Graph the Rational Function: f(x) = 2x^3-x^2-x/x^2-4

[aranda5]

Problem: f(x) = 2x^3-x^2-x/x^2-4

I need to divide this using long division and don't know how to get passed the first step...can you help.

[stapel_eliz]

Problem: f(x) = 2x^3-x^2-x/x^2-4

As formatted, the function is this:

. . . . .

However, I think the function may actually be as follows:

. . . . .

Please confirm or correct.

I need to divide this using long division and don't know how to get passed the first step.

To learn how to use long polynomial division, try this illustrated online lesson.

Note: You may want to put " inside your division, to help make room for the various terms you'll have when you do the subtractions.

If you get stuck, please reply showing your steps and reasoning so far. It will probably prove helpful to use "pre" tags for your formatting, like this:

Code: Select all

[pre]my work:
           2x
        ----------------------
x^2 - 4 ) 2x^3 - 1x^2 - 1x + 0
          2x^3        - 8x
        ----------------------
               - 1x^2 + 7x + 0[/pre]

...which displays as:

my work:
           2x
        ----------------------
x^2 - 4 ) 2x^3 - 1x^2 - 1x + 0
          2x^3        - 8x
        ----------------------
               - 1x^2 + 7x + 0

Thank you!