Math Problem Statement
Determine all values of x at which the function is discontinuous. (Enter your answers as a comma-separated list.)
f(x) =
x2 − 4x + 4
x2 − 2x
x =
Solution
To determine where the function is discontinuous, let's first rewrite the function clearly:
Step 1: Factor the numerator and the denominator.
Numerator:
This is a perfect square trinomial, so we can factor it as:
Denominator:
We can factor this as:
So the function can now be written as:
Step 2: Simplify the function.
We can cancel out the common factor from both the numerator and denominator, but we must keep in mind that when . This creates a potential issue at .
After cancellation, the simplified function is:
Step 3: Identify points of discontinuity.
1. At :
The denominator becomes zero, so the function is undefined at .
2. At :
Although we canceled the factor , the original function had a zero in the denominator when , so the function is also undefined at .
Conclusion:
The function is discontinuous at and .
Thus, the values of at which the function is discontinuous are:
Would you like more details or further clarifications?
Here are 5 related questions to deepen your understanding:
- How do you determine if a function is continuous at a point?
- What is the significance of factoring when simplifying rational functions?
- How do you find the domain of a rational function?
- What is the difference between removable and non-removable discontinuities?
- How would you graph this function and show its discontinuities?
Tip: Always check for common factors that can cancel out, but remember to account for the points where the denominator equals zero.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Rational Functions
Discontinuity in Functions
Factoring Polynomials
Formulas
f(x) = (x^2 - 4x + 4) / (x^2 - 2x)
Factoring: a^2 - 2ab + b^2 = (a - b)^2
Theorems
Discontinuity occurs when the denominator is zero
Factoring theorem for polynomials
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 10-12
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