SOLUTION: In the study of calculus, the difference quotient f(a+h)-f(a)/h is often found and simplified. Find and simplify this quotient for the function f(x). Complete parts a through d.

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Question 1130617: In the study of calculus, the difference quotient f(a+h)-f(a)/h is often found and simplified. Find and simplify this quotient for the function f(x). Complete parts a through d.
f(x)=8/x
A. Find f(a+h).
f(a+h)=____________
B. Find f(a)
f(a)= _____________
C. Use steps a and b to find f(a+h)-f(a)/h
f(a+h)-f(a)/h = _______________ (do not simplify)
D. Simplify the result of step c.
f(a+h)-f(a)/h=_______________
Answer by stanbon(75887) About Me  (Show Source):
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In the study of calculus, the difference quotient f(a+h)-f(a)/h is often found and simplified. Find and simplify this quotient for the function f(x). Complete parts a through d.
f(x)=8/x
A. Find f(a+h).
f(a+h)= 8/(a+h)
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B. Find f(a)
f(a)= 8/a
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C. Use steps A and B to find f(a+h)-f(a)/h
f(a+h)-f(a)/h = 8/(a+h)-8/a (do not simplify)
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D. Simplify the result of step C.
f(a+h)-f(a)/h= [8a-8(a+h)]/[a(a+h)]
= [-8h]/[a^2+ah]
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Cheers,
Stan H.
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