Math Problem Statement

Find the domain of the function: f(x) = 3/(x - 11) + 4/(x + 3)

Solution

To find the domain of the function:

f(x)=3x11+4x+3f(x) = \frac{3}{x - 11} + \frac{4}{x + 3}

we need to determine where the function is undefined. A rational function like this is undefined when the denominator of any term is zero because division by zero is not allowed.

Step-by-step:

  1. The first term is 3x11\frac{3}{x - 11}. The denominator x11x - 11 becomes zero when x=11x = 11.
  2. The second term is 4x+3\frac{4}{x + 3}. The denominator x+3x + 3 becomes zero when x=3x = -3.

Conclusion:

The function is undefined at x=11x = 11 and x=3x = -3.

Domain:

The domain of the function is all real numbers except x=11x = 11 and x=3x = -3.

In interval notation, the domain is: (,3)(3,11)(11,)(-\infty, -3) \cup (-3, 11) \cup (11, \infty)

Would you like more details or have any questions?

Here are five related questions:

  1. How do you find the domain of more complex rational functions?
  2. What happens to the graph of a function at points where it is undefined?
  3. How do vertical asymptotes relate to the domain of a rational function?
  4. Can a function have more than two points where it is undefined?
  5. How would the domain change if a square root or logarithmic term was added?

Tip: Always check for zeroes in the denominator when determining the domain of rational functions.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Rational Functions
Domain of Functions

Formulas

f(x) = 3/(x - 11) + 4/(x + 3)

Theorems

The function is undefined when the denominator equals zero

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11