Math Problem Statement

Find the points where the function f(x) = 1 / (x^2 - 3x + 2) is undefined.

Solution

The given function in the image is:

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

The problem asks to find the points where f(x)f(x) is undefined.

For a rational function, f(x)f(x) is undefined when the denominator is equal to zero. So, we need to solve the equation:

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

This is a quadratic equation. Let's factor it:

x23x+2=(x1)(x2)=0x^2 - 3x + 2 = (x - 1)(x - 2) = 0

The solutions to this equation are:

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

Thus, f(x)f(x) is undefined at x=1x = 1 and x=2x = 2.

Would you like a detailed explanation of the factoring method used here?

Here are 5 related questions to expand this topic:

  1. How can we determine if a function is undefined without solving for specific points?
  2. What happens graphically at points where a function is undefined?
  3. How can we solve more complex rational functions for undefined points?
  4. How does the concept of discontinuity relate to functions being undefined?
  5. Can a rational function be undefined at more than two points?

Tip: Always check the denominator of a rational function for zeros to find where it might be undefined.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Quadratic Equations
Rational Functions

Formulas

Quadratic equation: ax^2 + bx + c = 0

Theorems

Factorization of quadratics

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11