The Architecture of Constraints
Unlocking the Domain
Imagine you are an architect designing a structure that must hold up under extreme pressure. In mathematics, the 'domain' of a function is exactly that—the structural integrity of the expression. If you step outside the domain, the function doesn't just break; it ceases to exist.
Today, we are going to explore two such structures: f(x)=log4log3log7(8−log2(x2+4x+5)) and g(x)=sin−1(x−27x+10). Our goal is to find the boundaries of their existence and uncover the hidden numerical beauty within.
Peeling the Logarithmic Onion
When we look at f(x), we see a nested sequence of logarithms. Think of this as a series of security checkpoints. To pass through, the argument of each logarithm must be strictly positive.
We start at the outermost gate: log4(…)>0. Since the base 4>1, we can safely exponentiate without flipping the inequality. This gives us log3log7(8−log2(x2+4x+5))>40, which simplifies to log3log7(8−log2(x2+4x+5))>1.
We continue this process, peeling away the layers of the onion. As we strip away each layer, we are essentially solving:
log3log7(8−log2(x2+4x+5))>0⇒log7(8−log2(x2+4x+5))>1
⇒8−log2(x2+4x+5)>71⇒log2(x2+4x+5)<1
Finally, we reach the core: x2+4x+5<21, which simplifies to x2+4x+3<0. Factoring this quadratic gives us (x+3)(x+1)<0.
By the Wavy Curve method, we find the domain of f(x) is x∈(−3,−1). Thus, α=−3 and β=−1. We have successfully mapped the first territory!
The Inverse Sine Challenge
Now, let us turn our attention to g(x)=sin−1(x−27x+10). The inverse sine function is a strict guardian; it only accepts inputs in the range [−1,1]. This forces us to solve the double inequality:
This is a classic JEE trap. Many students try to cross-multiply, but that is a dangerous path. Instead, we treat this as two separate inequalities.
First, x−27x+10≥−1, which rearranges to x−28x+8≥0. Using the Wavy Curve, we find x∈(−∞,−1]∪(2,∞).
Second, x−27x+10≤1, which rearranges to x−26x+12≤0. This simplifies to x−2x+2≤0, yielding x∈[−2,2).
To find the domain, we must find the intersection of these two sets. The overlap between (−∞,−1]∪(2,∞) and [−2,2) is precisely [−2,−1]. Therefore, γ=−2 and δ=−1.
The Final Synthesis
We have navigated the constraints and found our boundaries: α=−3,β=−1,γ=−2,δ=−1. The problem asks for the sum of their squares: α2+β2+γ2+δ2.
Substituting our values:
(−3)2+(−1)2+(−2)2+(−1)2=9+1+4+1=15
It is truly elegant how these complex, nested functions collapse into such a clean, integer result. You have successfully navigated the layers of logarithmic constraints and the rigid boundaries of inverse trigonometry.
Remember, in JEE Advanced, the math is not just about calculation; it is about maintaining clarity under pressure. You have done exactly that. Keep this momentum, and keep questioning the 'why' behind every step!