Choosing values of x to prove 'simplification' isn't true

mook11

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May 11, 2006
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I don't understand what is being asked to be done here. I don't recall learning anything like this previously. Any help as to what this is and how it is done would be greatly appreciated.

9. Some students simplify

2x(squared) - 32
--------------------
x - 4

as

2x - 8

Choose values of x to show this is not true. Then simplify it correctly.
 
Not entirely sure what you are looking for but in order to solve the problem you must know how to factor 2x^2 - 32. Do you know how to factor?
 
Re: Choosing values of x?

mook11 said:
I don't understand what is being asked to be done here. I don't recall learning anything like this previously. Any help as to what this is and how it is done would be greatly appreciated.

9. Some students simplify

2x(squared) - 32
--------------------
x - 4

as

2x - 8

Choose values of x to show this is not true. Then simplify it correctly.
Just pick something. Really, pick anything EXCEPT x=0 or x=4 and just substitute into both expressions. Your task is to see that they are NOT equivalent. When you get a different result for each expression, you will be done with the demonstration.

As far as simplifying correctly, just factor appropriately.
 
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