WEBVTT

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Here is the problem: (x to the power negative 2.

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Simplify the rational expression in x: factor, cancel common factors and state excluded values.

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Write as a single fraction.

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Factor the numerator and denominator.

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No common factors remain. The numerator and denominator share no polynomial factor, so the fraction is already in lowest terms.

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State the excluded values. The original expression is undefined where any denominator (or divisor) is zero: x not equal to 0. These restrictions stay even if a factor cancelled.

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So the answer is 1/x squared, for x not equal to 0.

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In lowest terms the result is 1/x squared. Excluded values: x not equal to 0.

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The simplified form was compared with the original at four test points and agrees.