Question

Functions f(x) and g(x) are shown below: f(x) = (x + 4)2 g(x) = (x + 8)2 In which direction and by how many units should f(x) be shifted to obtain g(x)? Left by 4 units Right by 4 units Left by 8 units Right by 8 units

Answer 1

Left by 4 units. Because the only difference is within the parentheses where it says “+4” and “+8”. When within the parentheses, the sign is opposite in determining left or right. So when it is adding, it is left, and when subtracting, it is right. The difference between 8-4= 4. So it is +4 more (4+4=8). :)