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jmc

algebra senior

Problem

If and for all in the domain of , what is the value of ?
Solution
The condition means that is the inverse of itself, so its graph is symmetrical about the line . With a rational function of this form, we will have two asymptotes: a vertical one at if does not divide , and a horizontal one at , if we take the limit of as goes to . In order for to be its own inverse, the intersection of the asymptotes must lie on the line so that it and its asymptotes reflect onto themselves. This means that , and therefore and .
Final answer
0