Simplify each rational expression. Assume all variable expressions represent positive real numbers. (Hint: Use factoring and divide out any common factors as a first step.) [4(x2- 1)3 + 8x(x2-1)4] / [16(x2-1)3]
Table of contents
- 0. Review of Algebra4h 18m
- 1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
- 2. Graphs of Equations1h 43m
- 3. Functions2h 17m
- 4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
- 5. Rational Functions1h 23m
- 6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
- 7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 5m
- 8. Conic Sections2h 23m
- 9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 22m
- 10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m
0. Review of Algebra
Factoring Polynomials
Problem 7
Textbook Question
Solve each polynomial equation in Exercises 1–10 by factoring and then using the zero-product principle.
Verified step by step guidance1
First, rewrite the equation so that all terms are on one side, setting the equation equal to zero: \$4y^3 - 2 - y + 8y^2 = 0$.
Combine like terms to simplify the expression: \$4y^3 + 8y^2 - y - 2 = 0$.
Group terms to factor by grouping: group the first two terms and the last two terms separately: \((4y^3 + 8y^2) + (-y - 2) = 0\).
Factor out the greatest common factor (GCF) from each group: \$4y^2(y + 2) - 1(y + 2) = 0$.
Since both groups contain the factor \((y + 2)\), factor it out: \((y + 2)(4y^2 - 1) = 0\). Then, apply the zero-product principle by setting each factor equal to zero: \(y + 2 = 0\) and \$4y^2 - 1 = 0$.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Polynomial Equations
Polynomial equations are algebraic expressions set equal to zero, involving variables raised to whole-number exponents. Understanding how to manipulate and simplify these expressions is essential for solving them. In this problem, the equation involves a cubic polynomial, which requires careful rearrangement before factoring.
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Factoring Polynomials
Factoring is the process of rewriting a polynomial as a product of simpler polynomials or factors. This step is crucial because it breaks down complex expressions into manageable parts. Common factoring techniques include factoring out the greatest common factor, grouping, and special products like difference of squares.
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Zero-Product Principle
The zero-product principle states that if the product of two or more factors equals zero, then at least one of the factors must be zero. This principle allows us to set each factor equal to zero and solve for the variable, providing the solutions to the polynomial equation after factoring.
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Fundamental Counting Principle
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