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
1. Equations & Inequalities
Rational Equations
Problem 52
Textbook Question
Exercises 41–60 contain rational equations with variables in denominators. For each equation, a. write the value or values of the variable that make a denominator zero. These are the restrictions on the variable. b. Keeping the restrictions in mind, solve the equation. 2/(x - 2) = x/(x - 2) - 2
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Identify the denominators in the equation. The denominators are (x - 2) and (x - 2).
Step 2: Determine the restrictions on the variable by setting each denominator equal to zero. Solve x - 2 = 0, which gives x = 2. This means x = 2 is a restriction, as it would make the denominator undefined.
Step 3: Multiply through the entire equation by the least common denominator (LCD), which is (x - 2), to eliminate the fractions. Be cautious not to multiply by (x - 2) if x = 2, as this is a restricted value.
Step 4: After clearing the fractions, simplify the resulting equation. You will have a linear or quadratic equation to solve.
Step 5: Solve the simplified equation for x, and check your solution(s) against the restriction x = 2. Discard any solution that violates the restriction.
Verified video answer for a similar problem:This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above
Video duration:
2mPlay a video:
Was this helpful?
Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Rational Equations
Rational equations are equations that involve fractions with polynomials in the numerator and denominator. To solve these equations, it is essential to identify common denominators and simplify the expressions. Understanding how to manipulate these fractions is crucial for finding solutions while ensuring that the denominators do not equal zero.
Recommended video:
Introduction to Rational Equations
Restrictions on Variables
Restrictions on variables arise when the denominator of a rational expression is set to zero, as division by zero is undefined. To find these restrictions, one must solve the equation formed by setting the denominator equal to zero. Identifying these values is critical because they indicate which values cannot be included in the solution set of the equation.
Recommended video:
Guided course
Equations with Two Variables
Solving Equations
Solving equations involves finding the values of the variable that satisfy the equation. In the context of rational equations, this often requires isolating the variable and simplifying the equation after addressing any restrictions. It is important to check the solutions against the restrictions to ensure they are valid and do not result in undefined expressions.
Recommended video:
Solving Logarithmic Equations
Watch next
Master Introduction to Rational Equations with a bite sized video explanation from Patrick
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice
Textbook Question
In Exercises 25-38, solve each equation.3x/5 = 2x/3 +1
538
views
