Decomposition of a rational expression

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SUMMARY

The rational expression (x+1)/(3(x-2)²) can be decomposed into partial fractions by factoring out the coefficient 3 from the denominator. The correct decomposition is represented as (1/3) * (A/(x-2) + B/(x-2)²), where A and B are constants to be determined. The coefficient 3 is included in front of the entire expression rather than in each individual partial fraction, simplifying the process of solving for A and B.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of rational expressions
  • Familiarity with partial fraction decomposition
  • Basic algebraic manipulation skills
  • Knowledge of solving linear equations for constants
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the method of partial fraction decomposition in detail
  • Practice decomposing more complex rational expressions
  • Learn about the role of coefficients in rational expressions
  • Explore applications of partial fractions in integration techniques
USEFUL FOR

Students studying algebra, particularly those tackling rational expressions and partial fraction decomposition, as well as educators looking for clear examples to illustrate these concepts.

Jimmy25
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Homework Statement



Decompose the rational expression into a sum of partial fractions:

(x+1)/(3(x-2)2)

I am familiar with the method of decomposing fractions into a sum of partials fractions (solving for A, B, C, etc.). What is confusing me is the coefficient 3 in the denominator. Do I have to include the 3 in the denominator of all the partial fractions or just one? why?
 
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Jimmy25 said:

Homework Statement



Decompose the rational expression into a sum of partial fractions:

(x+1)/(3(x-2)2)

I am familiar with the method of decomposing fractions into a sum of partials fractions (solving for A, B, C, etc.). What is confusing me is the coefficient 3 in the denominator. Do I have to include the 3 in the denominator of all the partial fractions or just one? why?


\frac{x+1}{3(x-2)^2}=\frac{1}{3} \left( \frac{A}{x-2} + \frac{B}{(x-2)^2} \right) = \frac{A}{3(x-2)} + \frac{B}{3(x-2)^2}
 

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