3
QuizMultiple Choice

Adding and Subtracting Rational Expressions — Quiz

Question 3 • Mathematics III

What is the sum? the fraction with numerator 3 and denominator x squared minus 9 plus the fraction with numerator 5 and denominator x plus 3

Answer
A
the fraction with numerator negative 5 x and denominator open paren x plus 3 close paren times open paren x minus 3 close paren
B
the fraction with numerator 5 x minus 12 and denominator x minus 3
C
the fraction with numerator 5 x minus 12 and denominator open paren x plus 3 close paren times open paren x minus 3 close paren
D
the fraction with numerator 8 and denominator x squared plus x minus 6

Explanation

Factor the first denominator: x² − 9 = (x + 3)(x − 3). To add the fractions, rewrite 5/(x + 3) with denominator (x + 3)(x − 3), giving 5(x − 3)/[(x + 3)(x − 3)]. The numerators add to 3 + 5(x − 3) = 5x − 12, so the sum is (5x − 12)/[(x + 3)(x − 3)], choice C.

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.

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