FUNCTIONS Rational
FUNCTIONS Rational
Representation of Functions
•1. Distinguish rational function,
rational equation, and rational
inequality
•2. Solve rational equations and
inequalities.
•
Definition: A rational expression is an expression that
can be written as a ratio of two polynomials
Rational Expression
Some examples of rational expressions are , , and .
The comparison of rational equations, inequalities,
and functions are shown below.
Rational Rational Rational Function
Equation Inequality
Definition An equation An Inequality A function of the form f(x) = 𝑝(𝑥) 𝑞(𝑥) where p(x) and
involving involving q(x) are polynomial functions and q(x) is not the zero
rational rational function
expressions. expression
Example + = 15 6x + 4 ≥ 8 F(x) =
Example 6x + 4 ≥ 8
A rational equation or inequality can be
solved for all x values that satisfy the
equation or inequality. A rational function
expresses a relationship between two
variables (such as x and y), and can be
represented by a table of values or a graph.
To help you distinguish the difference between the Rational
Function, Rational Equation, and Rational Inequality, observe
their examples below:
• A.
Rational Function C. Rational Inequality
B. Rational Equation D. None of these
1. = 2𝑥2 − 1 6. =
2. 4 = 7. = 8
Symbols = >,<,≥,≤,≠
Examples + =1 <
= x2 >
A rational equation or inequality can be solved for all x values that satisfy the
equation or inequality. A rational function expresses a relationship between two
variables (such as x and y), and can be represented by a table of values or a graph.
-1 +1
(c) Choose the convenient test points in the intervals determined by -1 and 1 to
determine the sign of 𝑥−1 𝑥+1 in these intervals. Construct a table of signs as
shown below.
-1 0 +1
•Example
2.
Solve the inequality < .
Solution:
a. Rewrite the inequality with zero on one side.
− <0 <0 <0 <0
b. The rational expression will be zero for x = -1 and undefined for 0 and
2. Plot these points on a number line. Use hollow circles since these
values are not part of the solution.
-1 0 +2
c,. Construct a table of signs to determine the sign of the function in each interval
determined by -1, 0 and 2.
-1 0 +2
Activity 1
Complete the table of signs to determine the sign of the function ≥ in each
interval.
Interval 𝑥<− − < 𝑥 < −1 −1 < 𝑥 < 𝑥>
2𝑥 + 5
𝑥+1
2𝑥 – 1
ACTIVITY 2
Solve the following rational equations and inequalities below.
1. = 2. < 4
Solution: Solution: