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Algebra/how to solve (x + 2x^3)^4 = -1

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Expert: - 10/31/2009


Question
Hi,

I am stuck on how to start a calculus problem. The problem is to show why the function f(x)=(x + 2x^3)^4, is continuous with a=-1.

I know to make the function equal to -1 and then solve for x, but I cannot think of how to begin solving for x in the equation (x + 2x^3)^4 = -1.

I'm sure it's something simple but I can't think of where to begin. If you could please help me get it started I would really appreciate it.

Thank you!

Answer
Hello Christine,

I'm a little bit confused. Specifically, I don't understand what "a" is. Do you mean: "Show that f(x) is continuous at point x=-1"?

What you seem to be try to be doing is finding the inverse function: solving for x, and then finding the value of x when f(x)=a=-1. That has nothing to do with continuity...

Could you please write down the exact sentence of the question?

Cheers,
David

Algebra

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