Thread: Question about parameters in square root function (Grade 11)

I get g(x)=sqrt(-(x+1)) and the solution guide says g(x)=sqrt(-(x-1)). Is my answer wrong or is the solution guide wrong?

After the first transformation:
After the second transformation:

If the negative is outside the square root, you're changing the a parameter (vertical change). Both the solution guide and my answer has the negative inside the square root. In high school, I know that you can't have a negative numerical value in a square root but the letters (unknowns) can also be negative which could result in a positive value. But, I still need help understanding the minor difference in answers between me and my solutions guide.

Originally Posted by s3a

I get g(x)=sqrt(-(x+1)) and the solution guide says g(x)=sqrt(-(x-1)). Is my answer wrong or is the solution guide wrong?

Hello s3a,

reflected about the y-axis will yield

.

Then, if you translate (slide) 1 unit to the right, you end up with

, which is what your answer key says.

Your solution, will translate the graph 1 unit to the left.