Math Problem Statement

Find the domain of the rational function f(x) = 1 / (x^2 - 3x + 2).

Solution

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f(x)=1x23x+2f(x) = \frac{1}{x^2 - 3x + 2}

This is a rational function. To analyze it, we should first identify its domain by determining where the denominator is zero (since division by zero is undefined).

Finding the domain:

The denominator is x23x+2x^2 - 3x + 2. We need to solve:

x23x+2=0x^2 - 3x + 2 = 0

We can factor this quadratic expression:

x23x+2=(x1)(x2)x^2 - 3x + 2 = (x - 1)(x - 2)

Setting this equal to zero:

(x1)(x2)=0(x - 1)(x - 2) = 0

The solutions are:

x=1orx=2x = 1 \quad \text{or} \quad x = 2

So, the function is undefined at x=1x = 1 and x=2x = 2.

Domain:

The domain of f(x)f(x) is all real numbers except x=1x = 1 and x=2x = 2, or in interval notation:

Domain=(,1)(1,2)(2,)\text{Domain} = (-\infty, 1) \cup (1, 2) \cup (2, \infty)

Conclusion:

  • The function f(x)f(x) is undefined at x=1x = 1 and x=2x = 2, where the denominator becomes zero.

Would you like further details or have any questions?

Here are 5 follow-up questions:

  1. How do we find the vertical asymptotes of this rational function?
  2. Can we determine the behavior of the function near x=1x = 1 and x=2x = 2?
  3. How would we find the horizontal or oblique asymptotes for this function?
  4. What happens to the function as xx \to \infty or xx \to -\infty?
  5. Could we sketch the graph of f(x)f(x) based on its domain and asymptotes?

Tip: Always check where a rational function's denominator is zero to find points where the function is undefined or where vertical asymptotes may occur.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Rational Functions
Quadratic Equations

Formulas

f(x) = 1 / (x^2 - 3x + 2)
Factoring quadratics: x^2 - 3x + 2 = (x - 1)(x - 2)

Theorems

Undefined points occur where the denominator equals zero.

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12