Functional Equation: Solving for f(2012)

  • MHB
  • Thread starter juantheron
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Functional
SE 2012In summary, we can conclude that if $f(x+y) = f(xy)$ and $\displaystyle f\left(-\frac{1}{2}\right) = -\frac{1}{2}$, then $f(2012)=-\frac{1}{2}$. This is because $f(x)$ is a constant function and $f(0)=-\frac{1}{2}$, so $f(2012)=-\frac{1}{2}$.
  • #1
juantheron
247
1
If $f(x+y) = f(xy)$ and $\displaystyle f\left(-\frac{1}{2}\right) = -\frac{1}{2}$. Then $f(2012) = $
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
jacks said:
If $f(x+y) = f(xy)$ and $\displaystyle f\left(-\frac{1}{2}\right) = -\frac{1}{2}$. Then $f(2012) = $

Hi jacks, :)

Since, \(f(x+y) = f(xy)\) we have,

\[f\left(-\frac{1}{2}\right)=f\left(-\frac{1}{2}+0\right)=f\left(-\frac{1}{2}\times 0\right)=f(0)\]

Since, \(f\left(-\dfrac{1}{2}\right) = -\dfrac{1}{2}\)

\[f(0)=-\frac{1}{2}\]

Now,

\[f(2012)=f(2012+0)=f(2012\times 0)=f(0)=-\frac{1}{2}\]

Kind Regards,
Sudharaka.
 
  • #3
jacks said:
If $f(x+y) = f(xy)$ and $\displaystyle f\left(-\frac{1}{2}\right) = -\frac{1}{2}$. Then $f(2012) = $

Observe:

\[f(x+y)=f(xy) \Rightarrow f(x)=f(0)\]

Hence \( f(x) \) is a constant function, so \(f(-1/2)=-1/2 \Rightarrow f(2012)=-1/2\) \)

CB
 

FAQ: Functional Equation: Solving for f(2012)

What is a functional equation?

A functional equation is an equation in which the unknown variable is a function rather than a traditional numerical variable. The goal is to find the specific function that satisfies the given equation.

What is the process for solving a functional equation?

The general process for solving a functional equation involves substituting in different values for the variable and manipulating the equation until a pattern or relationship is discovered. This pattern can then be used to determine the specific function that satisfies the equation.

What is the significance of solving for f(2012) in a functional equation?

Solving for f(2012) in a functional equation is important because it allows us to find the value of the function at a specific point, in this case, when the input is 2012. This can provide insight into the behavior of the function and help us better understand its properties.

What are some common strategies for solving functional equations?

Some common strategies for solving functional equations include using algebraic manipulations, substitution, using known properties of functions, and creating a table of values to look for patterns.

What are some real-life applications of functional equations?

Functional equations have many real-life applications, including in economics, physics, engineering, and computer science. They can be used to model relationships between different variables and make predictions based on these relationships.

Similar threads

Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
12
Views
1K
Replies
5
Views
1K
Back
Top