Proving these two functions intersect at 'a'

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  • Thread starter Saracen Rue
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In summary, the two functions ##f\left(x\right)=x^{a\left(a-x^3\right)}-a## and ##g\left(x\right)=a^{x\left(x-a^3\right)}-x## will always intersect at ##a## when ##x>0##. There is a way to mathematically prove this by proving that ##f(a) = g(a)##, which also proves that the functions intersect at ##x=a##. This can be done by simultaneously solving the functions and simplifying the answer down to ##x=a##. It should be noted that the functions may also intersect at other locations besides ##[a, f(a)]##.
  • #1
Saracen Rue
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Through experimental observations, I have found that the two functions ##f\left(x\right)=x^{a\left(a-x^3\right)}-a## and ##g\left(x\right)=a^{x\left(x-a^3\right)}-x## will always intersect at ##a## when ##x>0##. Is there a way to mathematically prove this? For instance, simultaneously solving the functions and simplifying the answer down to ##x=a## (Note: the functions sometimes also intersect at other locations besides ##[a, f(a)]##)
 
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  • #2
Saracen Rue said:
Through experimental observations, I have found that the two functions ##f\left(x\right)=x^{a\left(a-x^3\right)}-a## and ##g\left(x\right)=a^{x\left(x-a^3\right)}-x## will always intersect at ##a## when ##x>0##. Is there a way to mathematically prove this? For instance, simultaneously solving the functions and simplifying the answer down to ##x=a## (Note: the functions sometimes also intersect at other locations besides ##[a, f(a)]##)

You mean prove that ##f(a) = g(a)##?
 
  • #3
PeroK said:
You mean prove that ##f(a) = g(a)##?

Ah yes, expressing it that way does seem a lot clearer.
 
  • #4
Isn't that obvious if you just plug in a for x?
 
  • #5
Right, so it was midnight when I posted this and I wasn't in the most clear mindset. Looking back on this now I can see that by proving ##f(a)=g(a)## you also prove that ##f(x)## intersects ##g(x)## at ##x=a##. Sorry for this entire post.
 

Related to Proving these two functions intersect at 'a'

What is the definition of intersecting functions?

Intersecting functions are two or more functions that share a common point or points on a graph. This point is called the point of intersection and is represented by the coordinates (x,y).

What is the purpose of proving that two functions intersect at a specific point?

The purpose of proving that two functions intersect at a specific point is to show that both functions have a common solution or value. This can be useful in solving equations or systems of equations, and in understanding the relationship between different functions.

What is the process for proving that two functions intersect at a specific point?

The process for proving that two functions intersect at a specific point involves setting the two functions equal to each other and then solving for the variable(s). If the resulting solution(s) are the same for both functions, then they intersect at that point.

What are some common techniques used to prove that two functions intersect at a specific point?

Some common techniques used to prove that two functions intersect at a specific point include substitution, elimination, and graphing. These techniques can help to visually and algebraically show that the two functions have a common point of intersection.

What are some real-world applications of proving that two functions intersect at a specific point?

Proving that two functions intersect at a specific point can be useful in various fields such as engineering, economics, and physics. For example, in engineering, it can be used to determine the point at which two lines or curves meet, which can be important in designing structures. In economics, it can be used to find the equilibrium point where supply and demand intersect. In physics, it can be used to calculate the point at which two objects collide or intersect in space.

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