Simplifying the Rational Expression: S(t) = (t² + 5t + 6)/(t + 2)

In algebra, rational expressions are essential tools for modeling polynomial relationships, and simplifying them can make solving equations and analyzing functions much easier. One such expression is:

S(t) = (t² + 5t + 6)/(t + 2)

Understanding the Context

This article explores how to simplify and analyze this rational function, including steps to factor the numerator, check for domain restrictions, and express S(t) in its simplest form.


Step 1: Factor the Numerator

The numerator is a quadratic expression:
t² + 5t + 6

Key Insights

To factor it, look for two numbers that multiply to 6 and add up to 5. These numbers are 2 and 3.

So,
t² + 5t + 6 = (t + 2)(t + 3)

Now rewrite S(t):
S(t) = [(t + 2)(t + 3)] / (t + 2)


Step 2: Simplify the Expression

🔗 Related Articles You Might Like:

📰 Using the Pythagorean theorem: \( h^2 + 5^2 = 13^2 \). 📰 \( h^2 + 25 = 169 \), so \( h^2 = 144 \), \( h = 12 \) feet. 📰 A bag contains 5 red, 7 blue, and 8 green marbles. Two marbles are drawn without replacement. What is the probability both are green? 📰 Why Every Parent Swears By A Montessori Bed Shocking Benefits Inside 📰 Why Every Pet Parents Dream Is A Mini Sheepadoodle Youll Wanna Click Right Now 📰 Why Every Pizza Lover Is Saving The Day With This Massive Mushroom Pizza 📰 Why Every Player Is Obsessed With Terracotta In Minecraft Discover The Hidden Gems 📰 Why Every Poodle Parent Needs This Moyen Poodle Guide Make Your Dog An Instagram Star 📰 Why Every Pro Picks Moisture Wicking Golf Polosget The Same Edge At Home 📰 Why Every Side Room Needs A Futuristic Mini Couch Proven To Double As Furniture Decor 📰 Why Every Top Global Team Wants Mualani Teamsfrom Strategy To Results 📰 Why Every Toy Collector Desires These Must Have Montessori Toys Save Now 📰 Why Every Woman Should Own A Modest Dress Comfort Meets Chic In One Perfect Look 📰 Why Every Womans Wardrobe Needs Mini Skirts The Sexy Secret Revealed 📰 Why Every Zootopia Movie Is A Must See The Reactions Fans Wont Ignore 📰 Why Everyone Ignores The Real Reason The 2002 Resident Evil Movie Broke Downtown 📰 Why Everyone Instantly Wanted A Mini Stanley Cup Youll Wanna Grab One Fast 📰 Why Everyone Is Obsessed With Milk Glass Youll Want To Ow Cameras Now

Final Thoughts

Since (t + 2) appears in both the numerator and the denominator, as long as t ≠ -2, we can cancel this common factor:

S(t) = t + 3, for t ≠ -2

This simplification is valid because division by zero is undefined. So, t = -2 is excluded from the domain.


Understanding the Domain

From the original function, the denominator t + 2 is zero when t = -2. Thus, the domain of S(t) is:
All real numbers except t = -2
Or in interval notation:
(-∞, -2) ∪ (-2, ∞)


Graphical and Analytical Insight

The original rational function S(t) is equivalent to the linear function y = t + 3, with a hole at t = -2 caused by the removable discontinuity. There are no vertical asymptotes because the factor cancels entirely.

This simplification helps in understanding behavior such as: