SOLUTION: In the equation f(x) = 1/(x+4)^2 -5 How do I combine and express this as a ratio of polynomials? I found the Horizontal and verticle asymtotes, I want to know how to express and co

Algebra ->  Graphs -> SOLUTION: In the equation f(x) = 1/(x+4)^2 -5 How do I combine and express this as a ratio of polynomials? I found the Horizontal and verticle asymtotes, I want to know how to express and co      Log On


   

Question 479563: In the equation f(x) = 1/(x+4)^2 -5 How do I combine and express this as a ratio of polynomials? I found the Horizontal and verticle asymtotes, I want to know how to express and combine as a ratio of polynomials. Thanks!
Answer by ccs2011(207) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
f%28x%29+=+1%2F%28x%2B4%29%5E2-5
The goal is to combine expression into a single fraction.
To do that you need a common denominator.
Lets multiply the 5 by something that has a value of 1 but will give us a common denominator
f%28x%29+=+1%2F%28x%2B4%29%5E2-+5%28x%2B4%29%5E2%2F%28x%2B4%29%5E2
Now both fractions have same denominator, add the numerators
f%28x%29+=+%281-5%28x%2B4%29%5E2%29%2F%28x%2B4%29%5E2
Expand and distribute the numerator
f%28x%29+=+%281-5%28x%5E2%2B8x%2B16%29%29%2F%28x%2B4%29%5E2
f%28x%29+=+%28-5x%5E2-40x-79%29%2F%28x%2B4%29%5E2
Now you have f(x) as a ratio of polynomials