Posted by MathBard on October 29, 2002 at 22:57:17:
In Reply to: Re: algebra 2 posted by Leah on October 29, 2002 at 18:44:07:
: : : (y^2 - 10y - 25) / (y - 5)
: : : I'm lost! Please help.
: : 1. Are you sure that wasn't y^2 - 10y + 25 ?
: : 2. Was there more to this problem?
: : such as: (y^2 - 10y - 25) / (y - 5) = SOMETHING
: : 3. No, it isn't + 25...that confuses me too. And, there is no = something. They are Complex Rational Expressions! Any ideas anyone? Thanks.
If there is no equal sign then they MUST want you to simplify. Most Algebra books throw in a "decoy" problem. They put in a problem that is already simplified to keep you on your toes. This particular one might fool a rookie into trying to facto out (y-5). DO YOUR INSTRUCTION SAY, "Write 'simplified' if already simplified?"
MB