Question

Simplify the following rational expression.

X^2- 16x +64
———————
4x^2 -36x+32
Which values of I make the expression undefined?

Answer 1

9514 1404 393

Answer:

(x-8)/(4x-4) x ≠ 1 or 8

Explanation:

Common factors can be cancelled, but cannot be ignored when it comes to determining where the function is undefined.

`(x^2-16x+64)/(4x^2-36x+32)=((x-8)^2)/(4(x-8)(x-1))=\boxed{(x-8)/(4x-4)}`

The function is undefined for x=1 and x=8, the values of x that make the original denominator zero.