Study Guide for Chapter 8

Points of discontinuity
1. Factor numerator/ denominator
2. Find out what number makes it zero
3. If one of the numbers in the denominator is the same as the numerator
it is a removable discontinuity and is the first step in finding the hole
4. Nonremovable is the vertical asymptote VA: X= #
Vertical Asymptote
1. Same steps as points of discontinuity
2. But after you cross off any removables remaining x value in
denominator is the vertical Asymptote
Horizontal Asymptote

Compare degree of numerator to degree of denominator

o dN< dD HA: Y=0
o dN>dD HA: none
o dN=dD HA: CN/CD leading coefficient in numerator over leading
coefficient in the denominator

Simplifying rational expressions

1. factor numerator and denominator
2. restrictions what x cant equal
3. reduce/ cross out any common factors
Dividing rational expressions
1.
2.
3.
4.

Change to multiplication of the reciprocal

factor
restrictions
reduce

Adding and Subtracting Rational expressions

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

factor
Common denominator
Write as 1 fraction
Multiply/ combine like terms
Re-factor numerator
Simplify if possible

Complex numbers
Goal: 1 fraction in numerator, 1 in denominator, multiply by reciprocal

Solving Rational Equations

+, -, x, / one side of an equation AS LONG AS you do the same exact to the
other side.