Find the partial fraction decomposition for each rational expression. See Examples 1–4. 1/(x(2x + 1)(3x^2 + 4))
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1
Identify the form of the partial fraction decomposition. Since the denominator is a product of linear and quadratic factors, the decomposition will be of the form: .
Multiply both sides of the equation by the common denominator to eliminate the fractions.
Set up the equation: .
Expand the right-hand side of the equation by distributing each term.
Collect like terms and equate the coefficients of corresponding powers of from both sides of the equation to form a system of equations.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Rational Expressions
A rational expression is a fraction where both the numerator and the denominator are polynomials. Understanding rational expressions is crucial for performing operations like addition, subtraction, and decomposition. In this context, the expression 1/(x(2x + 1)(3x^2 + 4)) is a rational expression that needs to be decomposed into simpler fractions.
Partial fraction decomposition is a method used to express a rational function as a sum of simpler fractions. This technique is particularly useful for integrating rational functions or simplifying complex expressions. The goal is to break down the given rational expression into components that are easier to work with, based on the factors of the denominator.
Polynomial long division is a process used to divide one polynomial by another, similar to numerical long division. It is essential when the degree of the numerator is greater than or equal to the degree of the denominator. In the context of partial fraction decomposition, if the rational expression is improper, polynomial long division must be performed first to convert it into a proper form before applying decomposition.