Simplifying the Expression (x^6 - 4x^5 - 7x^3) / (2x^3)
This expression involves dividing a polynomial by a monomial. Here's how to simplify it:
Understanding the Concept
- Polynomial: An expression with multiple terms, each consisting of a coefficient and a variable raised to a non-negative integer power.
- Monomial: A polynomial with only one term.
- Division of Polynomials: When dividing a polynomial by a monomial, we divide each term of the polynomial individually by the monomial.
Steps to Simplify
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Separate the terms: (x^6 - 4x^5 - 7x^3) / (2x^3) = (x^6 / 2x^3) - (4x^5 / 2x^3) - (7x^3 / 2x^3)
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Apply the rule of exponents: When dividing powers with the same base, subtract the exponents. = (1/2)x^(6-3) - 2x^(5-3) - (7/2)x^(3-3)
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Simplify: = (1/2)x^3 - 2x^2 - (7/2)
Final Result
Therefore, the simplified form of the expression (x^6 - 4x^5 - 7x^3) / (2x^3) is (1/2)x^3 - 2x^2 - (7/2).