College Algebra & Trigonometry, 2018a

Chapter 2
Polynomial and Rational Functions
This chapter will explore the solution of equations and inequalities involving
both polynomial and rational functions, primarily through the examination of
their graphical representations. We will also explore the use of polynomial long
division and synthetic division in breaking down polynomials into their prime
factors and the relationship between factors and roots.
2.1 Representing Intervals
Many of the problems in this chapter will have solutions that must be expressed
as an interval. This means a range of x values that will satisfy the original problem.
In this section, we will introduce the translation of graphical intervals into
algebraic notation.
For example, in the diagram below, we would represent the interval shown on
the graph as x