## Homework Statement

simplify the expression: f(x) = x+1 - x^2/x+2,
1/x^2 -4

## Homework Equations

1. = 3x^2 + 4x + 4
2. = x^2-4x + 4
3. x^2 -4x - 4
4. 3x^2 +4x - 4
5. x^2 +4x - 4
6. 3x^2 -4x -4

## The Attempt at a Solution

Last edited by a moderator:

Ray Vickson
Homework Helper
Dearly Missed

## Homework Statement

simplify the expression: f(x) = x+1 - x^2/x+2,
1/x^2 -4

## Homework Equations

1. = 3x^2 + 4x + 4
2. = x^2-4x + 4
3. x^2 -4x - 4
4. 3x^2 +4x - 4
5. x^2 +4x - 4
6. 3x^2 -4x -4

## The Attempt at a Solution

As written, your first expression means
$$x+1-\frac{x^2}{x}+2 = x+1-x+2 = 3.$$
Did you actually mean
$$x+1 - \frac{x^2}{x+2} \text{ or } \frac{x+1-x^2}{x+2}\,?$$
If you mean the first, write it as x+1 - x^2/(x+2) [note the bracket!]; if you mean the second, write it as (x + 1 - x^2)/(x+2) [Note both brackets.]

RGV

I mean the first one.

Ray Vickson
Homework Helper
Dearly Missed

I mean the first one.

OK, so re-writing what you wrote we now have x+1 - x^2/(x+2), 1/x^2-4. Does this mean two separate expressions (namely, x+1 - x^2/(x+2) and either (1/x^2) - 4 or 1/(x^2-4)), or does ...,1/x^2-4 stand for something else that I cannot figure out?

RGV

That's what is bothering me. The comma makes no sense. Do you mind telling me your email so I can just email the picture I snapped of the problem? It might make more sense to see it as is. If not, do you know how I can link a photo to the forum post?

Mentallic
Homework Helper

There's an insert image button just underneath the smiley in your reply options. I think you'll need to upload the image onto the net though, using imageshack or some other site.

jtbell
Mentor

You can also upload an image to PF and "attach" it to your post, provided it meets certain size restrictions. Use the "Manage Attachments" button below the message-entry pane. You'll see the size restrictions then.