Help in need : Rational functions problem

In summary, the population of fish in a lake can be modeled by the functions f(t)= 40t/(t^2+1) and g(t)=45t/(t^2+8t+7). To determine where g(t) is greater than f(t), the equations are solved for their intersection points, and then evaluated at slightly different values to find which one is larger.
  • #1
BuffaloSoulja
6
0

Homework Statement


A scientist predicted that the population of fish in a lake could be modeled by the function f(t)= 40t/(t^2+1), where t is given in days. The function that actually models the fish population is g(t)=45t/(t^2+8t+7). Determine where g(t)>f(t).


Homework Equations



f(t)= 40t/(t^2+1)
g(t)=45t/(t^2+8t+7)
g(t)>f(t)

The Attempt at a Solution



g(t)>f(t)
45t/(t^2+8t+7)>40t/(t^2+1)
45t/(t+1)(t+7)-40t/(t^2+1)>0
Find LCD by multiplying 1
45t/(t+1)(t+7) x (t^2+1)/(t^2+1)-40t/(t^2+1) x (t+7)(t+1)/(t+7)(t+1) > 0
Simplifies to
(5t^3-320t^2-235t)/(t+1)(t+7)(t^2+1)
5t(t^2-64t-47)/(t+1)(t+7)(t^2+1) >0

Am i doing this correct? I don't know what to do next.
 
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  • #2
Another way of doing it is to find where f(t) and g(t) intersect and then evaluate the equations at values a little bit off those intersection points to find which one is higher

So i suggest you solve:

[tex]\frac{40t}{(t^2+1)}[/tex] = [tex]\frac{45t}{(t^2+8t+7)}[/tex]

Step one should be multiplying both sides by [tex](t^2+8t+7)[/tex] and [tex](t^2+1)[/tex]
 

Related to Help in need : Rational functions problem

1. What is a rational function?

A rational function is a mathematical expression that can be written as the ratio of two polynomial functions. It can also be referred to as a ratio of two algebraic expressions.

2. How do I solve rational function problems?

To solve a rational function problem, you can follow these steps:

  • Factor both the numerator and denominator of the rational function.
  • Cancel out any common factors between the numerator and denominator.
  • Determine any restrictions on the variable, such as values that would make the denominator equal to zero.
  • Simplify the remaining expression.
  • Check your solution by plugging in different values for the variable.

3. What are some common applications of rational functions?

Rational functions have many real-life applications, such as in engineering, economics, and physics. Some common examples include modeling the growth of populations, predicting stock market trends, and calculating the speed of an object in motion.

4. What are the main differences between rational functions and polynomial functions?

Rational functions differ from polynomial functions in that they have a variable in the denominator, while polynomial functions do not. Additionally, rational functions may have asymptotes or holes in their graphs, while polynomial functions have smooth, continuous graphs.

5. How can I graph a rational function?

To graph a rational function, you can follow these steps:

  • Determine any restrictions on the variable, such as values that would make the denominator equal to zero.
  • Find the x-intercepts by setting the numerator equal to zero and solving for x.
  • Find the y-intercept by setting x equal to 0 and solving for y.
  • Plot these points on a graph and draw a curve connecting them.
  • Use the restrictions to determine any asymptotes or holes in the graph.
  • Plot a few additional points to complete the graph.

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