Professional Documents
Culture Documents
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Rational
Expressions and
Rational Equations
6.1 Rational Expressions and Rational Functions
6.2 Multiplication and Division of Rational Expressions
6.3 Addition and Subtraction of Rational Expressions
6.4 Complex Fractions
Problem Recognition ExercisesOperations on
Rational Expressions
6.5 Rational Equations
6.6 Applications of Rational Equations and Proportions
In this chapter, we define a rational expression as a ratio of two polynomials. First we focus on adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing rational
expressions. Then the chapter concludes with solving rational equations and showing how they are used in applications.
2
As you work through the chapter, pay attention to key terms.
Then work through this crossword puzzle.
Across
3. Expression of the form a/b
5. Two triangles in which
corresponding sides are
proportional
7. Equation of the form
a/b = c/d
Down
1. Fraction with fractions in
numerator and denominator
2. Ratio of two polynomials
4. Set of real numbers for
which an expression is
defined
6. Abbreviation for least
common denominator
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Section 6.1
Concepts
1. Evaluating Rational
Expressions
2. Domain of a Rational
Expression
3. Simplifying Rational
Expressions to Lowest
Terms
4. Simplifying Ratios of 1
5. Rational Functions
2y 1
y 4y 3
2
c3 5
,
c4
a
a 10
Example 1
d. 1
b. 2
c. 0
a.
112 2
1
112 3
4
b.
122 2
0
0
122 3
5
d.
112 2
3
112 3
2
e.
132 2
5
132 3
0
Solution:
e. 3
c.
102 2
2
102 3
3
(undefined)
Skill Practice
b. y 10
c. y 0
d. y 4
e. y 2
1a.
c. 0
e. 1
The domain of an expression is the set of values that when substituted into the
expression produces a real number. Therefore, the domain of a rational expression
must exclude the values that make the denominator zero. For example:
Given x 2 3, the domain is the set of all real numbers, x, excluding x 3. This
can be written in set-builder notation as:
5x 0 x is a real number and x 36
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Example 2
5
4t 1
b.
x4
2x 11x 5
2
c.
x
x 4
2
Solution:
a.
5
4t 1
4t 1 0
4t 1
t
1
4
The value t
1
must be excluded from the domain.
4
x4
2x 11x 5
2
2x2 11x 5 0
12x 121x 52 0
2x 1 0
or
x50
1
2
or
x5
x
TIP: The domain of a rational expression excludes values for which the denominator is zero. The values for which the numerator is zero do not affect the domain
of the expression.
c.
x
x 4
2
405
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Skill Practice
2.
6
v9
3.
x 10
2x 2 x 1
4.
t
t2 1
15
35
Simplifying a fraction:
35
3
3
112
75
7
7
factor
Simplifying a
rational expression:
x2 x 12
x2 16
factor
1x 32
1x 321x 42
x3
112
1x 421x 42
1x 42
x4
for q 0 and r 0
The first example involves reducing a quotient of two monomials. This was also
covered in Section 1.8.
Example 3
2x2y5
8x4y3
Solution:
2x2y5
8x4y3
2x2y5
23x4y3
Skill Practice Answers
2x2y3 y2
2x2y3 22x2
y2
4x2
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Skill Practice
5.
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407
9a5b3
18a8b
Example 4
a.
2x1x2 6x 82
61x 42
2x1x 421x 22
61x 42
b. To determine the domain, set the denominator equal to zero and solve
for x.
Set x 4 0. Note that the factor of 6 will never
equal 0.
61x 42 0
x 4
c.
2x1x 421x 22
2 31x 42
x1x 22
3
Skill Practice
6.
Avoiding Mistakes:
The domain of a rational expression is always determined before
simplifying the expression.
provided x 4
a 2 3a 28
2a 14
and
x1x 22
3
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are equal for all values of x that make each expression a real number. Therefore,
x1x 22
2x3 12x2 16x
6x 24
3
for all values of x except x 4. (At x 4, the original expression is
undefined.) This is why the domain of a rational expression is always determined
before the expression is simplified.
The purpose of simplifying a rational expression is to create an equivalent
expression that is simpler to evaluate. Consider the expression from Example 4 in its
original form and in its simplified form. If we substitute an arbitrary value of x into
the expression (such as x 3), we see that the simplified form is easier to evaluate.
Original Expression
Simplified Form
2x 12x 16x
6x 24
x1x 22
Substitute x 3
132 3 132 24
3
21272 12192 48
18 24
54 108 48
42
5
210
42
3152
3
5
Example 5
t3 8
t2 6t 8
t 8
t2 6t 8
3
Recall:
a3 b3 1a b21a2 ab b2 2
t 3 8 1t 221t2 2t 42
1t 221t 2 2t 42
1t 221t 42
1t 221t 2 2t 42
1t 221t 42
t2 2t 4
t4
Skill Practice
provided t 2, t 4
8y 14y 3
2
7.
2y2 y 3
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Because this property is based on the identity property of multiplication, reducing applies only to factors
(remember that factors are multiplied). Therefore, terms that are added or subtracted cannot be reduced.
For example:
1
x
3x
3x
x
112
3y
3y
y
y
However,
Reduce common
factor.
x3
cannot be simplified.
y3
cannot reduce
common terms
4. Simplifying Ratios of 1
When two factors are identical in the numerator and denominator, they form a
ratio of 1 and can be simplified. Sometimes we encounter two factors that are
opposites and form a ratio of 1. For example:
Simplified Form
Details/Notes
5
1
5
100
1
100
x7
1
x 7
x7
x7
x7
1
1
x 7
11x 72
11x 72
1
112 x2
11x 22
1
2x
1
x2
x2
x2
1
2x
1
x2
Recognizing factors that are opposites is useful when simplifying rational expressions. For example, a b and b a are opposites because the opposite of
a b can be written 1a b2 a b b a. Therefore, in general,
a b
b a 1, provided a b.
Example 6
x5
25 x2
b.
2x 6
15 5x
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Solution:
a.
x5
25 x2
x5
15 x215 x2
1
x5
15 x215 x2
112a
In general,
ab
1.
ba
1
b
5x
1
1
or
5x
x5
provided x 5, x 5
b.
1
x5
or
1
x5
or
1
1x 52
2x 6
15 5x
21x 32
513 x2
1
21x 32
513 x2
2
5
Skill Practice
8.
20 5x
2
x x 12
Recall:
ab
1.
ba
provided x 3
Simplify the expressions.
9.
b2 a2
a2 ab 2b2
5. Rational Functions
Thus far in the text, we have introduced several types of functions including
constant, linear, and quadratic functions. Now we will introduce another category of functions called rational functions.
Skill Practice Answers
8.
9.
5
x3
1a b2
a 2b
or
ab
a 2b
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p 1x2
,
q 1x2
g1x2
2
,
x3
h1a2
a6
,
a2 5
k1x2
x4
2x 11x 5
2
In Section 4.3, we introduced the rational function defined by f 1x2 1x. Recall
that f 1x2 1x has a restriction on its domain that x 0 and the graph of f 1x2 1x
has a vertical asymptote at x 0 (Figure 6-1).
f(x)
5
4
3
f(x)
2
1
5 4
1
1
2
1
x
3 4
3
4
5
Figure 6-1
To evaluate, simplify, and find the domain of rational functions, we follow procedures similar to those shown for rational expressions.
Example 7
Given g1x2
2
x3
a. Find the function values (if they exist) g(0), g(1), g(2), g(2.5), g(2.9), g(3),
g(3.1), g(3.5), g(4), and g(5).
b. Write the domain of the function in interval notation.
Solution:
a.
g102
2
2
102 3
3
g132
2
2
132 3
0
g112
2
1
112 3
g13.12
2
2
20
13.12 3
0.1
g122
2
2
122 3
g13.52
2
2
4
13.52 3
0.5
g12.52
2
2
4
12.52 3
0.5
g142
2
2
142 3
g12.92
2
2
20
12.92 3
0.1
g152
2
1
152 3
undefined
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g1x2
2
x3
x30
x3
4 3 2 1
b.
Skill Practice
2
10. Given h 1x2 xx
6 , find the function values.
a. h(0)
b. h(2)
c. h(2)
d. h(6)
The graph of g1x2 x 2 3 is shown in Figure 6-2. Notice that the function has a
vertical asymptote at x 3 where the function is undefined (Figure 6-2).
g(x) x 2 3
4
3
2
1
3 2 1
1
2
2 3
5 6 7
Calculator Connections
A Table feature can be used to check the function values in Example 7, g1x2 x 2 3
3
4
5
Figure 6-2
The graph of a rational function may be misleading on a graphing calculator. For example,
g1x2 2 1x 32 has a vertical asymptote at
x 3, but the vertical asymptote is not part of the
graph (Figure 6-3). A graphing calculator may try
to connect the dots between two consecutive
points, one to the left of x 3 and one to the
right of x 3. This creates a line that is nearly
vertical and appears to be part of the graph.
Figure 6-3
10a.
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Section 6.1
CONFIRMING PAGES
413
Practice Exercises
Practice Problems
Self-Tests
NetTutor
e-Professors
Videos
b. Rational function
5
for x 0, x 2, x 1, x 6.
x1
x4
for x 6, x 4, x 0, and x 4.
x6
y3
for y 0, y 2, y 3, y 4.
y2
1
3a 1
for a 1, a 0, a , a 1.
2
3
a 1
2z 8
for z 4, z 4, z 3, z 3.
z2 9
9
y
8.
10
a
11.
3x 1
2x 5
12.
6t 5
3t 8
15.
c
c2 25
16.
d
d 2 16
9.
13.
v1
v8
q1
q2 6q 27
x2 6x 8
,
x2 3x 4
10.
t9
t3
14.
b2
2b2 3b 5
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x2 6x
2x2 11x 6
x2 18x 81
x2 81
x2 14x 49
x2 49
100x3y5
8
36xy
22.
25.
3m4n
12m6n4
26.
29.
x5
x2 25
30.
33.
2t 2 7t 4
2t 2 5t 3
34.
37.
9 z2
2z2 z 15
38.
41.
10x3 25x 2 4x 10
4 10x2
48ab3c2
6a7bc0
5x3y2
4 2
20x y
3z 6
3z2 12
y2 8y 9
y 5y 4
2
2c 2 2c 12
8 2c c 2
23.
7w11z6
14w3z3
24.
12r9s3
24r8s4
27.
6a 18
9a 27
28.
5y 15
3y 9
31.
7c
21c2 35c
32.
35.
1p 1212p 12 4
1p 12 12p 12
2
39.
2z3 16
10 3z z 2
42.
8x3 12x2 6x 9
16x4 9
36.
40.
2p 3
2p 7p 6
2
r 1r 32 5
r3 1r 32 2
5p2 p 4
p3 1
r6
6r
44.
a2
2a
45.
b8
b 8
46.
7w
7 w
47.
10 x
x 10
48.
y 14
14 y
49.
2t 2
1t
50.
5p 10
2p
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51.
c4
c4
52.
55.
4x 2x2
5x 10
56.
CONFIRMING PAGES
415
b2
b2
53.
yx
54.
12x2 12y2
4w2 49z2
14z 4w
2y 6
3y2 y3
Mixed Exercises
For Exercises 5770, simplify the rational expression.
57.
t2 1
t 7t 6
58.
61.
16a2bc4
8ab2c4
62.
65.
b4
2b2 5b 12
66.
69.
1a 22 2 1a 52 3
1a 22 3 1a 52
70.
x2 4x 4
x2 4
59.
9x3yz2
27x4yz
c6
3c2 17c 6
8p 8
60.
2p2 4p 6
15y 15
3y2 9y 12
63.
x2 y2
8y 8x
64.
p2 49
14 2p
67.
2x 34
4x 6
68.
9w 3
3w 12
t2 1t 112 4
t5 1t 112 2
3
. Find the function values h102, h112, h132, h112, h1 12 2.
x1
2
. Find the function values k 102, k112, k132, k 112, k1 12 2.
x1
For Exercises 7376, find the domain of each function and use that information to match the function with its graph.
73. m 1x2
a.
74. n 1x2
1
x4
b.
d.
y
5
4
3
2
1
2
1
2
1
2
1
2 3 4
1
x1
5
4
3
76. p 1x2
1
x4
c.
5
4
3
5 4 3 2 1
1
2
75. q 1x2
1
x1
5 4 3 2 1
1
2
1 2 3 4
5 4 3 2 1
1
2
4
3
1 2 3 4
5 4 3 2 1
1
2
3
3
3
3
4
5
4
5
4
5
4
5
For Exercises 7786, write the domain of the function in interval notation.
77. f 1x2
1
3x 1
78. r 1t2
80. p1x2
x5
3
81. w1x2
1
2t 1
x2
3x 6
79. q1t2
t2
8
82. s1t2
2
4t 6
1 2 3
4 5
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83. m 1x2
86. s1t2
3
6x 7x 10
2
84. n 1x2
85. r 1x2
1
2x 11x 12
2
x1
6x x2 15x
3
t5
t 8t 2 16t
3
87. Write a rational expression whose domain is 1, 22 12, 2 . (Answers may vary.)
88. Write a rational expression whose domain is 1, 32 13, 2 . (Answers may vary.)
89. Write a rational function whose domain is 1, 52 15, 2 . (Answers may vary.)
90. Write a rational function whose domain is 1, 62 16, 2 . (Answers may vary.)
Section 6.2
Concepts
1. Multiplication of Rational
Expressions
2. Division of Rational
Expressions
Sometimes it is possible to simplify a ratio of common factors to 1 before multiplying. To do so, we must first factor the numerators and denominators of each fraction.
7 15
10 21
Factor.
53
1
7
25 37
2
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417
Example 1
Multiply.
a.
5a 5b
2
2
10
a b2
b.
4w 20p
2w2 50p2
Solution:
a.
5a 5b
2
2
10
a b2
51a b2
2
52
1a b21a b2
5 1a b2
2
52
1a b21a b2
1
b.
2w2 50p2
Avoiding Mistakes:
1
ab
4w 20p
Simplify.
41w 5p2
21w 25p 2
2
2 21w 5p2
12w 3p21w 5p2
21w 5p21w 5p2
31w 3p2
2 21w 5p2
12w 3p21w 5p2
21w 5p21w 5p2
31w 3p2
1
Factor further.
212w 3p2
31w 3p2
Notice that the expression is left in factored form to show that it has been simplified
to lowest terms.
Multiply.
Skill Practice
3y 6 y 3y 2
6y
y2 4
2
1.
2.
2p 6
p2 8p 16
2
10p 10
p 7p 12
Divide:
15
10
14
49
21
35 77
15 49
27 25
4
14 10
y1
2y
2.
p4
51p 12
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Example 2
8t 27
4t 6t 9
2
9 4t
2t 2 t 3
3
a.
Divide.
5c
6d
b.
10
d2
Solution:
a.
8t 3 27
4t 2 6t 9
9 4t 2
2t 2 t 3
8t 3 27 2t 2 t 3
9 4t 2 4t 2 6t 9
1
1121t 12
1t 12
or
t 1
TIP: In Example 2(a), the factors (2t 3) and (3 2t) are opposites and
form a ratio of 1.
2t 3
1
3 2t
The factors (2t 3) and (3 2t) are equal and form a ratio of 1.
2t 3
1
3 2t
5c
6d
b.
10
d2
5c
10
2
6d
d
5c d2
6d 10
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419
5c d d
6d 2 5
cd
12
Skill Practice
x2 x
10x 2 12x 2
3.
5x 3 x 2
25x 2 1
Section 6.2
4rs
5t
4.
2r
t
1
2x
4.
2s
5
Practice Exercises
Practice Problems
Self-Tests
NetTutor
e-Professors
Videos
Review Exercises
For Exercises 29, simplify the rational expression to lowest terms.
2.
3w2 12
w2 5w 6
3.
t2 5t 6
t2 7t 6
4.
6.
5x2yz3
20xyz
7.
7x 14
2
7x 7x 42
8.
5y 15
5.
5y 16y 3
2
25 x2
x2 10x 25
9.
2p
p p2
2
a3b2c5
2a3bc2
8w2
3
9
2w4
11.
16 z4
z7 8
12.
13.
27r 5 28rs3
32
7s
9r s
14.
3z 12
16z3
3
9z 36
8z
15.
5p2q4
12pq3
6p2
20q2
x2y
x 4x 5
2
2x2 13x 15
xy3
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16.
3y2 18y 15 y 5
2
6y 6
y 25
17.
19.
3x 15 10x 20x2
5x
4x2 2x
20. x1x 52 2
10w 8 3w2 w 14
w2
25w2 16
18.
2
x 25
x 5y
x2 xy
y2 x2
10y 2x
21. y1y2 42
y
y2
1r 32 2
r3
rs
22.
6x2y2
3xy2
1x 22
1x 22 2
23.
24.
t 2 5t
1t 52
t1
25.
6p 7
136p2 492
p2
26.
a
a3 6a2 40a
a 10
a2 100
27.
b2 6b 9
b2 9
4
b2 b 6
29.
6s2 st 2t 2
3s2 17st 10t 2
6s2 5st t 2
6s2 13st 5t 2
31.
a3 a a2 1
a3 a a2b b
2
2
2
2
a a ab b
2a 2ab ab2 b3
33.
8x 4x2
3x 6
xy 2y 3x 6
y3
36.
2
5x
2
15x
25x2 12
39.
6a2 ab b2
2a3 4a2b
10a2 5ab
3a2 5ab 2b2
m2 n2
m2 2mn n2 1m n2 4
1m n2 2
m2 mn n2 m3 n3
28.
30.
32.
x2 xy 2y2
2x2 xy y2
x4 x3 x2 x
x3 4x2 x 4
3
3
2
2x 2x x 1
2x 8x2 x 4
3y y2
y3 27
y
y2 3y 9
4r s
Mixed Exercises
For Exercises 3445, perform the indicated operations.
34.
38.
8a4b3
a7b2
3c
9c
35.
4x3y
3x5
2x2y7
6y6
2y 8x
2x2 2y2
40.
1a b2 2 a3 b3
a2 ab b2
2
ab
a b2
1a b2 2
41.
42.
x2 4y2
2y
1x 2y2
x 2y
x 2y
43.
44.
8x3 27y3
4x 9y
2
45.
x2 6xy 9y2
x2 4y2
37.
y2 3
4y
7
14 y
x2 5xy 6y2
x2 9y2
3y x
x 2y
25m2 1
5m 1
125m3 1
25m2 5m 1
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421
47.
b2 in.
5a
8
hk
cm
k2 cm
2h2
4a2 in.
b
48.
49.
5x 15 ft
4x
12x m
x2 4
x2m
6
x2 ft
x3
Section 6.3
p
pr
r
q
q
q
2.
pr
p
r
q
q
q
Example 1
1
3
8
8
b.
5x
3
2x 1
2x 1
c.
x 12
x2
x4
x4
Concepts
1. Addition and Subtraction of
Rational Expressions with
Like Denominators
2. Identifying the Least Common
Denominator
3. Writing Equivalent Rational
Expressions
4. Addition and Subtraction of
Rational Expressions with
Unlike Denominators
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CONFIRMING PAGES
Solution:
a.
1
3
13
8
8
8
4
8
1
2
b.
5x
3
5x 3
2x 1
2x 1
2x 1
c.
x2
x 12
x4
x4
x2 1x 122
x4
x2 x 12
x4
1x 421x 32
1x 42
1x 42 1x 32
1x 42
1
x3
Skill Practice
1.
5
1
12
12
b2 1
b7
b2
b2
3.
4t 1
t3
t7
t7
1
3
2. b 3
3.
3t 2
t7
and
8 23
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Page 423
Section 6.3
CONFIRMING PAGES
1
1
and 3 is 23 5 40.
2 5
2
2
Example 2
1
;
12
5
;
18
c.
x2
;
2x 10
7
30
x2 3
;
x2 25
6
x 2 8x 16
b.
1
;
2x3y
d.
x4
;
x3
5
16xy2z
1
3x
Solution:
a.
1
;
12
5
;
18
1
;
2 3
2
7
30
5
;
2 32
7
235
LCD 22 32 5 180
b.
1
;
2x3y
5
16xy 2z
1
;
2x3y
5
2 4xy 2z
c.
x2
;
2x 10
x2 3
;
x2 25
x2
;
2 1x 52
x2 3
;
1x 521x 52
6
x 8x 16
2
6
1x 42 2
423
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CONFIRMING PAGES
d. x 4 ;
x3
1
3x
x4
;
11x 32
1
113 x2
1
3x
Factor
out 1.
same binomial factors
Factor
out 1.
same binomial factors
LCD 1x 32112
LCD 11213 x2
x 3
3 x
3x
x3
1
5
7
;
;
40 15 6
6
5
1
6. 2
;
;
2
x 4 2x 6 x 5x 6
4.
1
;
9a 3 b2
6
;
7.
z7
5.
5
18a4 b
1
7z
a.
7
5p2
20p6
b.
w
2
w5
w 3w 10
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Section 6.3
CONFIRMING PAGES
425
Solution:
a.
7
5p2
20p6
5p2 4p4
7 4p4
7
5p2
5p2 4p4
b.
28p4
20p6
w
2
w5
w 3w 10
1w 521w 22
w
w2
w
w5
w5 w2
Skill Practice
8.
w2 2w
1w 521w 22
Fill in the blank to make an equivalent fraction with the given
denominator.
1
8xy
16x 3 y 2
9.
5b
2
b3
b 9
TIP: In the final answer in Example 3(b) we multiplied the polynomials in the
numerator but left the denominator in factored form. This convention is followed
because when we add and subtract rational expressions, the terms in the
numerators must be combined.
1x 22
152
1x 12
1x 22
1x 12
1x 12 1x 22
9. 5b 2 15b
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Page 426
CONFIRMING PAGES
31x 12 51x 22
1x 221x 12
3x 3 5x 10
1x 221x 12
8x 7
1x 221x 12
Example 4
3
4
2
7b
b
b.
3t 2
5
2t 12
t 4t 12
2
c.
x
2
3x 18
2
x
x3
x 3x
Solution:
a.
b.
3
4
2
7b
b
3 b
4 7
2
7b b
b 7
3b
28
2
2
7b
7b
3b 28
7b2
3t 2
5
2t 12
t2 4t 12
3t 2
5
1t 621t 22
21t 62
13t 22
122
1t 22
5
122 1t 621t 22
21t 62 1t 22
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Section 6.3
213t 22 51t 22
21t 621t 22
6t 4 5t 10
21t 621t 22
t6
21t 621t 22
IA
Page 427
CONFIRMING PAGES
427
t6
2 1t 621t 22
c.
Simplify.
1
21t 22
x
2
3x 18
2
x
x3
x 3x
x
2
3x 18
x
x3
x1x 32
2 1x 32
x
x
3x 18
x 1x 32
1x 32 x
x1x 32
2x 6 x2 3x 18
x1x 32
x2 x 12
x1x 32
1x 421x 32
x1x 32
1x 421x 3 2
1
x4
x
Skill Practice
10.
Simplify to lowest
terms.
x1x 32
4
1
3
5y
3y
2x 3
5
2
3x
3
x x2
12.
a2 a 24
5
2
a
3
a 9
Skill Practice Answers
10.
12.
12y 2 5
15y
a3
a3
11.
1
31x 22
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CONFIRMING PAGES
Example 5
6
4
w
w
b.
y2
x2
xy
yx
Solution:
a.
b.
4
6
w
w
112
6
4
w
w 112
6
4
w
w
6 142
w
2
w
y2
x2
xy
yx
112
y2
x2
1x y2
1y x2 112
y2
x2
xy
xy
x2 y2
xy
1x y21x y2
xy
xy
Skill Practice
8
8
or
y
y
14. 3
13.
5
3
y
y
3a
15
a5
5a
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Section 6.3
Section 6.3
CONFIRMING PAGES
429
Practice Exercises
Practice Problems
Self-Tests
NetTutor
e-Professors
Videos
Review Exercises
For Exercises 26, perform the indicated operation.
2.
x2
x
xy
yx
3.
9b 9 2b 4
4b 8 3b 3
5.
15 a2 2
25a2 1
2
10a 2 a 10a 25
6.
x2 z2
x2 2xz z2
14x2z4
3xz3
4.
8a2
4a
3
21b
7b
3
7
5x
5x
9.
x
3
2
x 2x 3
x 2x 3
10.
x
6
2
x 4x 12
x 4x 12
11.
5x 1
3x 6
12x 921x 62
12x 921x 62
12.
4x
5x 6
8x 1
8x 1
13.
6
3
x5
5x
14.
8
7
2x
x2
15.
x2
x2
x6
6x
16.
x 10
x 10
x8
8x
8.
1
5
2
2x2
2x
y
;
15a
y2
35
5
75x2
20.
2
;
7y3
13
5y2
1
15mn7
22.
13
;
12cd5
24.
x
;
12x 121x 72
17.
5
;
8
3
20x
19.
7
;
24x
21.
5
;
6m4
23.
6
;
1x 421x 22
8
1x 421x 62
9
8c3
2
12x 121x 12
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Page 430
CONFIRMING PAGES
25.
3
;
x1x 121x 72 2
27.
5
;
x6
1
x 1x 72
2
x5
x 8x 12
2
26.
14
;
1x 22 2 1x 92
28.
7a
;
a4
41
x1x 221x 92
a 12
a2 16
5
2
3x
9x y
30.
5
2 3
xy
4x y
31.
2x
x1
x1x 121x 22
32.
5x
2x 5
12x 521x 82
33.
y
2
y6
y 5y 6
34.
t2
2
t8
t 6t 16
4
5
2
3p
2p
36.
6
1
10ab
5a2b
37.
x3
x5
2x
x2
38.
x2
x4
2
15x
5x
39.
s1
t1
s
t
40.
y2
x2
x
y
41.
4a 2
a2
3a 12
a4
42.
10
2
b1b 52
b
43.
6
3
w
w1w 22
44.
6y 5
y2
5y 25
y5
45. w 2
47.
6b
1
b4
b1
48.
5
a
a3
a6
49.
t5
10t 5
2
t5
t 25
50.
s8
16s 64
2
s8
s 64
51.
x2
x
2
x2 36
x 9x 18
52.
7
x
2
x2 x 2
x 4x 3
53.
9
x3
2
x 2x 1
x x
54.
2
z1
2
4z 12z 9
2z 3z
55.
w
w4
6
6
56.
4y
5
3
3
57.
n
2n 5
5n
n5
58.
c
2c 7
7c
c7
59.
2
x
3x 15
25 x2
60.
4
5
2
2
9x
x 4x 3
61.
4k
k
2
2
k7
k1
k 6k 7
1
w2
46. h 3
1
h3
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Section 6.4
CONFIRMING PAGES
431
Complex Fractions
62.
t
1
3t
2
t2
t
1
t t2
63.
1
2x
1
2
x
y
y
x
x y
65.
2
3
y
y6
66.
p
8
p
p5
64.
3w 1
2w
w
w
1
1
w
2w w 3
2
68.
x 1 cm
x
2 cm
3x
x 1 yd
x
2 yd
x2
x 4 yd
3
6 cm
x2
69.
70.
3 ft
x2
5 m
x3
x ft
x1
2x m
x5
Complex Fractions
Section 6.4
1
1
2
3
1
3
4
6
2
and
Concepts
1. Simplifying Complex
Fractions by Method I
2. Simplifying Complex Fractions
by Method II
3. Using Complex Fractions in
Applications
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CONFIRMING PAGES
Example 1
5x2
y
10x
y2
Solution:
5x2
y
10x
y2
5x2 y2
y 10x
yy
5xx
y
25x
1
yy
5xx
y
25x
xy
2
Skill Practice
18a
b2
1.
6a 2
b
Sometimes it is necessary to simplify the numerator and denominator of a complex fraction before the division is performed. This is illustrated in Example 2.
3a
b
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Section 6.4
Example 2
CONFIRMING PAGES
433
Complex Fractions
2
Simplify the expression.
Solution:
1
1
2
3
3
1
4
6
2
12
3
2
6
6
6
9
2
12
12
13
6
11
12
13 12
6 11
12
Step 2: Multiply by the reciprocal of 11
12 , which is 11 .
13 12
6 11
26
11
Skill Practice
Step 3: Simplify.
Simplify the expression.
1
5
4
6
2.
1
1
1
2
3
7
22
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CONFIRMING PAGES
Example 3
Solution:
6
x
3
2
x
4
6
x a4 b
x
3
x a2 b
x
6
x 142 x a b
x
3
x 122 x a b
x
4x 6
2x 3
212x 32
2x 3
212x 32
2x 3
1
2
Skill Practice
1
y
3.
1
1 2
y
y
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Page 435
Section 6.4
Example 4
CONFIRMING PAGES
435
Complex Fractions
x1 x2
1 2x1 3x2
Solution:
x1 x2
1 2x1 3x2
1
1
2
x
x
3
2
1 2
x
x
1
1
x2 a 2 b
x
x
3
2
x2 a1 2 b
x
x
1
1
x2 a b x2 a 2 b
x
x
2
3
x2 112 x2 a b x2 a 2 b
x
x
x1
x2 2x 3
x1
1x 321x 12
x1
1x 321x 12
1
x3
Skill Practice
1
4.
1
c bb c
b 1 c 1
Example 5
1
1
w3
w3
9
1 2
w 9
Skill Practice Answers
4. b c
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CONFIRMING PAGES
Solution:
1
1
w3
w3
9
1 2
w 9
1
1
w3
w3
9
1
1w 321w 32
1
1
9
1
,
, and
is 1w 321w 32.
The LCD of ,
1 w3 w3
1w 321w 32
1w 321w 32a
1
1
b
w3
w3
9
1w 321w 32 c 1
d
1w 321w 32
1w 321w 32a
1
1
b 1w 321w 32 a
b
w3
w3
9
1w 321w 321 1w 321w 32 c
d
1w 321w 32
1w 32 1w 32
1w 321w 32 9
Step 3: Simplify.
w3w3
w2 9 9
6
w2
Step 2:
Distributive
property.
6
w2
Skill Practice
2
x1
x
5.
x
x1
x
Find the slope of the line that passes through the given points.
x3
x2 1
1 5
a , b
2 6
and
9 5
a , b
8 4
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Section 6.4
CONFIRMING PAGES
437
Complex Fractions
Solution:
1 5
9 5
Let 1x1, y1 2 a , b and 1x2, y2 2 a , b.
2 6
8 4
Slope
y2 y1
x2 x1
5
5
4
6
9
1
8
2
5
b
6
1
b
2
6
4
5
5
24 a b 24 a b
4
6
3
12 1
9
24 a b 24 a b
8
2
30 20
27 12
10
2
15
3
Simplify.
2
The slope is .
3
Skill Practice
Section 6.4
55
26
Practice Exercises
Practice Problems
Self-Tests
NetTutor
e-Professors
Videos
Review Exercises
For Exercises 24, simplify to lowest terms.
2.
x3 y3
5x 5y
3.
25a3b3c
15a4bc
4. f 1t2
6t2 27t 30
12t 30
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Page 438
CONFIRMING PAGES
3
5
2
2x
x
6.
2y 4 y2 3y 2
y1
y2 4
7.
3
1
a5
a1
8.
14b
7
2
12 6b
b b6
3w2
4rs
10.
15wr
s2
x6
3x
11.
3x 18
9
a4
6
12.
16 a2
3
7
3
8
4
14.
1
5
3
6
1
y
15.
1
4
y
1
3
x
16.
1
3
x
2
6x
x5
18.
1
4x 20
19.
3q
q
p
21.
q
q
p
b
3b
a
22.
2b
b
a
2
3
2
a
a
23.
4
9
2
a
a
25.
t1 1
1 t2
26.
y
y3
29.
y
y
y3
2
t1
2
2
t
1
y2
y
37.
2
y3
y
41.
x2
x 3x1
d2 c2
c1 d1
27.
4
w4
30.
4
1
w4
2
33.
1
3
p1
3
3
p
3
34.
4
3
7
2
1
t4
t
38.
6
t5
t
42.
x1 x2
5x2
1
5
2
4
1
3
5
1
6
8
6w
4
w1
4
5
20.
3
1
10
2
2
1
2
y
y
24.
4
1
2
y
y
6
28.
2z
10
z4
1
6
2
x
x
31.
3
4
1 2
x
x
12
1
2
x
x
32.
9
3
2
x
x2
3
2
a
a1
35.
3
2
a
a1
5
4
b
b1
36.
5
4
b
b1
2
2
x
xh
39.
h
1
1
2x 2h
2x
40.
h
1
43.
2a1 3b2
a1 b1
1
44.
2m1 n1
m2 4n1
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Section 6.4
CONFIRMING PAGES
439
Complex Fractions
45. The slope formula is used to find the slope of the line passing through the points 1x1, y1 2 and 1x2, y2 2. Write
the slope formula from memory.
For Exercises 4649, find the slope of the line that passes through the given points.
1 2
1
46. a1 , b, a , 2b
2 5
4
3 3
47. a , b, 11, 32
7 5
5 9
1
1
48. a , b, a , b
8 10
16 5
1 1
1 1
49. a , b, a , b
4 3
8 6
x
by writing the expression on the left without negative exponents and
x2 1
simplifying.
51. Show that 1x1 y1 2 1
xy
by writing the expression on the left without negative exponents and
xy
simplifying.
52. Simplify.
53. Simplify.
1 1
1 a1 b
x
Chapter 6
2. 1x 52 a
7
b
x4
11.
1.
2
3
1
2y 3
2y
3.
5x2 6x 1
16x2 9
2
2
x 1
4x 7x 3
13.
4.
a2 25
a2 4a ab 4b
3a2 3ab
a2 9a 20
14.
a2 16 x 3
2x 6 a 4
1
a
9.
1
4 2
a
2
6xy
x2 y2
xy
yx
12. 1x2 6x 82 a
y2
4
3
2
y1
y1
y 1
3
b
x2
1
w2
w1
3w 3
3y 6
y 3y 10
2
27
y5
2
3
y
2
1
y
y
15.
8w2
4w
2
6. 3
w 16w
w 4w
7.
1 1
1 a1 b
x
5.
8.
t2 9
t3
t
t2
6x2y
5
10.
3x
y
16.
3
2
5
t3
t2
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17.
18.
IA
Page 440
CONFIRMING PAGES
4x2 22x 24 6x 6
2
4x 4
4x 9
12x3y5z
5x4
19. 1y 22
16xy7
20.
10z2
Section 6.5
Concepts
1. Solving Rational Equations
2. Formulas Involving Rational
Equations
2y 1
y 4
2
y2
y3
20a 100
a2
a 10
a 10
Rational Equations
1. Solving Rational Equations
Thus far we have studied two types of equations in one variable: linear equations
and quadratic equations. In this section, we will study another type of equation
called a rational equation.
2
3
1
x
5
3
3
6w
6
w1
w1
To understand the process of solving a rational equation, first review the procedure
of clearing fractions from Section 1.4.
Example 1
Solve the equation.
1
1
1
x x
2
3
4
Solution:
1
1
1
x x
2
3
4
1
1
1
12 a x b 12 a xb
2
3
4
1
1
1
12 x 12 12 x
2
3
4
6x 4 3x
3x 4
x
Check:
4
3
1
1
1
x x
2
3
4
1
4
1
1
4
a b a b
2
3
3
4
3
2
1
1
3
3
3
1
1
3
3
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Section 6.5
Skill Practice
1.
CONFIRMING PAGES
441
Rational Equations
1
21
1
x
x
2
20
5
The same process of clearing fractions is used to solve rational equations when
variables are present in the denominator.
Example 2
2
3
1
x
5
3
2
1
3
x
5
3
3
1
2
15x a b 15x a b
x
5
3
15x
3
1
2
15x 15x
x
5
3
9x 15 10x
15 x
2
3
1
x
5
3
Check: x 15
3
1 2
5
1152
3
9
1 2
15
15
3
10
2
15
3
Skill Practice
2. Solve.
4
3
1
y
3
Example 3
Solve the equation.
6
6w
w1
w1
7
2
2. y
9
7
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Solution:
3
6w
6
w1
w1
1w 12132 1w 12a
6w
6
b 1w 12a
b
w1
w1
Multiply by 1w 12
on both sides to
clear fractions.
1w 12132 1w 12a
6w
6
b 1w 12a
b
w1
w1
Apply the
distributive property.
3w 3 6w 6
3w 3
w 1
Check:
3
3
6w
6
w1
w1
6112
6
112 1
112 1
The denominator is 0
for the value of w 1.
Because the value w 1 makes the denominator zero in one (or more) of the
rational expressions within the equation, the equation is undefined for w 1.
6w
6
No other potential solutions exist, so the equation 3
has no
w1
w1
solution.
Skill Practice
3.
4
2
8
2
b2
b2
b 4
Examples 13 show that the steps for solving a rational equation mirror the
process of clearing fractions from Section 1.4. However, there is one significant
difference. The solutions of a rational equation must be defined in each rational
6w
expression in the equation. When w 1 is substituted into the expression
w1
6
or
, the denominator is zero and the expression is undefined. Hence w 1
w1
cannot be a solution to the equation
3
6w
6
w1
w1
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Section 6.5
CONFIRMING PAGES
Rational Equations
Example 4
28
3
2
x
x
b.
2p
36
1
p3
p2 9
Solution:
1
a.
28
3
2
x
x
3
28
x 2 a1 b x 2 a 2 b
x
x
x2 1 x2
3
28
x2 2
x
x
x2 3x 28
x 3x 28 0
2
1x 721x 42 0
x 7
or
Check: x 7
1
1
28
3
2
x
x
3 28
7
172 2
49
21 28
49
49
49
28
28
49
49
x4
Check: x 4
1
28
3
2
x
x
1
3 28
4
142 2
16
12 28
16
16
16
28
28
16
16
443
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CONFIRMING PAGES
2p
36
1
p3
p 9
b.
2p
36
1
1p 321p 32
p3
2p
36
d 1p 321p 32a
b 1p 321p 32112
1p 321p 32
p3
1p 321p 32 c
2p
36
d 1p 321p 32a
b 1p 321p 32112
1p 321p 32
p3
36 2p1p 32 1p 321p 32
36 2p2 6p 1p2 92
36 2p 6p p 9
2
36 p2 6p 9
0 p2 6p 27
0 1p 921p 32
p9
p 3
or
Check: p 9
Check: p 3
2p
36
1
p3
p2 9
2p
36
1
p3
p2 9
2192
36
1
192 3
192 9
2132
36
1
2
132 3
132 9
36 6
1
0
0
36 18
1
72
12
13
1
2
2
Denominator is zero.
1
1
2
2
The solution is p 9.
Skill Practice
4.
y
1
2
y
4
2
20x
6
x
2
x2
x x6
x2
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Section 6.5
CONFIRMING PAGES
Rational Equations
445
Example 5
A
1 rt
b. V
for r
mv
mM
for m
Solution:
a.
P
A
1 rt
for r
11 rt2P 11 rt2a
A
b
1 rt
11 rt2P 11 rt2a
A
b
1 rt
Clear fractions.
P Prt A
Prt A P
Prt
AP
Pt
Pt
r
b.
AP
Pt
V
mv
mM
V1m M2 a
for m
Avoiding Mistakes:
mv
b1m M2
mM
V1m M2 mv
Vm VM mv
Vm mv VM
m1V v2 VM
Factor out m.
m1V v2
VM
1V v2
1V v2
Divide by 1V v2 .
m
VM
Vv
TIP: The factor of 1 that appears in the numerator may be written in the
denominator or out in front of the expression. The following expressions are
equivalent:
m
VM
Vv
or
m
or
m
VM
Vv
VM
VM
1V v2
vV
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Skill Practice
rs
rs
6. q
or q
rs
sr
yd b
b yd
7. x
or x
ya
ay
y
Section 6.5
ax b
xd
Practice Exercises
Practice Problems
Self-Tests
NetTutor
e-Professors
Videos
Review Exercises
For Exercises 28, perform the indicated operations.
2.
1
1
2
2
x 16
x 8x 16
3.
3
2
2
2
y 1
y 2y 1
4.
5.
2t2 7t 3
1t 32
4t2 1
6.
1 x1
1 x2
7.
8.
5x 1 2x 10
x5
x1
m2 9
1m2 m 122
m2 3m
xy
x
1
y1
10.
x6
x8
0
3
5
11.
3y
y
6
4
4
12.
2w
4w
8
5
5
13.
5
7
30
4p
6
14.
7
3
20
15w
10
15.
5
1
3
4
x
2
2x
12
16.
2
1
11
1
3x
4
6x
3
17.
3
5
2
x4
x4
18.
5
7
2
x3
x3
19.
1
2
1
3
w3
20.
3
7
2
5
p2
21.
12
12
2
x
x
x5
22.
25
25
2
y
y
y2
23.
1
a 4a1 0
4
24.
1
t 12t1 0
3
9.
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Section 6.5
CONFIRMING PAGES
447
Rational Equations
29.
4
8
2
2
t2
t 2t
30.
x
72
2
4
x6
x 36
31.
6
1
4
2
5y 10
y5
y 3y 10
32.
3
2
10
2
2
x 7x 12
x x 12
x 16
33.
x
1
5
x5
5
x5
34.
x
2
2
x2
3
x2
35.
6
1
1
x3
4x 4
x 4x 3
36.
1
5
2
0
x3
x3
4x 36
37.
3
5
6k
0
k2
k2
4 k2
38.
h
h
4
2
h4
h4
39.
5
2
5
x3
x4
x 7x 12
40.
9
5
3
x2
x5
x 7x 10
ma
F
for m
42. K
44. K
IR
E
for R
45. I
47. h
2A
Bb
50.
T mf
g
m
53. a b
56.
2A
h
1
ba
ab
f
for B
for m
ma
F
for a
43. K
E
Rr
for R
46. I
E
Rr
for h
49. x
at b
t
48.
V
r2
ph
51.
xy
z
xy
for x
55.
s2 s1
t2 t1
for t2
58. a
for b
57. v
for r
for t
for w
1
1
1
R
R1
R2
for P
54. 1 rt
for E
52. w n P
wn
A
P
for h
IR
E
v2 v1
t2 t1
for R
for v1
Mixed Review
59. a. Simplify.
b. Solve.
3
10
1
2
w5
w5
w 25
3
10
1
2
0
w5
w5
w 25
60. a. Simplify.
b. Solve.
x
2
1
2x 4
3x 6
2
x
1
2x 4
3x 6
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For Exercises 6170, perform the indicated operation and simplify, or solve the equation for the variable.
61.
2
1
a3
a 4a 3
62.
1
4
2
c6
c 8c 12
63.
7
3
1
0
y2 y 2 y 1 y 2
64.
1
5
3
0
b 2 b 1 b2 b 2
65.
x
12
2
x1
x x
66.
3
4
5t 20
t4
67.
3
7
5 1
w
w
68.
1
3
2
y
y2
69.
4p 1
p3
8p 12
2p 3
70.
x2
x1
2x 4
x2
2
3
16
3.
17
3.
73. If 7 is decreased by the reciprocal of a number, the result is 92. Find the number.
74. If a number is added to its reciprocal, the result is
Section 6.6
Concepts
1.
2.
3.
4.
Solving Proportions
Applications of Proportions
Similar Triangles
Applications of Rational
Equations
13
6.
a
b
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Section 6.6
Example 1
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CONFIRMING PAGES
449
Solving a Proportion
95
5
y
19
95
5
y
19
19y a
5
95
b 19y a b
y
19
19y a
5
95
b 19y a b
y
19
Clear fractions.
5y 1805
5y
1805
5
5
y 361
Skill Practice
1.
8
12
x
5
b 0, d 0
the cross products of terms are equal. Hence, ad bc. Finding the cross
product is a quick way to clear fractions in a proportion.* Consider Example 1:
5
95
19
y
5y 1192 1952
5y 1805
y 361
*It is important to realize that this method is only valid for proportions.
2. Applications of Proportions
Example 2
Solving a Proportion
15
or 7.5
2
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Solution:
One method of solving this problem is to set up a proportion. Write two equivalent ratios depicting the number of Democrats to the number of Republicans.
Let x represent the unknown number of Republicans in the Senate.
Given
ratio
Number of Democrats
Number of Republicans
4
44
x
5
4
44
5x a b 5x a b
x
5
4x 51442
4x 220
x 55
There were 55 Republicans in the U.S. Senate in 2006.
Skill Practice
Solving a Proportion
Example 3
The ratio of male to female police officers in a certain town is 11 : 3. If the total
number of officers is 112, how many are men and how many are women?
Solution:
Male
Female
31112 x2a
Number of males
Number of females
11
x
b 31112 x2a
b
3
112 x
111112 x2 3x
1232 11x 3x
1232 14x
1232
14x
14
14
x 88
The number of male police officers is x 88.
The number of female officers is 112 x 112 88 24.
Skill Practice
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Section 6.6
CONFIRMING PAGES
3. Similar Triangles
Proportions are used in geometry with similar triangles. Two triangles are said
to be similar if their corresponding angles are equal. In such a case, the lengths
of the corresponding sides are proportional. The triangles in Figure 6-5 are similar. Therefore, the following ratios are equivalent.
b
c
a
z
x
y
y
Figure 6-5
Example 4
The shadow cast by a yardstick is 2 ft long. The shadow cast by a tree is 11 ft long.
Find the height of the tree.
Solution:
1 yd 3 ft
2 ft
11 ft
Figure 6-6
Height of yardstick
Length of yardsticks shadow
3 ft
x
2 ft
11 ft
Height of tree
Length of trees shadow
3
x
2
11
Write an equation.
3
x
22 a b 22 a b
2
11
33 2x
33
2x
2
2
16.5 x
The tree is 16.5 ft high.
451
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Skill Practice
9m
3m
x
4m
To produce mountain bikes, the manufacturer has a fixed cost of $56,000 plus a variable cost of $140 per bike. The cost in dollars to produce x bikes is given by
C1x2 56,000 140x. The average cost per bike
C1x2
or
C1x2 is defined as C1x2
x
C1x2
56,000 140x
x
Given
C1x2
56,000 140x
x
180
56,000 140x
x
x11802 x
56,000 140x
x
56,000
40
1400
The manufacturer must produce 1400 bikes for the average cost to be $180.
Skill Practice
C 1x2
48,000 200x
x
Find the number of sets of skis the manufacturer must produce so that the
average cost per set is $250.
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Section 6.6
Example 6
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453
An athletes average speed on her bike is 14 mph faster than her average speed
running. She can bike 31.5 mi in the same time that it takes her to run 10.5 mi. Find
her speed running and her speed biking.
Solution:
Because the speed biking is given in terms of the speed running, let x represent
the running speed.
Let x represent the speed running.
Then x 14 represents the speed biking.
Organize the given information in a chart.
Distance
Rate
Time
Running
10.5
10.5
x
Biking
31.5
x 14
31.5
x 14
d
r
The time required to run 10.5 mi is the same as the time required to bike
31.5 mi, so we can equate the two expressions for time:
31.5
10.5
x
x 14
x1x 142 a
10.5
31.5
b x1x 142a
b
x
x 14
Solve for x.
21x 147
x7
The athletes speed running is 7 mph.
The speed biking is x 14 or 7 14 21 mph.
Skill Practice
6. Devon can cross-country ski 5 km/hr faster than his sister, Shanelle. Devon
skis 45 km in the same amount of time that Shanelle skis 30 km. Find their
speeds.
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Example 7
JoAn can wallpaper a bathroom in 3 hr. Bonnie can wallpaper the same bathroom
in 5 hr. How long would it take them if they worked together?
Solution:
Let x represent the time required for both people working together to complete
the job.
One method to approach this problem is to determine the portion of the job
that each person can complete in 1 hr and extend that rate to the portion of the
job completed in x hr.
JoAn can perform the job in 3 hr. Therefore, she completes 13 of the job in
1 hr and 13 x jobs in x hr.
Bonnie can perform the job in 5 hr. Therefore, she completes 15 of the job in
1 hr and 15 x jobs in x hr.
Work Rate
Time
JoAn
1
job/hr
3
x hr
1
x jobs
3
Bonnie
1
job/hr
5
x hr
1
x jobs
5
The sum of the portions of the job completed by each person must equal one
whole job:
Portion of job
portion of job
1
completed completed whole
by JoAn
by Bonnie
job
1
1
x x1
3
5
1
1
15 a x xb 15112
3
5
1
1
15 x 15 x 15 1
3
5
5x 3x 15
8x 15
x
15
8
or
x1
7
8
Together JoAn and Bonnie can wallpaper the bathroom in 178 hr.
Skill Practice
7. Antonio can install a new roof in 4 days. Carlos can install the same size
roof in 6 days. How long will it take them to install a roof if they work
together?
Skill Practice Answers
7.
12
2
or 2 days
5
5
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Section 6.6
Section 6.6
CONFIRMING PAGES
455
Practice Exercises
Practice Problems
Self-Tests
NetTutor
e-Professors
Videos
b. Proportion
c. Similar triangles
Review Exercises
For Exercises 210, perform the indicated operation and simplify, or solve the equation for the variable.
2. 3
6
x8
x
3. 2
6
x7
x
4.
5
3
3x 6
4x 8
7.
10
5
7
w2
w2
5.
4
1
5t 1
10t 2
6.
2
5
1
y1
4
y1
8.
3x
5
3
2
x y
x x2y
9.
4
7a
2
2
a 2ab b
a ab
10.
3t
2t
t
t6
t6
y
20
6
15
12.
12
14
x
18
13.
9
m
75
50
14.
n
12
15
45
15.
p1
p3
4
3
16.
q5
q2
2
3
17.
x1
4
5
15
18.
t1
2
7
21
19.
1
5 2x
x
4
20.
2y 3
3
y
2
21.
y3
2
y1
4
22.
1
x3
x5
3
23.
1
w
49w
9
24.
z
1
4z
25
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29. A fisherman in the North Atlantic catches eight swordfish for a total of 1840 lb.
Approximately how many swordfish were caught if a commercial fishing boat
arrives in port with 230,000 lb of swordfish?
30. If a 64-oz bottle of laundry detergent costs $4.00, how much would an 80-oz
bottle cost?
31. Pam drives her Toyota Prius 243 mi in city driving on 4.5 gal of gas. At this rate
how many gallons of gas are required to drive 621 mi?
32. On a map, the distance from Sacramento, California, to San Francisco,
California, is 8 cm. The legend gives the actual distance as 96 mi. On the same
map, Fatima measured 7 cm from Sacramento to Modesto, California. What is
the actual distance?
33. Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming has the largest population of free-roaming bison. To approximate
the number of bison, 200 are captured and tagged and then left free to roam. Later, a sample of 120 bison
is observed and 6 have tags. Approximate the population of bison in the park.
34. Laws have been instituted in Florida to help save the manatee. To establish the number of manatees in
Florida, 150 manatees were tagged. A new sample was taken later, and among the 40 manatees in the
sample, 3 were marked. Approximate the number of manatees in Florida.
35. The ratio of men to women accountants in a large accounting firm is 2 to 1. If the total number of
accountants is 81, how many are men and how many are women?
36. The ratio of Hanks income spent on rent to his income spent on car payments is 3 to 1. If he spends a
total of $1640 per month on the rent and car payment, how much does he spend on each item?
37. The ratio of single men in their 20s to single women in their 20s is 119 to 100 (Source: U.S. Census). In a
random group of 1095 single college students in their 20s, how many are men and how many are women?
38. A chemist mixes water and alcohol in a 7 to 8 ratio. If she makes a 450-L solution, how much is water and
how much is alcohol?
40.
a
6 ft
11.2 ft
y
10 ft
14 ft
18 cm
13 cm
8 cm
12 cm
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Section 6.6
457
41.
CONFIRMING PAGES
42.
1.75 in.
5 in.
4.55 in.
12 m
a
3.75 m
5m
P1x2
x
or
P1x2
360x 56,000
x
Find the number of bikes the manufacturer must produce so that the average profit per bike is $110.
44. The profit in dollars when x ballpoint pens are sold is given by P1x2 0.47x 100 . The average profit per
unit is defined as
P1x2
P1x2
x
or
P1x2
0.47x 100
x
Find the number of pens that must be produced so that the average profit per pen is $0.27.
45. A motorist travels 80 mi while driving in a bad rainstorm. In sunny weather, the motorist drives 20 mph
faster and covers 120 mi in the same amount of time. Find the speed of the motorist in the rainstorm and
the speed in sunny weather.
46. Brooke walks 2 km/hr slower than her older sister Adrianna. If Brooke can walk 12 km in the same
amount of time that Adrianna can walk 18 km, find their speeds.
47. The current in a stream is 2 mph. Find the speed of a boat in still water if it goes 26 mi downstream (with
the current) in the same amount of time it takes to go 18 mi upstream (against the current).
48. A bus leaves a terminal at 9:00. A car leaves 3 hr later and averages a speed 21 mph faster than that of the bus.
If the car overtakes the bus after 196 mi, find the average speed of the bus and the average speed of the car.
49. A bicyclist rides 24 mi against a wind and returns 24 mi with the wind. His average
speed for the return trip is 8 mph faster. If x represents the bicyclists speed going
out against the wind, then the total time required for the round trip is given by
24
24
where x 7 0
,
x
x8
How fast did the cyclist ride against the wind if the total time of the trip was
3.2 hr?
t1x2
50. A boat travels 45 mi to an island and 45 mi back again. Changes in the wind
and tide made the average speed on the return trip 3 mph slower than the
speed on the way out. If the total time of the trip took 6 hr 45 min (6.75 hr),
find the speed going to the island and the speed of the return trip.
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51. One painter can paint a room in 6 hr. Another painter can paint the same room in 8 hr. How long would it
take them working together?
52. One carpenter can complete a kitchen in 8 days. With the help of another carpenter, they can do the job
together in 4 days. How long would it take the second carpenter if he worked alone?
53. Gus works twice as fast as Sid. Together they can dig a garden in 4 hr. How long would it take each person
working alone?
54. It takes a child 3 times longer to vacuum a house than an adult. If it takes 1 hr for one adult and one child
working together to vacuum a house, how long would it take each person working alone?
Chapter 6
SUMMARY
Section 6.1
Key Concepts
p
A rational expression is in the form where p and q
q
are polynomials and q 0.
p1x2
A rational function is a function of the form
,
q1x2
where p and q are polynomial functions and q1x2 0.
The domain of a rational expression or a rational
function excludes the values for which the denominator is zero.
To simplify a rational expression to lowest terms,
factor the numerator and denominator completely.
Then simplify factors whose ratio is 1 or 1. A rational
expression written in lowest terms will still have the same
restrictions on the domain as the original expression.
Examples
Example 1
Find the domain of the function
f 1x2
x3
1x 4212x 12
1
Domain: e x 0 x is a real number and x 4, x f
2
Example 2
Simplify to lowest terms.
t2 6t 16
5t 10
1t 821t 22
t8
51t 22
5
provided t 2
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Summary
Section 6.2
Key Concepts
Examples
To multiply rational expressions, factor the numerators and denominators completely. Then simplify
factors whose ratio is 1 or 1.
Example 1
b2 a2
a2 3ab 2b2
2
2a 2b
a 2ab b
2
1
1a b2 2
To divide rational expressions, multiply by the
reciprocal of the divisor.
1b a21b a2
a 2b
2
1a 2b21a b2
21a b2
or
2b a
2
Simplify.
Example 2
3x 1
9x 3
4x 8
x2 4
1
313x 12
41x 22
1x 221x 22
3x 1
Section 6.3
Factor.
12
x2
Factor. Multiply by
the reciprocal.
Simplify.
Key Concepts
Examples
Example 1
For
1
31x 12 3 1x 22
and
5
61x 121x 72 2
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Section 6.4
Example 2
c
1
2c 8
c c 12
2
c
1
1c 421c 32
21c 42
Factor the
denominators.
1c 32
c
1
2
2 1c 421c 32 21c 42 1c 32
2c 1c 32
21c 421c 32
2c c 3
21c 421c 32
c3
21c 421c 32
Complex Fractions
Key Concepts
Examples
Example 1
Simplify by using Method I.
5
x
10
x2
5 x2
x 10
x
2
Write
equivalent
fractions
with LCD.
Subtract.
Simplify.
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Summary
To use Method II, multiply the numerator and denominator of the complex fraction by the LCD of all
the individual fractions. Then simplify the result.
Example 2
Simplify by using Method II.
1
4
w2
6
1
1 2
w
w
w2 a1
4
b
w2
6
1
w2 a1 2 b
w
w
Section 6.5
w2 4
w w6
2
1w 22 1w 22
1w 32 1w 22
w2
w3
Rational Equations
Key Concepts
Examples
Example 1
1. Factor the denominators of all rational expressions. Identify any restrictions on the variable.
2. Identify the LCD of all expressions in the
equation.
3. Multiply both sides of the equation by the
LCD.
4. Solve the resulting equation.
5. Check each potential solution.
1
1
2w
w
2w 1
2w 1
w12w 12
1
1
1
w12w 12
w
2w 1
1
w12w 12
12w 121 w112 w12w2
2w 1 w 2w2
1quadratic equation2
2w2 w 1 0
12w 12 1w 12 0
w
1
2
or
w 1 aw
2w
2w 1
w 1
1
does not checkb
2
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Section 6.6
Key Concepts
Examples
Example 1
c
a
provided b 0, d 0
b
d
Proportions can be used to solve many types of applications including similar triangles, work problems, and
distance, rate, and time problems.
1
x
17
185 3242
85
324
5508 85x
x 64.8 g
Chapter 6
Review Exercises
Section 6.1
1. For the rational expression
t2
t9
4. Let h 1x2
k1
k5
28a3b3
14a2b3
6.
25x2yz3
125xyz
7.
x2 4x 3
x3
8.
k2 3k 10
k2 5k 6
9.
x3 27
9 x2
10.
2t2 3t 5
7 6t t2
12.
y
y2 1
x
.
x 1
2
11.
a4 81
3a
y3 4y
y 5y 6
2
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Review Exercises
14. m 1x2
1
x2
15. k 1x2
6
x 3x
16. p 1x2
2
x 4
a.
b.
8 6 4
8
6
4
2
4
2
x
2 4 6 8
8 6 4 2
2
4
8
2 4 6
d.
29.
1
1
1
2 3
x
x
x
30.
1
5
x2
x2
31.
y
3
2y 1
1 2y
32.
a2
3
2a 6
a3
33.
y
2
y1
y 1
8
6
4
2
8 6 4 2
2
4
Section 6.3
6
8
6
c.
2 4 6 8
8 6 4 2
4 6
35.
8w 16
w2
w4
4w
36.
6
7
2
x 4x 3
x 5x 6
37.
2
8
3x 5
38.
7
1
2
4k k 3
4k 7k 3
39.
1
4
2t 5
2
t
6t 9
2t 3t
40.
y
2y 5
4
y3
y2
2
x 4y
x xy
2
18.
20y 5x
x y
2
2y 8
4y
5
15
7k 28 k 2k 8
2k 4 k2 2k 8
2
21.
22.
ab 2a b 2 ab 3b 4a 12
ab 3b 2a 6
ab b 4a 4
x2 8x 20
x2 6x 40
2
23. 2
x 6x 16
x 3x 40
2b b2 b2 2b 4
24.
b3 8
b2
25.
26.
5y2 20
y 2y y 2
2
7y
y y
3
x8
b
x3
Section 6.4
For Exercises 4148, simplify the complex fraction.
2x
3x 3
41.
4x
6x 6
k2
3
42.
5
k2
1
2
x
xy
43.
4
x2
4
1
y
44.
4
1
2
y
y
3w2 4
2w
w
21
7
2x 1
x4
Section 6.2
19.
34. 4x 3
1
6
8
17.
k5
b
3k 5
8
6
2
4
x2 x 20 x2 x 6
2x 10
2
2
10 5x
x 4x 4 12 x x
13. f 1x2
27.
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1
1
a1
45.
1
1
a1
47.
IA
Page 464
3
1
x1
1x
46.
2
2
x
x1
1 xy1
3a2
For Exercises 4950, find the slope of the line containing the two points.
2 7
13 5
49. a , b and a , b
3 4
6
3
50. a
5
x
4
6
60.
x
6
36
7
61.
51x 12
x2
3
4
62.
x
3
x2
5
5a1 1ab2 1
48.
x2y2 1
Section 6.6
8
1
13 9
, b and a , b
15 3
10 5
Section 6.5
C 1x2
51.
x3
8
2
0
x2 x
x 1
52.
y
3
18
2
y3
y3
y 9
53. x 9
2
55. 5y
72
x8
3x 1
x1
2
x5
x1
54.
7
13
56. 1 m1 m1
6
6
1
1 6y
ax b
x
c
A
P
P
rt
rt
Chapter 6
1. For the expression
1.5x 4200
x
Test
2x 6
x x 12
2
2x 14
x2 49
12m3n7
18mn8
5.
9x2 9
3x2 2x 5
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2x 5
12x2 x 152
25 4x2
8.
x
8x 16
x4
x4
2
9.
12 m
10 m
4x
2
x
x1
x1
18 m
21 m
2u 2v
4u3 4v3
12.
ax bx 2a 2b x 3
x2
ax 3a bx 3b x 5
ax 5a
13.
3
1
1
2
2
x 8x 15
x 7x 12
x 9x 20
3
k
10.
4
4
k
3
1
11.
1
7
z5
6
2
z
z1
z 1
16.
4x
16
3
x4
x4
15.
3
4
1
y3
y 9
2
1 Tv
p
T
F
Chapters 16
Number
Real numbers
Irrational numbers
Rational numbers
Integers
Whole numbers
Natural numbers
22
Gm1m2
r2
1.75x 1500
x
P1x2
12
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x7
2x 3
b. g 1x2
x3
x x 12
2x2 98
2x2 11x 21
4x2 10x 6
x2 x xa a
x2 6x 8
20 5x
Value ($)
x
1
1
2
2
x 5x 50
x 7x 10
x 8x 20
y
15,000
13,500
12,000
10,500
9000
7500
6000
4500
3000
1500
4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Number of Years
49
c2
7
1
c
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b. 2y 8
a
2x4y
3z2
1
b 14xy 2
7
y
5
4
3
2
3
4
5
x2 2
find h122, h112, h102, h112,
x
and h122.
29. Factor 64 y2.
1
5 4 3 2 1
1
2
x 2y 6
2x y 13
3 4
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