Introductory Algebra for College Students (7th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0-13417-805-X
ISBN 13: 978-0-13417-805-9

Chapter 7 - Review Exercises - Page 562: 2

Answer

This rational expression is undefined for the values $x = 2$ and $x = -5$.

Work Step by Step

To find which numbers the rational expression will be undefined, we set the denominator equal to zero and then solve: $$(x - 2)(x + 5) = 0$$ We now use the zero product property, which states that if the product of two factors is equal to zero, then at least one of the factors is equal to zero. We can set each factor equal to zero and solve for $x$: $$x - 2 = 0$$ Add $2$ to solve for $x$: $$x = 2$$ Now, we set the other factor equal to zero: $$x + 5 = 0$$ Subtract $5$ from both sides of the equation to solve for $x$: $$x = -5$$ This rational expression is undefined for the values $x = 2$ and $x = -5$.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.