The domain of a function is the set of values of the independent variable for which the function is defined. A rational function with integer exponents is defined for all real values of the independent variable except for those values that cause the denominator to evaluate to zero.
Set the denominator polynomial equal to zero and solve. In this case you have a quadratic denominator that is not a perfect square but does have real number zeros*, so you will find two real values, and that must be excluded from your domain. Hence,
All you need to do is replace the two values once you have determined what they are.
*Note: Any quadratic equation of the form where the and coefficients have opposite signs is guaranteed to have two distinct real roots.
John
My calculator said it, I believe it, that settles it
