, has coordinates
(2 × 1, −2 × 1 + 3) = (2, 1)
The range can be calculated from the domain of the image and the equation of the
image as [1, 9] or you can consider the transformation of the range of the original
function.
Note: There is a reflection in the x-axis and so care must be taken with the end points
of the range.

Exercise 3I

Example 20 1 Let T : R2 → R2 , T (x, y) = (x − 2, 2y + 3)

a Evaluate
i T (−2, 5) ii T (4, 2)
b Find the equation of the image of the graph y = f (x), where f (x) = 2 x , under this
transformation.

Example 21 2 Let T : R2 → R2 , T (x, y) = (ax + h, by + k). Given that T (−1, 7) = (−7, −3) and
T (−2, −3) = (4, 6) determine the values of a, b, h and k.

Example 22 3 Let T 1 (x, y) = (2x, 2y − 3) and T 2 (x, y) = (−x + 2, −y − 3). Find the rule for;
a T 2 (T 1 (x, y)) b T 1 (T 2 (x, y))

Example 23 4 Find the inverse of the transformation

T : R2 → R2 , T (x, y) = (−2x + 2, y − 3)

5 Determine the set which is the image of the set {(x, y) : x ∈ [2, 5], y ∈ [−3, 7], x, y ∈ R}
under the transformation with rule T (x, y) = (2x + 6, y − 3)

Example 24 6 Consider the function f : [0, 4] → R, f (x) = x2 .

a Find the range of f
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 3I 3I A notation for transformations 129

b Find the image of f under the transformation with rule T (x, y) = (−2x, 2y + 4). State
the domain and range of this image.
1 
7 Let T 1 (x, y) = x, y − 3 ,T 2 (x, y) = (−x, y + 3) and T 3 (x, y) = (−2x, y − 3) . Find the
2
rule for;
a T 2 (T 1 (x, y)) b T 1 (T 2 (x, y)) c T 3 (T 1 (x, y))
d T 1 (T 3 (x, y)) e T 2 (T 3 (x, y)) f T 3 (T 2 (x, y))

8 Find the inverse of each of the following transformations assuming domain R2

a T (x, y) = (−x + 2, −y − 3) b S (x, y) = (x + 2, y − 3)
c T (x, y) = (−3x − 2, 6 − y) d S (x, y) = (−2x + 3, 4 − y)

9 Consider the function f : [−1, 2] → R, f (x) = x3 .

a Find the range of f
b Find the image of f under the transformation with rule T (x, y) = (−x + 3, −2y + 4).
State the domain and range of this image.
 1 
10 Let T 1 (x, y) = (x − 5, y + 2) and T 2 (x, y) = −x, y
2
a Determine the rules for
i T 1 (T 2 (x, y)) ii T 2 (T 1 (x, y)) iii T 1 (T 1 (x, y))
b Describe each of resulting transformations in words.

11 Let T 1 (x, y) = (3x, 2y), T 2 (x, y) = (x + 3, y − 2) and T 3 (x, y) = (−x, y) .

a Determine the rules for
i T 1 (T 2 (T 3 (x, y))) ii T 2 (T 1 (T 3 (x, y))) iii T 3 (T 1 (T 2 (x, y)))
b Describe each of resulting transformations in words.

12 A transformation of the form T : R2 → R2 , T (x, y) = (ax + h, by + k) maps the graph of

√ √
f : [c, d] → R, f (x) = x to f : [4, 8] → R, f (x) = −3 2x − 5 + 6. State a possible set
of values of a, h, b and k and the corresponding values of c and d
2 1
( )
13 Let f : R\ − → R, f (x) = .
5 5x + 2
a Find f −1
b Determine the rule for a transformation of the form,
T : R2 → R2 , T (x, y) = (ax + h, by + k)
which maps the graph of y = f (x) to the graph of y = f −1 (x)

14 Let T 1 : R2 → R2 , T 1 (x, y) = (a1 x + h1 , b1 y + k1 ) and T 2 : R2 → R2 , T 2 (x, y) =

(a2 x + h2 , b2 y + k2 ) .
a Give the rules for T 1 ◦ T 2 and (T 1 ◦ T 2 )−1
b Give the rules for T 1−1 , T 2−1 and T 2−1 ◦ T 1−1
c Prove that (T 1 ◦ T 2 )−1 = T 2−1 ◦ T 1−1

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Review 130 Chapter 3: Transformations

Chapter summary

In the following table, the rule for each transformation is given along with the rule for the
Assign- image of the graph of y = f (x).
ment

The graph of
Mapping Rule
y = f(x) maps to
Nrich
x0 = x
Reflection in the x-axis y = − f (x)
y0 = −y
x0 = −x
Reflection in the y-axis y = f (−x)
y0 = y
x0 = ax  x
Dilation of factor a from the y-axis y= f
y0 = y a
0
x =x
Dilation of factor b from the x-axis y = b f (x)
y0 = by
x0 = y
Reflection in the line y = x x = f (y)
y0 = x
• h units in the positive direction of the x-axis x0 = x + h
• k units in the positive direction of the y-axis y0 = y + k y − k = f (x − h)

Technology-free questions

1 Sketch the graph of each of the following. Label any asymptotes and axis intercepts.
State the range of each function.
1 1
a f : R \ {0} → R, f (x) = − 3 b f : (2, ∞) → R, f (x) =
x x−2
2 −3
c f : R \ {1} → R, f (x) = −3 d f : (2, ∞) → R, f (x) = +4
x−1 2−x
1
e f : R \ {1} → R, f (x) = 1 −
x−1
2 Sketch the graph of each of the following:
√ 3 −3
a f (x) = 2 x − 3 + 1 b g(x) = −1 c h(x) = −1
(x − 2)2 (x − 2)2
3 Sketch the graph of each of the following. State the coordinates of the point of zero
gradient and the axis intercepts.
a f (x) = −2(x + 1)3 b g(x) = −2(x − 1)5 + 8
c h(x) = 2(x − 2)5 + 1 d f (x) = 4(x − 1)3 − 4

4 The points with coordinates (1, 6) and (16, 12) lie on a curve which has a rule of the
√
form y = a x + b. Find a and b.

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 Chapter 3 review 131

Review
5 A transformation T : R2 → R2 has rule
T (x, y) = (x − 4, −2y − 1)
√
Find the image of the curve with equation y = x under this transformation.

6 A transformation T : R2 → R2 has rule

1
T (x, y) = (3x − 4, −y − )
2
√
Find the image of the curve with equation y = 2 x − 4 + 3 under this transformation.

7 The points with coordinates (1, 3) and (3, 7) lie on a curve with equation of the form
a
y = + b. Find the values of a and b.
x
8 a Find the rule for the image of the graph of y = −x2 under the following sequence of
transformations:
 reflection in the y-axis
 dilation of factor 2 from the y-axis
 translation 4 units in the positive direction of the x-axis and 6 units in the positive
direction of the y-axis.
b Find a sequence of transformations which takes the graph of y = x4 to the graph of
y = 6 − 4(x + 1)4 .
1
9 Identify a sequence of transformations that maps the graph of y = 2 onto the graph of
3 3 x
y= + 3. Use this to sketch the graph of y = + 3, stating the equations
(x − 5)2 (x − 5)2
of asymptotes and the coordinates of axis intercepts.

10 Find a sequence of transformations that takes the graph of y = 2x2 − 3 to the graph of
y = x2 .

11 Find a sequence of transformations that takes the graph of y = 2(x − 3)3 + 4 to the graph
of y = x3 .

Multiple-choice questions

1 The point P(3, −4) lies on the graph of a function f . The graph of f is translated 3 units
up (parallel to the y-axis) and reflected in the x-axis. The coordinates of the final image
of P are
A (6, 4) B (3, 1) C (3, −1) D (−3, 1) E (3, 7)

2 The graph of y = x3 + 4 is translated 3 units ‘down’ and 2 units ‘to the right’. The
resulting graph has equation
A y = (x − 2)3 + 2 B y = (x − 2)3 + 1 C y = (x − 2)3 + 5
D y = (x + 2)3 + 1 E y = (x + 2)3 + 6

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Review 132 Chapter 3: Transformations

3 The graph of y = f (x) is shown on the right. y

Which one of the following could be the graph of

y = f (−x)? 2

x
−2 O 2
−2

A y B y C y

2 2 2

x x x
−2 O 2 −2 O 2 −2 O 2
−2 −2 −2

D y E y

2 2

x x
−2 O 2 −2 O 2
−2 −2

4 The graph of the function with rule y = x2 is reflected in the x-axis and then translated
4 units in the negative direction of the x-axis and 3 units in the negative direction of the
y-axis. The rule for the new function is
A y = (−x + 4)2 − 3 B y = −(x − 4)2 + 3 C y = −(x − 3)2 + 4
D y = (−x − 4)2 + 3 E y = −(x + 4)2 − 3
a
5 The graph of y = + c is shown on the y
x+b
right. A possible set of values for a, b and c
respectively is
A −1, 3, 2 −3 O
B 1, 2, −3 x
−2
C −1, −3, −2
D −1, 3, −2
E 1, 2, −3

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 Chapter 3 review 133

Review
6 The graph of the function f is obtained from the graph of y = x 3 by a reflection in the
y-axis followed by a dilation of factor 5 from the x-axis. The rule for f is
1 1 1 1
A f (x) = −5x 3 B f (x) = (−x) 3 C f (x) = (−5x) 3
5
1 1 1
D f (x) = − x 3 E f (x) = −5(−x) 3
5
7 The transformation T : R2 → R2 with rule T (x, y) = (3x − 2, −y − 1)
√
maps the curve with equation y = 3 x to the curve with equation
3 x − 2 3 x + 2 3 x − 3
r r r
A y=1+ B y= −1 C y=2 −1
3 3 3
3 x + 2 3 3x + 2
r r
D y = −1 − E y = −1 +
3 3
1
8 A transformation T : R2 → R2 that maps the graph of y = to the graph of
3 x
y= − 4 is given by
2x + 1
1 1 1
! !
A T (x, y) = x − , 3y − 4 B T (x, y) = x − 2, 3y − 1
2 2 2
1 1
! !
C T (x, y) = x − 2, 3y − 4 D T (x, y) = 3x + 2, y − 4
2 2
1 1
!
E T (x, y) = 3x − , y − 2
2 2
5
9 A transformation T : R2 → R2 that maps the graph of y = − + 3 to the graph of
1 2x −1
y = is given by
x
1 3 1 1 3
! !
A T (x, y) = 2x − 1, − y + B T (x, y) = x − 2, − y +
5 5 2 5 5
1 1 3 3
! !
C T (x, y) = x + 1, − y − D T (x, y) = 2x − 1, 5y −
2 5 5 5
1 1 3
!
E T (x, y) = 5x − , y −
2 2 5

10 Let f (x) = 3x − 2 and g(x) = x2 − 4x + 2. A sequence of transformations that takes the

graph of y = g(x) to the graph of y = g( f (x)) is
1
A a dilation of factor 3from the y-axis followed by a translation 23 units in the positive
direction of the x-axis
B a dilation of factor 3 from the y-axis followed by a translation 2 units in the negative
direction of the x-axis
C a dilation of factor 31 from the y-axis followed by a translation 12 unit in the positive
direction of the x-axis
D a dilation of factor 3 from the y-axis followed by a translation 2 units in the positive
direction of the x-axis
E a dilation of factor 31 from the y-axis followed by a translation 2 units in the positive
direction of the x-axis
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Review 134 Chapter 3: Transformations

Extended-response questions

24
1 Consider the function f : D → R with rule f (x) = − 6, where D is the maximal
x+2
domain for this rule.
a Find D.
1
b Describe a sequence of transformations which, when applied to the graph of y = ,
x
produces the graph of y = f (x). Specify the order in which these transformations are
to be applied.
c Find the coordinates of the points where the graph of f cuts the axes.
Let g : (−2, ∞) → R, g(x) = f (x).
d Find the rule for g−1 , the inverse of g.
e Write down the domain of g−1 .
f Sketch the graphs of y = g(x) and y = g−1 (x) on the one set of axes.
g Find the value(s) of x for which g(x) = x and hence the value(s) of x for which
g(x) = g−1 (x).
√
2 Consider the function f : D → R with rule f (x) = 4 − 2 2x + 6, where D is the
maximal domain for this rule.
a Find D.
√
b Describe a sequence of transformations which, when applied to the graph of y = x,
produces the graph of y = f (x). Specify the order in which these transformations are
to be applied.
c Find the coordinates of the points where the graph of f cuts the axes.
d Find the rule for f −1 , the inverse of f .
e Find the domain of f −1 .
f Sketch the graphs of y = f (x) and y = f −1 (x) on the one set of axes.
g Find the value(s) of x for which f (x) = x and hence the value(s) of x for which
f (x) = f −1 (x).

3 a i Find the dilation from the x-axis which takes y = x2 to the parabola with its
vertex at the origin that passes through the point (25, 15).
ii State the rule which reflects this dilated parabola in the x-axis.
iii State the rule which takes the reflected parabola of part ii to a parabola with
x-axis intercepts (0, 0) and (50, 0) and vertex (25, 15).
iv State the rule which takes the curve y = x2 to the parabola defined in part iii.
b The plans for the entrance of a new building involve twin parabolic arches as shown
in the diagram.

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 Chapter 3 review 135

Review
i From the results of part a, give y
the equation for the curve of
arch 1.
ii Find the translation which
maps the curve of arch 1 to the 15 m Arch 1 Arch 2
curve of arch 2.
x
iii Find the equation of the curve 0 50 m 50 m
of arch 2.
c The architect wishes to have flexibility in her planning and so wants to develop an
algorithm for determining the equations of the curves when each arch has width
m metres and height n metres.
i Find the rule for the transformation which takes the graph of y = x2 to the current
arch 1 with these new dimensions.
ii Find the equation for the curve of arch 1.
iii Find the equation for the curve of arch 2.
3
4 Consider the function g : D → R with rule g(x) = + 6, where D is the
(3x − 4)2
maximal domain for this rule.
a Find D.
b Find the smallest value of a such that f : (a, ∞) → R, f (x) = g(x) is a one-to-one
function.
c Find the inverse function of f .
d Find the value of x for which f (x) = f −1 (x).
e On the one set of axes, sketch the graphs of y = f (x) and y = f −1 (x).
50
5 a Sketch the curve with equation f (x) = , for x , 20.
50x 20 − x
b For g(x) = :
20 − x
1000
i Show that g(x) = − 50.
20 − x
ii Sketch the graph of y = g(x).
iii Show that g(x) = 20 f (x) − 50.
c Find the rule for the function g−1 .

6 When the transformation with rule (x, y) → (y, x) (a reflection in the line y = x) is
applied to the graph of a one-to-one function f , the resulting image has rule y = f −1 (x),
i.e. the graph of the inverse function is obtained.
a For the graph of y = f (x), find the rule for the image of f , in terms of f −1 (x), for
each of the following sequences of transformations:
i  a translation of 3 units in the positive direction of the x-axis
 a translation of 5 units in the positive direction of the y-axis
 a reflection in the line y = x

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Review 136 Chapter 3: Transformations

ii  a reflection in the line y = x

 a translation of 3 units in the positive direction of the x-axis
 a translation of 5 units in the positive direction of the y-axis
iii  a dilation of factor 3 from the x-axis
 a dilation of factor 5 from the y-axis
 a reflection in the line y = x
iv  a reflection in the line y = x
 a dilation of factor 5 from the y-axis
 a dilation of factor 3 from the x-axis.
b Find the image of the graph of y = f (x), in terms of f −1 (x), under the transformation
with rule (x, y) → (ay + b, cx + d), where a, b, c and d are positive constants, and
describe this transformation in words.

7 Let f (x) = x2 − 9 and

1

f (x + 6) if − 10 ≤ x < −3



2




g(x) = 

 f (x) if − 3 ≤ x < 3
2



− f (x − 6) if 3 ≤ x ≤ 10



3
A graph of y = g(x) is shown below right.
a State the range of y = g(x) y
b Find the values of k such that the
(6,6)
equation y = k has 6
i 0 solutions (–10,7/2)
ii 1 solution
iii 2 solutions
x
iv 3 solutions −9 −6 −3 O 3 6 9
v 4 solutions
vi 5 solutions.
c Write the rule for g(x) with the (−6,−9/2) (10,–14/3)
−6
components written in polynomial
form. −9

d State the range of the function with rule y = −2g(3x).

e The transformation T with rule T (x, y) = (−x + 2, 4 − 2y) is applied to the graph of
the function g. State the domain and range of the image of g.
f i Determine the rule for a transformation S , with rule of the form
(x, y) → (ax + h, cy + k), that takes the graph of y = f (x) to the parabola with
equation y = −2x2 + 12x + 2.
ii Find the equation of the image of the graph of y = g(x) under this transformation.

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