Question

If you vertically compress the absolute value patent function, f(x)=|x|, by a factor of 5, what is the equation of the new function?

Answer 1

A vertical compression implies a reduction in the y-values of the absolute value function. Therefore, the term that we use to accomplish the reduction cannot be attached to the x in the equation. If so, we would end up with a horizontal stretch, not a vertical compression.

Compression implies a reduction, or dividing, so our term will be 1/5. This should be placed outside of the absolute value bars so that the compression affects only the y-values.

Correct answer: B. g(x) = 1/5|x|

Hope this helps! :)