Unit 3: Rational Functions Date: ___________________

Solving Rational Inequalities Graphically or Algebraically

L.G.: “I can solve a rational inequality both algebraically and by graphing.”

1
Minds On: Solve x
x
1
a) Graphing: let f ( x) x and g ( x)
x

b) Algebraically Note of Caution: Why can we not simply multiply by the LCD?
Try it!

Method I: Making RHS equal to zero and simplifying Method II: A neat approach ….

Practice: p295# 1, 3,4cd, 5aef, 6bdf, 9,11

Unit 3: Rational Functions Date: ___________________
Examples: Solve the following rational inequalities algebraically. Verify graphically
3 4 x 3x x2 x
a) b) c)
x 2 x x 2 2x 4 x 1 x 1

Average Profit: The estimate revenue and cost functions for the development of a new product are given by
R( x) 2 x 2 8 x and C ( x) 3x 2 , where x is the number of items in thousands.
a) Determine the break-even point for production.

P( x)
b) The average profit function is AP( x) . What production levels are required for AP(x) >0?
x

Practice: p295# 1, 3,4cd, 5aef, 6bdf, 9,11