Analyzing the Domain of 5\(5x+2.5): Avoiding Undefined Points

Rational Function Domains with Mixed Numbers

Look at the following function:

55x+212 \frac{5}{5x+2\frac{1}{2}}

What is the domain of the function?

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations
00:07 First, let's ask: Does this function have a domain? If yes, what is it?
00:13 To find the domain, remember; We can't divide by zero. That's important!
00:18 So, let's find out: What value makes the denominator zero?
00:23 Now, let's isolate X. This helps us see the problem clearly.
00:51 Next step: Multiply by the reciprocal. It's like flipping fractions!
00:58 Remember: Multiply numerator by numerator, and denominator by denominator.
01:05 Let's simplify this. We want it to look as simple as possible!
01:09 And there you have it! That's the solution to our question.

Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution
1

Understand the problem

Look at the following function:

55x+212 \frac{5}{5x+2\frac{1}{2}}

What is the domain of the function?

2

Step-by-step solution

The given function is:

55x+212 \frac{5}{5x + 2\frac{1}{2}}

To determine the domain, we ensure that the denominator is not equal to zero because division by zero is undefined. So, we start by evaluating 5x+2120 5x + 2\frac{1}{2} \neq 0 .
This requires conversion of the mixed number 212 2\frac{1}{2} into an improper fraction or decimal:

212=2+12=42+12=52 2\frac{1}{2} = 2 + \frac{1}{2} = \frac{4}{2} + \frac{1}{2} = \frac{5}{2}

Substituting the improper fraction, our equation becomes:

5x+520 5x + \frac{5}{2} \neq 0

To clear the fraction, multiply through by 2, yielding:

25x+50 2 \cdot 5x + 5 \neq 0

10x+50 10x + 5 \neq 0

Solving for x x by subtracting 5 from both sides informs us:

10x5 10x \neq -5

Now, divide by 10:

x510 x \neq -\frac{5}{10}

Simplify the fraction:

x12 x \neq -\frac{1}{2}

This solution directly identifies the x x value not in the domain:

The domain of the function is all real numbers except x=12 x = -\frac{1}{2} .

Therefore, the domain of the function is x12\mathbf{x \ne -\frac{1}{2}}.

Hence, the correct choice from the given options is:

Choice 4: x12 x \ne -\frac{1}{2}

3

Final Answer

x12 x\ne-\frac{1}{2}

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Domain Rule: Set denominator not equal to zero to find restrictions
  • Technique: Convert 212 2\frac{1}{2} to 52 \frac{5}{2} then solve 5x+520 5x + \frac{5}{2} \neq 0
  • Check: Substitute x=12 x = -\frac{1}{2} : denominator becomes 5(12)+52=0 5(-\frac{1}{2}) + \frac{5}{2} = 0

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Forgetting to convert mixed numbers to improper fractions
    Don't leave 212 2\frac{1}{2} as is when solving = wrong restrictions! Mixed numbers make algebra messy and lead to calculation errors. Always convert to improper fractions: 212=52 2\frac{1}{2} = \frac{5}{2} first.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

Given the following function:

\( \frac{5-x}{2-x} \)

Does the function have a domain? If so, what is it?

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Why can't the denominator equal zero?

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Division by zero is undefined in mathematics! When the denominator equals zero, the function has no value at that point, creating a vertical asymptote or hole in the graph.

How do I convert mixed numbers to improper fractions?

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Multiply the whole number by the denominator, then add the numerator: 212=(2×2)+12=52 2\frac{1}{2} = \frac{(2 \times 2) + 1}{2} = \frac{5}{2} . This makes solving much easier!

What if I get a decimal when solving?

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That's fine! Just convert back to a fraction if needed. For example, if you get x0.5 x \neq -0.5 , write it as x12 x \neq -\frac{1}{2} to match the answer choices.

Can I multiply both sides by 2 to clear fractions?

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Yes! Multiplying the inequality 5x+520 5x + \frac{5}{2} \neq 0 by 2 gives 10x+50 10x + 5 \neq 0 , which is easier to solve.

How do I write the final domain?

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The domain is all real numbers except the restricted value. Write it as x12 x \neq -\frac{1}{2} or in interval notation: (,12)(12,) (-\infty, -\frac{1}{2}) \cup (-\frac{1}{2}, \infty) .

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