Analyzing the Rational Expression x/(x+3): Field of Application

Domain Restrictions with Rational Expressions

Select the field of application of the following fraction:

xx+3 \frac{x}{x+3}

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations
00:00 Find the domain of definition
00:03 Domain of definition exists to ensure we don't divide by 0
00:06 In other words, the denominator in the fraction must be different from 0
00:09 We will use this formula in our exercise
00:19 We will isolate X to find the domain of definition
00:24 This is the domain of definition, and this is the solution to the question

Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution
1

Understand the problem

Select the field of application of the following fraction:

xx+3 \frac{x}{x+3}

2

Step-by-step solution

Let's examine the given expression:

xx+3 \frac{x}{x+3}

As we know, the only restriction that applies to division is division by 0. Given that no number can be divided into 0 parts, division by 0 is undefined.

Therefore, when we talk about a fraction, where the dividend (the number being divided) is in the numerator, and the divisor (the number we divide by) is in the denominator, the restriction applies only to the denominator, which must be different from 0,

In the given expression:

xx+3 \frac{x}{x+3}

As stated, the restriction applies to the fraction's denominator only,

Therefore, in order for the given expression (the fraction - in this case) to be defined, we require that the expression in its denominator - does not equal zero, meaning we require that:

x+30 x+3\neq0

We will solve this inequality, which is a point inequality of first degree, in the same way we solve a first-degree equation, meaning - we isolate the variable on one side, by moving terms (and dividing both sides of the inequality by its coefficient if needed):

x+30x3 x+3\neq0 \\ \boxed{x\neq -3}

Therefore, the domain (definition domain) of the given expression is:

x3 x\neq -3

(This means that if we substitute for the variable x any number different from(3) (-3) the expression will remain well-defined),

Therefore, the correct answer is answer D.

Note:

In a general form - solving an inequality of this form, meaning, a non-linear, but point inequality - that uses the \neq sign and not the inequality signs: ,>,<,,, ,>,\hspace{2pt}<,\hspace{2pt}\geq,\hspace{2pt}\leq,\hspace{2pt} is identical in every way to an equation and therefore is solved in the same way and all rules used to solve an equation of any type are identical for it as well.

3

Final Answer

x3 x\neq-3

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Rule: Denominators cannot equal zero in any fraction
  • Technique: Set denominator x+3 ≠ 0, solve to get x ≠ -3
  • Check: Substitute x = -3: denominator becomes 0, expression undefined ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Focusing on the numerator instead of denominator
    Don't set the numerator x ≠ 0 = wrong restriction! The numerator can be zero (making the whole fraction equal zero), but division by zero is undefined. Always focus on making the denominator non-zero.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

\( 2x+\frac{6}{x}=18 \)

What is the domain of the above equation?

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Why can't the denominator be zero?

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Division by zero is undefined in mathematics! When x = -3, the denominator becomes 0, and we can't divide any number by 0. It's like asking 'how many groups of 0 can you make?' - it doesn't make sense.

What happens if I substitute x = -3?

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You get 33+3=30 \frac{-3}{-3+3} = \frac{-3}{0} , which is undefined. Your calculator might show 'Error' or 'Undefined' - this confirms that x = -3 is not in the domain.

Can the numerator be zero?

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Yes! If x = 0, we get 00+3=03=0 \frac{0}{0+3} = \frac{0}{3} = 0 . The fraction equals zero, which is perfectly valid. Only the denominator cannot be zero.

How do I write the domain properly?

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You can write it several ways: x ≠ -3, or 'all real numbers except x = -3', or in interval notation: (,3)(3,) (-\infty, -3) \cup (-3, \infty) .

Is this the same as solving an equation?

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Almost! You solve x+30 x + 3 ≠ 0 the same way as x+3=0 x + 3 = 0 , but the final answer uses instead of =. Both give x = -3, but one means 'equals' and the other means 'not equal to'.

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