х -5х +6 f(x) = х - 2

Algebra and Trigonometry (6th Edition)
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ChapterP: Prerequisites: Fundamental Concepts Of Algebra
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Problem 1MCCP: In Exercises 1-25, simplify the given expression or perform the indicated operation (and simplify,...
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Choose the correct slant asymptote for the function.

y = x + 2
y = x - 2
y = x + 3
y = x - 3
## Rational Function Analysis

**Function Definition:**

\[ f(x) = \frac{x^2 - 5x + 6}{x - 2} \]

### Detailed Breakdown:

This expression represents a rational function, which is defined as the quotient of two polynomials. Let's analyze each component of the function:

**Numerator:** \( x^2 - 5x + 6 \)

This is a quadratic polynomial, and it can be factored as:

\[ x^2 - 5x + 6 = (x - 3)(x - 2) \]

**Denominator:** \( x - 2 \)

This is a linear polynomial.

When simplified, the function becomes:

\[ f(x) = \frac{(x - 3)(x - 2)}{x - 2} \]

Here, \( x - 2 \) cancels out in the numerator and the denominator, but we must remember that this operation leaves a hole in the graph at \( x = 2 \). Therefore, the simplified form is:

\[ f(x) = x - 3 \]

However, this simplified form \( f(x) = x - 3 \) is valid only for \( x \neq 2 \). At \( x = 2 \), the function \( f(x) \) is undefined.

### Graphical Interpretation:

The graph of \( f(x) = \frac{x^2 - 5x + 6}{x - 2} \) will have:
- A hole at \( x = 2 \).
- The remaining part of the graph will follow the linear equation \( y = x - 3 \).

### Key Points:
- **Hole:** The function is undefined at \( x = 2 \). There is a hole in the graph at this point.
- **Line:** Apart from the hole at \( x = 2 \), the graph follows the line \( y = x - 3 \).

Understanding how to analyze and graph rational functions is crucial in algebra and calculus. This example provides insight into handling undefined points and simplifying complex expressions.
Transcribed Image Text:## Rational Function Analysis **Function Definition:** \[ f(x) = \frac{x^2 - 5x + 6}{x - 2} \] ### Detailed Breakdown: This expression represents a rational function, which is defined as the quotient of two polynomials. Let's analyze each component of the function: **Numerator:** \( x^2 - 5x + 6 \) This is a quadratic polynomial, and it can be factored as: \[ x^2 - 5x + 6 = (x - 3)(x - 2) \] **Denominator:** \( x - 2 \) This is a linear polynomial. When simplified, the function becomes: \[ f(x) = \frac{(x - 3)(x - 2)}{x - 2} \] Here, \( x - 2 \) cancels out in the numerator and the denominator, but we must remember that this operation leaves a hole in the graph at \( x = 2 \). Therefore, the simplified form is: \[ f(x) = x - 3 \] However, this simplified form \( f(x) = x - 3 \) is valid only for \( x \neq 2 \). At \( x = 2 \), the function \( f(x) \) is undefined. ### Graphical Interpretation: The graph of \( f(x) = \frac{x^2 - 5x + 6}{x - 2} \) will have: - A hole at \( x = 2 \). - The remaining part of the graph will follow the linear equation \( y = x - 3 \). ### Key Points: - **Hole:** The function is undefined at \( x = 2 \). There is a hole in the graph at this point. - **Line:** Apart from the hole at \( x = 2 \), the graph follows the line \( y = x - 3 \). Understanding how to analyze and graph rational functions is crucial in algebra and calculus. This example provides insight into handling undefined points and simplifying complex expressions.
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