# Proof: Solve Rational equation for interval

#### John O' Meara

Prove that if c and d are positive, then the equation $$\frac{c}{x-2} + \frac{d}{x-4} = 0$$ has at least one solution in the interval (2,4).
I try to use the following theorem: If f is continuous on [a,b] and if f(a) and f(b) are nonzero and have opposite signs, then there is at least one solution of the equation f(x) = 0 in the interval (a,b).
As the theorem requires f to be continuous on the closed interval [2,4], the open interval (2,4) is what is given, indeed there is a discontinuity at x=2 and at x =4. The equation can be rewritten as $$\frac{x-2}{x-4} + \frac{c}{d}=0$$ x not equal to 2. I do not know of any other theorem to use. Can someone point me in the correct direction, please. Thank you.

#### LCKurtz

Homework Helper
Gold Member
Look at the limits as x --> 2+ and x --> 4-. What does that tell you?

#### John O' Meara

$$\lim_{x\rightarrow 2^+} \mbox{ \lim_{x \rightarrow4^-} \mbox{ are } -\infty \mbox{ and } +\infty$$ I think or maybe the other way round, I have to check their signs using test points. It tells me that f(a)= -infinity and f(b)=+infinity

#### LCKurtz

Homework Helper
Gold Member
So can you get f to have opposite signs on the interval?

#### John O' Meara

Yes, I can get f to have opposite signs on the interval.And the conclusion of theorem follows

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