Simplifying polynomial fraction

In summary, the quotient rule was applied to the function y=ex/(1+x2), resulting in the expression ex(1-x)2/(1+x2)2. This was achieved by factoring out a common term of e^x from the numerator and simplifying further.
  • #1
coolbeans33
23
0
so I was reading my textbook and was showing steps on applying the quotient rule to the function: y=ex/(1+x2)

it went from (1+x2)(ex)-(ex)(2x)/(1+x2)2

to ex(1-x)2/(1+x2)2

I understand the first step, but don't get how they got to ex(1-x)2 in the numerator. can someone please explain the steps to me?
 
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  • #2
Re: simplifying polynomial fraction

coolbeans33 said:
so I was reading my textbook and was showing steps on applying the quotient rule to the function: y=ex/(1+x2)

it went from (1+x2)(ex)-(ex)(2x)/(1+x2)2

to ex(1-x)2/(1+x2)2

I understand the first step, but don't get how they got to ex(1-x)2 in the numerator. can someone please explain the steps to me?

For starters, I think you meant to say
\[\frac{(1+x^2)(e^x) - (e^x)(2x)}{(1+x^2)^2}.\]
The first thing to note here is that there's a common factor of $e^x$ in the numerator, i.e.
\[\frac{(\color{blue}{1+x^2})(\color{red}{e^x}) - (\color{red}{e^x})(\color{blue}{2x})}{(1+x^2)^2} = \frac{\color{red}{e^x}(\color{blue}{1+x^2}-\color{blue}{2x})}{(1+x^2)^2} = \frac{e^x(x^2-2x+1)}{(1+x^2)^2}.\]
Can you take things from here?
 

FAQ: Simplifying polynomial fraction

How do you simplify a polynomial fraction?

To simplify a polynomial fraction, you need to factor both the numerator and denominator. Then, cancel out any common factors and rewrite the fraction in its simplest form.

What are the steps involved in simplifying a polynomial fraction?

The steps involved in simplifying a polynomial fraction are:1. Factor the numerator and denominator2. Cancel out any common factors3. Rewrite the fraction in its simplest form4. Check for any remaining like terms and combine them if possible.

Can all polynomial fractions be simplified?

No, not all polynomial fractions can be simplified. Some fractions may already be in their simplest form, while others may not have any common factors to cancel out.

Why is it important to simplify polynomial fractions?

Simplifying polynomial fractions helps make them easier to work with and understand. It also allows us to find equivalent fractions and perform operations on them more easily.

How can simplifying polynomial fractions be useful in real-life situations?

Simplifying polynomial fractions can be useful in real-life situations such as calculating proportions, solving equations, and evaluating expressions. It can also help us make sense of complex mathematical concepts and make informed decisions based on numerical data.

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