Problem 65

Question

Explain how to find restrictions on the variable in a rational equation.

Step-by-Step Solution

Verified
Answer
To find the restrictions on the variables in a rational equation, identify the equation, set each fraction's denominator equal to zero, and solve for the variable.
1Step 1: Identify the Rational Equation
To find the restrictions on the variables in a rational equation, the first step is to identify the rational equation. A rational equation is an equation in the form \( \frac{a}{b} = c \), where a and b are polynomials, and c is a constant.
2Step 2: Set the Denominator Equal to Zero
The next step is to set the denominator equal to zero. For our rational equation \( \frac{a}{b} = c \), we set b equal to zero, i.e., \( b = 0 \) and solve for the variable. This will give the values of the variable for which the denominator becomes 0.
3Step 3: Solve for the Variable
After setting the denominator equal to zero, solve the equation for the variable. The solutions to this equation are the restrictions on the variable.