Want to help?

[Golfman560]

Okay so I've got a math problem. Pretty sure it has a typo but whatever, its due Wednesday and I'll probably email the teacher.

Here's how it goes:

If f(x)=3x^2 - 2x + 7 and a != (Does not equal) x, write [f(x) - f(a)]/(x - a) as a single polynomial in terms of a and x.

At first I thought it was supposed to be [f(x-h) - f(x)]/h) But that would be a huge typo.

Anyone want to help?

 

[Veho]

It equals 3x + 3a - 2


[f(x) - f(a)] = 3x2 - 2x + 7 - 3a2 + 2a - 7

= 3(x2 - a2) - 2(x - a)

= 3(x + a)(x - a) - 2(x - a)

Divide that by (x-a) and you get the above result.

 

[Golfman560]

[f(x) - f(a)] = 3x2 - 2x + 7 - 3a2 + 2a - 7

Thanks, but all I really needed was this. I went somewhat braindead last night and also forgot how to graph on my calculator.

Well now to do it and check my answer with yours. Thanks Veho.

 

[ACK06]

Intro to Calc?

 

[Golfman560]

Well its the summer homework so kinda, more like a refresher of the last few years. I'll be starting Calc Wednesday.