Medium Level

Advanced Math

Master function transformations, radical equations, and rational expressions.

What You'll Learn

Function Transformations

Understand shifts, reflections, stretches, and compressions of functions.

Radicals

Simplify radical expressions and solve radical equations.

Rational Expressions

Add, subtract, multiply, and divide rational expressions.

Complex Numbers

Work with imaginary numbers and perform operations with complex numbers.

Key Concepts

  • Vertical Shifts: f(x) + k shifts the graph up by k units
  • Simplifying Radicals: √(ab) = √a × √b and rationalizing denominators
  • Rational Equations: Find LCD when adding or subtracting rational expressions
  • Imaginary Unit: i = √(-1) and i² = -1
  • Domain Restrictions: Identify values that make denominators zero or radicands negative

Example Problem

Simplify: √50 + √18

Solution:

√50 = √(25 × 2) = 5√2

√18 = √(9 × 2) = 3√2

√50 + √18 = 5√2 + 3√2 = 8√2

Study Tips

  • Graph transformations systematically: start with the parent function, then apply transformations in order
  • Always check for extraneous solutions when solving radical or rational equations
  • Factor completely before simplifying rational expressions
  • Remember that i² = -1, i³ = -i, and i⁴ = 1 (the pattern repeats)

Start Practicing

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