Calculus: Early Transcendentals (2nd Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321947347
ISBN 13: 978-0-32194-734-5

Chapter 1 - Functions - 1.1 Review of Functions - 1.1 Exercises - Page 12: 88

Answer

The solution is $$f(x)=x^2-6.$$

Work Step by Step

We need that $(f(x))^2$ is equal to a 4th degree polynomial so we will demand that $f(x)$ is a 2nd degree polynomial i.e. that it is given by $f(x)=ax^2+bx+c$. This gives $$(f(x))^2=(ax^2+bx+c)^2=a^2x^4+b^2x^2+c^2+2abx^3+2acx^2+2bcx = a^2x^4+ 2abx^3+(b^2+2ac)x^2+2bcx+c^2 = x^4-12x^2+36.$$ Equating the coefficients multiplying same powers of $x$ we get $$a^2=1\Rightarrow a=1$$ $$2ab=0\Rightarrow 2b=0\Rightarrow b=0$$ $$b^2+2ac=-12\Rightarrow 2c=-12\Rightarrow c=-6$$ The last equation is only for checking. Indeed $$c^2=(-6)^2=36.$$ Finally $$f(x)=x^2-6.$$
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.