Question

Which of the following is equal to the rational expression below when x≠4 x^2-16/x-4

Answer 1

x + 4

Explanation:

Given

`(x^2-16)/(x-4)` → x ≠ 4

Factor the difference of squares on the numerator

x² - 16

= x² - 4² = (x - 4)(x + 4), thus expression becomes

=
`((x-4)(x+4))/(x-4)` ← cancel (x - 4) on numerator/ denominator

= x + 4