Question

Determine the x-intercept(s) of the rational function:
f(x) = (x ^ 2 - 16)/(x ^ 2 - 2x - 3)

Answer 1

(-4,0) and (4,0)

Explanation:

The x-intercepts occur for values of x where f(x) = 0.

f(x) = 0 when the nominator (
`x^(2) - 16`) = 0.

`x^(2) -16` is a difference of squares,
so you can factor it as (x + 4)(x – 4)

When x = –4 or x = 4, the nominator is 0, and f(x) = 0