Grade 12 Maths · Functions

Restrict domain for an inverse

Limit the x-values of a parabola, like x ≥ 0, so that its inverse is a function (for example y = x², x ≥ 0 has inverse y = √x).

past paper questions use it
7 past paper questions use it
videos
4 videos

Learn it: restrict domain for an inverse

Pick one and watch it, then try the questions below. Videos load only when you tap play.

3) Inverse of parabola | Part 1Kevinmathscience
3) Inverse of parabola | Part 2Kevinmathscience
How to Restrict the Domain so the Inverse is a FunctionMario's Math Tutoring
Inverse Functions (4 of 4: Restriction the Domain to get an Inverse Function of Even Functions)Eddie Woo

Now try it on a real exam question

No sign-up. Takes 3 minutes.

Question 5.1 · March 2024 · Paper 1 · Provincial · 3 marks

Given: where .
5.1 Determine the equation of .(3)

Work it out on paper first. Then mark yourself with the official memo, one tick at a time.

More past paper questions: restrict domain for an inverse

Work each one out first, then open the memo and check every tick.

  1. 3. Question 8.3.3 · November 2024 · Paper 1 · National (DBE) · 3 marks

    8.3 Given:
    8.3.3 Determine the equation of for . Write your answer in the form (3)
    Show the memo (3 ticks)
    1. ✓
      Swap x and y

      1 mark · Find the equation of an inverse

    2. ✓
      Solve for y

      1 mark · Find the equation of an inverse

    3. ✓
      Apply restrictionSince :

      1 mark · Restrict domain for an inverse

  2. 4. Question 3.2.3 · March 2025 · Provincial · 3 marks

    Given:
    3.2 Consider the function .
    3.2.3 Determine the inverse of in the form (include all restrictions).(3)
    Show the memo (3 ticks)
    1. ✓
      Interchange x and y

      1 mark · Find the equation of an inverse

    2. ✓
      Solve for y

      1 mark · Find the equation of an inverse

    3. ✓
      State restriction

      1 mark · Restrict domain for an inverse

  3. 5. Question 4.1.1 · March 2025 · Provincial · 3 marks

    4.1 The graph of , is drawn. passes through A(3; 3).Diagram for question 4.1
    4.1.1 Determine the equation of in the form (3)
    Show the memo (3 ticks)
    1. ✓
      Swap x and y in inverse equation

      1 mark · Find the equation of an inverse

    2. ✓
      Solve for y

      1 mark · Find the equation of an inverse

    3. ✓
      Include domain restriction

      1 mark · Restrict domain for an inverse

Free on Android

Know exactly which skill is costing you marks.

Mark past papers tick by tick in the NavyBlue app. It remembers every mark you lose, shows you the skills to fix first, and picks your next questions.

Get NavyBlue free on Google Play
The NavyBlue app showing a learner's weak skills