RATIONAL FUNCTIONS Solving Rational Equations (Page 1 of 3)

Let's solve the equation (x+6)/(x+1) = 2. Because this equation involves a rational function, the intersection method can be confusing (because of the nature of the graphs involved). We will use the x-intercept method instead.

First set the equation equal to zero: (x+6)/(x+1)-2 = 0. Consider the expression on the left side of the equation to be the function f(x) = (x+6)/(x+1)-2. Enter this function as Y1. Don't forget to enter the numerator and denominator of the rational expression within parentheses!

 Y= key. (Clear any previous functions)

 Left parenthesis key. X,T,theta,n key. Plus key. 6 Right parenthesis key. Divide key. Left parenthesis key. X,T,theta,n key. Plus key. 1
 Right parenthesis key. Minus key. 2

 Calculator screen image.
Copyright © 2010 Turner Educational Publishing
Go back to the previous page. Go to the next page. Go to the Table of Contents. Go to the Index page. Go to the Quiz page. Exit to the Home page.