SOLUTION: Please help me solve the following problem: Find the domain of {{{f(x) = 1/(x^2 - 3x -4)}}} Thank You

Algebra ->  Functions -> SOLUTION: Please help me solve the following problem: Find the domain of {{{f(x) = 1/(x^2 - 3x -4)}}} Thank You      Log On


   

Question 149325: Please help me solve the following problem:
Find the domain of f%28x%29+=+1%2F%28x%5E2+-+3x+-4%29
Thank You
Answer by scott8148(6628) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
the domain consists of all the values of x that result in a value for f(x)

since x is in the denominator of a fraction; division by zero is the problem to be avoided

the domain is all real numbers EXCEPT for values of x that result in a zero denominator

x^2-3x-4=0 __ factoring __ (x+1)(x-4)=0

x+1=0 __ x=-1

x-4=0 __ x=+4 __ so -1 and 4 are excluded from the domain