+0  
 
0
1149
2
avatar

For what values of x is\frac{x^2 + x + 3}{2x^2 + x - 6} \ge 0?

Note: Be thorough and explain why all points in your answer are solutions and why all points outside your answer are not solutions.

 Oct 26, 2014

Best Answer 

 #2
avatar+128079 
+5

Because the function in the numerator is > 0 for all real numbers (thus, the graph never intersects the x axis), we only need to concern ourselves with the denominator.....!!!

This function will be undefined when the denominator = 0

So.....setting 2x^2 + x - 6 to 0 and factoring, we have

(2x -3)(x + 2) = 0       and setting each factor to 0, we have x = -2 and x = 3/2...so the graph is undefined at these two values (it has vertical asymptotes at these two values)....we just need to look at 3 intervals

When x < -2, the rational function > 0   (test -3 to see this is true)

And when x > -2 but < 3/2, the rational function < 0  (test 0)

And when x > 3/2 , the rational function > 0 (test 2)

So, the solution is

(-∞, -2) U (3/2, ∞)

Here's the graph...(the asymptotes will be hard to determine from this!!)....https://www.desmos.com/calculator/piat8yrld0

 

 Oct 26, 2014
 #1
avatar
0

Please give a good explanation

 Oct 26, 2014
 #2
avatar+128079 
+5
Best Answer

Because the function in the numerator is > 0 for all real numbers (thus, the graph never intersects the x axis), we only need to concern ourselves with the denominator.....!!!

This function will be undefined when the denominator = 0

So.....setting 2x^2 + x - 6 to 0 and factoring, we have

(2x -3)(x + 2) = 0       and setting each factor to 0, we have x = -2 and x = 3/2...so the graph is undefined at these two values (it has vertical asymptotes at these two values)....we just need to look at 3 intervals

When x < -2, the rational function > 0   (test -3 to see this is true)

And when x > -2 but < 3/2, the rational function < 0  (test 0)

And when x > 3/2 , the rational function > 0 (test 2)

So, the solution is

(-∞, -2) U (3/2, ∞)

Here's the graph...(the asymptotes will be hard to determine from this!!)....https://www.desmos.com/calculator/piat8yrld0

 

CPhill Oct 26, 2014

3 Online Users

avatar
avatar