Can I Simplify This Algebraic Expression by Canceling Out the h?

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The discussion centers on the simplification of the algebraic expression \(-\frac{2rh - h^2 + 2r}{h}\). Participants confirm that the expression cannot be simplified by canceling out the variable \(h\) because it is not present in all terms of the numerator. Additionally, it is noted that while the expression can be split into two fractions, true simplification through cancellation is not possible. The limit as \(h\) approaches 0 poses a challenge, as the numerator must also equal 0 for the limit to exist.

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vt33
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I'm trying to simplify -2rh-h^2+2r/h

can I simplify this anymore by canceling out the h, or is that not correct. Also, I don't believe I can factor out the h in the numerator because it's not in all 3 on top, is that correct?
 
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vt33 said:
I'm trying to simplify -2rh-h^2+2r/h

can I simplify this anymore by canceling out the h, or is that not correct. Also, I don't believe I can factor out the h in the numerator because it's not in all 3 on top, is that correct?

Yes,it cannot be factored,since it's missing from one of the terms of the sum.
However,it can be split into 2 fractions and "symplified"...

Daniel.
 
Assuming you mean [itex]\frac{-2rh- h^2+ 2r}{h}[/itex], then, yes, you cannot simplify by cancelling. If this is a difference quotient and you want to take a limit as h goes to 0 then you have a problem! That limit will only exist if the numerator is also 0 when h= 0.
 

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