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
7. Systems of Equations & Matrices
Introduction to Matrices
Problem 22
Textbook Question
In Exercises 16–24, write the partial fraction decomposition of each rational expression. (7x^2 - 7x + 23)/(x - 3)(x^2 + 4)
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Recognize that the given rational expression \((7x^2 - 7x + 23)/((x - 3)(x^2 + 4))\) needs to be decomposed into partial fractions. The denominator consists of two distinct factors: \(x - 3\) (a linear factor) and \(x^2 + 4\) (an irreducible quadratic factor).
Step 2: Set up the partial fraction decomposition. For the linear factor \(x - 3\), assign a constant \(A\) as the numerator. For the irreducible quadratic factor \(x^2 + 4\), assign a linear numerator \(Bx + C\). The decomposition will look like: \(\frac{7x^2 - 7x + 23}{(x - 3)(x^2 + 4)} = \frac{A}{x - 3} + \frac{Bx + C}{x^2 + 4}\).
Step 3: Multiply through by the denominator \((x - 3)(x^2 + 4)\) to eliminate the fractions. This gives: \(7x^2 - 7x + 23 = A(x^2 + 4) + (Bx + C)(x - 3)\).
Step 4: Expand the right-hand side of the equation. Distribute \(A\) across \(x^2 + 4\), and distribute \(Bx + C\) across \(x - 3\). This results in: \(7x^2 - 7x + 23 = A(x^2) + A(4) + Bx(x) + Bx(-3) + C(x) + C(-3)\). Combine like terms.
Step 5: Equate coefficients of \(x^2\), \(x\), and the constant terms on both sides of the equation. Solve the resulting system of equations to find the values of \(A\), \(B\), and \(C\). Substitute these values back into the partial fraction decomposition.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Rational Expressions
A rational expression is a fraction where both the numerator and the denominator are polynomials. Understanding rational expressions is crucial for performing operations like addition, subtraction, and decomposition. In this context, the expression (7x^2 - 7x + 23)/(x - 3)(x^2 + 4) is a rational expression that needs to be decomposed into simpler fractions.
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Partial Fraction Decomposition
Partial fraction decomposition is a method used to express a rational function as a sum of simpler fractions. This technique is particularly useful for integrating rational expressions or simplifying complex algebraic fractions. The goal is to break down the given rational expression into components that are easier to work with, based on the factors of the denominator.
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Polynomial Factorization
Polynomial factorization involves breaking down a polynomial into its constituent factors, which can be linear or irreducible quadratic expressions. In the given rational expression, the denominator (x - 3)(x^2 + 4) consists of a linear factor and an irreducible quadratic factor. Recognizing these factors is essential for setting up the correct form for the partial fraction decomposition.
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Related Practice
Textbook Question
In Exercises 1–8, write the form of the partial fraction decomposition of the rational expression. It is not necessary to solve for the constants.(11x - 10)/(x − 2) (x + 1)
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