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.) [(x2 +1)4(2x) - x2(4)(x2+1)3(2x)] / [(x2+1)8]
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 4
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: \$4x^3 - 12x^2 - 9x + 27 = 0$.
Next, group the terms to factor by grouping: group the first two terms and the last two terms separately, like this: \((4x^3 - 12x^2) - (9x - 27) = 0\).
Factor out the greatest common factor (GCF) from each group: from the first group factor out \$4x^2\(, and from the second group factor out \)9\(, resulting in \)4x^2(x - 3) - 9(x - 3) = 0$.
Since both terms contain the binomial \((x - 3)\), factor it out: \((x - 3)(4x^2 - 9) = 0\).
Now, apply the zero-product principle by setting each factor equal to zero: \(x - 3 = 0\) and \$4x^2 - 9 = 0\(. Then solve each equation separately to find the values of \)x$.
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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 involve expressions with variables raised to whole-number exponents combined using addition, subtraction, and multiplication. Understanding how to manipulate and simplify these expressions is essential for solving equations like 4x^3 - 12x^2 = 9x - 27.
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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 transforms the equation into a form where the zero-product principle can be applied to find the roots.
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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 to find the solutions of the equation.
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Fundamental Counting Principle
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