Express the given function h as a composition of two functions f and g so that h(x) = (f ○ g)(x). h(x) = (x2 + 2x - 1)4
Ch. 2 - Functions and Graphs

Chapter 3, Problem 90
Begin by graphing the absolute value function, f(x) = |x|. Then use transformations of this graph to graph the given function. g(x) = -|x + 4| +2
Verified step by step guidance1
Start with the base graph of the absolute value function, f(x) = |x|. This graph is a V-shaped graph with its vertex at the origin (0, 0), opening upwards.
Identify the transformation inside the absolute value: x + 4. This represents a horizontal shift. Specifically, the graph of |x| is shifted 4 units to the left because of the +4 inside the absolute value.
Next, consider the negative sign in front of the absolute value, -|x + 4|. This reflects the graph of |x + 4| across the x-axis, causing the V-shape to open downwards instead of upwards.
Now, account for the +2 outside the absolute value. This represents a vertical shift. The entire graph of -|x + 4| is shifted 2 units upward.
Combine all the transformations: Start with the base graph of |x|, shift it 4 units to the left, reflect it across the x-axis, and finally shift it 2 units upward. Plot the resulting graph to visualize g(x) = -|x + 4| + 2.

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7mKey Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Absolute Value Function
The absolute value function, denoted as f(x) = |x|, outputs the non-negative value of x. This function has a V-shaped graph that opens upwards, with its vertex at the origin (0,0). Understanding this function is crucial as it serves as the foundation for applying transformations to graph other functions.
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Function Composition
Transformations of Functions
Transformations involve shifting, reflecting, stretching, or compressing the graph of a function. For example, adding a constant inside the absolute value affects horizontal shifts, while adding outside affects vertical shifts. In the function g(x) = -|x + 4| + 2, the transformations include a horizontal shift left by 4 units, a reflection across the x-axis, and a vertical shift up by 2 units.
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Domain & Range of Transformed Functions
Graphing Techniques
Graphing techniques involve plotting points and understanding how transformations affect the shape and position of a graph. For the function g(x), one must first graph f(x) = |x|, then apply the identified transformations systematically. This process helps visualize the changes and accurately represent the new function on a coordinate plane.
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Related Practice
Textbook Question
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Textbook Question
Use the graphs of f and g to evaluate each composite function.
(fog) (-1)
Textbook Question
In Exercises 77–92, use the graph to determine a. the function's domain; b. the function's range; c. the x-intercepts, if any; d. the y-intercept, if any; and e. the missing function values, indicated by question marks, below each graph.
Textbook Question
Use the graphs of f and g to solve Exercises 83–90.
Graph f-g.
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Textbook Question
Use the graphs of f and g to solve Exercises 83–90.
Graph f+g.
Textbook Question
In Exercises 77–92, use the graph to determine a. the function's domain; b. the function's range; c. the x-intercepts, if any; d. the y-intercept, if any; and e. the missing function values, indicated by question marks, below each graph.
