Grade 11 Math Pre Calculus

Grade 11 Pre-Calculus
Mathematics (30S)
A Course for Independent Study
Field Validation Version

G r a de 11 P r e- C a lc u lu s
M at hem at ic s (30S)
A Course for Independent Study
Field Validation Version
2013, 2019
M a ni t o b a E d u c a t i o n
Manitoba Education Cataloguing in Publication Data
Grade 11 pre-calculus mathematics : a course for independent

study—Field validation version
ISBN: 978-0-7711-5530-7
1. Mathematics—Study and teaching (Secondary).

2. Mathematics—Study and teaching (Secondary)—Manitoba.
3. Mathematics—Programmed instruction.
4. Distance education—Manitoba.
5. Correspondence schools and courses—Manitoba.
I. Manitoba. Manitoba Education.
510
Copyright © 2013, 2019, the Government of Manitoba, represented by the
Minister of Education.
Manitoba Education
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
Every effort has been made to acknowledge original sources and to comply
with copyright law. If cases are identified where this has not been done, please
notify Manitoba Education. Errors or omissions will be corrected in a future
edition. Sincere thanks to the authors, artists, and publishers who allowed
their original material to be used.
All images found in this resource are copyright protected and should not
be extracted, accessed, or reproduced for any purpose other than for their
intended educational use in this resource.
Any websites referenced in this resource are subject to change without notice.
This resource was published in 2013 and updated in 2019.
Disponible en français.
Available in alternate formats upon request.

Contents
Acknowledgements vii
Introduction 1
Introduction 1
Overview 3
What Will You Learn in This Course? 3
How Is This Course Organized? 3
What Resources Will You Need For This Course? 5
Who Can Help You with This Course? 6
How Will You Know How Well You Are Learning? 7
How Much Time Will You Need to Complete This Course? 11
When and How Will You Submit Completed Assignments? 13
What Are the Guide Graphics For? 16
Math Goals 17
Cover Sheets 19
Module 1: Sequences and Series 1

Module 1 Introduction 3
Lesson 1: Arithmetic Sequences 5
Lesson 2: Arithmetic Series 29
Lesson 3: Geometric Sequences 47
Lesson 4: The Sum of a Finite Geometric Series 67
Lesson 5: The Sum of an Infinite Geometric Series 85
Module 1 Summary 103
Module 1 Learning Activity Answer Keys
Contents iii
Module 2: Factoring and Rational Expressions 1
Lesson 1: Factoring Review 5
Lesson 2: Quadratic Patterns; Is a Binomial a Factor of a Polynomial? 17
Lesson 3: Equivalent Rational Expressions 37
Lesson 4: Multiplication and Division of Rational Expressions 53
Lesson 5: Addition and Subtraction of Rational Expressions 69
Module 2 Summary 93
Module 3: Quadratic Functions 1

Lesson 1: What Is a Quadratic Function? 5
Lesson 2: Quadratic Functions y = ax2 and y = ax2 + q 23
Lesson 3: Quadratic Functions y = a(x – p)2 49
Lesson 4: Graphing Using Transformations 59
Lesson 5: Completing the Square 85
Lesson 6: Special Features of the Quadratic Function 107
Lesson 7: Applications of Quadratic Functions 125
Module 4: Solving Quadratic and Rational Equations 1

Lesson 1: Solving Quadratic Equations Graphically 7
Lesson 2: Solving Quadratic Equations by Determining Square Roots 19
Lesson 3: Solving Quadratic Equations by Factoring 33
Lesson 4: Solving Quadratic Equations by Completing the
Square and by Using the Quadratic Formula 43
Lesson 5: The Discriminant 69
Lesson 6: Solving Rational Equations 89
iv Grade 11 Pr e- C alculus Mathematic s

Module 5: Radicals 1
Lesson 1: Simplifying Radical Expressions 5
Lesson 2: Adding and Subtracting Radical Expressions 25
Lesson 3: Multiplying Radical Expressions 43
Lesson 4: Dividing Radical Expressions 51
Lesson 5: Solving Radical Equations 71
Module 5 Summary 93
Module 6: Systems of Equations and Inequalities 1

Lesson 1: Solving Quadratic-Linear Systems of Equations 5
Lesson 2: Solving Quadratic-Quadratic Systems of Equations 21
Lesson 3: Solving Linear Inequalities in Two Variables 43
Lesson 4: Solving Quadratic Inequalities in One Variable 61
Lesson 5: Solving Quadratic Inequalities in Two Variables 83
Module 6 Summary 99
Module 7: Trigonometry 1
Lesson 1: The Trigonometric Ratios of Angles 0° £ q £ 360° 5
Lesson 2: Reference Angles and Solving Trigonometric
Equations in Linear Form 19
Lesson 3: Patterns in the Sine, Cosine, and Tangent Ratios 51
Lesson 4: The Sine Law 67
Lesson 5: The Cosine Law 85
Lesson 6: The Ambiguous Case 95
Lesson 7 Learning Activity Answer Keys
Contents v
Module 8: Absolute Value and Reciprocal Functions 1
Lesson 1: Absolute Value of a Number 7
Lesson 2: Graphing Absolute Value Functions 19
Lesson 3: Solving Absolute Value Equations 37
Lesson 4: Graphing Reciprocal Functions: Part 1 53
Lesson 5: Graphing Reciprocal Functions: Part 2 85
Lesson 8 Learning Activity Answer Keys
vi Grade 11 Pr e- C alculus Mathematic s

Acknowledgements
Manitoba Education gratefully acknowledges the contributions of the following individuals

in the development of Grade 11 Pre-Calculus Mathematics (30S): A Course for Independent Study:
Field Validation Version.
Writer Megan Hudson Development Unit
Instructional Design Instruction, Curriculum and Assessment Branch
Assistant
Reviewer Carolyn Wilkinson Independent Consultant
Winnipeg
Manitoba Education Carole Bilyk Development Unit

Staff Project Leader Instruction, Curriculum and Assessment Branch
Louise Boissonneault Document Production Services Unit

Coordinator Instruction, Curriculum and Assessment Branch
Ian Donnelly Development Unit

Consultant Instruction, Curriculum and Assessment Branch
(since February 2012)
Lynn Harrison Document Production Services Unit

Desktop Publisher Instruction, Curriculum and Assessment Branch
Myrna Klassen Distance Learning Unit

Consultant Instruction, Curriculum and Assessment Branch
Gilles Landry Development Unit

Project Manager Instruction, Curriculum and Assessment Branch
Philippe Leclercq Conseiller pédagogique—Mathématiques 9 à 12

Conseiller pédagogique Division du Bureau de l’éducation française Division
Susan Lee Distance Learning Unit

Coordinator Instruction, Curriculum and Assessment Branch
Grant Moore Document Production Services Unit

Publications Editor Instruction, Curriculum and Assessment Branch
Acknowledgements vii
Introduction
Introduction
Overview
Welcome to Grade 11 Pre-Calculus Mathematics! This course is a continuation

of the concepts you have studied in previous years, as well as an introduction
to new topics. It builds upon the pre-calculus topics you were introduced to
in Grade 10 Introduction to Applied and Pre-Calculus Mathematics. You will put
to use many of the skills that you have already learned to solve problems and
learn new skills along the way. This course helps you develop the skills, ideas,
and confidence you will need to continue studying math in the future.
As a student enrolled in an independent study course, you have taken on a
dual role—that of a student and a teacher. As a student, you are responsible
for mastering the lessons and completing the learning activities and
assignments. As a teacher, you are responsible for checking your work
carefully, noting areas in which you need to improve and motivating yourself
to succeed.
What Will You Learn in This Course?
Problem solving, communication, reasoning, and mental math are some of

the themes you will discover in each module. You will engage in a variety
of activities that promote the connections between symbolic math ideas and
the world around you. There are three main areas that you will be exploring:
Number, Patterns and Relations, and Shape and Space.
How Is This Course Organized?
The Grade 11 Pre-Calculus Mathematics course consists of the following eight

modules:
Q Module 1: Sequences and Series
Q Module 2: Factoring and Rational Expressions
Q Module 3: Quadratic Functions
Q Module 4: Solving Quadratic and Rational Equations
Q Module 5: Radicals
Q Module 6: Systems of Equations and Inequalities
Q Module 7: Trigonometry
Q Module 8: Absolute Value and Reciprocal Functions
Introduction 3
Each module in this course consists of several lessons, which contain the
following components:
n Lesson Focus: The Lesson Focus at the beginning of each lesson identifies
one or more specific learning outcomes (SLOs) that are addressed in
the lesson. The SLOs identify the knowledge and skills you should have
achieved by the end of the lesson.
n Introduction: Each lesson begins by outlining what you will be learning in
that lesson.
n Lesson: The main body of the lesson consists of the content and processes
that you need to learn. It contains information, explanations, diagrams, and
completed examples.
n Learning Activities: Each lesson has a learning activity that focuses on the
lesson content. Your responses to the questions in the learning activities will
help you to practise or review what you have just learned. Once you have
completed a learning activity, check your responses with those provided
in the Learning Activity Answer Key found at the end of the applicable
module. Do not send your learning activities to the Distance Learning Unit
for assessment.
n Assignments: Assignments are found throughout each module within this
course. At the end of each module, you will mail or electronically submit
all your completed assignments from that module to the Distance Learning
Unit for assessment. All assignments combined will be worth a total of
55 percent of your final mark in this course.
n Summary: Each lesson ends with a brief review of what you just learned.
There are two online resources for this course.
Q Glossary
Q Graph Paper
The online resources can be found in the learning management system (LMS).
If you do not have access to the Internet, contact the Distance Learning Unit at
1-800-465-9915 to get a copy of these online resources.
4 Grade 11 Pr e- C alculus Mathematic s

What Resources Will You Need for This Course?
You do not need a textbook for this course. All of the content is provided
directly within the course.
Required Resources
The only required resources for this course are a scientific calculator and
graph paper. Graph paper is available as one of the online resources found in
the learning management system (LMS).
You will also require access to an email account if you plan to
Q communicate with your tutor/marker by email
Q use the learning management system (LMS) to submit your completed
assignments
Optional Resources
It would be helpful if you had access to the following resources:
Q A graphing calculator, a freeware graphing program, or a graphing
calculator app: None of these are required when writing either your
midterm or final examination.
Q A computer with spreadsheet and graphing capabilities: Access to a
computer with spreadsheet software and graphing capabilities may be
helpful to you for exploration and checking your understanding. However,
none of these are required or allowed when writing either your midterm or
final examination.
Q A computer with Internet access: Use of the Internet may be suggested as a
resource in some places, but if you do not have access to an online computer
you can still complete the related learning activities and assignments
without it.
Q A photocopier: With access to a photocopier/scanner, you could make a
copy of your assignments before submitting them so that if your tutor/
marker wants to discuss an assignment with you over the phone, each of
you will have a copy. It would also allow you to continue studying or to
complete further lessons while your original work is with the tutor/marker.
Photocopying or scanning your assignments will also ensure that you keep
a copy in case the originals are lost.
Introduction 5
Who Can Help You with This Course?
Taking an independent study course is different from taking a course in a

classroom. Instead of relying on the teacher to tell you to complete a learning
activity or an assignment, you must tell yourself to be responsible for your
learning and for meeting deadlines. There are, however, two people who can
help you be successful in this course: your tutor/marker and your learning
partner.
Your Tutor/Marker
Tutor/markers are experienced educators who tutor Independent Study
Option (ISO) students and mark assignments and examinations. When you
are having difficulty with something in this course, contact your tutor/
marker, who is there to help you. Your tutor/marker’s name and contact
information were sent to you with this course. You can also obtain this
information in the learning management system (LMS).
Your Learning Partner

A learning partner is someone you choose who will help you learn. It may be
someone who knows something about mathematics, but it doesn’t have to be.
A learning partner could be someone else who is taking this course, a teacher,
a parent or guardian, a sibling, a friend, or anybody else who can help you.
Most importantly, a learning partner should be someone with whom you feel
comfortable and who will support you as you work through this course.
Your learning partner can help you keep on schedule with your coursework,
read the course with you, check your work, look at and respond to your
learning activities, or help you make sense of assignments. You may even
study for your examination(s) with your learning partner. If you and your
learning partner are taking the same course, however, your assignment
work should not be identical.
One of the best ways that your learning partner can help you is by reviewing
your midterm and final practice examinations with you. These are found
in the learning management system (LMS), along with their answer keys.
Your learning partner can administer your practice examination, check your
answers with you, and then help you learn the things that you missed.

How Will You Know How Well You Are Learning?
You will know how well you are learning in this course by how well you
complete the learning activities, assignments, and examinations.
Learning Activities
The learning activities in this course will help you to review and practise
what you have learned in the lessons. You will not submit the completed
learning activities to the Distance Learning Unit. Instead, you will complete
the learning activities and compare your responses to those provided in the
Learning Activity Answer Key found at the end of each module.
Each learning activity has two parts—Part A has BrainPower questions and
Part B has questions related to the content in the lesson.
Part A: BrainPower
The BrainPower questions are provided as a warm-up activity for you before
trying the other questions. Each question should be completed quickly and
without using a calculator, and most should be completed without using
pencil and paper to write out the steps. Some of the questions will relate
directly to content of the course. Some of the questions will review content
from previous courses—content that you need to be able to answer efficiently.
Being able to do these questions in a few minutes will be helpful to you as
you continue with your studies in mathematics. If you are finding it is taking
you longer to do the questions, you can try one of the following:
n work with your learning partner to find more efficient strategies for
completing the questions
n ask your tutor/marker for help with the questions
n search online for websites that help you practice the computations so you
can become more efficient at completing the questions
None of the assignment questions or examination questions will require you
to do the calculations quickly or without a calculator. However, it is for your
benefit to complete the questions as they will help you in the course. Also,
being able to successfully complete the BrainPower exercises will help build
your confidence in mathematics. BrainPower questions are like a warm-up
you would do before competing in a sporting event.
Introduction 7
Part B: Course Content Questions
One of the easiest and fastest ways to find out how much you have learned is
to complete Part B of the learning activities. These have been designed to let
you assess yourself by comparing your answers with the answer keys at the
end of each module. There is at least one learning activity in each lesson. You
will need a notebook or loose-leaf pages to write your answers.
Make sure you complete the learning activities. Doing so will not only help
you to practise what you have learned, but will also prepare you to complete
your assignments and the examinations successfully. Many of the questions
on the examinations will be similar to the questions in the learning activities.
Remember that you will not submit learning activities to the Distance
Learning Unit.
Assignments
Lesson assignments are located throughout the modules, and include
questions similar to the questions in the learning activities of previous
lessons. The assignments have space provided for you to write your answers
on the question sheets. You need to show all your steps as you work out
your solutions, and make sure your answers are clear (include units, where
appropriate).
Once you have completed all the assignments in a module, you will submit
them to the Distance Learning Unit for assessment. The assignments are
worth a total of 55 percent of your final course mark. You must complete each
assignment in order to receive a final mark in this course. You will mail or
electronically submit these assignments to the Distance Learning Unit
along with the appropriate cover page once you complete each module.
The tutor/marker will mark your assignments and return them to you.
Remember to keep all marked assignments until you have finished the course
so that you can use them to study for your examinations.
Resource Sheet
When you write your midterm and final examinations, you will be allowed
to take an Examination Resource Sheet with you into the examination.
This sheet will be one letter-sized page, 8½ ‘’ by 11”, with both sides in your
handwriting or typewritten. It is to be submitted with your examination. The
Examination Resource Sheet is not worth any marks.

Creating your own resource sheet is an excellent way to review. It also
provides you with a convenient reference and quick summary of the
important facts of each module. Each student is asked to complete a resource
sheet for each module to help with studying and reviewing.
The lesson summaries are written for you to use as a guide, as are the module
summaries at the end of each module. Refer to these when you create your
own resource sheet. Also, refer to the online glossary found in the learning
management system (LMS) to check the information on your resource sheet.
After completing each module’s resource sheet, you should summarize the
sheets from all of the modules to prepare your Examination Resource Sheet.
When preparing your Midterm Examination Resource Sheet, remember that
your midterm examination is based on Modules 1 to 4. When preparing your
Final Examination Resource Sheet, remember that your final examination is
based on the entire course, Modules 1 to 8.
Midterm and Final Examinations

This course contains a midterm examination and a final examination.
Q The midterm examination is based on Modules 1 to 4, and is worth
20 percent of your final course mark. You will write the midterm
examination when you have completed Module 4.
Q The final examination is cumulative, so it is based on Modules 1 to 8 and is
worth 25 percent of your final course mark. The examination content will
consist of 20% from Modules 1 to 4 and 80% from Modules 5 to 8. You will
write the final examination when you have completed Module 8.
The two examinations are worth a total of 45 percent of your final course
mark. You will write both examinations under supervision.
In order to do well on the examinations, you should review all of the work
that you have completed from Modules 1 to 4 for your midterm examination
and Modules 1 to 8 for your final examination, including all learning
activities and assignments. You can use your Examination Resource Sheet to
bring any formulas and other important information into the examination
with you.
You will be required to bring the following supplies when you write both
examinations: pens/pencils (2 or 3 of each), blank paper, a ruler, a scientific
calculator or graphing calculator, and your Examination Resource Sheet. Both
examinations are 2.5 hours in duration.
Introduction 9
Practice Examinations and Answer Keys
To help you succeed in your examinations, you will have an opportunity to
complete a Midterm Practice Examination and a Final Practice Examination.
These examinations, along with the answer keys, are found in the learning
management system (LMS). If you do not have access to the Internet, contact
the Distance Learning Unit at 1-800-465-9915 to obtain a copy of the practice
examinations.
These practice examinations are similar to the actual examinations you will
be writing. The answer keys enable you to check your answers. This will give
you the confidence you need to do well on your examinations.
Requesting Your Examinations

You are responsible for making arrangements to have the examinations sent
to your proctor from the Distance Learning Unit. Please make arrangements
before you finish Module 4 to write the midterm examination. Likewise,
you should begin arranging for your final examination before you finish
Module 8.
To write your examinations, you need to make the following arrangements:
Q If you are attending school, your examination will be sent to your school
as soon as all the applicable assignments have been submitted. You should
make arrangements with your school’s ISO school facilitator to determine a
date, time, and location to write the examination.
Q If you are not attending school, check the Examination Request Form for
options available to you. Examination Request Forms can be found on the
Distance Learning Unit’s website, or look for information in the learning
management system (LMS). Two weeks before you are ready to write the
examination, fill in the Examination Request Form and mail, fax, or email it
to
Distance Learning Unit
500–555 Main Street
PO Box 2020
Winkler MB R6W 4B8
Fax: 204-325-1719
Toll-Free Telephone: 1-800-465-9915
Email: [email protected]

How Much Time Will You Need to Complete This Course?
Learning through independent study has several advantages over learning

in the classroom. You are in charge of how you learn and you can choose
how quickly you will complete the course. You can read as many lessons
as you wish in a single session. You do not have to wait for your teacher or
classmates.
From the date of your registration, you have a maximum of 12 months to
complete the course, but the pace at which you proceed is up to you. Read the
following suggestions on how to pace yourself.
Chart A: Semester 1
If you want to start this course in September and complete it in January, you
can follow the timeline suggested below.
Module Completion Date

Module 1 Middle of September
Module 2 End of September
Module 3 Middle of October
Module 4 End of October
Midterm Examination Beginning of November
Module 5 Middle of November
Module 6 End of November
Module 7 Middle of December
Module 8 Middle of January
Final Examination End of January
Introduction 11
Chart B: Semester 2
If you want to start the course in February and complete it in May, you can
follow the timeline suggested below.

Module 1 Middle of February
Module 2 End of February
Module 3 Beginning of March
Module 4 Middle of March
Midterm Examination End of March
Module 5 Beginning of April
Module 6 Middle of April
Module 7 End of April
Module 8 Beginning of May
Final Examination Middle of May
Chart C: Full School Year (Not Semestered)

If you want to start the course in September and complete it in May, you can
follow the timeline suggested below.

Module 1 End of September
Module 2 End of October
Module 3 End of November
Module 4 End of December
Midterm Examination Middle of January
Module 5 Middle of February
Module 6 Middle of March
Module 7 Beginning of April
Module 8 Beginning of May
Final Examination Middle of May

Timelines
Do not wait until the last minute to complete your work, since your tutor/
marker may not be available to mark it immediately. It may take a few weeks
for your tutor/marker to assess your work and return it to you or your school.
If you need this course to graduate this school year, all coursework must be received by the
Distance Learning Unit on or before the first Friday in May, and all examinations must be
received by the Distance Learning Unit on or before the last Friday in May. Any coursework
or examinations received after these deadlines may not be processed in time for a June
graduation. Assignments or examinations submitted after these recommended deadlines will be
processed and marked as they are received.
When and How Will You Submit Completed Assignments?
When to Submit Assignments

While working on this course, you will submit completed assignments to the
Distance Learning Unit eight times. The following chart shows you exactly
what assignments you will be submitting at the end of each module.
Submission of Assignments
Submission Assignments You Will Submit
1 Module 1: Sequences and Series

Module 1 Cover Sheet
Assignment 1.1: Arithmetic Sequences and Series
Assignment 1.2: Geometric Sequences and Series
Assignment 1.3: Finding the Sums of Infinite Geometric Series
2 Module 2: Factoring and Rational Expressions
Assignment 2.1: Factoring
Assignment 2.2: Multiplying, Dividing, and Simplifying Rational
Expressions
Assignment 2.3: Adding and Subtracting Rational Expressions
3 Module 3: Quadratic Functions
Assignment 3.1: Quadratic Functions and Transformations
Assignment 3.2: Graphing Quadratic Functions Using Transformations
Assignment 3.3: Completing the Square and Finding the Vertex
Assignment 3.4: Applications of Quadratic Functions
4 Module 4: Solving Quadratic and Rational Equations
Assignment 4.1: Solving Quadratic Equations by Graphing and
Taking Square Roots
Assignment 4.2: Solving Quadratic Equations
Assignment 4.3: The Discriminant and Solving Rational Equations
continued
Introduction 13
Submission of Assignments (continued)
Submission Assignments You Will Submit
5 Module 5: Radicals
Assignment 5.1: Simplifying Radical Expressions
Assignment 5.2: Multiplying and Dividing Radical Expressions
Assignment 5.3: Solving Radical Equations
6 Module 6: Systems of Equations and Inequalities
Assignment 6.1: Solving Systems of Equations
Assignment 6.2: Solving Linear Inequalities in Two Variables and
Quadratic Inequalities in One Variable
Assignment 6.3: Solving Quadratic Inequalities in Two Variables
7 Module 7: Trigonometry
Assignment 7.1: Trigonometric Ratios, Reference Angles, and
Trigonometric Equations
Assignment 7.2: Patterns in Trigonometric Ratios and the Sine Law
Assignment 7.3: The Cosine Law and the Ambiguous Case
8 Module 8: Absolute Value and Reciprocal Functions
Assignment 8.1: Absolute Value
Assignment 8.2: Absolute Value Equations and Graphing Reciprocal
Functions: Part 1
Assignment 8.3: Reciprocal Functions: Part 2
How to Submit Assignments

In this course, you have the choice of submitting your assignments either by
mail or electronically.
Q Mail: Each time you mail something, you must include the print version of
the applicable Cover Sheet (found at the end of this Introduction). Complete
the information at the top of each Cover Sheet before submitting it along
with your assignments.
Q Electronic submission: You do not need to include a cover sheet when
submitting assignments electronically.

Submitting Your Assignments by Mail
If you choose to mail your completed assignments, please photocopy/scan
all the materials first so that you will have a copy of your work in case your
package goes missing. You will need to place the applicable module Cover
Sheet and assignment(s) in an envelope, and address it to
Distance Learning Unit
500–555 Main Street
PO Box 2020
Winkler MB R6W 4B8
Your tutor/marker will mark your work and return it to you by mail.
Submitting Your Assignments Electronically

Assignment submission options vary by course. Sometimes assignments can
be submitted electronically and sometimes they must be submitted by mail.
Specific instructions on how to submit assignments were sent to you with this
course. In addition, this information is available in the learning management
system (LMS).
If you are submitting assignments electronically, make sure you have
saved copies of them before you send them. That way, you can refer to your
assignments when you discuss them with your tutor/marker. Also, if the
original hand-in assignments are lost, you are able to resubmit them.
Your tutor/marker will mark your work and return it to you electronically.
The Distance Learning Unit does not provide technical support for hardware-
related issues. If troubleshooting is required, consult a professional computer
technician.
Introduction 15
What Are the Guide Graphics For?
Guide graphics are used throughout this course to identify and guide you in
specific tasks. Each graphic has a specific purpose, as described below.
Lesson Introduction: The introduction sets the stage for the lesson. It
may draw upon prior knowledge or briefly describe the organization
of the lesson. It also lists the learning outcomes for the lesson. Learning
outcomes describe what you will learn.
Learning Partner: Ask your learning partner to help you with this task.
Learning Activity: Complete a learning activity. This will help you

to review or practise what you have learned and to prepare for an
assignment or an examination. You will not submit learning activities to
the Distance Learning Unit. Instead, you will compare your responses to
those provided in the Learning Activity Answer Key found at the end of
every module.
Assignment: Complete an assignment. You will submit your completed
assignments to the Distance Learning Unit for assessment at the end of a
given module.
Mail or Electronic Submission: Mail or electronically submit your

completed assignments to the Distance Learning Unit for assessment at
this time.
Phone Your Tutor/Marker: Telephone your tutor/marker.
Resource Sheet: Indicates material that may be valuable to include on

your resource sheet.
Examination: Write your midterm or final examination at this time.
Note: Take note of and remember this important information or reminder.
Getting Started
Take some time right now to skim through the course material, locate your
cover sheets, and familiarize yourself with how the course is organized. Get
ready to learn!
Remember: If you have questions or need help at any point during this
course, contact your tutor/marker or ask your learning partner for help.
Good luck with the course!

Math Goals
In Module 1, the first learning activity involves you having a conversation

with your tutor/marker. Having this conversation with your tutor/marker has
two important purposes. First, it introduces you to a very valuable resource –
your tutor/marker. He or she is available for you to answer questions, explain
concepts, and guide you through this course. You can discuss your math
learning and progress. Feel free to contact your tutor/marker by phone or
email at anytime during this course.
The second important purpose of this assignment is to get you thinking
about your math goals. You may have a future career in mind and this course
is getting you one step closer to it by completing a prerequisite for a future
required course. There may be specific skills or topics you are interested in
learning about and they are covered in this course.
If you are unsure of your math goals or why they are important, consider this:
Q goals give you a sense of direction and purpose in taking this course
Q goals help motivate you to learn and do your best, even when it’s tough
Q when you accomplish your goals, there is a great sense of achievement and
success
Good goals need to be realistic, specific, and reflect what is important to you.
They should give you direction and take you further down the path from
where you have been to where you want to go.

Goals can be long term or short term, but they are the pathway that takes you
from where you were/are, closer to where you want to go.
Introduction 17
Notes

Grade 11 Pre-Calculus Mathematics (30S)
Module 1: Sequences and Series
Cover Sheet
Please complete this sheet and place it on top of your assignments to assist in
proper recording of your work. Submit the package to:
Drop-off/Courier Address Mailing Address
Distance Learning Unit Distance Learning Unit
555 Main Street 500–555 Main Street
Winkler MB R6W 1C4 PO Box 2020
Winkler MB R6W 4B8
Contact Information
Legal Name:___________________________ Preferred Name:_________________________
Phone: ________________________________ Email: __________________________________
Mailing Address: _________________________________________________________________
City/Town: __________________________________________ Postal Code: _______________
Attending School: q No q Yes
School Name:____________________________________________________________________
Has your contact information changed since you registered for this course? q No q Yes
Note: Please keep a copy of your assignments so that you can refer to them when you discuss them with your tutor/marker.
For Student Use For Office Use Only

Module 1 Assignments Attempt 1 Attempt 2
Which of the following are completed and enclosed?

Please check (3) all applicable boxes below.
Date Received Date Received
q Assignment 1.1: Arithmetic Sequences and Series /40 /40
q Assignment 1.2: Geometric Sequences and Series /54 /54
q Assignment 1.3: Finding the Sums of Infinite Geometric

/18 /18
Series
Total: /112 Total: /112
For Tutor/Marker Use

Remarks:
Module 2: Factoring and Rational Expressions
Cover Sheet
Winkler MB R6W 4B8
Contact Information
Phone: ________________________________ Email: __________________________________
Mailing Address: _________________________________________________________________
School Name:____________________________________________________________________


q Assignment 2.1: Factoring /37 /37
q Assignment 2.2: Multiplying, Dividing, and Simplifying

/51 /51
Rational Expressions
q Assignment 2.3: Adding and Subtracting Rational

/30 /30
Expressions

Remarks:
Module 3: Quadratic Functions
Cover Sheet
Winkler MB R6W 4B8
Contact Information
Phone: ________________________________ Email: __________________________________
Mailing Address: _________________________________________________________________
School Name:____________________________________________________________________


q Assignment 3.1: Quadratic Functions and Transformations /58 /58
q Assignment 3.2: Graphing Quadratic Functions Using

/65 /65
Transformations
q Assignment 3.3: Completing the Square and Finding the

/38 /38
Vertex
q Assignment 3.4: Applications of Quadratic Functions /19 /19

Remarks:
Module 4: Solving Quadratic and Rational Functions
Cover Sheet
Winkler MB R6W 4B8
Contact Information
Phone: ________________________________ Email: __________________________________
Mailing Address: _________________________________________________________________
School Name:____________________________________________________________________


q Assignment 4.1: Solving Quadratic Equations by Graphing

/33 /33
and Taking Square Roots
q Assignment 4.2: Solving Quadratic Equations /49 /49
q Assignment 4.3: The Discriminant and Solving Rational

/47 /47
Equations

Remarks:
Module 5: Radicals
Cover Sheet
Winkler MB R6W 4B8
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Phone: ________________________________ Email: __________________________________
Mailing Address: _________________________________________________________________
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q Assignment 5.1: Simplifying Radical Expressions /42 /42
q Assignment 5.2: Multiplying and Dividing Radical Expressions /50 /50
q Assignment 5.3: Solving Radical Equations /53 /53

Remarks:
Module 6: Systems of Equations and Inequalities
Cover Sheet
Winkler MB R6W 4B8
Contact Information
Phone: ________________________________ Email: __________________________________
Mailing Address: _________________________________________________________________
School Name:____________________________________________________________________


q Assignment 6.1: Solving Systems of Equations /40 /40
q Assignment 6.2: Solving Linear Inequalities in Two Variables

/40 /40
and Quadratic Inequalities in One Variable
q Assignment 6.3: Solving Quadratic Inequalities in

/19 /19
Two Variables

Remarks:
Module 7: Trigonometry
Cover Sheet
Winkler MB R6W 4B8
Contact Information
Phone: ________________________________ Email: __________________________________
Mailing Address: _________________________________________________________________
School Name:____________________________________________________________________


q Assignment 7.1: Trigonometric Ratios, Reference Angles,

/58 /58
and Trigonometric Equations
q Assignment 7.2: Patterns in Trigonometric Ratios and

/25 /25
the Sine Law
q Assignment 7.3: The Cosine Law and the Ambiguous Case /41 /41

Remarks:
Module 8: Absolute Value and Reciprocal Functions
Cover Sheet
Winkler MB R6W 4B8
Contact Information
Phone: ________________________________ Email: __________________________________
Mailing Address: _________________________________________________________________
School Name:____________________________________________________________________


q Assignment 8.1: Absolute Value /42 /42
q Assignment 8.2: Absolute Value Functions and Graphing

/58 /58
Reciprocal Functions: Part 1
q Assignment 8.3: Reciprocal Functions: Part 2 /20 /20

Remarks:
Released 2019
Printed in Canada
Imprimé au Canada
Module 1
Sequences and Series
M o d u l e 1:
Introduction
In previous math courses, you have dealt with patterns in the context of
graphs. In this module, you will be dealing with patterns a little differently.
Patterns show up all around you in the natural world. The petals in flowers
very often appear in a pattern. Pine cones form according to a pattern called a
Fibonacci sequence.
Patterns also appear in lists of numbers. Whenever a pattern appears in a
list of numbers, it is called a sequence. Sequences have many applications. An
automobile will depreciate in value according to a sequence. Real estate and
other investments will earn interest or gain in value according to a specific
sequence. Loans will be paid according to a predetermined sequence. In this
module, you will study two different types of sequences: arithmetic and
geometric. You will also study two different types of series: arithmetic and
geometric. Series are used when you are trying to find the sum of a large,
even infinite, list of numbers. In this module you will learn when it is possible
to find the sum of different types of series.
Assignments in Module 1
When you have completed the assignments for Module 1, submit your
completed assignments to the Distance Learning Unit either by mail or
electronically through the learning management system (LMS). The staff will
forward your work to your tutor/marker.
Lesson Assignment Number Assignment Title
2 Assignment 1.1 Arithmetic Sequences and Series
4 Assignment 1.2 Geometric Sequences and Series
Finding the Sums of Infinite Geometric

5 Assignment 1.3
Series
M o d ul e 1: S e q u e n c e s a n d S e r i e s 3
Resource Sheet
When you write your midterm examination, you are encouraged to take
a Midterm Examination Resource Sheet with you into the examination.
handwriting or typewritten. You will submit it with your examination, but
you do not receive any marks for it.
Many students have found that preparing a resource sheet is an excellent
way to review. It provides you with a summary of the important facts of each
module. You should complete a resource sheet for each module to help with
your studying and reviewing. Lesson summaries and module summaries are
included for you to use as a guide.
You may use the list of instructions provided below to help you with
preparing your resource sheet for the material in Module 1. On this sheet, you
should record math terms and definitions, formulas, sample questions, or a
list of places where you often make mistakes. You should also identify special
areas that require extra attention or review by writing the page numbers.
After you have completed each module’s resource sheet, you may summarize
the sheets from Modules 1, 2, 3, and 4 to prepare your Midterm Examination
Resource Sheet. The midterm examination for this course is based on
Modules 1 to 4.
Resource Sheet for Module 1

As you go through the lessons of this module, you may want to consider the
following suggestions regarding the creation of a resource sheet.
1. List all the important math terms, and define them if necessary.
2. List all the formulas and perhaps a sample problem that shows how the
formula is used.
3. If necessary, write the solutions to some problems, showing in detail how
you did the calculations.
4. Copy any questions that represent the key points of the lesson, and
perhaps include the solutions as well.
5. Identify the problems you found most difficult, and copy the page
numbers onto the resource sheet so that you can review them before
writing the examination. You may also copy the problems and the
solutions onto your resource sheet, and later write them onto your
Midterm Examination Resource Sheet.
6. Write any comments, ideas, shortcuts, or other reminders that may be
helpful during an examination.

L e s s o n 1: A r i t h m e t ic S e q u e n c e s
Lesson Focus
In this lesson, you will

q learn how to identify arithmetic sequences
q learn how to find the first term, the common difference, the
number of terms, and the value of a specific term in an arithmetic
sequence
q learn how arithmetic sequences are related to linear functions
q learn how to write a recursive formula
q learn how to derive a rule for finding the general term of an
arithmetic sequence
Lesson Introduction
When you were younger, you were probably asked to count by ones from one
to increasingly larger numbers. You were also probably asked to count by odd
numbers, by even numbers, by fives, by tens, or by other values. These are all
examples of arithmetic sequences.
Arithmetic sequences appear often in real-life situations. Hockey games
and the formation of pyramids are another two examples where arithmetic
sequences occur. Throughout this lesson, you will learn all about arithmetic
sequences and their many applications.
Arithmetic Sequences
A sequence is an ordered list of terms. The general form of a sequence is:

t1, t2, t3, t4, ... where each numerical subscript denotes the term in the
sequence. This means that if you wanted to find the fifth term in a sequence,
you would be looking for t5. Also, t12 denotes the twelfth term in the
sequence.
Sequences of numbers that follow the pattern of adding the same number
(either positive or negative) to one term to get the next term are called
arithmetic sequences. In other words, an arithmetic sequence is a list of
numbers in which each succeeding term is found by adding or subtracting
the same value from the previous term.
Include all definitions on your resource sheet.
Example 1
Which of these sequences are arithmetic sequences?
a) 2, 5, 8, 11, . . .
b) 1, 2, 4, 7, 11, . . .
c) 7, 3, -1, -5, . . .
d) 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, . . .
Solution
a) In this sequence, if you add ‘3’ to the first term, you will get the second
term. This works for any pair of consecutive terms (or terms that follow
each other) in this sequence. Therefore, this is an arithmetic sequence.
b) In this sequence, if you add ‘1’ to the first term, you will get the second
term. However, to get to the third term, you need to add ‘2’ to the second
term. This is not an arithmetic sequence because you are not adding the
same value to each term to get the next term.
c) In this sequence, if you add ‘-4’ or subtract ‘4’ from each term, you will
get the next term. Therefore, this is an arithmetic sequence.
d) In this sequence, the first terms are the same. The rest of the terms are the
sum of the previous two terms. However, the same number is not added
to every term to get the next term. Therefore, this is not an arithmetic
sequence. It is the Fibonaci sequence.
In an arithmetic sequence, the number that is added to each term to get the
next term is called the common difference. Include this definition on your
resource sheet.
Example 2
Find the common difference for each of these arithmetic sequences.
a) 5, 9, 13, 17, . . .
b) 1, 0, -1, -2, . . .
c) 2, 4, 6, 8, . . .
Solution
a) The number that is added to each term to get the next term is ‘4’. Therefore,
the common difference of this arithmetic sequence is 4.
b) The number that is added to each term to get the next term is ‘-1’.
Therefore, the common difference of this arithmetic sequence is -1.

c) The number that is added to each term to get the next term is ‘2’.
Therefore, the common difference of this arithmetic sequence is 2.
Arithmetic Sequences and Linear Functions

Given a sequence such as 1, 6, 11, 16 … it may be easy for you to find the 10th
or even the 20th term by just adding 5, the common difference, to each term
until you have a sequence with 20 terms. What happens when you need to
find the 600th term (t600)?
Calculating the 600th term in this way would take an extremely long time.
In order to find terms that are increasingly farther away from the first term
in a sequence, a formula can be used. For example, look at the arithmetic
sequence:
2, 5, 8, 11, . . .
Each term in the sequence is 3 more than the preceding term:
2, 2 + 3 = 5, 5 + 3 = 8, 8 + 3 = 11, . . .
You can denote this pattern by stating that:
t1 = 2 (where t1 is the first term)
t2 = t1 + 3 (where t2 is the second term)
t3 = t2 + 3
In general tn = tn-1 + 3, n ³ 2 where the nth term is 3 more than the previous
term. The variable, n, is used as a counter to count the number of terms. Its
domain is {1, 2, 3, 4, ...}, which is the set of natural numbers.
The definition for this arithmetic sequence consists of two statements:
t1 = 2


tn = tn−1 + 3 , n ≥ 2

In this case, n must be 2 or bigger because t1 is already defined.

Both parts of the statement are required.
The definition states
a) the value of the first term is 2 as shown by the first statement, t1 = 2
b) any other term after the first is 3 more than the previous term as shown
by the second statement, tn = tn-1 + 3, when n ³ 2
Note that 7, 10, 13, 16, . . . is another sequence in which each term after the first
is 3 more than the previous term. However, it is a different sequence from the
sequence 2, 5, 8, 11, . . . because the first terms are different.
You can denote the arithmetic sequence 7, 10, 13, 16, . . . by
t1 = 7


tn = tn−1 + 3 , n ≥ 2

Also note that it is important to distinguish between the term number and
the value of the term.
Example 3
Write the first five terms of the arithmetic sequence defined by
t1 = 4


tn = tn−1 + 5 , n ≥ 2

Solution
Evaluating the formula can easily be organized by using a chart. The term
number, n, is recorded in the first column; the value of the term is calculated
in the second column.
t1 = 4


tn = tn−1 + 5 , n ≥ 2

1 t1 = 4 (from the first statement)

2 t2 = t2-1 + 5 (from the second statement)
= t1 + 5 simplify
=4+5 substitute
=9 simplify
3 t3 = t3-1 + 5
= t2 + 5
=9+5
= 14
4 t4 = t4-1 + 5
= t3 + 5
= 14 + 5
= 19
5 t5 = t5-1 + 5
= t4 + 5
= 19 + 5
= 24
Therefore, the first five terms are 4, 9, 14, 19, 24.

In Example 3, after the first term, the succeeding terms are defined by the
value of the preceding term and the common difference. If after the first term,
or the first few terms, the remaining terms are defined in terms of the value(s)
of the preceding term(s), the definition is called a recursive definition or
recursive formula. It may be helpful for you to include this definition on your
resource sheet.
Example 4
Write a recursive formula for the arithmetic sequence 7, 11, 15, 19, . . ., and
graph it using both graph paper and a graphing calculator (if you have one).
Solution
t1 = 7
Since each term is 4 more than the previous term, it follows that the common
difference is 4 and t2 = t1 + 4, t3 = t2 + 4, . . . . Therefore, the recursive formula
is
t1 = 7


tn = tn−1 + 4 , n ≥ 2

The points on the graph will be the set of ordered pairs where the first
coordinates are the term numbers and the second coordinates are the
corresponding term values. The coordinates are (1, 7), (2, 11), (3, 15), (4, 19), . . .
The graph is shown below. Notice that the points are not joined. The data is
discrete, not continuous. Also note that there is no easy way to indicate the
pattern of dots, which continues indefinitely. The arrow attached to (4, 19)
points in only one direction.

On a graphing calculator, use the sequence mode to graph the sequence using
the recursion formula:
t1 = 7


tn = tn−1 + 4 , n ≥ 2

and the first point in the sequence as (1, 7).

Using the Seq mode, enter your information into Y=.
Then set your window.
Finally, press GRAPH.
If you need instruction on how to use your graphing calculator for sequences,
you might try searching the Internet for help. One useful site is
www.mathbits.com.

From these examples, we could generalize the recursion formula for an
arithmetic sequence to be:
t1 = first term


tn = tn−1 + d , n ≥ 2

where d is the common difference.
Example 5
Find t7 and t100 of the arithmetic sequence 50, 42, 34, 26, . . . .
Solution
The common difference is -8 and the recursive definition is:
t1 = 50


tn = tn−1 − 8 , n ≥ 2

Listing the terms from t2 to t7, you get

t2 = 50 - 8 = 42
t3 = 42 - 8 = 34
t4 = 34 - 8 = 26
t5 = 26 - 8 = 18
t6 = 18 - 8 = 10
t7 = 10 - 8 = 2
Therefore, t7 = 2.
When you are using a recursive formula or definition, you need to know tn-1
in order to find tn. You need to know t99 in order to find t100. Using recursion
would be time consuming, as it would take a long time to list all the terms up
to t100. There is a different method to solve this problem.
It is easier to find t100 by relating the arithmetic sequence to a linear function.
The answer is shown after Example 7.
A linear function is a function whose graph is an oblique or horizontal line.
If the domain of a linear function is the set of natural numbers, the range is
called an arithmetic sequence. Recall that the set of natural numbers is
N = {1, 2, 3, 4, . . .}.
Include these definitions on your resource sheet.
Example 6
Which of the following rules defines a linear function? Graph the linear
function(s).
1
a) y =
x−2
b) y = 3x + 5
c) y = x − 1
d) y = x 2 + 1
e) y = 4 − x
Solution
The only rules that produce straight line graphs are y = 3x + 5 and y = –x + 4.
Hence (b) and (e) are linear functions. The graphs of the two linear functions
are shown below. Notice their domains are the real numbers and the points
are connected.
b) y = 3x + 5
slope = 3
y-intercept
=5


e)
y=4-x
y = -x + 4
slope = -1
y-intercept = 4

Note: A straight line equation is of the form y = mx + b where m is the slope

of the line and b is the y-intercept. In example 6, part (e) above, the equation
y = 4 - x can be rearranged to the form y = -x + 4.
Example 7
Write the first five terms and find the common difference for each arithmetic
sequence defined by the given function whose domain is the natural
numbers:
a) f(x) = 2x + 5
b) g(x) = -3x + 10
Solution
Since the domain of an arithmetic sequence is the set of natural numbers,
N = {1, 2, 3, 4, . . .}, the first five terms are as follows.
a) f(x) = 2x + 5
x f(x)
1 f(1) = 2(1) + 5 = 2 + 5 = 7
2 f(2) = 2(2) + 5 = 4 + 5 = 9
3 f(3) = 2(3) + 5 = 6 + 5 = 11
4 f(4) = 2(4) + 5 = 8 + 5 = 13
5 f(5) = 2(5) + 5 = 10 + 5 = 15
The first five terms are 7, 9, 11, 13, 15.
The common difference is 2.
b) g(x) = -3x + 10
x g(x)
1 g(1) = -3(1) + 10 = -3 + 10 = 7
2 g(2) = -3(2) + 10 = -6 + 10 = 4
3 g(3) = -3(3) + 10 = -9 + 10 = 1
4 g(4) = -3(4) + 10 = -12 + 10 = -2
5 g(5) = -3(5) + 10 = -15 + 10 = -5
The first five terms are 7, 4, 1, -2, -5.
The common difference is -3.
If you compare the common difference of each arithmetic sequence to its
defining linear function, you may notice that the common difference has the
same value as the slope. In other words, the slope of the line is the increase in
term value as you proceed from one term to the next.
Note: It will be very helpful for you to remember that common difference =
slope in an arithmetic sequence.

Now that you know how linear functions are related to arithmetic sequences,
you can go back and find t100 in Example 5. You found the following pieces of
information about the arithmetic sequence in Example 5.
t1 = 50
t2 = 42
t3 = 34
t4 = 26
t5 = 18
t6 = 10
t7 = 2
The ordered pairs for the first seven terms of the function are:
(1, 50), (2, 42), (3, 34), (4, 26), (5, 18), (6, 10), (7, 2)
As every arithmetic sequence is a linear function, this set of points belongs
to a straight line. Therefore, you can use the slope to find a defining linear
function for this line to help you find t100. Recall that the formula for slope
given two points (x1, y1) and (x2, y2) on a line is:
y 2 − y1
m=
x 2 − x1
The equation for a line given its slope, m, and a point, (x1, y1), on the line is:
y - y1 = m(x - x1)
You can use any two points on the line to find its slope and equation.
If you use the first two points on the line, (1, 50) and (2, 42), then the slope is:
y 2 − y1 42 − 50 −8
= = = −8
x 2 − x1 2−1 1
The defining linear function is: y - y1 = m(x - x1)

y - 50 = -8(x - 1)
y = -8x + 8 + 50
y = -8x + 58
The defining function is f(x) = -8x + 58, whose slope is the common
difference for the sequence. The domain of f(x) is the set of natural numbers.
Now, it is easier to find t100. To find this value, replace x with 100.
f(100) = -8(100) + 58
f(100) = -800 + 58
f(100) = -742
Therefore, t100 = -742.
From this example, you can see that f(x) represents the term value whereas x
represents the number of the term.
Example 8
What is the defining linear function that produces the following first four
terms of an arithmetic sequence?
a) f(x): 1, 3, 5, 7, . . .
b) g(x): 2, 4, 6, 8, . . .
Solution
a) Since the domain of the function is the set of natural numbers, the ordered
pairs of the function are (1, 1), (2, 3), (3, 5), (4, 7), . . .
As each set of points belongs to a straight line, use the slope to find its
equation.
y 2 − y1
Using m = and y − y1 = m ( x − x1 ) , then, m = 3 − 1 = 2 = 2.
x 2 − x1 2−1 1
The equation is: y - 1 = 2(x - 1)
y = 2x - 2 + 1
y = 2x - 1
The defining function is f(x) = 2x - 1.
b) The ordered pairs are (1, 2), (2, 4), (3, 6), (4, 8), . . .
4−2 2
m= = =2
2−1 1
The equation is: y - 2 = 2(x - 1)
y = 2x - 2 + 2
y = 2x
The defining function is g(x) = 2x.

General Term Formula
In general, the arithmetic sequence t1, t2, t3, . . . can be written as t1, t1 + d,
t1 + 2d, . . . where d is the common difference between consecutive terms. As
we have seen, d is the slope of the defining linear function. Notice the pattern
for the number of ds in each term. In the first term, no ds; in the second term,
one d; in the third term, two ds. Thus, there is always one less d than the
term number. In general, tn = t1 + (n - 1)d. This formula is called the general
term of an arithmetic sequence. It may be helpful for you to include this
explanation and formula on your resource sheet.
Example 9
Use the formula tn = t1 + (n - 1)d to find t10, t21, and t1000 of the arithmetic
sequence 30, 36, 42, 48, . . . .
Solution
t1 = 30 and d = t2 - t1 = 36 - 30 = 6 or
d = t3 - t2 = 42 - 36 = 6 or
d = t4 - t3 = 48 - 42 = 6
Therefore,
t10 = t1 + (10 - 1)d = 30 + 9(6) = 30 + 54 = 84
t21 = t1 + (21 - 1)d = 30 + 20(6) = 30 + 120 = 150
t1000 = t1 + (1000 - 1)d = 30 + 999(6) = 30 + 5994 = 6024
The general term formula tn = t1 + (n - 1)d can be used to solve questions
about an arithmetic sequence such as finding the unknown values of tn, t1, n,
or d.
Example 10
How many terms are in the arithmetic sequence 26, 28, 30, . . ., 1062?
Solution
Using the general term formula, tn = t1 + (n - 1)d, you have tn = 1062, t1 = 26,
and d = 2. Now substitute these values into the formula and solve for n.
1062 = 26 + (n - 1)(2)
1062 = 26 + 2n - 2
1062 = 24 + 2n
1038 = 2n
519 = n
Therefore, 1062 = t519. Hence, there are 519 terms in the sequence.
You could also solve Example 10 by finding the defining linear function,
using the points (1, 26) and (2, 28).
28 − 26
m= =2
2−1
y - 26 = 2(x - 1)
y = 2x - 2 + 26
y = 2x + 24 or
f(x) = 2x + 24
Since you know the value of the term to be 1062, you know f(x). Just substitute
and solve for x, its corresponding term number.
Therefore, 1062 = 2x + 24
1038 = 2x
519 = x
Hence, 519 terms are in the sequence.
Make sure you complete the following learning activity to practice what you
have just learned in this lesson. Recall that learning activities have two parts.
The first part is a BrainPower section that is intended as a warm-up activity to
prepare your mental muscles for Part B. Part B contains questions that allow
you to practice the material you have just learned in the lesson. Learning
activities do not need to be handed in. However, completing every learning
activity will give you an idea of what types of questions will be asked on
upcoming assignments and the exams.

Learning Activity 1.1
Complete the following, and check your answers in the learning activity
answer keys found at the end of this module.
Part A: BrainPower
The BrainPower questions are provided as a warm-up activity for your brain
before trying the questions in Part B. Try to complete each question quickly,
without the use of a calculator and without writing many steps on paper.
1. At the end of a poker game, Alysha had $62. During the game she had
won $250, lost $175, won $35, and lost $55. How much money did Alysha
have at the start, in dollars?
2. Complete the pattern: 1, 2, 5, 10, 17, , ,
3. Evaluate when z = -1: (3z + 1)(z - 5)
8
4. Evaluate:  (12 )
 16 
5. A clothing store is selling shirts for $30.00. They decided to raise the
price of the shirt by 20%. A few days later they decided to raise the price
another 20%. What is the new price of the shirt, in dollars?
Use the following right-angled triangle to answer the next three questions. Do
not simplify your answer.

6. Identify the sine ratio for q.

7. Identify the cosine ratio for q.
8. Identify the tangent ratio for q.
continued
Learning Activity 1.1 (continued)
Part B: Arithmetic Sequences
Remember, these questions are similar to the ones that will be on your
assignments and examinations. So, if you were able to answer them correctly,
you are likely to do well on your assignments and examinations. If you did
not answer them correctly, you need to go back to the lesson and learn them.
1. Which of the following sequences are arithmetic?
a) 2, 5, 8, 11, . . .
b) –5, –1, 3, 7, . . .
c) 2, 5, 7, 10, . . .
1 1
d) 2 , 2 , 1, 1 , 0 , . . .
2 2
2. Write a recursive formula for each sequence. Indicate whether the

sequence is arithmetic or not.
a) 10, 7, 4, 1, . . .
b) 2, 4, 8, 16, . . .
c) 30, 41, 52, 63, . . .
d) 3, -6, 12, -24, . . .
e) 5, 15, 45, 135, . . .
3. Write the first four terms of each sequence.
t1 = 3

a) 
tn = tn−1 + 5 , n ≥ 2

t1 = 10

b) 
tn = tn−1 − 2 , n ≥ 2

t1 = 3.7

c) 
tn = tn−1 + 1.3 , n ≥ 2

t1 = 1


d) t2 = 1

tn = tn−1 + tn−2 , n ≥ 3

continued

t1 = 3


e) t2 = −1

tn = tn−1 + tn−2 , n ≥ 3

4. Write the first three terms of the arithmetic sequence defined by the linear
function.
a) f(x) = 2x + 4
b) g(x) = 5x - 2
c) h(x) = -3x + 2
d) m(x) = x - 5
5. Three terms of an arithmetic sequence (not necessarily the first three
terms) are 27, 30, 33. Write two different linear functions that may have
produced this sequence. The domain is the set of natural numbers.
6. Find an equation of the linear function that produces the following first
three terms of an arithmetic sequence.
a) 5 , 8 , 11, . . .
1
b) 6 , 6 , 7 , . . .
2
c) 10 , 8 , 6 , . . .
1 1
d) 2 , 2 , 2 ,...
10 5
7. Find the 50th term of each of the following arithmetic sequences.

a) f(x): 7, 11, 15, . . .
b) g(x): 10, 15, 20, . . .
1 1
c) h( x ): 4 , 5 , 5 , . . .
2 2
8. The fifth term of an arithmetic sequence is -15 and the ninth term is -3.
Find the value of the hundredth term.
continued
9. A pile of bricks is arranged in rows. The numbers of bricks in the rows
form an arithmetic sequence. One such pile of bricks with 3 rows is shown
below:

In another pile of bricks, there are 45 bricks in the fifth row and 33 bricks
in the eleventh row.
a) How many bricks are in the first row?
b) How many bricks are in the nth row?
c) What is the maximum number of rows of bricks possible?
10. Find which term of the sequence 20, 23, 26, . . . is the value 245,
a) by using the general term formula
b) by using the defining linear function
11. Find the term indicated in each arithmetic sequence by using the general
term formula.
a) 5, 3, 1, . . . t20
b) 8, 11, 14, . . . t21
c) 6, 3, 0, -3, . . . t57
d) 18, 17, 16, 15, . . . t132
e) 7, 8.3, 9.6, 10.9, . . . t172
12. Joe bought a painting for $1800. After seven years, this painting sold for
$10,550. If the painting appreciated arithmetically, determine the annual
amount of appreciation.
13. For the arithmetic sequence 7, 11, 15, 19, . . ., find t29.
14. Give an example of an arithmetic sequence, and then
a) prove your sequence is an arithmetic sequence
b) write the defining linear function of your sequence
c) write your arithmetic sequence using the general term formula
15. Graph the arithmetic sequence 7, 4, 1, -2, . . ., for the first six terms
a) on graph paper (A reproducible copy of a sheet of graph paper is
included in Appendix B found on the downloads page.)
b) on the graphing calculator

Now that you have completed your first lesson and your first learning
activity in Grade 11 Pre-Calculus Mathematics, it will be helpful for you to
contact your tutor/marker. Part of Learning Activity 1.2 will be to do so. As
mentioned in the introduction to this course, your tutor/marker is available
if you need help learning any of the material. Also, your tutor/marker will
be marking all of your assignments and examinations. Your tutor/marker’s
contact information is on the cover sheet that came with this course. If you are
unable to find your cover sheet, phone the Distance Learning Unit at
1–800–465–9915 and someone will provide you with the information you
need.
This learning activity is the only one that doesn’t include a BrainPower
section, although it still has two parts.
Part A: Contacting Your Tutor/Marker
Your first task is to contact your tutor/marker by phone.

Fill in the following blanks using information provided with your course:
My tutor/marker’s name is _____________________________________
I can phone my tutor/marker at 1-866-____________________________
My tutor/marker’s email address is ______________________________
Be ready to discuss the following topics and the reasons for your answers
with your tutor/marker and learning partner. If you like, make some notes
before you call so that you feel prepared. Feel free to add any other questions
or comments that you may have.
1. I am taking this course by distance education because:
continued
2. What I like about math and can do mathematically is (include favourite
topic, skill, where you use math, etc.):
3. What I dislike about math or have difficulty doing is:
4. Previous math experiences that influence the way I feel about math are:
5. The next math course I would like to take is:
continued

6. What I am hoping this course will help me accomplish and learn for the
future:
7. What I am doing and how I organize things to help me succeed in this

course is:
During your phone conversation, jot down a sentence or two about what you
and your tutor/marker talk about, in the spaces above. For example, if you
are taking this course because it doesn’t fit into your schedule at school or
because you travel with your basketball team and would miss a large number
of classes, state that in the space below question 1.
continued
Part B: Your Math Pathway
Use the answers to the questions from the conversation with your tutor/
marker as a starting point to fill in the following diagram. In the Math
History box, jot down point-form notes about your prior experience and
knowledge about math (questions 2, 3, and 4). In the Math Destination box,
jot down what completing this course will help you accomplish in the future
(questions 5 and 6).
In the Pathway box, write down what you will need to do to move along the
pathway from your History to your Destination.
Math History Pathway Math Destination
For example, your destination might be receiving at least 75% in this course
so you feel confident going into Grade 12 Pre-Calculus Mathematics so that
you can take nursing after you graduate. Your destination could also be
that you need to learn how to solve equations, and are trying to determine
what will help you accomplish this. It may mean figuring out how you best
learn and study math. It may mean setting up a schedule so you complete
the assignments on time. You may need to find your calculator manual and
figure out how to use it, set up regular appointments with your learning
partner, research a topic on the Internet, or read a textbook about a certain
math concept or skill. Your pathway is unique to you.
continued

As you move through this course and work on achieving your goals, self-
assessment is important for you to determine whether you are getting closer
to your destination. It helps you determine whether the steps along your
pathway are taking you in the right direction. You will need to periodically
ask yourself: Am I doing my assignments? Are my note-taking skills
improving? How often have I contacted my tutor/marker or worked with my
learning partner? Have I found useful homework websites if necessary? Is
my schedule working? What do I need to change or adjust so I can get to my
destination?
Repeatedly going through this cycle of looking at where you have been,
where you want to go, and where you currently are is recommended. At any
time, you may want to revise your goals or set new ones as you evaluate your
own progress and learning.
Q Look back/history. Reflect on what you know, how far you have come.
Q Look around/pathway. Assess if you are achieving your goals, determine
if new learning or understanding has occurred, and check your progress.
Q Look forward/destination. Determine what you want to know, set goals.
Each time you go through these steps, you will become better at mathematics!
It is important that you keep this diagram handy, as you will revisit it at other
points in this course.
Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned about arithmetic sequences and how they are
formed. You also looked at how arithmetic sequences are related to linear
functions. From these linear functions, you noticed that the slope of a linear
function was equal to the common difference of an arithmetic sequence.
In the next lesson, you will be building your knowledge about arithmetic
sequences and learning about arithmetic series.
Notes

L e s son 2: A r i t hme t ic Ser ie s
Lesson Focus

q learn to distinguish between an arithmetic series and an
arithmetic sequence
q learn how to determine the first term and the common difference
in an arithmetic series
q learn how to derive a rule for finding the sum of a specific
number of terms in an arithmetic series
Lesson Introduction
Last lesson you learned about arithmetic sequences. Arithmetic sequences are
similar to arithmetic series, which you will be learning about in this lesson.
To understand the difference between arithmetic sequences and arithmetic
series, you need to understand the difference between sequences and series.
Last lesson you saw that sequences were ordered lists of numbers. Series
are sums of these ordered lists of numbers. Sums of large lists of numbers
are useful when you are trying to count objects that have patterns, such as
the number of seats in a stadium or the number of boxes in a store display.
In this lesson, you will learn more about the differences between arithmetic
sequences and series and why arithmetic series are useful in situations where
arithmetic sequences are not.
Arithmetic Series
Arithmetic series are similar to arithmetic sequences. The only difference

between the two is the presence of addition. If you added consecutive terms
of an arithmetic sequence, you would form an arithmetic series.
Q 2, 5, 8, 11, . . ., is an arithmetic sequence
Q 2 + 5 + 8 + 11 + . . ., is the corresponding arithmetic series
It may be helpful if you include this definition and example on your resource
sheet.
The First Term and the Common Difference of an Arithmetic Series
Finding the first term and the common difference of an arithmetic series is
similar to finding the first term and the common difference of an arithmetic
sequence. Consider the following example.
Example 1
Find the first term and the common difference of each of the following
arithmetic series.
a) 3 + 5 + 7 + 9 + . . .
b) -5 + (–10) + (-15) + (-20) + . . .
Solution
a) The first term of an arithmetic series is the first term in the addition.
Therefore, the first term of this arithmetic series is 3. The common
difference in an arithmetic series is the difference between each term, just
like in an arithmetic sequence. The common difference in this arithmetic
series is 2.
b) The first term of this arithmetic series is -5. The common difference in
this arithmetic series is -5.
Finding the Sum of an Arithmetic Series

It is sometimes useful to find the sum of an arithmetic series. Using the
following examples, try to develop a formula to find the sum of these
arithmetic series. (Hint: Concentrate on the middle number and the number
of terms in the series.)
a) 2 + 5 + 8 + 11 + 14 = 40
b) 7 + 12 + 17 = 36
c) 8 + 4 + 0 - 4 - 8 = 0
d) 6 + 10 + 14 = 30
By examining closely the four previous examples, (a) to (d), of arithmetic
series, you may have realized that the sum is the product of the middle term
and the number of terms in the series:
a) 8(5) = 40
b) 12(3) = 36
c) 0(5) = 0
d) 10(3) = 30

Example 2
What is the sum of the first 51 positive integers?
Solution
The arithmetic sequence is: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, . . ., 51.
The corresponding arithmetic series is: 1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + . . . + 50 + 51.
Therefore, for the series 1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + . . . + 50 + 51, the middle number is
26 and the number of terms in the sequence is 51 so the sum is 26(51) = 1326.
Note: Since there are an odd number of numbers in the list, the middle
n+1
number is , where n is the number of numbers.
2
Why Does This Formula Work?

Consider the series 6 + 10 + 14.
Q 14 is 4 more than 10.
Q 6 is 4 less than 10.
Q If you transfer the additional 4 (from the 14) to 6, you can look at
6 + 10 + 14 as 10 + 10 + 10.
6 + 10 + 4
+4 −4

↓
10 + 10 + 10
Overall, the series becomes: 10 + 10 + 10.

The sum of the series = 10 + 10 + 10 = (3)(10) = 30.
The formula for finding the sum of a series is:
Sum of series = (middle term)(number of terms)
Include this formula on your resource sheet.
Therefore, the sum of the series 6 + 10 + 14 = (middle term)(number of terms)
= 10(3) = 30.
A diagram of this idea is shown below.

Consider the series 2 + 5 + 8 + 11 + 14.

5 + 8 + 11 as
5 + 8 + 11
+3 −3

↓
8+8+8
Similarly,
2 + 8 + 14 as 8 + 8 + 8.
2 + 8 + 14
+6 −6

↓
8+8+8

Overall, the series becomes: 8 + 8 + 8 + 8 + 8.
For an odd number of terms
Sum of series = (middle term)(number of terms)
Sum of series = 8(5) = 40.
A geometric representation of this idea is shown below.

Example 3
Find the sum of 7 + 15 + 23 + 31 + 39 + 47 + 55.
Solution
Sum = (middle term)(number of terms) = 31(7) = 217
Example 4
Develop a formula for the sum of 2 + 6 + 10 + 14.
Solution
There are an even number of terms in the series. This series has no middle
term as one of its terms. Therefore, the sum formula developed previously
will not work.
However, the mean of the series can be found: 2 + 6 + 10 + 14 = 32 and
32
= 8. Hence, 8 is the middle value between 6 and 10, or the mean of 6
4
and 10.
Recall that the mean is the value obtained when the sum of the terms in a
set is divided by the total number of terms in a set. Also note the following
mean:
6 + 10
The mean of 6 and 10 = = 8.
2
2 + 14
The mean of 2 and 14 = = 8.
2
As you can see, the means of terms that are an equal distance away from the
centre of the series are equal. Consider the following diagram.

Note that 6 and 10 are both the same distance away from the centre of the
series. Also, 2 and 14 are the same distance away from the centre of the series.
Therefore, the means of these two sets of numbers 6 and 10, 2 and 14 are
equal.
The new formula for finding the sum of any arithmetic series
t1 + t2 + t3 + . . . + tn is:
Sn = (mean)(number of terms)
 t + tn 
Sn = 1 (n)
 2 
where: t1 = the first term in the arithmetic series

tn = the last term in the arithmetic series
n = the number of terms in the arithmetic series
You may want to include this formula on your resource sheet.
In any arithmetic series, t1 and tn are the same distance away from the centre.
 t + tn 
Therefore, the  1  part of the equation is representative of finding the
 2 
mean value of the series, whether there are an even or an odd number of
terms.
This formula can be used to find the sum of any arithmetic series. The
previous formula, [Sum = (middle term)(number of terms)], can only be used
to find the sum of arithmetic series with an odd number of terms.

Finally, find the sum of the series 2 + 6 + 10 + 14 using the new formula
 t + tn 
Sn = 1 n.
 2 
t1 = 2
tn = 14
n=4
 2 + 14 
S4 =  ( 4 )
 2 
 16 
S4 = ( 4 )
2
S4 = (8)( 4 )
S4 = 32
Example 5
Find the sum of the following arithmetic series using the formula for Sn.
a) 2 + 5 + 8 + 11 + 14
b) 1 + 2 + 3 + . . . ++ 50 + 51
Solution
 t + tn 
Using Sn = 1 (n) ,
 2 
 2 + 14   16 
a) S5 = ( 5) = ( 5) = (8)( 5) = 40
 2  2
 1 + 51   52 
b) S51 = ( 51) = ( 51) = ( 26 )( 51) = 1326
 2  2
Example 6
Find the sum of all multiples of 7 between 50 and 300.
Solution
The first multiple of 7 greater than 50 is 56. The greatest multiple of 7 smaller
than 300 is 294. Thus, the series is 56 + 63 + 70 + . . . + 294.
Before you use the sum of an arithmetic series formula, you first need to find
how many terms are in the series.
Using the formula tn = t1 + (n - 1)d,
294 = 56 + (n - 1)7
294 = 56 + 7n - 7
245 = 7n
35 = n
Therefore, 35 terms are in the series.
 t + tn 
Using Sn = 1 (n)
 2 
 56 + 294 
Sn = ( 35) = 6125
 2 
Therefore, the sum of all multiples of 7 between 50 and 300 is 6125.
Finding the Number of Terms in an Arithmetic Series

It can also be useful to find the number of terms in an arithmetic series if you
know the sum of the series. In the above example, you used the general term
formula to find the number of terms in an arithmetic series. It is also possible
to find the number of terms in an arithmetic series by using the sum of an
arithmetic series formula. Consider the following example.
Example 7
How many terms are in the arithmetic series, 17 + 20 + 23 + . . . + 557, if the
sum of the series is 51 660?
Solution
 t + tn 
Using Sn = 1 (n) , you know that Sn is 51 660, t1 is 17 and tn is 557.
 2 
Therefore, it is possible to solve for n, the number of terms in the series.

 t + tn 
Sn = 1 (n)
 2 
 17 + 557 
51 660 = (n)
 2 
51 660 = 287 n
51 660
=n
287
180 = n
Therefore, there are 180 terms in this series.
Part A: BrainPower
1. Continue the pattern: 0.125, 0.250, 0.375, ,
2. Andrew bought an mp3 player for $156.88. He gave the cashier eight $20
bills. The store was out of toonies and all they had were loonies, quarters,
dimes, nickels, and pennies. What was the smallest number of coins he
could have received as change?
3. If 4x - 3x + 8x + 2x = 121, then 6x - 2 = ?
4. A recipe calls for two tablespoons of sugar for every quarter cup of flour.
If Santana wants to use 18 tablespoons of sugar, how many cups of flour
does she need to make the recipe?
5  2 
5. Calculate:  − 
 3   14 
6. Simplify: 28 ¸ 26
7. Determine the distance between the following two points: (2, 6) and
(-7, -4).
8. List the factors of 164.
continued
Part B: Arithmetic Series
1. Find the indicated sum of each arithmetic series.
a) 7 + 12 + 17 + . . ., S20
b) -5 - 7 - 9 - 11 - . . ., S20
c) 40 + 35 + 30 + . . ., S100
2. Find the sum of the first:
a) 10 odd integers.
b) 20 odd integers.
c) 100 odd integers.
d) n odd integers.
3. Find the sum of all multiples of 3 between 99 and 1000.
4. Find S100 of 1 + 4 + 7 + . . . .
5. How many terms are in the series 3 + 8 + 13 + . . . + 248 if the sum is
6275?
6. In an arithmetic sequence, t2 = -1 and t12 = 19, find S13.
7. An auditorium has 20 seats in the first row, and each row has two more
seats than the row immediately in front of it. There are 26 rows in the
auditorium. How many seats are there in the last row? What is the seating
capacity of the auditorium?
8. Mary’s annual salary ranges from $26,785 in the first year to $34,825 in the
seventh year.
a) If the salary range is an arithmetic sequence with seven terms,
determine the raise Mary received each year.
b) What was her salary in the fifth year?
c) What is the first annual salary in this range that is greater than
$30,000?
d) What was the total amount Mary earned in the seven years?
continued

9. a) Show that the sum of n terms of an arithmetic series can be found using
n
the formula Sn =  2 t 1 + ( n − 1) d 
.
2
b) Use this formula to find the sum of 10 terms of the series
4 + 9 + 14 + 19 + . . .
Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you built on your knowledge about arithmetic sequences and
learned about arithmetic series. You learned how arithmetic series are the
addition of terms in arithmetic sequences. You also learned how to find the
sum of different kinds of arithmetic series. In the next lesson, you will be
learning about geometric sequences.
Your next task is to complete a hand-in assignment found on the following
pages. Keep all your Module 1 assignments until you finish the module and
then send them to the Distance Learning Unit. Instructions for submitting
your assignments can be found in the module summary located at the end of
this module.
Before you begin, have you completed a resource sheet to use with your
assignment?
Notes

Assignment 1.1
Arithmetic Sequences and Series
Total: 40 marks
1. How many multiples of 7 are there between 75 and 352? (3 marks)
2. Which term of the arithmetic sequence 45, 49, 53, . . . is the number 97? (3 marks)
continued
3. In an arithmetic sequence t10 = 29 and t14 = 41, find the first term and the common
difference. (3 marks)
4. Find the sum of the first

a) 10 even natural numbers (2 marks)
b) 100 even natural numbers (2 marks)
continued

5. Find the sum of the arithmetic series 3 + 7 + 11 + . . . + 483. (4 marks)
6. How many terms are in the series 2 + 11 + 20 + . . . + 1116 if the sum is 69 316?
(2 marks)
continued
7. One section of the MTS Centre has 10 seats in the first row. Each row has four more
seats than the row immediately in front of it. There are 25 rows in this section of the
MTS Centre.
a) How many seats are there in the last row? (2 marks)
b) What is the seating capacity of this section of the MTS Centre? (2 marks)
8. Write the first four terms of each arithmetic sequence.

t1 = 3

a)  (1.5 marks)
tn = tn − 5 , n ≥ 2

b) y = 2x - 5, x is a natural number (1.5 marks)
continued

9. What is the defining linear function of each arithmetic sequence?
a) 6, 10, 14, . . . (2 marks)
b) 3, 1, -1, . . . (2 marks)
10. Classify each of the following sequences as arithmetic or not arithmetic sequences.
Identify the common difference of all the sequences you classify as arithmetic
sequences. (1.5 marks each, for a total of 6 marks)
a) 3, 6, 3, 6, 3
b) 5, 1, -3, -7, -11
c) 16, 8, 4, 2, 1
d) 5, 7, 9, 11, 13
continued
11. Write the recursive formula for the arithmetic sequences you found in Question 10.
(4 marks)

L e s s on 3: G eome t r ic S equ enc e s
Lesson Focus

q learn the definition of a geometric sequence
q learn how to find the first term, the common ratio, and the
number of terms in a geometric sequence
q learn how to use recursion with geometric sequences
q learn how to derive a formula for finding the general term of a
geometric sequence
q learn how to find the value of a specific term of a geometric
sequence
Lesson Introduction
You may be thinking that geometric sequences are similar to arithmetic

sequences. Consider the following example.
On the first day of your new job, you are offered the choice of two salaries
for 30 days’ work. The first salary consists of $0.01 on the first day, $0.02 on
the second day, $0.04 on the third day, and so on. In other words, this salary
doubles every day. The second salary consists of $100 on the first day, $200
on the second day, $300 on the third day, and so on. In other words, you get
paid an additional $100 every day with this salary. Which salary would you
choose? Charts comparing salaries after 30 days are shown on the next page.
Doubling Adding
Day Salary Day Salary
1 $0.01 1 $100
2 $0.02 2 $200
3 $0.04 3 $300
4 $0.08 4 $400
5 $0.16 5 $500
6 $0.32 6 $600
7 $0.64 7 $700
8 $1.28 8 $800
9 $2.56 9 $900
10 $5.12 10 $1000
11 $10.24 11 $1,100
12 $20.48 12 $1,200
13 $40.96 13 $1,300
14 $81.92 14 $1,400
15 $163.84 15 $1,500
16 $327.68 16 $1,600
17 $655.36 17 $1,700
18 $1,310.72 18 $1,800
19 $2,621.44 19 $1,900
20 $5,242.88 20 $2,000
21 $10,485.76 21 $2,100
22 $20,971.52 22 $2,200
23 $41,943.04 23 $2,300
24 $83,886.08 24 $2,400
25 $167,772.16 25 $2,500
26 $335,544.32 26 $2,600
27 $671,088.64 27 $2,700
28 $1,342,177.28 28 $2,800
29 $2,684,354.56 29 $2,900
30 $5,368,709.12 30 $3,000
Many people’s first instinct is to choose the salary that starts at $100.
However, after one month, the salary beginning at $0.01 will be much larger.
Are you surprised?
The salary starting at $100 is an example of an arithmetic sequence. The
salary starting at $0.01 is an example of a geometric sequence. As you can see,
geometric sequences grow larger faster than arithmetic sequences do. This is
one of the main differences between the two types of sequences.

Geometric Sequences
Arithmetic sequences are sequences where the differences between

consecutive terms are equal. This value is called the common difference.
Geometric sequences are sequences where the ratios of consecutive terms are
equal. This ratio is called the common ratio. It is found by dividing any term
by its preceding term.
In arithmetic sequences, you go from one term to the next by adding the same
value, the common difference, to each term to get the next term. In geometric
sequences, you go from one term to the next by multiplying each term by the
same value, the common ratio, to get the next term.
Consider the following sequence:
3, 6, 12, 24
The ratios of consecutive terms are equal:
6
2
3
12
2
6
24
2
12
Therefore, this is a geometric sequence with a common ratio of 2.

Example 1
Which of the following sequences are geometric? Identify the common ratio if
the sequence is geometric.
a) 2, 6, 18, 54, . . .
b) 2, -6, 18, -54, . . .
c) 63, 44, 25, 6, . . .
d) 64, 32, 16, 8, . . .
e) 1, -1, 1, -1, . . .
f) 2, 4, 6, 8, . . .
Solution
6 18 54
a) 3 ; 3; 3
2 6 18
This sequence is geometric because the ratios of consecutive terms are
equal. The common ratio is 3.
−6 18 −54
b) = −3 ; = −3 ; = −3
2 −6 18
This sequence is geometric. The common ratio is -3.
44 25
c) ≈ 0.698 ; ≈ 0.568 Note that » is the symbol for
63 44 “approximately.”
44 25
Thus, ≠ .
63 44
This sequence is not geometric because the ratios of consecutive terms are
not equal.
32 1 16 1 8 1
d) ;
 ; 
64 2 32 2 16 2
1
This sequence is geometric. The common ratio is .
2
−1 1 −1
e) = −1; = −1; = −1
1 −1 1
This sequence is geometric. The common ratio is -1.
4 6 3
f) = 2; =
2 4 2
3
Thus, 2 ≠ .
2
This sequence is not geometric because the ratios of consecutive terms are
not equal.

Recursive Formula
Just as arithmetic sequences could be written with a recursive formula if we
know t1 and d, so can geometric sequences. You may recall that arithmetic
sequences were written in two parts, such as the following:
t1 = 5


tn = tn−1 − 4 , n ≥ 2

Geometric sequences can also be written as a recursive formula consisting of

two parts. Consider the geometric sequences 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, . . .
Each term in the sequence is double the preceding term:
2 4 8 16
 2 ; 2 ; 2; 2
1 2 4 8
You can denote this pattern by stating that:

t1 = 1 (where t1 is the first term)
t2 = 2t1 (where t2 is double the first term)
t3 = 2t2 (where t3 is double the second term)
In general tn = 2tn–1, n ³ 2 (where the nth term is double the previous term).
The definition for this geometric sequence consists of two statements:
t1 = 1


tn = 2tn−1 , n ≥ 2

Both parts of the statement are required.

The definition states the following:
a) The first number is 1 (t1 = 1)
b) Any other number after the first is double the previous number (tn = 2tn-1,
when n ³ 2)
In the sequence 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, . . ., the common ratio is 2. If you consider the
corresponding recursive formula, you will notice that the common ratio of ‘2’
is being multiplied by tn-1 to get tn.

Example 2
Write the first five terms of the geometric sequences defined by
t1 = 3

a) 
tn = 5tn−1 , n ≥ 2

t1 = 20

b)  1
tn = tn−1 , n ≥ 2
 2
Solution
a) n tn
1 t1 = 3
2 t2 = 5 (t2−1 ) = 5t1 = 5 ( 3) = 15
3 t3 = 5 (t3−1 ) = 5t2 = 5 (15) = 75
4 t 4 = 5 (t 4−1 ) = 5t3 = 5 (75) = 375
5 t5 = 5 (t5−1 ) = 5t 4 = 5 ( 375) = 1875
Therefore, the first five terms of this geometric sequence are 3, 15, 75, 375,
and 1875.
b) n tn
1 t1 = 20
1 1 1
2 t2 = t2−1 = t1 = ( 20 ) = 10
2 2 2
1 1 1
3 t3 = t3−1 = t2 = (10 ) = 5
2 2 2
4 1 1 1
t4 = t 4−1 = t3 = ( 5) = 2.5
2 2 2
1 1 1
5 t5 = t5−1 = t 4 = ( 2.5) = 1.25
2 2 2
Therefore, the first five terms of this geometric sequence are 20, 10, 5, 2.5, and
1.25.

Example 3
Find the recursive formula for each of the following geometric sequences.
1
a) 27 , 9 , 3 , 1, ,. . .
3
b) 2 , 8 , 32 , 128 , . . .
Solution
1
a) The first term is 27. After that, each term is being multiplied by to get
3
the following term. Therefore, the recursive formula is:
t1 = 27

 1
tn = tn−1 , n ≥ 2
 3
b) The first term is 2. After that, each term is being multiplied by 4 to get the
following term. Therefore, the recursive formula is:
t1 = 2


tn = 4tn−1 , n ≥ 2

Note that, in general, a recursive formula to generate a geometric sequence is

t1 = first term


tn = (r ) (tn−1 ) , n ≥ 2

where r is the common ratio.
Defining Exponential Function and General Term Formula

The recursive formula can be useful for finding terms near the beginning of
the sequence. Consider the geometric sequence 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, . . . . If you wanted
to find the 10th term, it would be possible to use the recursive formula
and keep multiplying previous terms by ‘2’ until you have 10 terms in the
sequence. However, it would be difficult to find the 789th term in this way.
To find terms increasingly farther away from the beginning of the sequence,
a different method is needed. This new method is called finding a defining
exponential function.
Note: An exponential function is a function in the form of:
y = a(bx), b ¹ 0
In this function, b represents the base. In all exponential functions, the
independent variable appears as an exponent. The coefficient of bx is a. It may
be helpful for you to recall the basic form of a power.
Recall:

To develop a new method for finding the nth term of a geometric sequence,
consider the following pattern. Remember each term is found by multiplying
the previous term by the common ratio, r.
t1
t2 = (t1)(r) = t1r
t3 = (t1 r)(r) = t1r2
t4 = (t1 r2)(r) = t1r3
In general, tn = t1rn–1, because the exponent on r in any term is always one less
than the term number.
This formula, tn = t1rn-1 is called the defining exponential function for a geometric
sequence where r ¹ 0, t1 is the first term in the geometric sequence, n is the
number of terms in the sequence, and r is the common ratio of the geometric
sequence. This formula is called the general term formula. The value of n is a
natural number.
Example 4
Identify the first term and the common ratio in each of the following
geometric sequences.
 1 n−1
a) tn = 4 
2
n−1
b) tn = 3 ( 5)

Solution
 1 n−1
a) tn = 4 
2
n tn
 1 1−1  1 0
1 t1 = 4  = 4  = 4 (1) = 4
2 2
 1 2−1  1 1 1
2 t2 = 4  = 4  = 4 = 2
2 2 2
2 1
Thus, t1 = 4 and r  .
4 2
Now compare these answers with the numbers in the formula. The
1
coefficient, 4, is the value for t1, the base, , is the value for r, and the
2
exponent of r is n - 1.
n−1
b) tn = 3 ( 5)
If n = 1, t1 = 3(5)1-1 = 3(5)0 = 3(1) = 3.

If n = 2, t2 = 3(5)2-1 = 3(5)1 = 3(5) = 15.
15
Thus, 
r  5.
3
Again, by comparing the answers with the formula, we have the
coefficient, 3, is t1, the base, 5, is the common ratio, and the exponent on r
is n - 1.
Example 5
Write the first three terms of the geometric sequence generated by each of the
following defining exponential functions.
x−1
a) f ( x ) = 3 ( 5)
−1 x−1
b) g( x ) = 8 
 2 
Solution
The domain of the exponential function that yields a geometric sequence is
the set of natural numbers N = {1, 2, 3, . . .}. Therefore, these are the values that
you must substitute for x in order to find the first few terms of a geometric
sequence.
a) x f(x) = 3(5)x–1
1 f(1) = 3(5)1-1 = 3(5)0 = 3(1) = 3
2 f(2) = 3(5)2-1 = 3(5)1 = 3(5) = 15
3 f(3) = 3(5)3-1 = 3(5)2 = 3(25) = 75
The first three terms are 3, 15, and 75.
b) −1 x−1
x g ( x ) = 8 
 2 
−1 1−1 −1 0

1 g (1) = 8  = 8  = 8 (1) = 8
 2   2 
−1 2−1 −1 1 −1 
2 g ( 2 ) = 8  = 8  = 8 = −4
 2   2   2 
−1 3−1 −1 2 1
3 g ( 3) = 8  = 8  = 8 = 2
 2   2  4
The first three terms are 8, -4, and 2.

Exponential functions can be defined in various ways. In this course, you will
be using the type of exponential function f(x) = t1rx-1, where the exponent is
(x - 1). This is the most common way of writing the exponential function to
generate a geometric sequence. Also, the first term and the common ratio are
easier to find in this form. The term number is x and the term value is f(x).
The solution for the next example involves solving an exponential equation.
In previous courses you have learned how to solve these types of equations.
Recall that in order to solve equations where the variable is located in the
exponent, you first need to express all powers in the equation as having the
same base. Examples of this method are shown below.
a) 3x = 94
Solution
3x = (32)4 Change the right side of the equation to base 3
3x = 38 Power rule for exponents
x = 8
Equate the exponents

b) 2x(43-2x) = 16x+1
Solution
2x(22)3-2x = (24)x+1 Change each power to a base of 2
2x22(3-2x) = 24(x+1) Exponent rules
2x+6-4x = 24x+4 Simplify

-3x + 6 = 4x + 4 Equate exponents
6 - 4 = 4x + 3x Solve
2 = 7x Solve
2
= x Solve
7
Now try an example using a geometric sequence.
Example 6
 1  n−1
Which term of the geometric sequence defined by h (n) = ( 3) is 81 ?
9
Solution
In the formula, we are given the term value, h(n), and are to solve for the term
number, n. Substitute h(n) = 81 to get:
1 n−1
81 = ( 3)
9
1
(81)(9 ) = (9 ) ⋅ ( 3)n−1 Multiply both sides of the equation by 9
9
729 = 3n−1 Simplify
Change 729 to 36 by using your calculator to
36 = 3n−1 guess and check
If bases are the same, you can equate the
6 = n−1
exponents
7=n Solve for n
Therefore, 81 is the seventh term, or t7 = 81.
Using the Defining Exponential Function
Given a defining exponential function, you can find any required information
about a geometric sequence. Reversing the problem, given some information
about a geometric sequence, you should be able to develop the defining
exponential function.
Example 7
Write a defining exponential function that generates each of the following
geometric sequences.
a) 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, . . .
b) 81, 27, 9, 3, 1, . . .
Solution
Using the defining exponential function (also called the general term
formula): tn = t1rn-1, r ¹ 0.
a) t1 = 4 and the common ratio, r = 2. Therefore, the function is tn = 4(2)n-1.
27 1
b) t1 = 81 and the common ratio, r =  . Therefore, the function is
81 3
 1 n−1
tn = 81  .
3
Example 8
Write an expression for the 50th term of the geometric sequence 5, 10, 20, 40,
80, . . .
Solution
10
r
  2 and t1  5
5
The corresponding exponential function is tn = 5(2)n-1 and the fiftieth term,

t50 = 5(2)50-1 = 5(2)49 » 2.81 ´ 1015, where “»” is symbolic of the phrase
“almost equal to.”
Note:
Q Since the domain of the exponential function that yields a geometric
sequence is the set of natural numbers, the variable used in defining the
function is usually n instead of x. However, it really does not matter which
variable you use.
Q To be able to write the defining exponential function of a geometric
sequence, all you need is the first term, t1, the common ratio r, and the
formula tn = t1(r)n-1, r ¹ 0.

Example 9
In a geometric sequence, t3 = 50 and t6 = 6250.
a) Write an expression for t15.
b) Which term of the sequence is 156 250?
Solution
a) Using the general term formula, tn = t1rn-1, r ¹ 0, set up two equations
from the given information.
If n = 6, t6 = 6250. Write t1r6-1 = 6250, or t1r5 = 6250.
If n = 3, t3 = 50. Write t1r3-1 = 50 or t1r2 = 50.
To solve this system of equations, it is possible to use one of two
methods—the division method or the substitution method—to isolate for
one of the variables.
Division Method:
The two equations are:
t1r5 = 6250
t1r2 = 50
Divide the equations:
t1 r 5 6250
2
=
t1 r 50
r5
= 125 Cancel t1
r2
r 5−2 = 125 Exponent rule for division
r 3 = 125 Simplify
r=5 Cube root

Substitution Method
The two equations are
t1r5 = 6250
t1r2 = 50
6250
Isolating for t1 in the first equation gives: t1 
r5
Substituting this value in for t1 in the second equation gives
6250 2
⋅ r = 50
r5
6250
= 50 Simplify
r3
6250 = 50r 3 Multiply by r3
6250
= r3 Divide by 50
50
125 = r 3 Simplify
5=r Cube root
After finding r using either the division method or the substitution

method, it is possible to solve for t1.
Substitute r = 5 into either equation.
t1r2 = 50
t1(5)2 = 50
t1(25) = 50
t1 = 2
Therefore, the general formula is tn = 2(5)n-1.
Now you can find t15.
t15 = 2(5)15-1 = 2(5)14 » 1.22 ´ 1010

b) You are given the value of the term and need to solve for the term number.
Thus, substitute 156 250 for tn.
n−1
tn = 2 ( 5 )
n−1
156 250 = 2 ( 5) (Substitute.)
n−1
156 250 2 ( 5) (Divide by 2.)
=
2 2
78 125 = 5n−1 (Simplify.)
57 = 5n−1 (Change 78 125 into a power of 5 using
your calculator to guess and check.)
7 = n−1 (Since bases are now the same, you can

equate the exponents.)
8=n (Solve for n.)

Therefore, 156 250 is the eighth term.
Note: As soon as you find t1 and r, you can state the defining exponential
function and answer any question pertaining to the geometric sequence.
Example 10
Consider the example from the introduction to this lesson. The first salary
option consists of the following sequence of numbers:
0.01, 0.02, 0.04, . . .
The second salary option consists of the following sequence of numbers:
100, 200, 300, . . .
a) Write the defining linear function for the arithmetic sequence.
b) Write the defining exponential function for the geometric sequence.
c) Find the 30th term of the arithmetic sequence algebraically.
d) Find the 30th term of the geometric sequence algebraically.
e) Is the 30th term larger in the geometric sequence or in the arithmetic
sequence? Explain.
Solution
a) The arithmetic sequence for the second option is: 100, 200, 300, . . .
The function consists of the following ordered pairs: (1, 100), (2, 200),
(3, 300), . . . . Therefore, you can use the slope to find the defining linear
function.
200 − 100
m= = 100
2−1
The equation is: y - y1 = m(x - x1)
y - 100 = 100(x - 1)
y = 100x - 100 + 100
y = 100x
The defining function is f(x) = 100x, where x represents how many days on
the job and f(x) represents your salary for that day.
b) The geometric sequence for the first option is: 0.01, 0.02, 0.04, . . .
t1 = 0.01
0.02
r  2
0.01
Defining exponential function: tn = t1rn-1
tn = (0.01)(2)n-1
where n represents the number of days on the job and tn represents the
salary for that day.
c) f(x) = 100x
f(30) = (100)(30) = $3000
Therefore, the 30th term of the arithmetic sequence is $3000. In other
words, your salary on the 30th day would be $3000 if you chose this
option.
d) tn = (0.01)(2)n-1
t30 = (0.01)(2)30-1
t30 = (0.01)(2)29
t30 = 5,368,709.12
Therefore, the 30th term of the geometric sequence is $5,368,709.12. In
other words, your salary on the 30th day would be $5,368,709.12 if you
chose this option.

e) The 30th term in the geometric sequence is significantly larger. This is
because geometric sequences, even when beginning at smaller values,
grow significantly larger than arithmetic sequences.
Now that you have learned all about geometric sequences, it is time to
complete the following learning activity. This learning activity will help you
to practice the skills you have just learned and help you do well on your next
assignment.
Complete the following, and check your answers in the Learning Activity
Answer Keys found at the end of this module.
Part A: BrainPower
1. On the first day of your marathon training, you run 1 km. If you double
that distance every day, on which day will you run over 20 km?
2. Complete the pattern: 1, 2, 4, 7, , ,
3. You and two friends want to go to a movie but you are arguing over the
seating arrangements. If you all sit beside each other in a row, how many
different ways can you be seated?
4. State the common difference of the following arithmetic sequence:
7, 5, 3, 1, -1, ...
5. Estimate the answer: 204 ´ 712
6. How many inches are in 6.5 feet?
7. Determine the volume of a rectangular prism with base dimensions of
12 cm by 10 cm and a height of 6 cm.
8. Write this decimal as a percent: 0.0091
continued
Part B: Geometric Sequences
1. For each sequence below, indicate whether it is geometric, arithmetic, or
neither. If it is geometric, state the value of r, the common ratio; if it is
arithmetic, state the value of d, the common difference.
a) 4, 6, 8, 10, . . .
b) 3, 6, 12, 24, . . .
c) 18, 15, 12, 9, . . .
d) 80, 40, 20, 10, . . .
e) 1, -5, 25, -125, . . .
2. Write the first four terms of each sequence. If it is geometric, state the
value of r, the common ratio; if it is arithmetic, state the value of d, the
common difference.
t1 = 2

a) 
tn = 2tn−1 , n ≥ 2

t1 = 2

b) 
tn = tn−1 + 2 , n ≥ 2

t1 = 2

c) 
tn = 2tn−1 + 2 , n ≥ 2

t1 = 2

d)  2
tn = (tn−1 ) , n ≥ 2

t1 = 5

e)  n
tn = (−1) tn−1 , n ≥ 2

t1 = 4

f) 
tn = tn−1 − 5 , n ≥ 2

continued

3. Write the first three terms of the geometric sequence generated by each of
the following exponential functions. Notice none of them are written in
the usual form, tn = t1rn-1, but all of them generate a geometric sequence.
a) f(x) = 2x
b) tn = 4n-1
c) f(x) = 2(3x)
 1 n
d) tn = 16 
2
4. Write a recursive formula and a defining exponential function to generate

each of the following geometric sequences.
a) 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, . . .
b) 6, 18, 54, 162, 486, . . .
c) 1, -2, 4, -8, 16, . . .
5
d) 40, 20, 10, 5, , ...
2
5. Write an expression for t20 of the sequence 3, 6, 12, 24, . . . . Do not simplify.
1
6. Which term of the geometric sequence 4, 2, 1, . . . has the value ?
1024
7. In a geometric sequence, t2 = 6 and t4 = 54, find the value of t1.

8. What is the value of x if the sequence, x + 2, 3x - 2, 5x + 2 is geometric?
9. Insert three numbers a, b, c between 5 and 80, so that 5, a, b, c, 80 forms a
geometric sequence.
10. A store is conducting a Dutch auction. It will take 10% off the cost of an
item at the end of each day the item doesn’t sell. If an item originally costs
$150, find its cost for each of the next five days.
continued
11. A geometric sequence is defined by the exponential function tn = 5(2)n-1
a) What is the first term?
b) What is the common ratio?
c) What is the value of the 10th term?
d) What is the value of t7?
e) What position in the sequence has the value 163 840?
f) Is the number 4100 a member of this geometric sequence? Justify your
answer.
g) Graph the sequence using graph paper or your graphing calculator.
Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned about geometric sequences. You learned how
geometric sequences grow larger faster than arithmetic sequences. Also,
geometric sequences have a common ratio while arithmetic sequences have
a common difference. Just as arithmetic sequences have corresponding
arithmetic series, geometric sequences have corresponding geometric series.
In the next lesson, you will be learning about geometric series.

L e s s o n 4: Th e S u m o f a F i n i t e G e o m e t r ic
Series
Lesson Focus

q learn the difference between a geometric sequence and a
geometric series
q learn how to use sigma notation to represent the sum of a
geometric series
q learn how to derive a rule for finding the sum of a finite
geometric series
q learn how to find the first term, the common ratio, and the
number of terms in a geometric series
Lesson Introduction
Geometric series appear in nature, economics, and chain emails. Each of

these situations involves increasing growth that spreads farther and farther
with time. This growth, however, could end. For example, you could decide
to withdraw all of the money from a bank account. In this case, the economic
growth you created by depositing money has now stopped. A simpler
example in which growth stops is if you receive a chain email and decide
to delete it rather than forwarding it along. A geometric series can have an
infinite number of terms. In this lesson, you will be dealing with situations
where the growth has stopped, or where you have a finite geometric series.
In the last lesson, you learned how geometric sequences grow larger and
faster than arithmetic sequences. As a result, the sum of a geometric series—
even a finite geometric series—is usually significantly larger than the sum of
an arithmetic series with similar initial conditions.
Geometric Series
The only difference between a geometric sequence and a geometric series is

the presence of addition.
A geometric sequence is the range of an exponential function, y = a(bx), with
domain N where N = {1, 2, 3, 4, . . .}. The ratio of any two consecutive values
is a constant. A geometric series is the sum of the terms of a geometric
sequence. For example,
1, 2, 4, 8, . . . is a geometric sequence.
1 + 2 + 4 + 8 + . . . is the corresponding geometric series.
It may be helpful for you to include these definitions and examples on your
resource sheet.
Sigma Notation
When you were finding the sum of an arithmetic series, you used “Sn” to
represent the sum of n terms of a series. The Greek capital letter S, read as
sigma, can also be used as a symbol for sum.
The sum of the first n terms of the sequence t1, t2, t3, . . ., tn is written as
n
Sn = ∑ ti = t1 + t2 + t3 + ... + tn
i=1
n
The symbol ∑ ti is referred to as sigma notation.
i=1
The series, t1 + t2 + t3 + . . . + tn, is the expanded form of the sigma notation.

Notes:
4
1. The symbol ∑ i2 is read as “the sum of the squares from i = 1 to i = 4”
i=1
and indicates that the series is to start with i = 1 and end with i = 4. The
symbol i is called the index.
2. The index can begin and end at any term. It does not have to start at the
value 1.
3. The letter used for the index is arbitrary. The most commonly used letters
for the index are i and k.

Example 1
Write in expanded form and find the sum.
4
a) ∑ i2
i=1
3
b) ∑ 3 (2 )i−1
i=1
6
c) ∑ ( 2 i + 3)
i= 4
Solution
a) i i2
1 (1)2 = 1
2 (2)2 = 4
3 (3)2 = 9
4 (4)2 = 16
4
∑ i 2 = 1 + 4 + 9 + 16 = 30
i=1
b) i 3(2)i–1
1 3(2)1-1 = 3(2)0 = 3(1) = 3
2 3(2)2-1 = 3(2)1 = 3(2) = 6
3 3(2)3-1 = 3(2)2 = 3(4) = 12
3
∑ 3 (2 )i−1 = 3 + 6 + 12 = 21
i=1
c) i 2i + 3
4 2(4) + 3 = 8 + 3 = 11
5 2(5) + 3 = 10 + 3 = 13
6 2(6) + 3 = 12 + 3 = 15
6
∑ (2i + 3) = 11 + 13 + 15 = 39
i= 4
Reversing the notation has more steps and requires you to generate a defining
formula for the sequence.
Example 2
Write the sum using sigma notation. Find the first term and the common
ratio.
a) 2 + 4 + 8 + 16 + 32
b) 2 + 6 + 18 + 54
Solution
a) t1 = 2
r=2
Using the formula for the general term, tn = t1rn-1,
tn = 2(2)n-1 = 21 × 2n–1 = 21+n-1 = 2n.
Now use the formula and the sigma notation for 5 terms:
5 5
∑2 k
or ∑ (2 ) (2 k−1 )
k=1 k=1
b) t1 = 2
r=3
Use the general term formula, tn = 2(3)n-1, to write the sigma notation for
4 terms.
4
∑ (2 ) (3k−1 )
k=1
Note: When you write a geometric series in sigma notation and the exponent
is in the form “k - 1” or “i - 1,” it is easy to recognize the first term and the
common ratio of the geometric series.
5
In (a), the geometric series written in sigma notation was ∑ (2 ) 2 k−1 . In this
k=1
form, the coefficient is the first term and is the value being multiplied by
the power. Also, the common ratio is the base of the exponent. Consider the
following diagram.
5
∑ (2 ) 2 k−1
k=1
t1 r

4
In (b), the geometric series written in sigma notation was ∑ (2 ) 3k−1 . In this
k=1
form, the first term, 2, is the value being multiplied by the power. Also, the
common ratio, 3, is the base of the exponent.
Note: When the exponent is just “k” or “i,” you may notice that the same
analysis won’t work. The common ratio, r, will always be the base of the
exponent. However, t1 will be harder to find when the exponent is “k” instead
of “k - 1” or “i” instead of “i - 1.”
Sum of a Finite Geometric Series

5
Expanding and finding the sum of the geometric series defined by ∑ 3 ( 4 )k
k=1
50
can be done relatively quickly, but finding the sum of ∑ 3 ( 4 )k takes much
k=1
more time. If a series is geometric, a formula can be derived to find these

sums. First, let’s look at an example so that the steps of the formula proof
make sense.
To find the sum of 3 + 6 + 12 + 24 + 48:
S5 = 3 + 6 + 12 + 24 + 48 r = 2, n = 5
2S5 = 6 + 12 + 24 + 48 + 96 Multiply each term by r = 2 and

adjust where you write your answer.
Subtract; the terms on the right side
S5 − 2S5 = 3 − 96 cancel out except for the first and
last.
−S5 = −93 Simplify.
S5 = 93 Divide by (–1).
93 is the sum of the geometric series 3 + 6 + 12 + 24 + 48.

The multiplication by r, followed by the subtraction, eliminates all terms
except the difference of the first term and the product of r times the last term.
Finding the sum of the series in this way is easier than adding up individual
terms.
You can follow the same steps to develop a general formula.
Formula for Finding the Sum of a Finite Geometric Series
The sum of the first n terms of a geometric series is
t1 ( 1 − r n )
Sn = , provided r ≠ 1
1−r
Proof:
Sn = t1 + t2 + t3 + . . . + tn Geometric series
Sn = t1 + t1r + t1r 2 + . . . + t1r n−2 + t1r n−1 Write each term with only
t1 and r
rSn = t1r + t1r 2 + t1r 3 + . . . + t1r n−1 + t1r n Multiply by r
Sn − rSn = t1 − t1 r n Subtract
Sn (1 − r ) = t1 (1 − r n ) Factor
t1 ( 1 − r n )
Sn = , where r ≠ 1 Divide
(1 − r )
where: t1 is the first term in the series

n is the number of terms
r is the common ratio
Sn is the sum of the first n terms
Note: The formula for the sum of a geometric series includes a restriction on
the common ratio. Because division by zero is not allowed, the formula needs
the restriction so it can be evaluated.
What would happen if a geometric series had a common ratio of 1? An
example would be 4 + 4 + 4 + 4 + 4.
Note that t1 = 4, r = 1, and n = 5. To find the sum, you could just multiply
t1 × n or 4 × 5 = 20.
Example 3
Use the formula to find the sum of the following geometric series.
a) 3 + 6 + 12 + 24 + 48
50
b) ∑ 3 ( 4 )k
k=1

Solution
t1 ( 1 − r n )
Using the formula Sn = , r ≠ 1, you get:
1−r
(
3 1 − (2)
5
) 3 (−31)
a) Sn = = = 93 ,
1−2 −1
which agrees with the answer in the previous example.
50
b) From the sigma notation ∑ 3 ( 4)k , you notice that the common ratio is 4,
k=1
as it is the base being raised to the exponent “k” in this sigma notation. If
you did not recognize 4 as the common ratio, it is also possible to find two
terms of the series and find their common ratio.
1
t1 = 3 ( 4 ) = 12
2
t2 = 3 ( 4 ) = 3 (16 ) = 48
48
r= =4
12
Therefore, the common ratio is 4.
n = 50
t1 ( 1 − r n ) 12 (1 − 4 50 )
∴ S50 = = ≈ 5.07 × 10 30
1−r 1− 4
This is a very large positive number!
However, you were able to find the sum quickly with the use of a formula.
Example 4
Find the sum of the first 10 terms of the geometric series
3 - 6 + 12 - 24 + . . . .
Solution
t1 ( 1 − r n )
Using the formula Sn = , you get
1−r
(
3 1 − (−2 )
10
) 3 (1 − 1024 )
S10 = = = −1023
1 − (−2 ) 3
t1 ( 1 − r n )
Using the formula Sn = , it is possible to solve for any of the values
1−r
for Sn, t1, r, and n when given enough information. Consider the following
example.
Example 5
The sum of a geometric series with t1 = 5 is 635. If r = 2, how many terms are
in this geometric series?
Solution
You have the following information:
Sn = 635
t1 = 5
r=2
t1 ( 1 − r n )
Using the formula Sn = , it is possible to solve for n, the number of
1−r
terms in this series.
5 (1 − 2 n )
635 =
1−2
5 (1 − 2 n )
635 =
−1
−635 = 5 (1 − 2 n )
−635 5 (1 − 2 )
n
=
5 5
−127 = 1 − 2 n
−127 − 1 = −2 n
−128 = −2 n
(−1) (−128) = (−1) (−2 n )
128 = 2 n
27 = 2 n
n=7

Part A: BrainPower
1 7
1. For Josh’s workout, he runs of the football field, sprints of the field,
9 9
and then jogs the rest of the way. What fraction of the field does Josh jog?
2. What is the sum of the digits from 1 to 10?
3. Calculate the perimeter of a square garden with an area of 25 m2.
6
4. Express as a decimal.
20
5. Find the common difference in the following pattern: -2, -9, -16, -23, . . .
6. Estimate: 96
7. Simplify: (24)(32)
8. Find the slope of the line defined by the equation, 3y - 2x + 7 = 0.
continued
Part B: Sums of Geometric Series
1. a) Give an example of a geometric sequence.
b) Write the corresponding geometric series.
2. Write in expanded form and find the sum.
4 4
a) ∑ k3 b) ∑ 3k
k=1 k=1
3 4
c) ∑ 3k d) ∑ 3k−1
k=1 k=1
4 4
e) ∑3 k+1
f) ∑ 5 ⋅ 3k−1
k=2 k=2
5 6
g) ∑ ( 2 k − 5) h) ∑ 2(−3)k−1
k=2 k=3
3. Use sigma notation to write each geometric sum.

a) 4 + 12 + 36 + 108
2 1 1
b) 24 + 4 + + +
3 9 54
c) 2 + 4 + 8 + . . . + 1024
4. Consider the sequence 3, 6, 12, 24, . . .
a) Find the eighth term.
b) Find the sum of the first eight terms, using the sum formula.
continued

5. Find the sum of the first 10 terms of each series. If the numerical answer is
not an integer, state it correct to two decimal places.
a) 120 + 60 + 30 + 15 + . . .
b) 8 + 12 + 18 + 27 + . . .
c) 128 - 64 + 32 - 16 + . . .
8 8
d) 24 + 8 + + +. . .
3 9
e) x2 + x4 + x6 + x8 + . . .
1 1 1
f) 1 + + + +. . .
2 4 8
1
6. In a geometric sequence, t 4  , and t11 = 32. Calculate S11. Express your
4
answer as an exact value.
7. The sum of a geometric series with t1 = 7 is 889. If r = 2, how many terms
are in this geometric series?
8. The sum of a geometric series is 98 301. If there are 15 terms in this
sequence and the common ratio is 2, what is the value for t1?
Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned how geometric series are related to geometric
sequences. You also learned how to find the sum of a finite geometric series.
What happens if you want to find the sum of an infinite geometric series? In
the next lesson, you will learn when infinite geometric series have a sum and
how to find that sum.
this module.
assignment?
Notes

Assignment 1.2
Geometric Sequences and Series
Total: 54 marks
1. Write the first five terms of each of these geometric sequences. State the common
ratio for each geometric sequence. (3 marks each, for a total of 9 marks)
a) f(x) = 3x
b) tn = 4(2)n-1
t1 = 7

c) 
tn = 3tn−1 , n ≥ 2

continued
Assignment 1.2: Geometric Sequences and Series (continued)
2. Write the recursive formula and the defining exponential formula for each geometric
sequence. (2 marks each, for a total of 8 marks)
a) 3, 6, 12, 24, . . .
b) 2, 4, 8, 16, . . .
c) 3, -9, 27, -81, . . .
d) 8, -4, 2, -1, . . .
3. Find the value of t7 in each of the geometric sequences in question 2, using the
exponential function formula. (1 mark each, for a total of 4 marks)
continued

 1 n−1
4. A geometric sequence is defined by the exponential function tn = 16  .
2
a) What is the first term? (1 mark)
b) What is the common ratio? (1 mark)
c) What is the value of the 5th term? (1 mark)
d) What is the value of t7? (1 mark)
1
e) What position in the sequence is occupied by the value ? (2 marks)
32
1
f) Is the number a member of this geometric sequence? Justify your answer.
1024
(2 marks)
continued
5. Write an expression for t25 for each of the following geometric sequences. Simplify
your answers and write as an exact value using exponents. (2 marks each, for a total of
8 marks)
1 1 1 1 1
a) , , , , ,...
4 8 16 32 64
4 4
b) 100 , 20 , 4 , , ,...
5 25
9 3 2 4
c) , , 1, , , . . .
4 2 3 9
4 -8 16
d) 3 , - 2 , , , ,...
3 9 27
continued

6. Write in expanded form. Do not find the sum. (1 mark each, for a total of 2 marks)
6
a) ∑ 3 ( 2 )k
k=2
4
 1 k
b) ∑ 2 
k=1
3
7. Use sigma notation to write each geometric sum. State the values of t1 and r.
(3 marks each, for a total of 6 marks)
1 1
a) + +1+2
4 2
1 1 1
b) 9 + 3 + + +
3 9 27
continued
8. Consider the geometric sequence with t1 = 1000 and r = 1.05.
a) Write the first three terms. (1 mark)
b) Find the sum of the first 20 terms correct to two decimal places. (2 marks)
9. Albert sent a chain email to five of his friends. Each of them sent a copy of the email
to five different friends. These friends repeated the process. If no person receives
more than one email, how many different people have been contacted after seven
levels of mailings, counting Albert’s own email as the first? (3 marks)
10. The sum of a geometric series is 1 398 101. If there are 11 terms in this sequence and
the common ratio is 4, what is the value for t1? (3 marks)

L e s s o n 5: Th e S u m o f a n I n f i n i t e
Geometric Series
Lesson Focus

q learn how to distinguish between a finite and an infinite
geometric series
q learn how to tell if a series converges or diverges
q learn how to derive a rule for finding the sum of an infinite
geometric series
q learn how to determine the sum of a converging infinite
geometric series
Lesson Introduction
In the last lesson, you learned how to find the sum of finite geometric series.
It is also possible to find the sum of infinite geometric series. Consider one
of Zeno’s paradoxes. In this paradox, a man is trying to catch a bus that is
stopped at the bus stop. The man realizes he must run the whole distance
between where he is standing and the bus. If so, then to catch this bus, the
man must also run halfway there. In order to run halfway to the bus, the
man must also run a quarter of the way to the bus. In order to run a quarter
of the way to the bus, the man must run an eighth of a way to the bus, and so
on. Therefore, this man must complete an infinite number of tasks in order
to catch the bus. Zeno believed that this was an impossibility. What do you
think?

In some situations, finding the sum of an infinite geometric series is

impossible. This is not, however, the case in this example. Clearly, finding
the sum of an infinite geometric series is not impossible. Zeno’s man will
catch the bus. Therefore, there must be a way to add up this infinite series of
1 1 1
numbers, + + + ....
2 4 8
Infinite Geometric Series
In previous lessons, you have found the sums of various arithmetic series and
geometric series. These series all had a last term. Therefore, you were finding
the sums of finite series. Infinite series are series that go on forever and do
not end. They have an unlimited number of terms.
1 + 2 + 3 + . . . + 100 is a finite series. This series has a last term of 100.
1 + 2 + 3 + . . . is an infinite series. This series does not have a last term.
Include these definitions and examples on your resource sheet.
Consider Zeno’s infinite series:
1 1 1 1 1
+ + + + +. . .
2 4 8 16 32
and the partial sums associated with this series.

1
S1 =
2
1 1 3
S2 = + =
2 4 4
1 1 1 7
S3 = + + =
2 4 8 8
1 1 1 1 15
S4 = + + + =
2 4 8 16 16
As you keep adding additional terms, the partial sums will form a pattern.
1 3 7 15 31 2n - 1
, , , , , . . ., , . . . where n is the power of 2
2 4 8 16 32 2n
In this pattern, the denominator is always one more than the numerator.
Therefore, each term in the pattern gets closer and closer to the number
1. Since the series is infinite, we say “as the number of terms approaches
infinity, the limit of this series converges to the number 1” and we write
∞ k−1
1 1 
∑ 2 2  = 1,
 
k=1
where ¥ is the symbol for infinity.

This notation for the sum is frequently written as S = 1 or S¥ = 1.
Note: There are two notations used to denote an infinite sum, S and S¥.

Convergent Series
Because the partial sums of this series form a sequence that gets closer and
1 1 1
closer to a specific value, the series + + + . . . is a convergent series.
2 4 8
A convergent series is a series with an infinite number of terms in which
its sequence of partial sums approaches a fixed value. In other words, a
convergent series is a series with an infinite number of terms where S or S¥
has an answer.
Divergent Series
However, not all infinite geometric series converge. For example, the partial
sums of the series
2 + 4 + 8 + 16 + . . . are
2, 6, 14, 30, . . .
and are not getting closer and closer to any number.
The series 2 + 4 + 8 + . . . is said to diverge and cannot be represented by
any number. A divergent series is a series with an infinite number of terms
in which its sequence of its partial sums does not approach a fixed value. In
other words, a divergent series is a series with an infinite number of terms
where S or S¥ does not exist. All series that are not convergent are divergent.
Example 1
Classify these series as convergent or divergent series.
a) 1 + (−1) + 1 + (−1) + 1 . . .
1 1 1 1
b) 1 + + + + +. . .
3 9 27 81
c) 2 + 6 + 18 + 54 + . . .
1 1
d) 9 + 3 + 1 + + +. . .
3 9
Solution
Convergent series are series where their partial sums get closer and closer to
a specific value. Divergent series are series where their partial sums do not
get closer and closer to a specific value.
a) Consider the partial sums of this series:
S1 = 1
S2 = 1 - 1 = 0
S3 = 1 - 1 + 1 = 1
S4 = 1 - 1 + 1 - 1 = 0
The sequence of partial sums (1, 0, 1, 0, . . .) is not getting closer to any
value. Therefore, the series, 1 + (-1) + 1 + (-1) + 1 + . . ., is a divergent
series.
b) Consider the partial sums of this series rounded to 5 decimal places:
S1 = 1
1 4
S2 = 1 + =
3 3
1 1 13
S3 = 1 + + = ≈ 1.44444
3 9 9
1 1 1 40
S4 = 1 + + + = ≈ 1.448148
3 9 27 27
1 1 1 1 121
S5 = 1 + + + + = ≈ 1.49383
3 9 27 81 81
4 13 40 121
It appears as if the sequence of partial sums, 1, , , , , . . ., is
3 9 27 81
1 1 1
getting closer and closer to 1.5. Therefore, the series 1 + + + +. . .
3 9 27
is a convergent series.
c) Consider the partial sums of this series:
S1 = 2
S2 = 2 + 6 = 8
S3 = 2 + 6 + 18 = 26
S4 = 2 + 6 + 18 + 54 = 80
The sequence of partial sums, 2, 8, 26, 80, . . ., is not getting closer to any
particular value. Therefore, the series, 2 + 6 + 18 + 54 + . . ., is a divergent
series.

d) Consider the partial sums of this series:
S1 = 9
S2 = 9 + 3 = 12
S3 = 9 + 3 + 1 = 13
1 40
S4 = 9 + 3 + 1 + = = 13.33333
3 3
1 1 121
S5 = 9 + 3 + 1 + + = = 13.44444
3 9 9
40 121
The sequence of partial sums, 9 , 12 , 13 , , , . . ., appears to be
3 9
1
getting closer and closer to 13.5. Therefore, the series, 9 + 3 + 1 + + . . .,
3
is a convergent series.
Converging Infinite Geometric Series

An infinite geometric series will converge only if r is a positive or negative
proper fraction. We write this restriction as -1 < r < 1, or as |r| < 1.
Include this definition on your resource sheet.
Why is this the restriction? Look at the sum of a geometric series formula.
t1 ( 1 − r n )
Sn =
1−r
and write it in the following fashion by first distributing and then separating
into two fractions.
t1 ( 1 − r n )
Sn =
1−r
t1 − t1 r n
=
1−r
t1 t rn
= − 1
1−r 1−r
Assume -1 < r < 1. Consider rn as n gets larger and larger. As n, the exponent,
gets larger, the value of rn will get smaller and much, much smaller, until it
becomes virtually zero.
You can try this on your calculator by taking higher and higher powers of an
r-value which is a proper fraction, say, -0.25.
Consider the following example when r = -0.25.
n rn
1 (-0.25)1 = -0.25
2 (-0.25)2 = 0.0625
5 (-0.25)5 = -0.000 976 562 5
10 (-0.25)10 = 0.000 000 953 674 316 4
As you can see, rn is getting closer and closer to zero.
t1 r n
For values of n = one million, or one billion, the entire term will
1-r
t1 ( 0 )
become or zero and can be ignored. Therefore, the sum gets closer and
1−r
t1
closer to the number when n gets larger and larger, or as n approaches
1-r
infinity (¥).
Sum of an Infinite Geometric Series

The infinite geometric series, t1 + t2 + t3 + . . ., converges to the sum S or S¥,
given by the formula
t1
S∞ or S = , provided r < 1.
1−r
Note: The restriction on r is very important. If r is not in this range,

-1 < r < 1, there is no point in using this formula. It will not give the correct
answer because the series diverges.

Example 2
Find the sum of the infinite geometric series, if possible.
1
a) 4 + 2 + 1 + +. . .
2
1 1 1
b) 1 − + − +. . .
3 9 27
c) 27 + 36 + 48 + 64 + . . .
∞
 2 k−1
d) ∑ 3 
k=1
3
∞
1
e) ∑ 64 (2 )k−1
k=1
∞
f) ∑ 25 (−2 )k−1
k=1
Solution
1
a) r 
2
Therefore, r satisfies the condition of -1 < r < 1.
4
Therefore, S = = 8.
1 − 0.5
1 1
b) r = − and − 1 < − < 1
3 3
1 3
Therefore, S = = .
 1 4
1 −− 
 3
36 4
c) r = = and r > 1
27 3
The series diverges. Note that if you use the formula, you get an answer,
but it just won’t be the correct answer.
27
S∞ =
4
1−
3
S∞ = −81
The answer doesn’t make sense. The terms of the series are all positive.
Their sums cannot be negative.
2 2
d) r = and − 1 < < 1
3 3
3
Therefore, S = = 9.
2
1 − 
3
e) r = 2 > 1. The series diverges.

f) r = -2 < -1. The series diverges.
Example 3
Find the values of x for which the following infinite geometric series
converges.
2 3
1 + ( x − 1) + ( x − 1) + ( x − 1) + ...
Solution
For a geometric series to converge, the value of r is restricted to numbers
t x−1
between –1 and 1. The value for r is 2 = = x − 1. Thus,
t1 1
-1 < r < 1 rule

-1 < x - 1 < 1 substitute
-1 + 1 < x - 1 + 1 < 1 + 1 add 1 to each term
0 < x < 2 simplify
This interval, 0 < x < 2, is called the interval of convergence. Therefore, the
series 1 + (x - 1) + (x - 1)2 + (x - 1)3 + . . . will converge when 0 < x < 2.
So far, you have seen how to calculate the sum of infinite geometric sequences
in artificial situations. Sometimes real-life problems can be solved by finding
the sum of an infinite geometric sequence. Consider the following example.

Example 4
Equilateral triangle ABC has a perimeter equal to 12 cm. A new triangle, PQR,
is formed by joining the midpoints of the sides of DABC. The midpoints of
triangle PQR are joined to form another triangle. If this process is carried on
indefinitely, what is the sum of the perimeters of all these triangles?
A
D
R P
F E
B C
Q
Solution
Since DABC is equilateral, the angles in all the triangles will be equal, and
all triangles will be equilateral. By making a chart, you can develop a pattern
and the formula for the sum of the perimeters.
The first triangle, DABC, has a perimeter of 12 cm, so each side length is 4.
The second triangle has three equal sides, RP, PQ, and RQ. Since RP is half of
BC, then RP = 2 and the perimeter is 2 + 2 + 2 = 6. In each successive triangle,
both the side length and the perimeter are half as much as the previous
amount. The chart below summarizes this information.
Triangle Triangle Length of Perimeter

Name Number Side
12
DABC 1  4 cm 12 cm
3
DRPQ 2 2 cm 6 cm
DDEF 3 1 cm 3 cm
Therefore, the perimeters of these triangles form the infinite geometric series:
12 + 6 + 3 + 1.5 + . . .
6 1 t 12
r
Since   , it follows that S = 1 = = 24 cm.
12 2 1−r 1 − 0.5
The pattern developed in this example can be generalized for all triangles as
follows:
The segment joining the midpoints of two sides of a triangle is one-half
the length of the third side. It follows that the perimeter of each newly
formed triangle is one-half the perimeter of its “parent” triangle.
Make sure you complete the following learning activity. This learning activity
focuses on finding sums of infinite geometric series and will prepare you for
the assignment.
Part A: BrainPower
1. Find the common ratio in the following pattern: 189, 63, 21, 7, . . .
2. Which of these values would come next in this pattern:
One, four, three, eleven, fifteen, thirteen, . . .
Fourteen
Five
Seven
Seventeen
3. If your favourite television show starts at 7 pm and your mom tells you
that your show is still 48 minutes away, what time is it now?
4. Your school ordered 56 boxes of cookies that each contain 25 cookies. If
there are 700 students at your school, will you have enough cookies to give
each student two cookies?
3 2
5. Calculate: +
16 4
continued

6. Solve the inequality 5x - 2 < 0.
7. Simplify: (2x2 + 3x - 5) - (9x2 - 4x + 6)
144
8. Simplify the following fraction:
180
Part B: Sums of Infinite Geometric Series
If you haven’t already, you may want to go back and include all important
definitions, terms, or examples that you have found more challenging on your
resource sheet.
1. Find the sum of each of the following infinite geometric series. Express
your answers as exact values.
8 8 8
a) 8 + + + +. . .
3 9 27
3 3
b) 6 − 3 + − +. . .
2 4
8 16
c) 6 + 4 + + +. . .
3 9
1 1 1
d) 1 − + − +. . .
2 4 8
∞
 16 
e) ∑ 2 k 
k=1
∞
 18 
f) ∑ 3k 
k=2
2. Consider a geometric sequence where t3 = 16 and t5 = 10.

a) Find the common ratio r, rounded to two decimal places.
∞
b) Find ∑ tk . State your answer rounded to two decimal places.
k=1
continued
3. The sum to infinity of an infinite geometric series is 12. If the common
ratio is 0.25, what is the first term of this series?
4. A 4-by-4 square is divided into four congruent squares, as shown in
the diagram. The bottom left square is shaded. The top right square is
subdivided into four congruent squares again, and the bottom left square
is shaded. This process is repeated indefinitely. What is the total shaded
area?
5. A ball is dropped from a height of two metres. Each time it strikes the
ground, it rebounds three-quarters of the distance it has fallen.
a) How far does it rise after it strikes the ground the third time?
b) How far does it travel before it comes to rest?
6. What is the value of x if the geometric series 1 + 3x + 9x2 + 27x3 + . . .
converges to 4?
7. Recall Zeno’s paradox from the introduction to this lesson. Zeno’s
paradox stated that there is no sum to the infinite geometric series
1 1 1
+ + + . . . . Prove that Zeno is incorrect.
2 4 8

Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned how to find the sum of an infinite geometric series.
You also learned that in some cases it is impossible to find the sum of an
infinite geometric series. However, in the case of Zeno’s paradox, it is possible
to find the sum of an infinite geometric series.
Be sure to complete the final assignment in this module before you continue
on to the next module.
this module.
assignment?
Notes

Assignment 1.3
Finding the Sums of Infinite Geometric Series
Total: 18 marks
1
1. Consider the series 4 + 2 + 1 + +. . .
2
a) Find the sixth term. Express your answer as an exact value. (2 marks)
b) Use the formula to find the sum of six terms. Express your answer as an exact
value. (1 mark)
c) Find, to four decimal places, the sum of 10 terms. (1 mark)
d) Find the infinite sum. Express your answer as an exact value. (2 marks)
continued
(continued)
2. The sum to infinity of an infinite geometric series is -24. If possible, find the
common ratio if the first term of this series is 20. (2 marks)
3. For what values of x does the following infinite geometric series converge (i.e., find
the interval of convergence)? (2 marks each, for a total of 4 marks)
a) 1 + (x + 1) + (x + 1)2 + (x + 1)3 + . . .
b) 1 + (x - 2) + (x - 2)2 + (x - 2)3 + . . .
continued

(continued)
4. Find the sum of each of the following infinite geometric series. Express your
answers as exact values. (1 mark each, for a total of 6 marks)
7 7 7
a) 7 + + + +. . .
3 9 27
3
b) 12 − 6 + 3 − +. . .
2
32 128
c) 10 + 8 + + +. . .
5 25
1 1 1
d) 1 + + + +. . .
2 4 8
continued
(continued)
∞
14
e) ∑ 3k
k=1
∞
8
f) ∑ 4 k 
k=3

Module 1 Summary
You have now completed the first module in Grade 11 Pre-Calculus

Mathematics. In this module, you learned about sequences and series.
You learned how arithmetic sequences are created by adding the common
difference to each term to get the next term. You also learned how geometric
sequences are created by multiplying the common ratio by the term to get
the next term. Because the mathematical operations of multiplication and
addition are different, geometric sequences grow exponentially faster than
arithmetic sequences. Also, it is possible to find the sum of different types of
geometric and arithmetic series.
In the next module, you will shift your focus to learn about factoring. You will
also learn how factoring relates to rational expressions. Patterns are important
to factoring. Recognizing patterns in numbers can be very useful when asked
to factor a difficult or simple polynomial.
Submitting Your Assignments
It is now time for you to submit Assignments 1.1 to 1.3 to the Distance
Learning Unit so that you can receive some feedback on how you are doing
in this course. Remember that you must submit all the assignments in this
course before you can receive your credit.
Make sure you have completed all parts of your Module 1 assignments and
organize your material in the following order:
q Module 1 Cover Sheet (found at the end of the course Introduction)
q Assignment 1.1: Arithmetic Sequences and Series
q Assignment 1.2: Geometric Sequences and Series
q Assignment 1.3: Finding the Sums of Infinite Geometric Series
For instructions on submitting your assignments, refer to How to Submit
Assignments in the course Introduction.
Notes

Module 1
Learning Activity Answer Keys

M o d u l e 1:
Part A: BrainPower
without the use of a calculator and without writing out many steps on paper.
3. Evaluate when z = -1: (3z + 1)(z - 5
8
4. Evaluate:  (12 )
 16 


Module 1 Learning Activity Answer Keys 3

Answers:
1. Alysha started with $7.
(x + $250 - $175 + $35 - $55 = $62
x + $55 = $62
x = $62 - $55
x = $7)
2. 26, 37, 50 (You are adding the next consecutive odd integer each time, add
1, add 3, add 5, etc.)
3. 12 ((3z + 1)(z - 5) = (3(-1) + 1)(-1 - 5) = (-3 + 1)(-6) = (-2)(-6))
 1  
4. 6  (12 )
 2  
5. $43.20
(10% of $30 = $3
20% of $30 = $6
Therefore, after the first increase, the price of the shirt is $36.
10% of $36 = $3.60
20% of $36 = $7.20
The new price of the shirt is $36.00 + $7.20 = $43.20.)
5
6.
8.6
7
7.
8.6
5
8.
7

a) 2, 5, 8, 11, . . .
b) -5, -1, 3, 7, . . .
c) 2, 5, 7, 10, . . .
1 1
d) 2 , 2 , 1, 1 , 0 , . . .
2 2
Answers:
a) 5 - 2 = 3, 8 - 5 = 3, 11 - 8 = 3; arithmetic sequence
b) -1 - (-5) = 4, 3 - (-1) = 4, 7 - 3 = 4; arithmetic sequence
c) 5 - 2 = 3, 7 - 5 = 2; not an arithmetic sequence, 3 ¹ 2
1 1 1 1 1 1
d) 2 − 2 = , 1 − 2 = −1 ; not an arithmetic sequence, − 1 ≠
2 2 2 2 2 2

a) 10, 7, 4, 1, . . .
b) 2, 4, 8, 16, . . .
c) 30, 41, 52, 63, . . .
d) 3, -6, 12, -24, . . .
e) 5, 15, 45, 135, . . .
Answers:
t1 = 10

a) 
tn = tn−1 − 3 , n ≥ 2

Arithmetic sequence with common difference = -3.

t1 = 2

b) 
tn = 2tn−1 , n ≥ 2

Not an arithmetic sequence.

t1 = 30

c) 
tn = tn−1 + 11, n ≥ 2

Arithmetic sequence with common difference = 11.
t1 = 3

d) 
tn = −2tn−1 , n ≥ 2

t1 = 5

e) 
tn = 3tn−1 , n ≥ 2


t1 = 3

a) 
tn = tn−1 + 5 , n ≥ 2

Answer:
n tn = tn-1 + 5
1 t1 = 3
2 t2 = t2-1 + 5 = t1 + 5 = 3 + 5 = 8
3 t3 = t3-1 + 5 = t2 + 5 = 8 + 5 = 13
4 t4 = t4-1 + 5 = t3 + 5 = 13 + 5 = 18
The first four terms are 3, 8, 13, 18.
t1 = 10

b) 
tn = tn−1 − 2 , n ≥ 2

Answer:
n tn = tn-1 - 2
1 t1 = 10
2 t2 = t2-1 - 2 = t1 - 2 = 10 - 2 = 8
3 t3 = t3-1 - 2 = t2 - 2 = 8 - 2 = 6
4 t4 = t4-1 - 2 = t3 - 2 = 6 - 2 = 4

t1 = 3.7

c) 
tn = tn−1 + 1.3 , n ≥ 2

Answer:
n tn = tn-1 + 1.3
1 t1 = 3.7
2 t2 = t2-1 + 1.3 = t1 + 1.3 = 3.7 + 1.3 = 5
3 t3 = t3-1 + 1.3 = t2 + 1.3 = 5 + 1.3 = 6.3
4 t4 = t4-1 + 1.3 = t3 + 1.3 = 6.3 + 1.3 = 7.6
The first four terms are 3.7, 5, 6.3, 7.6
t1 = 1


d) t2 = 1

tn = tn−1 + tn−2 , n ≥ 3

Answer:
n tn = tn-1 + 1.3
1 t1 = 1
2 t2 = 1
3 t3 = t3-1 + t3-2 = t2 + t1 = 1 + 1 = 2
4 t4 = t4-1 + t4-2 = t3 + t2 = 2 + 1 = 3
t1 = 3


e) t2 = −1

tn = tn−1 + tn−2 , n ≥ 3

Answer:
n tn = tn-1 + 1.3
1 t1 = 3
2 t2 = -1
3 t3 = t3-1 + t3-2 = t2 + t1 = -1 + 3 = 2
4 t4 = t4-1 + t4-2 = t3 + t2 = 2 + (-1) = 1
The first four terms are 3, -1, 2, 1.

function.
a) f(x) = 2x + 4
Answer:
f(1) = 2(1) + 4 = 2 + 4 = 6
f(2) = 2(2) + 4 = 4 + 4 = 8
f(3) = 2(3) + 4 = 6 + 4 = 10
Therefore, the first three terms are 6, 8, and 10.
b) g(x) = 5x - 2
Answer:
g(1) = 5(1) - 2 = 5 - 2 = 3
g(2) = 5(2) - 2 = 10 - 2 = 8
g(3) = 5(3) - 2 = 15 - 2 = 13
c) h(x) = -3x + 2
Answer:
h(1) = -3(1) + 2 = -3 + 2 = -1
h(2) = -3(2) + 2 = -6 + 2 = -4
h(3) = -3(3) + 2 = -9 + 2 = -7
Therefore, the first three terms are -1, -4, and -7.
d) m(x) = x - 5
Answer:
m(1) = 1 - 5 = -4
m(2) = 2 - 5 = -3
m(3) = 3 - 5 = -2

produced this sequence.
Answer:
Since the common difference between terms is 3, it follows that m = 3.
Possible linear functions are y = 3x, y = 3x - 3. In general, you could write
y = 3x + b where b is any real number.
a) 5, 8, 11, . . .
Answer:
The common difference in this sequence is three. Therefore, the slope
of the line, m, is 3. A point on the line is (1, 5), or (2, 8), or (3, 11).
y - y1 = m(x - x1)

y - 5 = 3(x - 1)

y = 3x - 3 + 5
y = 3x + 2
1
b) 6 , 6 , 7 , . . .
2
Answer:
1
The common difference in this sequence is . Therefore, the slope of
2
1  1
the line, m, is . A point on the line is (1, 6 ) , or  2 , 6 , or (3 , 7 ) .
2  2
y − y 1 = m ( x − x1 )
1
y−6 = ( x − 1)
2
1 1
y= x− +6
2 2
1 1
y= x+5
2 2

c) 10, 8, 6, . . .
Answer:
The common difference in this sequence is -2. Therefore, the slope of
the line, m, is -2. A point on the line is (1, 10), or (2, 8), or (3, 6).
y - y1 = m(x - x1)

y - 10 = -2(x - 1)
y = -2x + 2 + 10
y = -2x + 12
1 1
d) 2 , 2 , 2 ,...
10 5
Answer:
1
10
1  1  1
the line, m, is . A point on the line is (1, 2 ) , or  2 , 2 , or  3 , 2 .
10  10   5
y − y 1 = m ( x − x1 )
1
y−2 = ( x − 1)
10
1 1
y = x − +2
 10  10
1 9
y = x + 1
 10  100

a) f(x): 7, 11, 15, . . .
Answer:
y - 7 = 4(x - 1)
y = 4x - 4 + 7
y = 4x + 3
\ f(x) = 4x + 3
and f(50) = 4(50) + 3
= 200 + 3
= 203
Thus, the 50th term is 203.

b) g(x): 10, 15, 20, . . .
Answer:
y - 10 = 5(x - 1)
y = 5x - 5 + 10
y = 5x + 5
\ g(x) = 5x + 5
and g(50) = 5(50) + 5
= 250 + 5
= 255
1 1
c) h( x ): 4 , 5 , 5 , . . .
2 2
Answer:
1 1
y−4 = ( x − 1)
2 2
1 1 1
y= x− +4
2 2 2
1
y= x+4
2
1
∴ h( x ) = x+4
2
1
and h ( 50 ) = ( 50 ) + 4
2
= 25 + 4
= 29

Answer:
(5, -15) and (9, -3) are points on the line.
−3 − (−15) 12
m= = =3
9−5 4
y - (-15) = 3(x - 5)
y + 15 = 3x - 15
y = 3x - 15 - 15
y = 3x - 30
f(x) = 3x - 30
f(100) = 3(100) - 30 = 270 = t100

below:

Answer:
Let x represent the row number and let f(x) represent the number of
bricks in the row.
The linear function contains the points with coordinates (5, 45) and
(11, 33).
33 − 45 −12
m= = = −2
11 − 5 6
y - 45 = -2(x - 5)
y = -2x + 10 + 45
y = -2x + 55 or
f(x) = -2x + 55 is the defining linear function
Now find the first term.
f(1) = -2(1) + 55 = 53
There are 53 bricks in the first row.

Answer:
f(n) = -2n + 55
There are -2n + 55 bricks in the nth row.

Answer:
Since the number of bricks cannot be negative or equal to zero, the top
row of bricks may have as few as one brick in it. You need to solve the
following equation:
1 = -2n + 55
-54 = -2n
27 = n
The maximum number of rows is 27.
10. Find which term of the sequence 20, 23, 26, . . ., is the value 245,
Answer:
Using the formula tn = t1 + (n - 1)d, you have
245 = 20 + (n - 1)3
245 = 20 + 3n - 3
245 = 3n + 17
245 - 17 = 3n
228 = 3n
76 = n
Therefore, 245 = t76.
Hence, the 76th term of the sequence has a value of 245.

Answer:
The defining linear function can be found using the points (1, 20) and
(2, 23).
23 − 20
m= =3
2−1
y - 20 = 3(x - 1)
y = 3x - 3 + 20
y = 3x + 17
Now solve for x for the point (x, 245).
228 = 3x
76 = x
term formula.
a) 5, 3, 1, . . . t20
Answer:
d = 3 - 5 = -2
t1 = 5
n = 20
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d
t20 = 5 + (20 - 1)(–2)
t20 = -33
b) 8, 11, 14, . . . t21

Answer:
d = 11 - 8 = 3
t1 = 8
n = 21
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d
t21 = 8 + (21 - 1)(3)
t21 = 68

c) 6, 3, 0, -3, . . . t57
Answer:
d = 3 - 6 = -3
t1 = 6
n = 57
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d
t57 = 6 + (57 - 1)(-3)
t57 = -162
d) 18, 17, 16, 15, . . . t132

Answer:
d = 17 - 18 = -1
t1 = 18
n = 132
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d
t132 = 18 + (132 - 1)(-1)
t132 = -113
e) 7, 8.3, 9.6, 10.9, . . . t172

Answer:
d = 8.3 - 7 = 1.3
t1 = 7
n = 172
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d
t172 = 7 + (172 - 1)(1.3)
t172 = 229.3

Answer:
Method 1:
The sequence is $1800, $1800 + d, $1800 + 2d, . . ., $1800 + 7d
After 7 years, the painting is worth $10,550.
Therefore, $10,550 = $1800 + 7d
$8750 = 7d
$1250 = d
The painting appreciated $1250 annually.
Method 2:
Use the general term formula with
t1 = 1800
n=8
t8 = 10 550
d=?
10 550 = 1800 + ( 8 - 1)d
10 550 = 1800 + 7d
The rest of the solution is the same. Note that in this method n = 8 because
you want the amount after 7 years, not in 7 years.
Answer:
d = 11 - 7 = 4
t1 = 7
n = 29
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d
t29 = 7 + (29 - 1)4
t29 = 119

Answer:
Answers may vary. However, all arithmetic sequences must increase
or decrease by the same value (the common difference) between each
term.

Answer:
Answers may vary. However, answers must be in the form, y = mx + b.

Answer:
Answers may vary. However, answers must be in the form,
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d.
Answer:
The points are (1, 7), (2, 4), (3, 1), (4, -2), (5, -5), (6, -8). The graph is
shown below.


Answer:
The common difference is -3. The first term is 7 so the first point is
(1, 7). The recursion formula is:
t1 = 7


tn = tn−1 − 3 , n ≥ 2


Set your calculator to sequence mode and graph the sequence. The
screen should look something like the one below.
First, enter your information into Y=
Then, set your window.
Press GRAPH.
There is no answer key for this learning activity.

Part A: BrainPower
3. If 4x - 3x + 8x + 2x = 121, then 6x - 2 =
5  2 
 3   14 
(-7, -4).
Answers:
1. 0.5, 0.625
2. 3 loonies, 1 dime, and 2 pennies for a total of 6 coins (8 ´ $20 = $160;
$160 - $156.88 = $3.12; Remember, the store was out of toonies.)
3. 64 (11x = 121, so x = 11; 6(11) - 2 = 66 - 2 = 64)
1 1 9
4. 2  Santana increased the recipe by a factor of nine; 9 × = 
4 4 4
32  5 1 35 3
5.  − = − 
21  3 7 21 21 
 8 28 
6. 4 2 ÷ 2 = 6 = 2 2 = 4 
 6
 2 

7. 181

d = ( x2 − x1 )2 + ( y2 − y1 )2

2 2
d = (−9 ) + (−10 ) = 81 + 100 = 181 )
8. 1, 2, 4, 41, 82, and 164
a) 7 + 12 + 17 + . . ., S20
Answer:
The common difference = 5
Use the formula tn = t1 + (n - 1)d to find tn
t20 = 7 + ( 20 − 1)( 5)
t20 = 102
 7 + 102 
S20 = ( 20 )
 2 
S20 = 1090
b) -5 - 7 - 9 - 11 - . . ., S20
Answer:
The common difference = -2
t20 = −5 + ( 20 − 1) (−2 )
t20 = −43
−5 + (−43) 
S20 = ( 20 )
 2 
S20 = −480

c) 40 + 35 + 30 + . . ., S100
Answer:
t100 = 40 + (100 − 1) (−5)
t100 = −455
 40 + (−455) 
S100 = (100 )
 2 
S100 = −20 750

a) 10 odd integers.
Answer:
The series is 1 + 3 + 5 + . . . and n = 10
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d

t10 = 1 + (10 - 1)(2)

t10 = 19

The sum of 10 terms is
 t + tn 
Sn = 1 (n)
 2 
 t + t10 
S10 = 1 (10 )
 2 
 1 + 19 
S10 = (10 )
 2 
S10 = 100

b) 20 odd integers.
Answer:
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d

t20 = 1 + (20 - 1)(2)

t20 = 39

 t + tn 
Sn = 1 (n)
 2 
 1 + 39 
S20 = ( 20 )
 2 
S20 = 400

Answer:
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d

t100 = 1 + (100 - 1)(2)

t100 = 199

 t + tn 
Sn = 1 (n)
 2 
 1 + 199 
S100 = (100 )
 2 
S100 = 10 000

d) n odd integers.
Answer:
The series is 1 + 3 + 5 + . . . with n terms
The nth term is tn = t1 + (n - 1)d
Thus, tn = 1 + (n - 1)(2)
= 1 + 2n - 2
= 2n - 1
The sum of n terms is
 t + tn 
Sn = 1 (n)
 2 
 1 + 2n − 1 
Sn = (n)
 2 
 2n 
Sn = (n)
 2 
Sn = (n) (n)
Sn = n2
Note that the formula you have developed might be worth

memorizing. Can you show that the sum of the first n even natural
numbers is n(n + 1)? Can you show that the sum of the first n natural
n ( n + 1)
numbers is ?
2

Answer:
The first multiple of 3 greater than 99 is 102. The first term is not 99 because
the multiples must lie between 99 and 1000, not including 99 nor 1000.
The greatest multiple of 3 smaller than 1000 is 999.
The series is 102 + 105 + 108 + . . . + 999.
To find the sum, the value of n must be found using the general term
formula and d = 3.
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d
999 = 102 + (n - 1)(3)
897 = (n - 1)(3)
299 = n - 1
300 = n

The number of terms is 300.
The sum of the series is
 t + tn 
Sn = 1 (n)
 2 
 102 + 999 
S300 = ( 300 )
 2 
S300 = 165 150
4. Find S100 of 1 + 4 + 7 + . . . .
Answer:
The series is 1 + 4 + 7 + . . . n = 100, and d = 3.
To find the sum of 100 terms, the last term, t100, needs to be calculated
using the general term formula and d = 3.
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d

t100 = 1 + (100 - 1)(3)
t100 = 298
 t + tn 
Sn = 1 (n)
 2 
 1 + 298 
S100 = (100 )
 2 
S100 = 14 950

6275?
Answer:
The series is 3 + 8 + 13 + . . . + 248.
To find the number of terms, use the formula
 t + tn 
Sn = 1 (n)
 2 
where Sn = 6275 (given)

t1 = 3
tn = 248

Substitute and solve for n:
 3 + 248 
6275 = (n)
 2 
6275 = 125.5n
50 = n
There are 50 terms in the series.

Answer:
Method 1:
Since t2 = -1 and t12 = 19, two points on the line determined by the
defining linear function are (2, -1) and (12, 19).
By finding the function, t1 and t13 can be found.
19 − (−1) 20
Slope = = =2
12 − 2 10
Equation of line is:

y - y1 = m(x - x1)
y - (-1) = 2(x - 2)
y + 1 = 2x - 4
y = 2x - 5
The defining linear function is f(x) = 2x - 5 and
t1 = f(1) = 2(1) - 5 = 2 - 5 = -3
t13 = f(13) = 2(13) - 5 = 26 - 5 = 21
 t + tn 
Sn = 1 (n)
 2 
−3 + 21 
S13 = (13)
 2 
S13 = 117

Method 2:
Since the slope was calculated in Method 1 to be 2, then d = 2 for the
series.
Since t2 = 1
t1 = t2 - d = -1 - 2 = -3
and t12 = 19
t13 = t12 + d = 19 + 2 = 21
then the sum can be calculated as in Method 1.
Answer:
The arithmetic sequence is 20, 22, 24, . . . t26. To calculate t26, use the
general term formula.
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d

t26 = 20 + (26 - 1)(2)
t26 = 70
There are 70 seats in the last row.
To find the seating capacity means to find how many seats there are
altogether. The series is
20 + 22 + 24 + . . . + 70
and n = 26
The sum is
 t + tn 
Sn = 1 (n)
 2 
 20 + 70 
S26 = ( 26 )
 2 
S26 = 1170
The seating capacity is 1170 seats.

seventh year.
Answer:
The sequence is $26,785, . . ., $34,825, with n = 7.
Use the general term formula to find d.
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d
34 825 = 26 785 + (7 - 1)(d)
8040 = 6d
1340 = d
Mary received a raise of $1340 each year.

Answer:
To find Mary’s salary in the fifth year, we need to find t5 using the
general term formula and n = 5.
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d
t5 = 26 785 + (5 - 1)(1340)
t5 = $32,145
Mary’s salary in the fifth year is $32,145.
$30,000?
Answer:
From part (b), we know t5 = $32,145.
Thus, t4 = 32 145 - d
= 32 145 - 1340
= $30,805
and t3 = 30 805 - 1340
= $29,465
In the fourth year, Mary’s salary is over $30,000.

Answer:
To find the total amount Mary earned in seven years, we find the sum
of the series with 7 terms.
$26,785 + . . . + $34,825
 t + tn 
Sn = 1 (n)
 2 
 26 785 + 34 825 
S7 = (7 )
 2 
S7 = $215 , 635
Mary earns $215,635 in 7 years.
n
.
2
Answer:
 t + tn 
Use the formula: Sn = 1 (n)
 2 
n
Rearrange to get:  t + tn 
Sn =  
2 1
Use the general term formula to replace tn and simplify.
t n = t 1 + ( n − 1) d
n
 t + ( t 1 + ( n − 1) d ) 
∴ Sn =  
2 1
n
Sn = 
 2 t 1 + ( n − 1) d 

2

4 + 9 + 14 + 19 + . . .
Answer:
4 + 9 + 14 + 19 + . . .
t1 = 4
n = 10
d=5
n
Sn = 
 2 t 1 + ( n − 1) d 

2
10
Sn = 2 ( 4 ) + (10 − 1)( 5)
 
2
Sn = 5 
8 + 9 ( 5)

S10 = 265
Note: You now can use either formula to find the sum of an arithmetic
series.
n
Sn = 
 2 t 1 + ( n − 1) d 

2
 t + tn 
Sn = 1 (n)
 2 

Part A: BrainPower
7, 5, 3, 1, -1, . . .
Answers:
1. Day 6 (Day 1 = 1 km; Day 2 = 2 km; Day 3 = 4 km; Day 4 = 8 km;
Day 5 = 16; km; Day 6 = 32 km)
2. 11, 16, 22 (add 1, add 2, add 3 is the pattern, so add 4, then 5, then 6 to get
the next three terms)
3. 6 ways (3 choices for the frist seat, 2 choices for the second, and 1 choice for
the last seat means 3 ´ 2 ´ 1 = 6 ways)
4. -2 (5 - 7)
5. 140 000 (a good estimate is 200 ´ 700 = 140 000)
6. 78 inches (There are 12 inches in 1 foot and 6.5 ´ 12 = 78 inches.)
7. 720 cm3 (The formula for the volume of a rectangular prism is V = (area of
the base)(height); V = (12 ´ 10) ´ 6 = 120 ´ 6 = 720 cm3)
8. 0.91% (multiply by 100)

a) 4, 6, 8, 10, . . .
Answer:
6 - 4 = 2; 8 - 6 = 2; 10 - 8 = 2
Therefore, the sequence is arithmetic with d = 2.
b) 3, 6, 12, 24, . . .
Answer:
6 12 24
 2 ; 2 ; 2
3 6 12
Therefore, the sequence is geometric with r = 2.
c) 18, 15, 12, 9, . . .

Answer:
15 - 18 = -3; 12 - 15 = -3; 9 - 12 = -3
Therefore, the sequence is arithmetic with d = -3.
d) 80, 40, 20, 10, . . .

Answer:
40 1 20 1 10 1
 ;
 ; 
80 2 40 2 20 2
1
Therefore, the sequence is geometric with r = .
2
e) 1, -5, 25, -125, . . .
Answer:
−5 25 −125
= −5 ; = −5 ; = −5
1 −5 25
Therefore, the sequence is geometric with r = -5.

common difference.
t1 = 2

a) 
tn = 2tn−1 , n ≥ 2

Answer:
n tn
1 t1 = 2
2 t2 = 2t2-1 = 2t1 = 2(2) = 4
3 t3 = 2t3-1 = 2t2 = 2(4) = 8
4 t4 = 2t4-1 = 2t3 = 2(8) = 16
\ geometric, with r = 2
t1 = 2

b) 
tn = tn−1 + 2 , n ≥ 2

Answer:
n tn
1 t1 = 2
2 t2 = t2-1 + 2 = t1 + 2 = 2 + 2 = 4
3 t3 = t3-1 + 2 = t2 + 2 = 4 + 2 = 6
4 t4 = t4-1 + 2 = t3 + 2 = 6 + 2 = 8
\ arithmetic, with d = 2
t1 = 2

c) 
tn = 2tn−1 + 2 , n ≥ 2

Answer:
n tn
1 t1 = 2
2 t2 = 2t2-1 + 2 = 2t1 + 2 = 2(2) + 2 = 4 + 2 = 6
3 t3 = 2t3-1 + 2 = 2t2 + 2 = 2(6) + 2 = 12 + 2 = 14
4 t4 = 2t4-1 + 2 = 2t3 + 2 = 2(14) + 2 = 28 + 2 = 30
\ neither

t1 = 2

d)  2
tn = (tn−1 ) , n ≥ 2

Answer:
n tn
1 t1 = 2
2 t2 = (t2-1)2 = (t1)2 = 22 = 4
3 t3 = (t3-1)2 = (t2)2 = 42 = 16
4 t4 = (t4-1)2 = (t3)2 = 162 = 256
\ neither
t1 = 5

e)  n
tn = (−1) tn−1 , n ≥ 2

Answer:
n tn
1 t1 = 5
2 t2 = (-1)2t2-1 = (-1)2t1 = (1)(5) = 5
3 t3 = (-1)3t3-1 = (-1)3t2 = (-1)(5) = -5
4 t4 = (-1)4t4-1 = (-1)4t3 = (1)(-5) = -5
\ neither
t1 = 4

f) 
tn = tn−1 − 5 , n ≥ 2

Answer:
n tn
1 t1 = 4
2 t2 = t2-1 - 5 = t1 - 5 = 4 - 5 = -1
3 t3 = t3-1 - 5 = t2 - 5 = -1 - 5 = -6
4 t4 = t4-1 - 5 = t3 - 5 = -6 - 5 = -11
\ arithmetic, with d = -5

a) f(x) = 2x
Answer:
n tn = 2 x
1 21 = 2
2 22 = 4
3 23 = 8
b) tn = 4n-1
Answer:
n tn = 4n-1
1 40 = 1
2 41 = 4
3 42 = 16
c) f(x) = 2(3x)
Answer:
x f(x)
1 2(31) = 6
2 2(32) = 18
3 2(33) = 54

 1 n
d) tn = 16 
2
Answer:
n f(x)
1
1 16 = 8
2
 1 2 1
2 16  = 16 = 4
2 4
 1 3  1
3 16  = 16 = 2
2 8

a) 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, . . .
Answer:
t1 = 4

Recursive formula: 
tn = 2tn−1 , n ≥ 2

Exponential function: tn = 4(2)n-1
b) 6, 18, 54, 162, 486, . . .

Answer:
t1 = 6

tn = 3tn−1 , n ≥ 2

c) 1, -2, 4, -8, 16, . . .

Answer:
t1 = 1

tn = −2tn−1 , n ≥ 2

Exponential function: tn = (-2)n-1

5
d) 40, 20, 10, 5, , ...
2
Answer:
t1 = 40

Recursive formula:  1
tn = (tn−1 ) , n ≥ 2
 2
 1 n−1
Exponential function: tn = 40 
2
Answer:
The defining exponential function is tn = 3(2)n-1. Therefore,
t20 = 3(2)20-1 = 3(2)19.
1
1024
Answer:
2 1
r 
4 2
 1 n−1
The defining exponential function is tn = 4  .
2
1  1 n−1
Hence, = 4 
1024 2
n−1
1 2 1 
= 2  
2 10 2
1  1 n−1
=  
2 10 2 2  2 
 1 12  1 n−1
  = 
2 2
n − 1 = 12
n = 13
1
Therefore, is the 13th term.
1024

Answer:
Substitute the coordinates of the points (2, 6) and (4, 54) into the
exponential function tn = t1rn-1 and solve the two equations for the two
unknowns.
The point (2, 6) yields 6 = t1r and (4, 54) yields 54 = t1r3. Using division
method:
t1 r 3 54
=
t1 r 6
r2 = 9
r = ±3
Two possible sequences exist, one with r = 3 and the other with r = -3.
Case 1: If r = 3, then 6 = t1(3) or t1 = 2.
Case 2: If r = -3, then 6 = t1(–3) or t1 = -2.

Answer:
t2 t
If the sequence is geometric, the ratios, and 3 , must be equal.
t1 t2
3x − 2 5x + 2
=
x+2 3x − 2
( 3x − 2 ) ( 3x − 2 ) = ( x + 2 ) ( 5x + 2 ) (cross-multiply)
9 x 2 − 12 x + 4 = 5x 2 + 12 x + 4
4 x 2 − 24 x = 0
4x ( x − 6) = 0
x = 6 or x = 0
If you are interested in seeing the sequences, substitute the values of x into
the terms.
When x = 6, the sequence is 8, 16, 32.
When x = 0, the sequence is 2, -2, 2.
Both are geometric sequences with common ratio 2 and -1, respectively.

geometric sequence.
Answer:
If r is the common ratio then the terms of the geometric sequence are 5, 5r,
5r2, 5r3, 5r4.
Therefore, 5r4 = 80.
r4 = 16
r = ±2
Case 1: If r = 2, then a = 10, b = 20, c = 40.
Case 2: If r = –2, then a = -10, b = 20, c = -40.
Answer:
If the cost of the item is being reduced by 10%, then the sale price is
100% - 10% or 90% of the original price. Thus, the cost of the item at the
end of the next five days is calculated as follows.
first day: ($150.00)(0.90) = $135.00
second day: ($135.00)(0.90) = $121.50
third day: ($121.50)(0.90) = $109.35
fourth day: ($109.35)(0.90) = $98.42
fifth day: ($98.42)(0.90) = $88.58
Note that if you use the formula t6 = 150(0.9)6-1 to find your answer for the
end of the fifth day, you get $88.57. Since the deductions are made daily,
the correct answer is one cent different and is $88.58.

Answer:
t1 = 5, the coefficient

Answer:
r = 2, the base

Answer:
t10 = 5(2)10-1 = 5(2)9 = 2560

Answer:
t7 = 5(2)7-1 = 5(2)6 = 320

Answer:
n−1
tn = 5 ( 2 )
n−1
163 840 = 5 ( 2 )
n−1
163 840 5 (2) Divide by 5
=
5 5
32 768 = 2 n−1 Simplify
2 15 = 2 n−1 Use guess and check

15 = n − 1 Equate exponents
16 = n Solve

answer.
Answer:
n−1
tn = 5 ( 2 )
n−1
4100 = 5 ( 2 )
n−1
4100 5 (2)
=
5 5
820 = 2 n−1
Powers of 2 are 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, 128, 256, 512, 1024, . . ., and 820 is not
one of them. Thus, 4100 is not a term of the sequence.

Answer:
The graph of the function is shown below.

The shape is a curve and not a straight line. The points are not joined
because the domain is the set of natural numbers.

Part A: BrainPower
1 7
9 9
6
20
6. Estimate: 96
7. Simplify: (24)(32)
Answers:
1  1 7  9 8 1
1.  1 − + = − = 
9  9 9 9 9 9
2. 55 (1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + 5 + 6 + 7 + 8 + 9 + 10; combining digits that sum to

10 (1 and 9, 2 and 8, etc.) gives 10 + 10 + 10 + 10 + 10 + 5 = 55)
3. 20 m (Length of the side = 25  5 ; Perimeter = 5 ´ 4)

6 3 
4. 0.3  = = 0.3
 20 10 
5. -7
6. 9.8 (96 is between 81 and 100; therefore, 96 is between 9 and 10 and is

closer to 10)
7. 144 (24 ´ 32 = 16 ´ 9)
2  2 7
8.  3y = 2 x − 7 ; y = x − 
3  3 3

Answer:
Answers will vary. Be sure every term is a multiple of the term before.
Answer:
Answers will vary. Answers must be an addition of the terms in the
corresponding geometric sequence.
Check with your learning partner or review examples in the lesson to check
your work.

4 4
a) ∑k 3
b) ∑ 3k
k=1 k=1
3 4
c) ∑ 3k d) ∑ 3k−1
k=1 k=1
4 4
e) ∑ 3k+1 f) ∑ 5 ⋅ 3k−1
k=2 k=2
5 6
g) ∑ ( 2 k − 5) h) ∑ 2(−3)k−1
k=2 k=3
Answers:
4
a) ∑ k 3 = (1)3 + (2 )3 + (3)3 + ( 4)3 = 1 + 8 + 27 + 64 = 100
k=1
4
b) ∑ 3k = 31 + 32 + 33 + 34 = 3 + 9 + 27 + 81 = 120
k=1
3
c) ∑ 3k = 3 (1) + 3 ( 2 ) + 3 ( 3) = 3 + 6 + 9 = 18
k=1

4
d) ∑ 3k−1 = 31−1 + 32−1 + 33−1 + 34−1 = 30 + 31 + 32 + 33
k=1
= 1 + 3 + 9 + 27 = 40
4
e) ∑ 3k+1 = 32+1 + 33+1 + 34+1 = 33 + 34 + 35 = 27 + 81 + 243 = 351
k=2
4
f) ∑ 5 ⋅ 3k−1 = 5 ⋅ 32−1 + 5 ⋅ 33−1 + 5 ⋅ 34−1 = 5 ⋅ 31 + 5 ⋅ 32 + 5 ⋅ 33
k=2
= 15 + 45 + 135 = 195
5
g) ∑ ( 2 k − 5) = ( 2 ( 2 ) − 5) + ( 2 ( 3) − 5) + ( 2 ( 4 ) − 5) + ( 2 ( 5) − 5)
k=2
= −1 + 1 + 3 + 5 = 8
6
h) ∑ 2(−3)k−1 = 2 (−3)3−1 + 2 (−3)4−1 + 2 (−3)5−1 + 2 (−3)6−1
k=3
2 3 4 5
= 2 (−3) + 2 (−3) + 2 (−3) + 2 (−3)
= 2 (9 ) + 2 (−27 ) + 2 (81) + 2 (−243)
= 18 − 54 + 162 − 486 = −360

a) 4 + 12 + 36 + 108
Answer:
r=3
t1 = 4
n=4
4
∑ 4 (3)k−1
k=1

2 1 1
b) 24 + 4 + + +
3 9 54
Answer:
4 1
r
 
24 6
t1 = 24
n=5
5 k−1
1
∑ 24 6 
k=1
c) 2 + 4 + 8 + . . . + 1024
Answer:
r=2
t1 = 2
n = 10, since 210 = 1024
10 10
k−1
∑ 2 (2) or ∑ 2k
k=1 k=1

Answer:
tn = 3(2)n-1
Therefore, t8 = 3(2)8-1 = 384.
Answer:
t1 ( 1 − r n ) (
3 1 − (2)
8
) 3 (−255)
Using Sn = , S8 = = = 765.
1−r 1−2 −1

a) 120 + 60 + 30 + 15 + . . .
Answer:
t1 ( 1 − r n ) (
120 1 − (0.5)
10
)
Using Sn = , S10 = = 239.77.
1−r 1 − 0.5
b) 8 + 12 + 18 + 27 + . . .
Answer:
t1 ( 1 − r n ) 12 3 8 1 − (1.5) ( 10
)
Using Sn = and r = = = 1.5 , S10 = = 906.64.
1−r 8 2 1 − 1.5
c) 128 - 64 + 32 - 16 + . . .
Answer:
t1 ( 1 − r n ) (
128 1 − (−0.5)
10
)
Using Sn = , S10 = = 85.25.
1−r 1 − (−0.5)
8 8
d) 24 + 8 + + +. . .
3 9
Answer:
  1 10 
24
 1 −  

t1 ( 1 − r n )  3 
Using Sn = , S10 = = 36.00.
1−r 1
1−
3
e) x2 + x4 + x6 + x8 + . . .
Answer:
Using Sn =
t1 ( 1 − r n )
, S10 =
(
x2 1 − (x2 )
10
) = x (1 − x 2 20
)
.
1−r 1 − x2 1 − x2

1 1 1
f) 1 + + + +. . .
2 4 8
Answer:
t1 ( 1 − r n ) (
1 1 − (0.5)
10
)
Using Sn = , S10 = = 2.00.
1−r 1 − 0.5
1
4
Answer:
Use the general term formula to write two equations. Then solve using
division method.
1
t4 = = t1 r 3 equation (a )
4
t11 = 32 = t1r 10 equation ( b)
32 t r 10
 1 3
1 t1 r
4
128  r 7
2r
Now substitute r = 2 into equation (a) and solve for t1.
1
= t1 2 3
4
1
= t1 ( 8 )
4
1
4 = t1 ( 8 )
8 8
1
= t1
32

Now find S11.
t1 ( 1 − r n )
Sn =
1−r
1
 (1 − 2 11 )
 32 
S11 =
1−2
2047
S11 =
32
Note that you can use the a b c button on your scientific calculator or
Math Frac on your graphing calculator to find the exact answers when
using fractions.

Answer:
Sn = 889
t1 = 7
r=2
t1 ( 1 − r n )
Using the formula Sn = , it is possible to solve for n, the number
1−r
of terms in this series.
7 (1 − 2 n )
889 =
1−2
889 = −7 ( 1 − 2 n )
889 −7 ( 1 − 2 )
n
=
−7 −7
−127 = 1 − 2 n
−127 − 1 = −2 n
−128 = −2 n
128 = 2 n
27 = 2 n
n=7

Answer:
Sn = 98 301
r=2
n = 15
t1 ( 1 − r n )
Using the formula Sn = , it is possible to solve for t1.
1−r
t1 (1 − 2 15 )
98 301 =
1−2
98 301 = t1 (32 767 )
98 301 t1 (32 767 )

=
32 767 32 767
3 = t1

Part A: BrainPower
Fourteen
Five
Seven
Seventeen
3 2
5. Calculate: +
16 4
7. Simplify: (2x2 + 3x - 5) - (9x2 - 4x + 6)
144
180
Answers:
1
1.
3
2. Seventeen (Each number has one more letter in the spelling of the word
than the previous number.)
3. 6:12 pm.
4. You will have exactly enough cookies. (56 ´ 25 = 50 ´ 25 + 6 ´ 25 =
1250 + 150 = 1400 = 700 ´ 2)
11
5.
16

6. 5x  2
2
x
5
7. -7x2 + 7x - 11
[(2x2 + 3x - 5) - (9x2 - 4x + 6) = 2x2 + 3x - 5 - 9x2 + 4x - 6]
4  144 72 36 
8.  = = 
5  180 90 45 
resource sheet.
8 8 8
a) 8 + + + +. . .
3 9 27
Answer :
1 t 8
r= , S= 1 = = 12
3 1−r 1
1−
3
3 3
b) 6 − 3 + − +. . .
2 4
Answer :
1 t 6
r =− , S = 1 = =4
2 1−r  1
1 −− 
 2

8 16
c) 6 + 4 + + +. . .
3 9
Answer :
2 t 6
r= , S= 1 = = 18
3 1−r 2
1−
3
1 1 1
d) 1 − + − +. . .
2 4 8
Answer :
1 t 1 2
r =− , S = 1 = =
2 1−r  1 3
1 −− 
 2
∞
 16 
e) ∑ 2 k 
k=1
Answer :
∞
 16  16 16 16
∑ 2 k = 21 + 2 2 + 2 3 + . . .
k=1
= 8+ 4 +2 +. . .
1 t 8
r= , S= 1 = = 16
2 1−r 1
1−
2
∞
 18 
f) ∑ 3k 
k=2
Answer :
∞
 18  18 18 18
∑ 3k = 32 + 33 + 34 + . . .
k=2
18 18 18
= + + +. . .
9 27 81
2 2
=2+ + +. . .
3 9
1 t 2
r= , S= 1 = =3
3 1−r 1
1 − 
3

Answer:
Use the formula for the general term to find two equations. Then use
division method to solve.
t3 = 16 = t1r 2
t5 = 10 = t1r 4
t1 r 4 10
=
t1 r 2 16
r 2 = 0.625
r = ±0.79
∞
k=1
Answer:
Substitute the values for r into either equation to find t1.
16 = t1r 2
2
16 = t1 (±0.79 )
16 = t1 (0.625)
16
t1 =
0.625
t1 = 25.6
Note that both values for r meet the restriction: |r| < 1.
Case 1: Case 2:
r = 0.79 r = −0.79
t1 t1
S∞ = S∞ =
1−r 1−r
25.6 25.6
S∞ = S∞ =
1 − 0.79 1 − (−0.79 )
S∞ = 121.90 or 122.24 S∞ = 14.30
Note the answer for S¥ can be obtained using the calculator answer
for r before rounding. If you used r = 0.79, S¥ = 121.90, for r = -0.79,
S¥ = 14.30. Both 121.90 and 122.24 would be considered correct.

Answer:
t1
S=
1−r
t1
Therefore, 12 =
1 − 0.25
t1
12 =
0.75
t1 = 12 (0.75)
t1 = 9

area?
Answer:
 1 2 1
2 2 , 12 ,   , . . . or 4 , 1, , . . .
2 4
t1 4 4 4 16
S= = = = 4× =
1−r 1 3 3 3
1−
4 4

Answer:
Draw a diagram to get a sense of what is happening:

3 3 3 3  9
First bounce = 2 = ; second bounce =  = ;
4 2 2 4  8
9 3  27
third bounce =  = .
8 4  32

Answer:
From the diagram, the total downward distance series is
3 9 t 2
2+ + +...= 1 = = 8.
2 8 1−r 3
1−
4
The total upward distance = downward distance - original drop =
8 - 2 = 6.
The distance travelled is 8 + 6 = 14 metres.

converges to 4?
Answer:
t1 = 1 and r = 3x
Furthermore, the sum is 4, so solving for x you get
t1
S=
1−r
1
4=
1 − 3x
1
4 ( 1 − 3x ) = ( 1 − 3x )
1 − 3x
4 − 12 x = 1
3 = 12 x
3 1
x= =
12 4

1 1 1
2 4 8
Answer:
t1
S∞ or S = , provided r < 1
1−r
1
In this example, r = < 1.
2
Therefore, you can use the sum formula.
1 1
t 2
S= 1 = = 2 =1
1−r 1 1
1−
2 2
Therefore, there is a sum to this geometric series, and it is possible to catch
the bus.

Notes

Module 1

M o d u l e 1:
Part A: BrainPower
3. Evaluate when z = -1: (3z + 1)(z - 5
8
4. Evaluate:  (12 )
 16 



Answers:
1. Alysha started with $7.
(x + $250 - $175 + $35 - $55 = $62
x + $55 = $62
x = $62 - $55
x = $7)
2. 26, 37, 50 (You are adding the next consecutive odd integer each time, add
1, add 3, add 5, etc.)
3. 12 ((3z + 1)(z - 5) = (3(-1) + 1)(-1 - 5) = (-3 + 1)(-6) = (-2)(-6))
 1  
4. 6  (12 )
 2  
5. $43.20
(10% of $30 = $3
20% of $30 = $6
Therefore, after the first increase, the price of the shirt is $36.
10% of $36 = $3.60
20% of $36 = $7.20
The new price of the shirt is $36.00 + $7.20 = $43.20.)
5
6.
8.6
7
7.
8.6
5
8.
7

a) 2, 5, 8, 11, . . .
b) -5, -1, 3, 7, . . .
c) 2, 5, 7, 10, . . .
1 1
d) 2 , 2 , 1, 1 , 0 , . . .
2 2
Answers:
a) 5 - 2 = 3, 8 - 5 = 3, 11 - 8 = 3; arithmetic sequence
b) -1 - (-5) = 4, 3 - (-1) = 4, 7 - 3 = 4; arithmetic sequence
c) 5 - 2 = 3, 7 - 5 = 2; not an arithmetic sequence, 3 ¹ 2
1 1 1 1 1 1
d) 2 − 2 = , 1 − 2 = −1 ; not an arithmetic sequence, − 1 ≠
2 2 2 2 2 2

a) 10, 7, 4, 1, . . .
b) 2, 4, 8, 16, . . .
c) 30, 41, 52, 63, . . .
d) 3, -6, 12, -24, . . .
e) 5, 15, 45, 135, . . .
Answers:
t1 = 10

a) 
tn = tn−1 − 3 , n ≥ 2

Arithmetic sequence with common difference = -3.

t1 = 2

b) 
tn = 2tn−1 , n ≥ 2


t1 = 30

c) 
tn = tn−1 + 11, n ≥ 2

Arithmetic sequence with common difference = 11.
t1 = 3

d) 
tn = −2tn−1 , n ≥ 2

t1 = 5

e) 
tn = 3tn−1 , n ≥ 2


t1 = 3

a) 
tn = tn−1 + 5 , n ≥ 2

Answer:
n tn = tn-1 + 5
1 t1 = 3
2 t2 = t2-1 + 5 = t1 + 5 = 3 + 5 = 8
3 t3 = t3-1 + 5 = t2 + 5 = 8 + 5 = 13
4 t4 = t4-1 + 5 = t3 + 5 = 13 + 5 = 18
t1 = 10

b) 
tn = tn−1 − 2 , n ≥ 2

Answer:
n tn = tn-1 - 2
1 t1 = 10
2 t2 = t2-1 - 2 = t1 - 2 = 10 - 2 = 8
3 t3 = t3-1 - 2 = t2 - 2 = 8 - 2 = 6
4 t4 = t4-1 - 2 = t3 - 2 = 6 - 2 = 4

t1 = 3.7

c) 
tn = tn−1 + 1.3 , n ≥ 2

Answer:
n tn = tn-1 + 1.3
1 t1 = 3.7
2 t2 = t2-1 + 1.3 = t1 + 1.3 = 3.7 + 1.3 = 5
3 t3 = t3-1 + 1.3 = t2 + 1.3 = 5 + 1.3 = 6.3
4 t4 = t4-1 + 1.3 = t3 + 1.3 = 6.3 + 1.3 = 7.6
The first four terms are 3.7, 5, 6.3, 7.6
t1 = 1


d) t2 = 1

tn = tn−1 + tn−2 , n ≥ 3

Answer:
n tn = tn-1 + 1.3
1 t1 = 1
2 t2 = 1
3 t3 = t3-1 + t3-2 = t2 + t1 = 1 + 1 = 2
4 t4 = t4-1 + t4-2 = t3 + t2 = 2 + 1 = 3
t1 = 3


e) t2 = −1

tn = tn−1 + tn−2 , n ≥ 3

Answer:
n tn = tn-1 + 1.3
1 t1 = 3
2 t2 = -1
3 t3 = t3-1 + t3-2 = t2 + t1 = -1 + 3 = 2
4 t4 = t4-1 + t4-2 = t3 + t2 = 2 + (-1) = 1
The first four terms are 3, -1, 2, 1.

function.
a) f(x) = 2x + 4
Answer:
f(1) = 2(1) + 4 = 2 + 4 = 6
f(2) = 2(2) + 4 = 4 + 4 = 8
f(3) = 2(3) + 4 = 6 + 4 = 10
b) g(x) = 5x - 2
Answer:
g(1) = 5(1) - 2 = 5 - 2 = 3
g(2) = 5(2) - 2 = 10 - 2 = 8
g(3) = 5(3) - 2 = 15 - 2 = 13
c) h(x) = -3x + 2
Answer:
h(1) = -3(1) + 2 = -3 + 2 = -1
h(2) = -3(2) + 2 = -6 + 2 = -4
h(3) = -3(3) + 2 = -9 + 2 = -7
d) m(x) = x - 5
Answer:
m(1) = 1 - 5 = -4
m(2) = 2 - 5 = -3
m(3) = 3 - 5 = -2

produced this sequence.
Answer:
Since the common difference between terms is 3, it follows that m = 3.
Possible linear functions are y = 3x, y = 3x - 3. In general, you could write
y = 3x + b where b is any real number.
a) 5, 8, 11, . . .
Answer:
The common difference in this sequence is three. Therefore, the slope
of the line, m, is 3. A point on the line is (1, 5), or (2, 8), or (3, 11).
y - y1 = m(x - x1)

y - 5 = 3(x - 1)

y = 3x - 3 + 5
y = 3x + 2
1
b) 6 , 6 , 7 , . . .
2
Answer:
1
2
1  1
the line, m, is . A point on the line is (1, 6 ) , or  2 , 6 , or (3 , 7 ) .
2  2
y − y 1 = m ( x − x1 )
1
y−6 = ( x − 1)
2
1 1
y= x− +6
2 2
1 1
y= x+5
2 2

c) 10, 8, 6, . . .
Answer:
The common difference in this sequence is -2. Therefore, the slope of
the line, m, is -2. A point on the line is (1, 10), or (2, 8), or (3, 6).
y - y1 = m(x - x1)

y - 10 = -2(x - 1)
y = -2x + 2 + 10
y = -2x + 12
1 1
d) 2 , 2 , 2 ,...
10 5
Answer:
1
10
1  1  1
the line, m, is . A point on the line is (1, 2 ) , or  2 , 2 , or  3 , 2 .
10  10   5
y − y 1 = m ( x − x1 )
1
y−2 = ( x − 1)
10
1 1
y = x − +2
 10  10
1 9
y = x + 1
 10  100

a) f(x): 7, 11, 15, . . .
Answer:
y - 7 = 4(x - 1)
y = 4x - 4 + 7
y = 4x + 3
\ f(x) = 4x + 3
and f(50) = 4(50) + 3
= 200 + 3
= 203

b) g(x): 10, 15, 20, . . .
Answer:
y - 10 = 5(x - 1)
y = 5x - 5 + 10
y = 5x + 5
\ g(x) = 5x + 5
and g(50) = 5(50) + 5
= 250 + 5
= 255
1 1
c) h( x ): 4 , 5 , 5 , . . .
2 2
Answer:
1 1
y−4 = ( x − 1)
2 2
1 1 1
y= x− +4
2 2 2
1
y= x+4
2
1
∴ h( x ) = x+4
2
1
and h ( 50 ) = ( 50 ) + 4
2
= 25 + 4
= 29

Answer:
(5, -15) and (9, -3) are points on the line.
−3 − (−15) 12
m= = =3
9−5 4
y - (-15) = 3(x - 5)
y + 15 = 3x - 15
y = 3x - 15 - 15
y = 3x - 30
f(x) = 3x - 30
f(100) = 3(100) - 30 = 270 = t100

below:

Answer:
Let x represent the row number and let f(x) represent the number of
bricks in the row.
The linear function contains the points with coordinates (5, 45) and
(11, 33).
33 − 45 −12
m= = = −2
11 − 5 6
y - 45 = -2(x - 5)
y = -2x + 10 + 45
y = -2x + 55 or
f(x) = -2x + 55 is the defining linear function
Now find the first term.
f(1) = -2(1) + 55 = 53
There are 53 bricks in the first row.

Answer:
f(n) = -2n + 55
There are -2n + 55 bricks in the nth row.

Answer:
Since the number of bricks cannot be negative or equal to zero, the top
row of bricks may have as few as one brick in it. You need to solve the
following equation:
1 = -2n + 55
-54 = -2n
27 = n
The maximum number of rows is 27.
10. Find which term of the sequence 20, 23, 26, . . ., is the value 245,
Answer:
Using the formula tn = t1 + (n - 1)d, you have
245 = 20 + (n - 1)3
245 = 20 + 3n - 3
245 = 3n + 17
245 - 17 = 3n
228 = 3n
76 = n
Therefore, 245 = t76.

Answer:
The defining linear function can be found using the points (1, 20) and
(2, 23).
23 − 20
m= =3
2−1
y - 20 = 3(x - 1)
y = 3x - 3 + 20
y = 3x + 17
Now solve for x for the point (x, 245).
228 = 3x
76 = x
term formula.
a) 5, 3, 1, . . . t20
Answer:
d = 3 - 5 = -2
t1 = 5
n = 20
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d
t20 = 5 + (20 - 1)(–2)
t20 = -33
b) 8, 11, 14, . . . t21

Answer:
d = 11 - 8 = 3
t1 = 8
n = 21
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d
t21 = 8 + (21 - 1)(3)
t21 = 68

c) 6, 3, 0, -3, . . . t57
Answer:
d = 3 - 6 = -3
t1 = 6
n = 57
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d
t57 = 6 + (57 - 1)(-3)
t57 = -162
d) 18, 17, 16, 15, . . . t132

Answer:
d = 17 - 18 = -1
t1 = 18
n = 132
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d
t132 = 18 + (132 - 1)(-1)
t132 = -113
e) 7, 8.3, 9.6, 10.9, . . . t172

Answer:
d = 8.3 - 7 = 1.3
t1 = 7
n = 172
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d
t172 = 7 + (172 - 1)(1.3)
t172 = 229.3

Answer:
Method 1:
The sequence is $1800, $1800 + d, $1800 + 2d, . . ., $1800 + 7d
After 7 years, the painting is worth $10,550.
Therefore, $10,550 = $1800 + 7d
$8750 = 7d
$1250 = d
The painting appreciated $1250 annually.
Method 2:
Use the general term formula with
t1 = 1800
n=8
t8 = 10 550
d=?
10 550 = 1800 + ( 8 - 1)d
10 550 = 1800 + 7d
The rest of the solution is the same. Note that in this method n = 8 because
you want the amount after 7 years, not in 7 years.
Answer:
d = 11 - 7 = 4
t1 = 7
n = 29
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d
t29 = 7 + (29 - 1)4
t29 = 119

Answer:
Answers may vary. However, all arithmetic sequences must increase
or decrease by the same value (the common difference) between each
term.

Answer:
Answers may vary. However, answers must be in the form, y = mx + b.

Answer:
Answers may vary. However, answers must be in the form,
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d.
Answer:
The points are (1, 7), (2, 4), (3, 1), (4, -2), (5, -5), (6, -8). The graph is
shown below.


Answer:
The common difference is -3. The first term is 7 so the first point is
(1, 7). The recursion formula is:
t1 = 7


tn = tn−1 − 3 , n ≥ 2


Set your calculator to sequence mode and graph the sequence. The
screen should look something like the one below.
First, enter your information into Y=
Then, set your window.
Press GRAPH.
There is no answer key for this learning activity.

Part A: BrainPower
3. If 4x - 3x + 8x + 2x = 121, then 6x - 2 =
5  2 
 3   14 
(-7, -4).
Answers:
1. 0.5, 0.625
2. 3 loonies, 1 dime, and 2 pennies for a total of 6 coins (8 ´ $20 = $160;
$160 - $156.88 = $3.12; Remember, the store was out of toonies.)
3. 64 (11x = 121, so x = 11; 6(11) - 2 = 66 - 2 = 64)
1 1 9
4. 2  Santana increased the recipe by a factor of nine; 9 × = 
4 4 4
32  5 1 35 3
5.  − = − 
21  3 7 21 21 
 8 28 
6. 4 2 ÷ 2 = 6 = 2 2 = 4 
 6
 2 

7. 181

d = ( x2 − x1 )2 + ( y2 − y1 )2

2 2
d = (−9 ) + (−10 ) = 81 + 100 = 181 )
8. 1, 2, 4, 41, 82, and 164
a) 7 + 12 + 17 + . . ., S20
Answer:
Use the formula tn = t1 + (n - 1)d to find tn
t20 = 7 + ( 20 − 1)( 5)
t20 = 102
 7 + 102 
S20 = ( 20 )
 2 
S20 = 1090
b) -5 - 7 - 9 - 11 - . . ., S20
Answer:
t20 = −5 + ( 20 − 1) (−2 )
t20 = −43
−5 + (−43) 
S20 = ( 20 )
 2 
S20 = −480

c) 40 + 35 + 30 + . . ., S100
Answer:
t100 = 40 + (100 − 1) (−5)
t100 = −455
 40 + (−455) 
S100 = (100 )
 2 
S100 = −20 750

a) 10 odd integers.
Answer:
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d

t10 = 1 + (10 - 1)(2)

t10 = 19

 t + tn 
Sn = 1 (n)
 2 
 t + t10 
S10 = 1 (10 )
 2 
 1 + 19 
S10 = (10 )
 2 
S10 = 100

b) 20 odd integers.
Answer:
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d

t20 = 1 + (20 - 1)(2)

t20 = 39

 t + tn 
Sn = 1 (n)
 2 
 1 + 39 
S20 = ( 20 )
 2 
S20 = 400

Answer:
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d

t100 = 1 + (100 - 1)(2)

t100 = 199

 t + tn 
Sn = 1 (n)
 2 
 1 + 199 
S100 = (100 )
 2 
S100 = 10 000

d) n odd integers.
Answer:
The series is 1 + 3 + 5 + . . . with n terms
The nth term is tn = t1 + (n - 1)d
Thus, tn = 1 + (n - 1)(2)
= 1 + 2n - 2
= 2n - 1
The sum of n terms is
 t + tn 
Sn = 1 (n)
 2 
 1 + 2n − 1 
Sn = (n)
 2 
 2n 
Sn = (n)
 2 
Sn = (n) (n)
Sn = n2
Note that the formula you have developed might be worth

memorizing. Can you show that the sum of the first n even natural
numbers is n(n + 1)? Can you show that the sum of the first n natural
n ( n + 1)
numbers is ?
2

Answer:
The first multiple of 3 greater than 99 is 102. The first term is not 99 because
the multiples must lie between 99 and 1000, not including 99 nor 1000.
The greatest multiple of 3 smaller than 1000 is 999.
The series is 102 + 105 + 108 + . . . + 999.
To find the sum, the value of n must be found using the general term
formula and d = 3.
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d
999 = 102 + (n - 1)(3)
897 = (n - 1)(3)
299 = n - 1
300 = n

The number of terms is 300.
 t + tn 
Sn = 1 (n)
 2 
 102 + 999 
S300 = ( 300 )
 2 
S300 = 165 150
4. Find S100 of 1 + 4 + 7 + . . . .
Answer:
The series is 1 + 4 + 7 + . . . n = 100, and d = 3.
To find the sum of 100 terms, the last term, t100, needs to be calculated
using the general term formula and d = 3.
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d

t100 = 1 + (100 - 1)(3)
t100 = 298
 t + tn 
Sn = 1 (n)
 2 
 1 + 298 
S100 = (100 )
 2 
S100 = 14 950

6275?
Answer:
The series is 3 + 8 + 13 + . . . + 248.
To find the number of terms, use the formula
 t + tn 
Sn = 1 (n)
 2 
where Sn = 6275 (given)

t1 = 3
tn = 248

Substitute and solve for n:
 3 + 248 
6275 = (n)
 2 
6275 = 125.5n
50 = n
There are 50 terms in the series.

Answer:
Method 1:
Since t2 = -1 and t12 = 19, two points on the line determined by the
defining linear function are (2, -1) and (12, 19).
By finding the function, t1 and t13 can be found.
19 − (−1) 20
Slope = = =2
12 − 2 10
Equation of line is:

y - y1 = m(x - x1)
y - (-1) = 2(x - 2)
y + 1 = 2x - 4
y = 2x - 5
The defining linear function is f(x) = 2x - 5 and
t1 = f(1) = 2(1) - 5 = 2 - 5 = -3
t13 = f(13) = 2(13) - 5 = 26 - 5 = 21
 t + tn 
Sn = 1 (n)
 2 
−3 + 21 
S13 = (13)
 2 
S13 = 117

Method 2:
Since the slope was calculated in Method 1 to be 2, then d = 2 for the
series.
Since t2 = 1
t1 = t2 - d = -1 - 2 = -3
and t12 = 19
t13 = t12 + d = 19 + 2 = 21
then the sum can be calculated as in Method 1.
Answer:
The arithmetic sequence is 20, 22, 24, . . . t26. To calculate t26, use the
general term formula.
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d

t26 = 20 + (26 - 1)(2)
t26 = 70
There are 70 seats in the last row.
To find the seating capacity means to find how many seats there are
altogether. The series is
20 + 22 + 24 + . . . + 70
and n = 26
The sum is
 t + tn 
Sn = 1 (n)
 2 
 20 + 70 
S26 = ( 26 )
 2 
S26 = 1170
The seating capacity is 1170 seats.

seventh year.
Answer:
The sequence is $26,785, . . ., $34,825, with n = 7.
Use the general term formula to find d.
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d
34 825 = 26 785 + (7 - 1)(d)
8040 = 6d
1340 = d
Mary received a raise of $1340 each year.

Answer:
To find Mary’s salary in the fifth year, we need to find t5 using the
general term formula and n = 5.
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d
t5 = 26 785 + (5 - 1)(1340)
t5 = $32,145
Mary’s salary in the fifth year is $32,145.
$30,000?
Answer:
From part (b), we know t5 = $32,145.
Thus, t4 = 32 145 - d
= 32 145 - 1340
= $30,805
and t3 = 30 805 - 1340
= $29,465
In the fourth year, Mary’s salary is over $30,000.

Answer:
To find the total amount Mary earned in seven years, we find the sum
of the series with 7 terms.
$26,785 + . . . + $34,825
 t + tn 
Sn = 1 (n)
 2 
 26 785 + 34 825 
S7 = (7 )
 2 
S7 = $215 , 635
Mary earns $215,635 in 7 years.
n
.
2
Answer:
 t + tn 
Use the formula: Sn = 1 (n)
 2 
n
Rearrange to get:  t + tn 
Sn =  
2 1
Use the general term formula to replace tn and simplify.
t n = t 1 + ( n − 1) d
n
 t + ( t 1 + ( n − 1) d ) 
∴ Sn =  
2 1
n
Sn = 
 2 t 1 + ( n − 1) d 

2

4 + 9 + 14 + 19 + . . .
Answer:
4 + 9 + 14 + 19 + . . .
t1 = 4
n = 10
d=5
n
Sn = 
 2 t 1 + ( n − 1) d 

2
10
Sn = 2 ( 4 ) + (10 − 1)( 5)
 
2
Sn = 5 
8 + 9 ( 5)

S10 = 265
Note: You now can use either formula to find the sum of an arithmetic
series.
n
Sn = 
 2 t 1 + ( n − 1) d 

2
 t + tn 
Sn = 1 (n)
 2 

Part A: BrainPower
7, 5, 3, 1, -1, . . .
Answers:
1. Day 6 (Day 1 = 1 km; Day 2 = 2 km; Day 3 = 4 km; Day 4 = 8 km;
Day 5 = 16; km; Day 6 = 32 km)
2. 11, 16, 22 (add 1, add 2, add 3 is the pattern, so add 4, then 5, then 6 to get
the next three terms)
3. 6 ways (3 choices for the frist seat, 2 choices for the second, and 1 choice for
the last seat means 3 ´ 2 ´ 1 = 6 ways)
4. -2 (5 - 7)
5. 140 000 (a good estimate is 200 ´ 700 = 140 000)
6. 78 inches (There are 12 inches in 1 foot and 6.5 ´ 12 = 78 inches.)
7. 720 cm3 (The formula for the volume of a rectangular prism is V = (area of
the base)(height); V = (12 ´ 10) ´ 6 = 120 ´ 6 = 720 cm3)
8. 0.91% (multiply by 100)

a) 4, 6, 8, 10, . . .
Answer:
6 - 4 = 2; 8 - 6 = 2; 10 - 8 = 2
Therefore, the sequence is arithmetic with d = 2.
b) 3, 6, 12, 24, . . .
Answer:
6 12 24
 2 ; 2 ; 2
3 6 12
Therefore, the sequence is geometric with r = 2.
c) 18, 15, 12, 9, . . .

Answer:
15 - 18 = -3; 12 - 15 = -3; 9 - 12 = -3
Therefore, the sequence is arithmetic with d = -3.
d) 80, 40, 20, 10, . . .

Answer:
40 1 20 1 10 1
 ;
 ; 
80 2 40 2 20 2
1
Therefore, the sequence is geometric with r = .
2
e) 1, -5, 25, -125, . . .
Answer:
−5 25 −125
= −5 ; = −5 ; = −5
1 −5 25
Therefore, the sequence is geometric with r = -5.

common difference.
t1 = 2

a) 
tn = 2tn−1 , n ≥ 2

Answer:
n tn
1 t1 = 2
2 t2 = 2t2-1 = 2t1 = 2(2) = 4
3 t3 = 2t3-1 = 2t2 = 2(4) = 8
4 t4 = 2t4-1 = 2t3 = 2(8) = 16
\ geometric, with r = 2
t1 = 2

b) 
tn = tn−1 + 2 , n ≥ 2

Answer:
n tn
1 t1 = 2
2 t2 = t2-1 + 2 = t1 + 2 = 2 + 2 = 4
3 t3 = t3-1 + 2 = t2 + 2 = 4 + 2 = 6
4 t4 = t4-1 + 2 = t3 + 2 = 6 + 2 = 8
\ arithmetic, with d = 2
t1 = 2

c) 
tn = 2tn−1 + 2 , n ≥ 2

Answer:
n tn
1 t1 = 2
2 t2 = 2t2-1 + 2 = 2t1 + 2 = 2(2) + 2 = 4 + 2 = 6
3 t3 = 2t3-1 + 2 = 2t2 + 2 = 2(6) + 2 = 12 + 2 = 14
4 t4 = 2t4-1 + 2 = 2t3 + 2 = 2(14) + 2 = 28 + 2 = 30
\ neither

t1 = 2

d)  2
tn = (tn−1 ) , n ≥ 2

Answer:
n tn
1 t1 = 2
2 t2 = (t2-1)2 = (t1)2 = 22 = 4
3 t3 = (t3-1)2 = (t2)2 = 42 = 16
4 t4 = (t4-1)2 = (t3)2 = 162 = 256
\ neither
t1 = 5

e)  n
tn = (−1) tn−1 , n ≥ 2

Answer:
n tn
1 t1 = 5
2 t2 = (-1)2t2-1 = (-1)2t1 = (1)(5) = 5
3 t3 = (-1)3t3-1 = (-1)3t2 = (-1)(5) = -5
4 t4 = (-1)4t4-1 = (-1)4t3 = (1)(-5) = -5
\ neither
t1 = 4

f) 
tn = tn−1 − 5 , n ≥ 2

Answer:
n tn
1 t1 = 4
2 t2 = t2-1 - 5 = t1 - 5 = 4 - 5 = -1
3 t3 = t3-1 - 5 = t2 - 5 = -1 - 5 = -6
4 t4 = t4-1 - 5 = t3 - 5 = -6 - 5 = -11
\ arithmetic, with d = -5

a) f(x) = 2x
Answer:
n tn = 2 x
1 21 = 2
2 22 = 4
3 23 = 8
b) tn = 4n-1
Answer:
n tn = 4n-1
1 40 = 1
2 41 = 4
3 42 = 16
c) f(x) = 2(3x)
Answer:
x f(x)
1 2(31) = 6
2 2(32) = 18
3 2(33) = 54

 1 n
d) tn = 16 
2
Answer:
n f(x)
1
1 16 = 8
2
 1 2 1
2 16  = 16 = 4
2 4
 1 3  1
3 16  = 16 = 2
2 8

a) 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, . . .
Answer:
t1 = 4

tn = 2tn−1 , n ≥ 2

b) 6, 18, 54, 162, 486, . . .

Answer:
t1 = 6

tn = 3tn−1 , n ≥ 2

c) 1, -2, 4, -8, 16, . . .

Answer:
t1 = 1

tn = −2tn−1 , n ≥ 2

Exponential function: tn = (-2)n-1

5
d) 40, 20, 10, 5, , ...
2
Answer:
t1 = 40

Recursive formula:  1
tn = (tn−1 ) , n ≥ 2
 2
 1 n−1
Exponential function: tn = 40 
2
Answer:
The defining exponential function is tn = 3(2)n-1. Therefore,
t20 = 3(2)20-1 = 3(2)19.
1
1024
Answer:
2 1
r 
4 2
 1 n−1
The defining exponential function is tn = 4  .
2
1  1 n−1
Hence, = 4 
1024 2
n−1
1 2 1 
= 2  
2 10 2
1  1 n−1
=  
2 10 2 2  2 
 1 12  1 n−1
  = 
2 2
n − 1 = 12
n = 13
1
Therefore, is the 13th term.
1024

Answer:
Substitute the coordinates of the points (2, 6) and (4, 54) into the
exponential function tn = t1rn-1 and solve the two equations for the two
unknowns.
The point (2, 6) yields 6 = t1r and (4, 54) yields 54 = t1r3. Using division
method:
t1 r 3 54
=
t1 r 6
r2 = 9
r = ±3
Two possible sequences exist, one with r = 3 and the other with r = -3.
Case 1: If r = 3, then 6 = t1(3) or t1 = 2.
Case 2: If r = -3, then 6 = t1(–3) or t1 = -2.

Answer:
t2 t
If the sequence is geometric, the ratios, and 3 , must be equal.
t1 t2
3x − 2 5x + 2
=
x+2 3x − 2
( 3x − 2 ) ( 3x − 2 ) = ( x + 2 ) ( 5x + 2 ) (cross-multiply)
9 x 2 − 12 x + 4 = 5x 2 + 12 x + 4
4 x 2 − 24 x = 0
4x ( x − 6) = 0
x = 6 or x = 0
If you are interested in seeing the sequences, substitute the values of x into
the terms.
When x = 6, the sequence is 8, 16, 32.
When x = 0, the sequence is 2, -2, 2.
Both are geometric sequences with common ratio 2 and -1, respectively.

geometric sequence.
Answer:
If r is the common ratio then the terms of the geometric sequence are 5, 5r,
5r2, 5r3, 5r4.
Therefore, 5r4 = 80.
r4 = 16
r = ±2
Case 1: If r = 2, then a = 10, b = 20, c = 40.
Case 2: If r = –2, then a = -10, b = 20, c = -40.
Answer:
If the cost of the item is being reduced by 10%, then the sale price is
100% - 10% or 90% of the original price. Thus, the cost of the item at the
end of the next five days is calculated as follows.
first day: ($150.00)(0.90) = $135.00
second day: ($135.00)(0.90) = $121.50
third day: ($121.50)(0.90) = $109.35
fourth day: ($109.35)(0.90) = $98.42
fifth day: ($98.42)(0.90) = $88.58
Note that if you use the formula t6 = 150(0.9)6-1 to find your answer for the
end of the fifth day, you get $88.57. Since the deductions are made daily,
the correct answer is one cent different and is $88.58.

Answer:
t1 = 5, the coefficient

Answer:
r = 2, the base

Answer:
t10 = 5(2)10-1 = 5(2)9 = 2560

Answer:
t7 = 5(2)7-1 = 5(2)6 = 320

Answer:
n−1
tn = 5 ( 2 )
n−1
163 840 = 5 ( 2 )
n−1
163 840 5 (2) Divide by 5
=
5 5
32 768 = 2 n−1 Simplify
2 15 = 2 n−1 Use guess and check

15 = n − 1 Equate exponents
16 = n Solve

answer.
Answer:
n−1
tn = 5 ( 2 )
n−1
4100 = 5 ( 2 )
n−1
4100 5 (2)
=
5 5
820 = 2 n−1
Powers of 2 are 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, 128, 256, 512, 1024, . . ., and 820 is not
one of them. Thus, 4100 is not a term of the sequence.

Answer:

The shape is a curve and not a straight line. The points are not joined
because the domain is the set of natural numbers.

Part A: BrainPower
1 7
9 9
6
20
6. Estimate: 96
7. Simplify: (24)(32)
Answers:
1  1 7  9 8 1
1.  1 − + = − = 
9  9 9 9 9 9
2. 55 (1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + 5 + 6 + 7 + 8 + 9 + 10; combining digits that sum to

10 (1 and 9, 2 and 8, etc.) gives 10 + 10 + 10 + 10 + 10 + 5 = 55)
3. 20 m (Length of the side = 25  5 ; Perimeter = 5 ´ 4)

6 3 
4. 0.3  = = 0.3
 20 10 
5. -7
6. 9.8 (96 is between 81 and 100; therefore, 96 is between 9 and 10 and is

closer to 10)
7. 144 (24 ´ 32 = 16 ´ 9)
2  2 7
8.  3y = 2 x − 7 ; y = x − 
3  3 3

Answer:
Answers will vary. Be sure every term is a multiple of the term before.
Answer:
Answers will vary. Answers must be an addition of the terms in the
corresponding geometric sequence.
Check with your learning partner or review examples in the lesson to check
your work.

4 4
a) ∑k 3
b) ∑ 3k
k=1 k=1
3 4
c) ∑ 3k d) ∑ 3k−1
k=1 k=1
4 4
e) ∑ 3k+1 f) ∑ 5 ⋅ 3k−1
k=2 k=2
5 6
g) ∑ ( 2 k − 5) h) ∑ 2(−3)k−1
k=2 k=3
Answers:
4
a) ∑ k 3 = (1)3 + (2 )3 + (3)3 + ( 4)3 = 1 + 8 + 27 + 64 = 100
k=1
4
b) ∑ 3k = 31 + 32 + 33 + 34 = 3 + 9 + 27 + 81 = 120
k=1
3
c) ∑ 3k = 3 (1) + 3 ( 2 ) + 3 ( 3) = 3 + 6 + 9 = 18
k=1

4
d) ∑ 3k−1 = 31−1 + 32−1 + 33−1 + 34−1 = 30 + 31 + 32 + 33
k=1
= 1 + 3 + 9 + 27 = 40
4
e) ∑ 3k+1 = 32+1 + 33+1 + 34+1 = 33 + 34 + 35 = 27 + 81 + 243 = 351
k=2
4
f) ∑ 5 ⋅ 3k−1 = 5 ⋅ 32−1 + 5 ⋅ 33−1 + 5 ⋅ 34−1 = 5 ⋅ 31 + 5 ⋅ 32 + 5 ⋅ 33
k=2
= 15 + 45 + 135 = 195
5
g) ∑ ( 2 k − 5) = ( 2 ( 2 ) − 5) + ( 2 ( 3) − 5) + ( 2 ( 4 ) − 5) + ( 2 ( 5) − 5)
k=2
= −1 + 1 + 3 + 5 = 8
6
h) ∑ 2(−3)k−1 = 2 (−3)3−1 + 2 (−3)4−1 + 2 (−3)5−1 + 2 (−3)6−1
k=3
2 3 4 5
= 2 (−3) + 2 (−3) + 2 (−3) + 2 (−3)
= 2 (9 ) + 2 (−27 ) + 2 (81) + 2 (−243)
= 18 − 54 + 162 − 486 = −360

a) 4 + 12 + 36 + 108
Answer:
r=3
t1 = 4
n=4
4
∑ 4 (3)k−1
k=1

2 1 1
b) 24 + 4 + + +
3 9 54
Answer:
4 1
r
 
24 6
t1 = 24
n=5
5 k−1
1
∑ 24 6 
k=1
c) 2 + 4 + 8 + . . . + 1024
Answer:
r=2
t1 = 2
n = 10, since 210 = 1024
10 10
k−1
∑ 2 (2) or ∑ 2k
k=1 k=1

Answer:
tn = 3(2)n-1
Therefore, t8 = 3(2)8-1 = 384.
Answer:
t1 ( 1 − r n ) (
3 1 − (2)
8
) 3 (−255)
Using Sn = , S8 = = = 765.
1−r 1−2 −1

a) 120 + 60 + 30 + 15 + . . .
Answer:
t1 ( 1 − r n ) (
120 1 − (0.5)
10
)
Using Sn = , S10 = = 239.77.
1−r 1 − 0.5
b) 8 + 12 + 18 + 27 + . . .
Answer:
t1 ( 1 − r n ) 12 3 8 1 − (1.5) ( 10
)
Using Sn = and r = = = 1.5 , S10 = = 906.64.
1−r 8 2 1 − 1.5
c) 128 - 64 + 32 - 16 + . . .
Answer:
t1 ( 1 − r n ) (
128 1 − (−0.5)
10
)
Using Sn = , S10 = = 85.25.
1−r 1 − (−0.5)
8 8
d) 24 + 8 + + +. . .
3 9
Answer:
  1 10 
24
 1 −  

t1 ( 1 − r n )  3 
Using Sn = , S10 = = 36.00.
1−r 1
1−
3
e) x2 + x4 + x6 + x8 + . . .
Answer:
Using Sn =
t1 ( 1 − r n )
, S10 =
(
x2 1 − (x2 )
10
) = x (1 − x 2 20
)
.
1−r 1 − x2 1 − x2

1 1 1
f) 1 + + + +. . .
2 4 8
Answer:
t1 ( 1 − r n ) (
1 1 − (0.5)
10
)
Using Sn = , S10 = = 2.00.
1−r 1 − 0.5
1
4
Answer:
Use the general term formula to write two equations. Then solve using
division method.
1
t4 = = t1 r 3 equation (a )
4
t11 = 32 = t1r 10 equation ( b)
32 t r 10
 1 3
1 t1 r
4
128  r 7
2r
Now substitute r = 2 into equation (a) and solve for t1.
1
= t1 2 3
4
1
= t1 ( 8 )
4
1
4 = t1 ( 8 )
8 8
1
= t1
32

Now find S11.
t1 ( 1 − r n )
Sn =
1−r
1
 (1 − 2 11 )
 32 
S11 =
1−2
2047
S11 =
32
Note that you can use the a b c button on your scientific calculator or
Math Frac on your graphing calculator to find the exact answers when
using fractions.

Answer:
Sn = 889
t1 = 7
r=2
t1 ( 1 − r n )
Using the formula Sn = , it is possible to solve for n, the number
1−r
of terms in this series.
7 (1 − 2 n )
889 =
1−2
889 = −7 ( 1 − 2 n )
889 −7 ( 1 − 2 )
n
=
−7 −7
−127 = 1 − 2 n
−127 − 1 = −2 n
−128 = −2 n
128 = 2 n
27 = 2 n
n=7

Answer:
Sn = 98 301
r=2
n = 15
t1 ( 1 − r n )
Using the formula Sn = , it is possible to solve for t1.
1−r
t1 (1 − 2 15 )
98 301 =
1−2
98 301 = t1 (32 767 )
98 301 t1 (32 767 )

=
32 767 32 767
3 = t1

Part A: BrainPower
Fourteen
Five
Seven
Seventeen
3 2
5. Calculate: +
16 4
7. Simplify: (2x2 + 3x - 5) - (9x2 - 4x + 6)
144
180
Answers:
1
1.
3
2. Seventeen (Each number has one more letter in the spelling of the word
than the previous number.)
3. 6:12 pm.
4. You will have exactly enough cookies. (56 ´ 25 = 50 ´ 25 + 6 ´ 25 =
1250 + 150 = 1400 = 700 ´ 2)
11
5.
16

6. 5x  2
2
x
5
7. -7x2 + 7x - 11
[(2x2 + 3x - 5) - (9x2 - 4x + 6) = 2x2 + 3x - 5 - 9x2 + 4x - 6]
4  144 72 36 
8.  = = 
5  180 90 45 
resource sheet.
8 8 8
a) 8 + + + +. . .
3 9 27
Answer :
1 t 8
r= , S= 1 = = 12
3 1−r 1
1−
3
3 3
b) 6 − 3 + − +. . .
2 4
Answer :
1 t 6
r =− , S = 1 = =4
2 1−r  1
1 −− 
 2

8 16
c) 6 + 4 + + +. . .
3 9
Answer :
2 t 6
r= , S= 1 = = 18
3 1−r 2
1−
3
1 1 1
d) 1 − + − +. . .
2 4 8
Answer :
1 t 1 2
r =− , S = 1 = =
2 1−r  1 3
1 −− 
 2
∞
 16 
e) ∑ 2 k 
k=1
Answer :
∞
 16  16 16 16
∑ 2 k = 21 + 2 2 + 2 3 + . . .
k=1
= 8+ 4 +2 +. . .
1 t 8
r= , S= 1 = = 16
2 1−r 1
1−
2
∞
 18 
f) ∑ 3k 
k=2
Answer :
∞
 18  18 18 18
∑ 3k = 32 + 33 + 34 + . . .
k=2
18 18 18
= + + +. . .
9 27 81
2 2
=2+ + +. . .
3 9
1 t 2
r= , S= 1 = =3
3 1−r 1
1 − 
3

Answer:
Use the formula for the general term to find two equations. Then use
division method to solve.
t3 = 16 = t1r 2
t5 = 10 = t1r 4
t1 r 4 10
=
t1 r 2 16
r 2 = 0.625
r = ±0.79
∞
k=1
Answer:
Substitute the values for r into either equation to find t1.
16 = t1r 2
2
16 = t1 (±0.79 )
16 = t1 (0.625)
16
t1 =
0.625
t1 = 25.6
Note that both values for r meet the restriction: |r| < 1.
Case 1: Case 2:
r = 0.79 r = −0.79
t1 t1
S∞ = S∞ =
1−r 1−r
25.6 25.6
S∞ = S∞ =
1 − 0.79 1 − (−0.79 )
S∞ = 121.90 or 122.24 S∞ = 14.30
Note the answer for S¥ can be obtained using the calculator answer
for r before rounding. If you used r = 0.79, S¥ = 121.90, for r = -0.79,
S¥ = 14.30. Both 121.90 and 122.24 would be considered correct.

Answer:
t1
S=
1−r
t1
Therefore, 12 =
1 − 0.25
t1
12 =
0.75
t1 = 12 (0.75)
t1 = 9

area?
Answer:
 1 2 1
2 2 , 12 ,   , . . . or 4 , 1, , . . .
2 4
t1 4 4 4 16
S= = = = 4× =
1−r 1 3 3 3
1−
4 4

Answer:
Draw a diagram to get a sense of what is happening:

3 3 3 3  9
First bounce = 2 = ; second bounce =  = ;
4 2 2 4  8
9 3  27
third bounce =  = .
8 4  32

Answer:
From the diagram, the total downward distance series is
3 9 t 2
2+ + +...= 1 = = 8.
2 8 1−r 3
1−
4
The total upward distance = downward distance - original drop =
8 - 2 = 6.
The distance travelled is 8 + 6 = 14 metres.

converges to 4?
Answer:
t1 = 1 and r = 3x
Furthermore, the sum is 4, so solving for x you get
t1
S=
1−r
1
4=
1 − 3x
1
4 ( 1 − 3x ) = ( 1 − 3x )
1 − 3x
4 − 12 x = 1
3 = 12 x
3 1
x= =
12 4

1 1 1
2 4 8
Answer:
t1
S∞ or S = , provided r < 1
1−r
1
In this example, r = < 1.
2
Therefore, you can use the sum formula.
1 1
t 2
S= 1 = = 2 =1
1−r 1 1
1−
2 2
Therefore, there is a sum to this geometric series, and it is possible to catch
the bus.

Notes

Module 2
Factoring and Rational Expressions
Module 2:
Fac tor ing a nd R at ion a l E xpr e s sion s
Introduction
In Module 1, you discovered patterns in the form of arithmetic and geometric

sequences and series. In this module, you will build on your knowledge of
patterns by looking at patterns found when factoring polynomials. You have
learned the basics of factoring in previous courses. However, in this module,
you will extend your knowledge of factoring one step further to see how
factoring relates to rational expressions. Rational expressions are fractions
containing polynomials in the numerator and denominator.
2 Assignment 2.1 Factoring
Multiplying, Dividing, and Simplifying

4 Assignment 2.2
5 Assignment 2.3 Adding and Subtracting Rational Expressions
Module 2: Fac toring and Rational E xpressions 3

Resource Sheet
Modules 1 to 4.

formula is used.

L e s s o n 1: Fa c t o r i n g R e v i e w
Lesson Focus

q review how to find the greatest common factor of a polynomial
q review how to factor a trinomial
q review how to factor a difference of squares
Lesson Introduction
In previous courses, you have learned how to factor different forms of

polynomial expressions. Factoring is one topic that may appear to have no
immediate applications. However, when it comes to dealing with rational
expressions, which you will be learning about in later lessons, factoring is
extremely useful. Factoring can reduce a complex equation to a more simple
equation. This can make seemingly complex equations easier to work with.
Factoring can even help manipulate formulas, which allows you to calculate
the different variables included in the formula more easily.
Factoring
Factoring is the inverse of multiplication. Therefore, when you factor a

polynomial, you are essentially undoing the multiplication. Because going
backwards is usually more difficult than going forwards, some people find
factoring to be more complicated than multiplication. If you need additional
help with the material in this lesson, your tutor/marker is always available to
help.
The following definitions may be familiar to you from previous courses. The
terms will be helpful to know not only for this lesson, but for the rest of the
lessons in this module and for the entire course. Add these terms to your
resource sheet if you feel it would be beneficial to do so.

Q Term: a number or the product of a number and a variable or variables.
The exponent on the variable must be a natural number.
Q Polynomial: a mathematical expression with one or more terms separated
by addition or subtraction.
Q Greatest common factor (GCF): the greatest divisor that is a factor of
two or more terms (e.g., the greatest common factor of 12 and 18 is 6; the
greatest common factor of 2xy and 2yz is 2y).
Q Coefficient: the number multiplying the variable(s) in a term (e.g., 7 is the
coefficient of 7 ´ 3).
Q Constant term: a term in an expression that has no variables. It is either a
number or a symbol that represents a number, such as p.
Multiplication of two Binomials

In Grade 10 Introduction to Applied and Pre-Calculus Mathematics, you learned
how to multiply two binomials together by using the distributive property,
which ensures you multiply each term in the first binomial by each term in
the second binomial. You also may be familiar with other methods, such as
FOIL or area of rectangles.
Factoring polynomials is the inverse of multiplying polynomials. Therefore,
you need to be comfortable multiplying polynomials before you continue to
learn about factoring polynomials. Consider the following example.
Example 1
Multiply.
a) (x + 1)(x - 3), using the distributive property
b) (2x - 1)(x2 + 3), using FOIL
c) (x2 + x - 1)(x + 4), using area of a rectangle
Solution
a) (x + 1)(x - 3), using the distributive property
= x(x - 3) + 1(x - 3)
= x2 - 3x + 1x - 3
= x2 - 2x - 3

b) (2x - 1)(x2 + 3), using FOIL
F multiply the first terms
(2x)(x2) = 2x3
O multiply the outside terms
(2x)(3) = 6x
I multiply the inside terms
(-1)(x2) = -x2
L multiply the last terms
(-1)(3) = -3
Now add all your answers:
(2x - 1)(x2 + 3) = 2x3 + 6x + (-x2) + (-3)
= 2x3 - x2 + 6x - 3

Note: FOIL only works for a binomial times a binomial, and not for other
polynomial products.
c) (x2 + x – 1)(x + 4), using the area of a rectangle
x 4
area = (x)(x2) area = 4(x2)
x2
= x3 = 4x2
area = x(x) area = 4(x)
x
= x2 = 4x
area = (x)(-1) area = 4(-1)
-1
= -x = -4
Now add all the areas to get the answer.

(x2 + x - 1)(x + 4) = x3 + x2 + (-x) + 4x2 + 4x + (-4)
= x3 + 5x2 + 3x - 4
Greatest Common Factors

When factoring a polynomial expression, you should always factor out the
greatest common factor first to make the remaining factoring easier. Consider
the two terms in the binomial 3x2 - 6x.
What factors do they have in common?
Both terms have the variable x in common. Also, both terms are divisible by 3.
Therefore, 3x is the greatest common factor of the binomial 3x2 - 6x.

When you divide 3x out of the polynomial, you are left with x - 2. Therefore,
3x and x - 2 are the two factors of this polynomial.
We write 3x2 - 6x = 3x(x - 2).
3x(x - 2) is called the factored form of the polynomial 3x2 - 6x.
Example 2
Factor the following polynomials.
a) 5x2 + 10x
b) 2x - 8
c) 3x3 - 6x2 + 9x
Solution
a) The terms 5x2 and 10x both have the variable x in common and are
divisible by 5. Therefore, the greatest common factor of this polynomial is
5x. The factored form of this polynomial is 5x(x + 2).
Always check your answer by multiplying the factors to see if you get the
original expression.
b) The terms 2x and 8 are both divisible by 2. Therefore, the greatest common
factor of this polynomial is 2. The factored form of this polynomial is
2(x - 4).
Check your work by distributing.
c) The terms 3x3, -6x2, and 9x all have the variable x in common and are
divisible by 3. Therefore, the greatest common factor is 3x. The factored
form of this polynomial is 3x(x2 - 2x + 3).
There might not be a greatest common factor to factor out of a polynomial.
However, looking for the greatest common factor in a polynomial is the first
step to take when factoring a polynomial.

Factoring Trinomials
Consider a polynomial in the form ax2 + bx + c, where a and b are coefficients
and c is the constant term. This polynomial is called a trinomial because it
has three terms.
Factoring a trinomial where a = 1
If a = 1, you can use the following method to factor the trinomial.
To factor trinomials of this form, you need to look for two numbers that will
give you a sum of “b” and a product of “c.” Consider the following examples.
Example 3
Factor the following trinomials.
a) x2 + 8x + 12
b) x2 + 20x + 100
c) x2 + 2x - 8
Solution
In all of the above examples, a = 1. In other words, the coefficient of x2 is equal
to one.
a) Compare the trinomial, x2 + 8x + 12, to the form ax2 + bx + c. In this
example, b = 8, and c = 12. Therefore, you are looking for two numbers that
will sum to 8 and multiply to 12.
The factors of 12 are:
1, 12
2, 6
3, 4
Out of these factors, the two numbers that sum to 8 are 2 and 6. Therefore,
the factored form of x2 + 8x + 12 is (x + 2)(x + 6).
To check that you have factored this polynomial correctly, you can
multiply the factors together to see if you arrive at the original polynomial.
Check using FOIL:
(x + 2)(x + 6)
= x2 + 6x + 2x + 12
= x2 + 8x + 12
This answer is the same as the original polynomial. Thus, the answer is
(x + 2)(x + 6).

b) Compare the trinomial, x2 + 20x + 100, to the form ax2 + bx + c. In this
example, b = 20 and c = 100. Therefore, you are looking for two numbers
that will sum to 20 and multiply to 100.
The factors of 100 are
1, 100
2, 50
4, 25
5, 20
10, 10
Out of these factors, the two numbers that sum to 20 are 10 and 10.
Therefore, the factored form of x2 + 20x + 100 is (x + 10)(x + 10) =
(x + 10)2. Check your work by multiplying the two factors to see if you get
the original polynomial.
c) Compare the trinomial, x2 + 2x - 8, to the form ax2 + bx + c. In this
example, b = 2 and c = -8. Therefore, you are looking for two numbers
that will sum to 2 and multiply to -8.
The factors of -8 are
1, -8
-1, 8
2, -4
-2, 4
Out of these factors, the two numbers that sum to 2 are -2 and 4.
Therefore, the factored form of x2 + 2x - 8 is (x - 2)(x + 4).
Factoring a trinomial where a ≠ 1

What happens if the coefficient of x2 does not equal one? In this case, you can
use a similar method to factor the trinomial. However, there is one additional
process.
Consider a polynomial of the form ax2 + bx + c. In Example 2, you factored
the trinomials by finding two numbers where their sum was “b” and their
product was “c.” This will not work when the coefficient of the x2 term is
not 1. Therefore, a new method is needed. You will still need to find two
numbers that sum to the middle term, or b. However, their product needs to
be equal to the product of “a” and “c.”

Example 4
Factor the following trinomials.
a) 6x2 + x - 2
b) 2x2 - 9x + 4
c) 5x2 + 9x + 4
1 2 1
d) x - x-3
2 2
Solution
a) 6x2 + x - 2
The product of “a” and “c” is (6)(-2) = -12. The value of b is 1.
Therefore, you need to find two numbers whose sum is 1 and whose
product is -12. The factors of -12 are:
1, -12
-1, 12
2, 6
-2, 6
3, -4
-3, 4
Out of these factors, the two numbers that sum to 1 are -3 and 4. Now,
instead of writing the factored form of this trinomial as before, you need
to break up the original trinomial and then factor by grouping.
6x2 + x - 2
The original middle term, x, is separated into two terms using the factors
-3 and 4. We write 1x as -3x + 4x or as 4x - 3x, the order doesn’t matter.
The polynomial now has four terms instead of three. We write
6x2 - 3x + 4x - 2
Consider just the first two terms of the polynomial and determine if they
have a common factor. If they do, factor it out.
6x2 - 3x + 4x - 2 = 3x(2x - 1) + 4x - 2
Now, consider just the last two terms of the polynomial. Determine if they
have a common factor and, if they do, factor it out.
3x(2x - 1) + 4x - 2 = 3x(2x - 1) + 2(2x - 1)
You now have only two terms.
The expression in the brackets is the same in each term. It is a common
factor and therefore you can factor it out.
3x(2x - 1) + 2(2x - 1) = (2x - 1)(3x + 2)

Thus, (2x - 1)(3x + 2) is the factored form of 6x2 + x - 2, or 6x2 + x - 2 =
(2x - 1)(3x + 2). Always check your work by multiplying the two
binomials.
b) 2x2 - 9x + 4
The product of “a” and “c” is (2)(4) = 8. The value of b is -9. Two numbers
whose product is 8 and whose sum is -9 are -1 and -8.
Splitting up the middle term accordingly:
2x2 - x - 8x + 4
Taking a common factor out of the first two terms:
x(2x - 1) - 8x + 4
Taking a common factor out of the last two terms (notice the sign change
inside the second bracket):
x(2x - 1) - 4(2x - 1)
Taking the common factor out of the binomial:
(2x - 1)(x - 4)
The answer is
2x2 - 9x + 4 = (2x - 1)(x - 4)
Don’t forget to check your work by multiplying the factors together.
c) 5x2 + 9x + 4
The product of “a” and “c” is (5)(4) = 20. The value of b is 9. Two numbers
whose product is 20 and whose sum is 9 are 5 and 4.
Splitting up the middle term:
5x2 + 5x + 4x + 4
Taking a common factor out of the first two terms:
5x(x + 1) + 4x + 4
Taking a common factor out of the last two terms:
5x(x + 1) + 4(x + 1)
Taking the common factor out of the binomial:
(x + 1)(5x + 4)
The answer is
5x2 + 9x + 4 = (x + 1)(5x + 4)

1 2 1
d) x - x-3
2 2
1
This is a trinomial with a fractional coefficient for x2. Thus, factor out
2
1 1
of each term by dividing by . The result is ( x 2 − x − 6 ) , which is
2 2
1
factored further to get ( x − 3) ( x + 2 ) .
2
Difference of Squares
What happens if the polynomial has only two terms? Is it still possible to
factor this polynomial?
Yes. It may be possible to factor this polynomial, but only if the polynomial is
a difference of squares. The polynomial must be in the form A2 - B2 in order
to be a difference of squares.
The factors of the difference of squares are:
A2 - B2 = (A - B)(A + B)
When you check the answer by multiplying, the sum of the inner product and
the outer product is -AB + (AB) and, when simplified, is zero. Only the first
and last terms are left as shown below:
(A - B)(A + B)
= A(A + B) - B(A + B)
= A2 + AB - AB - B2
= A2 - B2
Example 5
Factor each difference of squares.
a) x2 - 9
b) 4x2 - 25
c) 16x2 - 9
Solution
Each polynomial has two terms subtracted, and each term is a perfect square.
Thus, they can be factored as a difference of squares.
a) Compare x2 - 9 with the form A2 - B2. In this example, A = x and B = 3.
Therefore, you can factor the difference of squares using the form
(A - B)(A + B). This gives (x - 3)(x + 3) as the factored form of x2 - 9.

b) 4x2 - 25 = (2x)2 - (5)2. Therefore, the factored form of this difference of
squares is (2x - 5)(2x + 5).
c) 16x2 - 9 = (4x)2 - (3)2. Therefore, the factored form of this difference of
squares is (4x - 3)(4x + 3).
Don’t forget to check your answer by multiplying the two factors together.
Note that binomials that are a sum or difference of cubes may also be factored
but the method is shown in a later course.
Use the following learning activity to brush up on your factoring skills so you
will be prepared to factor more complicated expressions in the next lesson. If
any of the factoring techniques seem difficult to you, it would be an excellent
time to ask your tutor/marker for additional help. Your learning partner is
also available for help, should you need it.
Complete the following, and check your answers in the learning activity keys
found at the end of this module.
Part A: BrainPower
1. Carla has a shoe addiction. She owns 13 pairs of boots, 18 pairs of
sneakers, 23 pairs of high heels, and 19 pairs of sandals. How many pairs
of shoes does she have in total?
2. What are two numbers that sum to 11 and multiply to 30?
3. Multiply: (2x + 1)(x - 5)
9
4. Evaluate: 21
3
63
5. Factor: x2 + 7x + 12
6. How many metres are in 2.3 km?
7. Simplify: (2x2 - 6x + 11) - (-14x2 - 2x + 4)
8. Is xy2 the greatest common factor of 6x2y2 + 8xy3?
continued

Part B: Factoring Review
1. Factor out the greatest common factor.
a) 5x + 20
b) 5x3 + 20x2
c) 30x2y - 24xy3
d) x3 + x2
2. Factor each trinomial completely.
a) x2 + 7x - 8
b) x2 - 2x - 8
c) x2 - 11x + 28
d) 3x3 + 30x2 + 63x
e) 2x2 + 7x - 15
f) 4x2 - 12x + 9
2 2
g) x − 4x + 6
3
3. Factor each binomial completely.

a) x2 - 100
b) 9x2 - 49
c) 9x2 - 16y2
d) 2x2 - 50y2z2
4. Create a graphic organizer of the steps to take when factoring a
polynomial. Include descriptions for how to complete each step.

Lesson Summary
Now that you have reviewed some basic factoring techniques, it will be
easier to factor more complicated expressions. In the next lesson, you will be
learning how to factor more difficult polynomials using the same techniques
you reviewed in this lesson.

L e s s o n 2: Q ua dr at ic Pat t e r n s; I s
a Binomi al a Fac tor of a
P o ly n o m i a l?
Lesson Focus

q learn how to factor polynomial expressions with a trinomial
quadratic pattern
q learn how to factor polynomial expressions with a difference of
squares pattern
q learn how to determine if a binomial is a factor of a polynomial
Lesson Introduction
In Lesson 1, you reviewed your knowledge about factoring. You may notice
that different patterns are used when factoring polynomials. For example,
there are patterns or rules to follow when factoring a difference of squares
and when factoring trinomials where a = 1. You can also use these patterns to
factor more difficult expressions, like those with a quadratic pattern.
Factoring
The quadratic patterns in trinomials and differences of squares allow you to

factor complex polynomials. You use similar methods to those you used to
factor less complex polynomials.
Factoring Polynomials of the Form a(f(x))2 + b(f(x)) + c

Consider the polynomial (x + 2)2 + 6(x + 2) + 8. This polynomial is in the
form a(f(x))2 + b(f(x)) + c where f(x) = (x + 2) and a = 1, b = 6, c = 8.
How many different methods are there to factor polynomials of this form?

Consider the following two methods.
Method 1: Multiplying then Factoring
You may decide the best way to factor this polynomial is to first multiply to
eliminate the brackets and then simplify. The resulting polynomial, therefore,
will be in the form ax2 + bx + c, and you have just reviewed how to factor
polynomials of this form in Lesson 1.
(x + 2)2 + 6(x + 2) + 8
= x2 + 2x + 2x + 4 + 6x + 12 + 8 Multiply
= x2 + 10x + 24 Combine like terms
= (x + 4)(x + 6) Factor the trinomial with a = 1
Method 2: Factoring by Replacement—the R Method

Instead of multiplying out the entire polynomial, you may recognize a pattern
in this polynomial. Comparing a(f(x))2 + b(f(x)) + c to the form ax2 + bx + c,
you may notice that x is being replaced by f(x). In the polynomial,
(x + 2)2 + 6(x + 2) + 8, x is being replaced by f(x) = (x + 2).
(x + 2)2 + 6(x + 2) + 8 = (f(x))2 + 6(f(x)) + 8, where f(x) = (x + 2)
It is possible to replace (x + 2) with a different variable—say w. Then you will
be able to factor the polynomial as you normally would. After you complete
your factoring, you need to substitute (x + 2) back in for the variable w and
simplify.
(x + 2)2 + 6(x + 2) + 8
= w2 + 6w + 8 Substitute w for (x + 2)
= (w + 4)(w + 2) Factor the trinomial with a = 1
= (x + 2 + 4)(x + 2 + 2) Substitute (x + 2) back in for w
= (x + 6)(x + 4) Simplify
As you can see, both methods arrive at the same answer. Which method do
you prefer?
Some students prefer to use Method 1 and multiply out the entire expression.
However, using Method 1 can sometimes become too complicated. Therefore,
Method 2 is more easily used. Using Method 2 and then Method 1 to see if
your answer is correct is an excellent idea.

How to use Method 2 to factor a polynomial of the form a(f(x))2 + b(f(x)) + c:
1. Replace f(x) with a single variable—say w.
2. Factor the resulting polynomial.
3. Replace the substituted variable, w, by f(x).
4. Simplify the expression.
5. Factor further, if necessary.
Include these steps on your resource sheet if you feel they will help you
remember how to factor a polynomial with a quadratic pattern.
Example 1
Factor the following polynomials completely.
a) (x + 4)2 - 6(x + 4) - 16
b) 6(2x - 8)2 - 21(2x - 8) + 15
c) 2(x2 + 3x - 2)2 - 18(x2 + 3x - 2) + 36
d) (x2 + 12x + 11)2 + 25(x2 + 12x + 11) + 144
Solution
a) (x + 4)2 - 6(x + 4) - 16
Comparing (x + 4)2 - 6(x + 4) - 16 with a(f(x))2 + b(f(x)) + c, you notice
that f(x) = (x + 4). Therefore, f(x) = (x + 4) can be replaced with a variable
to reduce this polynomial to one that is easier to factor.
Replace (x + 4) with w:
w2 - 6w - 16
Factor:
(w + 2)(w - 8)
Replace w with (x + 4):
(x + 4 + 2)(x + 4 - 8)
Simplify to get
(x + 6)(x - 4)

b) 6(2x - 8)2 - 21(2x - 8) + 15
In this expression, f(x) = (2x - 8).
Replace (2x - 8) with w:
6w2 - 21w + 15
Factor out the GCF first:
3(2w2 - 7w + 5)
3(2w2 - 5w - 2w + 5)
3[w(2w - 5) - 1(2w - 5)]
3[(2w - 5)(w - 1)]
Replace w with 2x - 8:
3{[2(2x - 8) - 5][2x - 8 - 1]}
3{(4x - 16 - 5)(2x - 9)}
Final answer:
3(4x - 21)(2x - 9)
c) 2(x2 + 3x - 2)2 - 18(x2 + 3x - 2) + 36

In this expression, f(x) = (x2 + 3x - 2)
Replace (x2 + 3x - 2) with w:
2w2 - 18w + 36
Factor out the GCF:
2(w2 - 9w + 18)
Factor the remaining trinomial:
2(w - 6)(w - 3)
Replace w with (x2 + 3x - 2):
2(x2 + 3x - 2 - 6)(x2 + 3x - 2 - 3)
Simplify:
2(x2 + 3x - 8)(x2 + 3x - 5)
Neither of these trinomials factors further.

d) (x2 + 12x + 11)2 + 25(x2 + 12x + 11) + 144
In this expression, f(x) = (x2 + 12x + 11).
Replace (x2 + 12x + 11) with w:
w2 + 25w + 144
Factor:
(w + 9)(w + 16)
Replace w with (x2 + 12x + 11):
(x2 + 12x + 11 + 9)(x2 + 12x + 11 + 16)
Simplify:
(x2 + 12x + 20)(x2 + 12x + 27)
You may consider yourself to be done. However, both polynomials are still
factorable. Therefore, there is more factoring for you to do.
Factor again to get the final answer:
(x + 2)(x + 10)(x + 3)(x + 9)
Factoring Polynomials of the Form a2(f(x))2 - b2(g(y))2

Consider the expression a2(f(x))2 - b2(g(y))2. Does this expression seem
familiar to you? This expression is simply a more complex form of differences
of squares. Just as differences of squares A2 - B2 could be factored as
(A - B)(A + B), so can a2(f(x))2 - b2(g(y))2.
The factored form of a2(f(x))2 - b2(g(y))2 is [a(f(x)) - b(g(y))][a(f(x)) + b(g(y))].
Include this on your resource sheet.
Why does this work?
Consider a2(f(x))2 - b2(g(y))2 and compare it to A2 - B2.
a2(f(x))2 - b2(g(y))2 = [a(f(x))]2 - [b(g(y))]2
Therefore, A = a(f(x)) and B = b(g(y)).
Now, you can substitute these values in for A and B in the equation
(A - B)(A + B) to find the factored form of a2(f(x))2 - b2(g(y))2.
a2(f(x))2 - b2(g(y))2 = [a(f(x)) - b(g(y))][a(f(x)) + b(g(y))]

Example 2
Factor the following polynomials completely.
a) 64 x 2 − 81y 2
2 2
b) 4 ( x + 2 ) − 25 (3 y + 5)
2 2
c) 36 ( 2 x − 5) − 49 ( y − 1)
 1  2 1 4
d)  ( 2 x − 9 ) − (5 y − 7 )
 100   25 
Solution
a) Compare 64x2 - 81y2 to the form [a(f(x))]2 - [b(g(y))]2.
64x2 - 81y2
= (8x)2 - (9y)2
Therefore, a(f(x)) = 8x and b(g(y)) = 9y.
Using the formula a2(f(x))2 - b2(g(y))2 = [a(f(x)) - b(g(y))][a(f(x)) + b(g(y))],
64x2 - 81y2 = (8x - 9y)(8x + 9y)
Now check your work by multiplying the factors together to get the
original polynomial.
b) Method 1: Factor Directly

Compare 4(x + 2)2 - 25(3y + 5)2 to the form [a(f(x))]2 - [b(g(y))]2.
4(x + 2)2 - 25(3y + 5)2
= [2(x + 2)]2 - [5(3y + 5)]2
Therefore, a(f(x))= 2(x + 2) and b(g(y)) = 5(3y + 5).
4(x + 2)2 - 25(3y + 5)2 = [2(x + 2) - 5(3y + 5)][2(x + 2) + 5(3y + 5)]
After you arrive at this step, you still have to simplify your answer.
(2x + 4 - 15y - 25)(2x + 4 + 15y + 25)
= (2x - 15y - 21)(2x + 15y + 29)

Method 2: Replacement
Substitute:
let w = x + 2 and p = 3y + 5
Then 4(x + 2)2 - 25(3y + 5)2 becomes
4w2 - 25p2
Factor:
(2w - 5p)(2w + 5p)
Back substituting:
[2(x + 2) - 5(3y + 5)][2(x + 2) + 5(3y + 5)]
Simplify:
(2x + 4 - 15y - 25)(2x + 4 + 15y + 25)
(2x - 15y - 21)(2x + 15y + 29)
c) Method 1: Factor Directly

Compare 36(2x - 5)2 - 49(y - 1)2 to the form [a(f(x))]2 - [b(g(y))]2.
36(2x - 5)2 - 49(y - 1)2
= [6(2x - 5)]2 - [7(y - 1)]2
Therefore, a(f(x)) = 6(2x - 5) and b(g(y)) = 7(y - 1).
36(2x - 5)2 - 49(y - 1)2 = [6(2x - 5) - 7(y - 1)][6(2x - 5) + 7(y - 1)]
Simplify:
(12x - 30 - 7y + 7)(12x - 30 + 7y - 7)
= (12x - 7y - 23)(12x + 7y - 37)
Let w = 2x - 5 and p = y - 1
Then 36(2x - 5)2 - 49(y - 1)2 becomes
36w2 - 49p2
Factor:
(6w - 7p)(6w + 7p)
Back substituting:
[6(2x - 5) - 7(y - 1)][6(2x - 5) + 7(y - 1)]
Simplify:
(12x - 30 - 7y + 7)(12x - 30 + 7y - 7)
(12x - 7y - 23)(12x + 7y - 37)

d) Method 1: Factor Directly
 1  2 1 4
Compare  ( 2 x − 9 ) − (5 y − 7 ) to the form [a(f(x))]2 - [b(g(y))]2.
 100   25 
 1  2 1 4
 ( 2 x − 9 ) − (5 y − 7 )
 100   25 
2 2
 1    1  2
= ( 2 x − 9 ) − (5y − 7 ) 
 10    5  
Recall that when an exponent is being raised to a power, you can multiply
the exponent by the power: (x2)2 = x(2)(2) = x4. Therefore (5y - 7)4 is the
same as ((5y - 7)2)2.
Thus:
1 1 2
a ( f ( x )) = ( 2 x − 9 ) and b ( g ( y )) = (5 y − 7 )
 10  5
 1  1 4
 ( 2 x − 9 ) − (5 y − 7 )
 100   25 
 1   1 2 1  1 2
= ( 2 x − 9 ) − ( 5y − 7 )  ( 2 x − 9 ) + (5 y − 7 ) 
 10   5  10  5 
Simplify:
2 9 1  2 9 1 
 x− − ( 25 y 2 − 70 y + 49 ) x − + ( 25 y 2 − 70 y + 49 )
 10 10 5  10 10 5 
2 9 49  2 9 49 
= x − − 5 y 2 + 14 y −  x − + 5y 2 −14 y + 
 10 10 5  10 10 5
1 107  1 89 
= x − 5 y 2 + 14 y −  x + 5 y 2 −14 y + 
5 10  5 10 

Substitution:
Let w = 2x - 9 and t = 5y - 7
1 1 4
Then ( 2 x − 9 )2 − (5y − 7 ) becomes:
100 25
1 2 1
w − t4
100 25
1
Common factor of
100
1 1 1 1 100
100
( w 2 − 4t 4 ) Note: ÷ = × =4
25 100 25 1
Factor as a difference of squares:
1
100
( w − 2t 2 ) ( w + 2t 2 )
Back substitute:
1  2  2
 2 x − 9 − 2 (5y − 7 ) 
 2 x − 9 + 2 (5y − 7 ) 
100
Simplify:
1 
 2 x − 9 − 2 ( 25 y − 70 y + 49 ) 2 x − 9 + 2 ( 25 y − 70 y + 49 )
2  2 
100
Simplify:
1  2 2
 2 x − 9 − 50 y + 140 y − 98  2 x − 9 + 50 y − 140 y + 98 
 
100
1
100
(2 x − 50 y 2 + 140 y − 107 ) (2 x + 50 y 2 − 140 y + 89)
This answer is slightly different than the one in Method 1 because the
fractional common factor was factored out in Method 2.

Determining Whether a Binomial is a Factor of a Polynomial
You have now learned how to factor various forms of polynomials. However,
what happens if someone tells you that a certain binomial is a factor of a
polynomial? How can you know if that person is correct?
Consider the polynomial x2 + 3x + 2.
The factored form is (x + 1)(x + 2).
What happens when you equate each factor to zero?
x+1=0 or x+2=0
x = -1 x = -2
You now have two values for x. What happens when you substitute these
values for x back into the factored form of the polynomial?
x = -1
(-1 + 1)(-1 + 2) = (0)(1) = 0
x = -2
(-2 + 1)(-2 + 2) = (-1)(0) = 0
In both situations, the answer is zero. What happens when you substitute
these values for x back into the original polynomial?
x = -1
(-1)2 + 3(-1) + 2 = 1 - 3 + 2 = 0
x = –2
(-2)2 + 3(-2) + 2 = 4 - 6 + 2 = 0
Both of these equations equal zero again! When you equate a factor of a
polynomial to zero and substitute the resulting value into the original
polynomial, you always get an answer of zero. This is because the factored
form of the polynomial is equal to the polynomial.
x2 + 3x + 2 = (x + 1)(x + 2)
Therefore, if one of the factors of a polynomial equals zero, the whole
expression equals zero. Recall: Anything multiplied by zero is zero.
For that reason, in order to check if a binomial is a factor of a polynomial, you
can use the following steps. Include these steps on your resource sheet.
1. Equate the binomial to zero and solve for the variable.
2. Substitute the value you calculated for the variable into the original
polynomial.

3. Evaluate to see if the value of the polynomial is equal to 0.
Q If the evaluated polynomial equals zero, the binomial is a factor.
Q If the evaluated polynomial does not equal zero, the binomial is not a
factor.
Example 3
Determine whether (x + 5) is a factor of the following polynomials.
a) x2 + 6x + 5
b) 2x2 - 6x + 7
c) 3x2 - 4x + 1
Solution
Step 1 Equate the binomial to zero and solve for the variable.
x+5=0
x = -5
Step 2: Substitute x = -5 into each polynomial.
a) x2 + 6x + 5
= (-5)2 + 6(-5) + 5
= 25 - 30 + 5
=0
b) 2x2 - 6x + 7
= 2(-5)2 - 6(-5) + 7
= 50 + 30 + 7
= 87
c) 3x2 - 4x + 1
= 3(-5)2 - 4(-5) + 1
= 75 + 20 + 1
= 96
Step 3: Check to see if the evaluated polynomial equals zero.
The evaluated polynomial in (a) equals zero. Therefore, (x + 5) is a
factor of the polynomial in (a).
The evaluated polynomials in (b) and (c) do not equal zero. Therefore,
(x + 5) is not a factor of the polynomials in (b) and (c).

Example 4
Determine if (2x - 5) is a factor of the following polynomials.
a) 2x2 - x - 10
b) 4x2 - x + 7
c) 4x2 - 20x + 25
Solution
2x − 5 = 0
2x = 5
5
x=
2
a) 2 x 2 − x − 10
 5 2 5
= 2  − − 10
2 2
25 5
= − − 10
2 2
=0
b) 4 x 2 − x + 7
 5 2 5
= 4  − + 7
2 2
5
= 25 − +7
2
= 29.5
c) 4 x 2 − 20 x + 25
 5 2 5
= 4  − 20 + 25
2 2
= 25 − 50 + 25
=0
The evaluated polynomials in (a) and (c) both equal zero. Therefore, (2x - 5) is
a factor of the polynomials in (a) and (c).
The evaluated polynomial in (b) does not equal zero. Therefore, (2x - 5) is not
a factor of the polynomial in (b).

Part A: BrainPower
1. There are a group of 80 people in a shareholder’s meeting making a
decision about whether or not to acquire a new company. The decision
needs to pass with an 80% majority. How many people must agree in
order for the decision to pass?
2. Evaluate: 5 ´ 17 ´ 20
3. Katrina is flying from Winnipeg to Belize. She leaves Winnipeg at 7:00 am
and takes a 3-hour flight to Minneapolis where she has a two and a half
hour layover. From Minneapolis, she takes a direct flight to Belize that
lasts for 7.25 hours. What time does Katrina arrive in Belize?
4. What is the greatest common factor of 48 and 144?
5. Convert 6.3 kilometres to metres.
28
6. Simplify:
42
7. Find the slope of the line parallel to the line, -2 = 4x + 6y.
8. Determine the total surface area of a cube with a volume of 8 cm3.
Part B: Factoring Expressions with Quadratic Patterns
1. Add to the factoring graphic organizer you completed in the last learning
activity (Learning Activity 2.1). Include all of the new techniques you
learned about factoring in this lesson.
continued

2. Factor completely.
a) (7x - 6)2 - 8(7x - 6) + 15
b) 9(2x - 1)2 - 42(2x - 1) + 49
c) (x2 - x)2 - 7(x2 - x) + 6
d) (x - 1)2 + 4(x - 1) - 32
3. Factor each expression.
a) 50(2x - 7)2 - 162(3y - 4)2
b) 25x2 - 4y2
c) 16(7x - 6)2 - 121(4y - 7)2
d) 144(x + 3)4 - 729(y - 1)4
4. Determine if (x – 2) is a factor of each of the following polynomials.
a) 8x2 - 30x + 28
b) (x - 2)2 + 4(x - 2) - 32
c) –15x2 - 196x - 572
5. Determine if (7x – 6) is a factor of each of the following polynomials.
a) (7x - 6)2 - 8(7x - 6) + 15
b) 7x2 + 22x - 24
c) 16(7x - 6)2 - 121(4x - 7)2
d) 35x2 - 58x + 24
6. Janique was asked to factor the trinomial 4x2 + 2x - 12 completely. Her
work is shown below.
4x2 + 2x - 12
= 4x2 + 8x - 6x - 12
= 4x(x + 2) - 6(x + 2)
= (4x - 6)(x + 2)
Determine if her work is correct, and explain why or why not.
Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you built on your knowledge of factoring from Lesson 1

and from previous courses. You learned how to factor polynomials that
follow a quadratic pattern. You also discovered that there are ways to check
if a binomial is a factor of a polynomial. In the next lesson, you will be
discovering how factoring is related to rational expressions.

Assignment 2.1
Factoring
Total: 37 marks
1. Factor the following expressions completely.
a) 4x2 + 13x + 9 (2 marks)
b) 4x2 - 16x (1 mark)
c) x2 - y2 (1 mark)
d) 3abc3 - 27bc2 (1 mark)
e) x2 - 6x - 27 (1 mark)
f) 25 - x2 (1 mark)
continued

Assignment 2.1: Factoring (continued)
a) (x + 2)2 - 6(x + 2) - 16 (3 marks)
b) 3(2x - 1)2 + 19(2x - 1) + 16 (3 marks)
c) 12(2x - 5)2 + 17(2x - 5) - 5 (4 marks)
continued

a) 25(x - 7)2 - (y - 1)2 (3 marks)
b) 81(x - 2)2 - 36(3y - 7)2 (3 marks)
c) 4(4x - 1)4 - 49(2y)2 (4 marks)
continued

4. Determine if (x - 5) is a factor of the following polynomials. (4 marks)
a) 2x2 - 17x + 35 (2 marks)
b) 2(x - 4)2 - 2(x - 5)2 (2 marks)
continued

5. Determine if (2x - 7) is a factor of the following polynomials.
a) 3(2x - 7)2 - 4(2x - 6)2 (2 marks)
b) 4x2 - 28x + 49 (2 marks)
continued

6. Jacob was asked to factor the trinomial 2(x - 2)2 + 8(x - 2) - 10 completely. His
work is shown below. Is his work correct? Explain why or why not. (2 marks)
2(x - 2)2 + 8(x - 2) - 10
Let w = (x - 2)
= 2w2 + 8w - 10
= 2w2 - 2w + 10w - 10
= 2w(w - 1) + 10(w - 1)
= (2w + 10)(w - 1)
= 2(w + 5)(w - 1)

L e s s on 3: E qui va l en t R at ion a l
Expressions
Lesson Focus

q learn the definition of a non-permissible value
q learn how to find non-permissible values of rational expressions
q learn how to simplify a rational expression by factoring
q learn how to create equivalent rational expressions
q learn how to find errors in your solution
Lesson Introduction
In the first two lessons of this module, you reviewed some basic factoring
techniques and used these techniques to factor more complex polynomials.
Factoring is very useful when dealing with rational expressions. Rational
expressions are similar to fractions. However, rational expressions contain
polynomials in the numerator and the denominator. In this lesson, you will
discover how factoring and fractions are related to rational expressions.
You have studied fractions, which can also be called rational numbers, in
previous mathematics courses. You know how to add, subtract, multiply, and
divide rational numbers. Furthermore, you know how to reduce fractions to
their lowest form.
In the next few lessons, you will learn how to perform these operations with
the algebraic equivalents of rational numbers, called rational expressions.
a
n is a rational number if a and b are integers and b ¹ 0.
b
p
is a rational expression if p and q are polynomials and q ¹ 0, and q
q
n
contains a variable.

A rational number is a ratio of integers, while a rational expression is a ratio
of polynomials.
2 -5 4
n , , are rational numbers
3 6 1
x 2 − x + 1 −( x + 1) 3
n
, , are rational expressions
x+2 x x−1
Include all of the previous definitions and examples on your resource sheet.
Non-Permissible Values
In all fractions, the denominator cannot equal zero. This is because there
is no answer when dividing by zero. Also, in all rational expressions, the
denominator cannot equal zero.
The domain of a rational expression is the set of all real numbers for which
the denominator of the rational expression is not zero. The numbers excluded
from the domain of a rational expression are called the non-permissible
values of the expression.
Example 1
Find the domain and the non-permissible values of the following rational
expressions.
x−1
a)
x−2
5
b)
x
x2 − 1
c)
x−7
1
d) 2
x − 2x + 1

Solution
To find the non-permissible values of each rational expression, you need to
find the values at which the denominator of the rational expression equals
zero.
x-1
a)
x-2
In this rational expression, the denominator equals zero when x = 2.
Therefore, the non-permissible value of this rational expression is x = 2.
The domain is all real numbers except x = 2.
D: {x|x ¹ 2, x Î Â}
Recall: This statement is read as “x is any value such that x does not equal
two and x is an element of the real number system.”
5
b)
x
D: {x|x ¹ 0, x Î Â}
x2 - 1
c)
x-7
D: {x|x ¹ 7, x Î Â}
1
d) 2
x − 2x + 1
In this rational expression, the way to discover when the denominator
equals zero is to first factor the denominator. You will revisit this method
in more detail in Modules 3 and 4.
x2 - 2x + 1 = (x - 1)(x - 1)
Now, you have to equate each factor of the denominator to zero. As
both factors of this polynomial are the same, you only have one non-
permissible value.

x-1=0
x = 1
Therefore, the denominator equals zero when x = 1.
Recall from last lesson that the factored form of a polynomial is equal to
the polynomial itself. Therefore, when one factor of the polynomial equals
zero, the whole polynomial equals zero.
D: {x|x ¹ 1, x Î Â}
Simplifying Rational Expressions

What is the value of any rational expression in which the numerator and the
denominator are the same non-zero polynomial?
7
n 1
7
4
n 1
4
x−4
n = 1, except when x = 4
x−4
x2 + x + 7
n =1
x2 + x + 7
When there are no variables in the denominator of an expression, any

expression divided by itself is one. However, when variables are located in the
denominator of an expression, non-permissible values can sometimes appear.
These non-permissible values can make an expression that would normally
x-4
equal one, such as , be undefined at that value. Because of this, you
x-4
need to be careful when you are reducing or simplifying rational expressions.
Note: x2 + x + 7 does not factor. No value of x will make x2 + x + 7 equal

zero.
You can reduce rational numbers by factoring to form equivalent fractions.
4 2 (2) 2
= =
6 2 ( 3) 3
4 2
Thus, and are equivalent fractions.
6 3

Similarly, you can reduce a rational expression by factoring to produce an
equivalent rational expression.
x 2 − 1 ( x − 1) ( x + 1) x−1
2
= =
x +x x ( x + 1) x
x2 − 1 x−1
The rational expressions 2
and are said to be equivalent.
x +1 x
However, the non-permissible values must be determined as well. These

values are calculated according to how the original expression is defined,
not the reduced expression. The easiest way is to use the factored form
of the original before you reduce it. Thus, the non-permissible values for
x 2 − 1 ( x − 1) ( x + 1)
= are where the denominator is zero.
x2 + 1 x ( x + 1)
These are at the values:

x=0 or x+1=0
x = -1
Thus, the non-permissible values are x = 0, -1.
x2 − 1
Consider the following table of values which compares 2 with its
x +x
x-1
reduced form x for various values of x.
value of value of value of the reduced form of

x x2 − 1 x2 − 1 x−1
or
x2 + x 2
x +x x
-2 2 x − 1 (−2 ) − 1
x2 − 1 (−2 ) − 1 =
=
x + x (−2 )2 + (−2 )
2 x (−2 )
3 −3
= =
2 −2
3
=
2
(continued)

-1 x2 − 1 (−1) − 1 2
x − 1 (−1) − 1
= =
2
x + x (−1)2 + (−1) x (−1)
0 −2
= =
0 −1
= indeterminate =2
0
The expression is an indeterminate form that is studied in more detail in
0
0
calculus. You know that any number over itself is 1, so you might think is 1.
0
However, you also know that 0 in the numerator of any fraction is zero, so you
0
might think is zero. Finally, you know that any number divided by a very
0
0
small number is infinitely large, so you might think approaches infinity. The
0
0
reason that is called indeterminate is because its value cannot be determined.
0
2
x−1
If you were to graph y = x2 − 1 , the graph would be identical to y = ,
x +x x
except there would be a “hole” in the graph where x = 1 and y = 2.
0 x2 − 1 0−1 x−1 0−1
= =
2
x +x 0+0 x 0
−1 −1
= =
0 0
= no answer = no answer
Division by zero is not possible. Division by zero is not possible.

1 x2 − 1 1 − 1 x −1 1−1
= =
x2 + x 1+1 x 1
0
0 =
= 1
2
=0
=0
2 x2 − 1 22 − 1 x−1 2−1
= =
x2 + x 22 + 2 x 2
3 1
= =
6 2
1
=
2

The non-permissible values for the original expression are x = -1 and x = 0,
where the expression has a denominator of 0. As you can see from the chart,
x2 − 1 x-1
the values for 2 and its reduced form are equivalent except for
x +x x
x = -1. The reduced expression only shows one non-permissible value where
the denominator is zero, at x = 0. Thus, when finding non-permissible values
always consider the original expression. At the non-permissible values of x,
the two expressions are not equivalent or are not defined. At all other values,
they are equivalent.
The answer of “indeterminate” will be explained in more detail in future
math courses. It is included here for comparison purposes. It is not on your
examinations.
Steps for simplifying rational expressions:
1. Factor the numerator and denominator completely.
2. Find the non-permissible values.
3. Cancel out factors that are common to both the numerator and the
denominator.
4. Write the reduced equivalent rational expression including the non-
permissible values. The answer may be written in factored form.
It may be helpful for you to include these steps on your resource sheet.
Example 2
Simplify each rational expression. State the non-permissible values.
x2 − 9
a) 2
x −x−6
x 2 − 3x
b)
x
6 x 2 + 3x
c)
3x 2
x−3
d)
3−x
125x 3 y 4
e)
5x 5 y 2

Solution
x2 - 9
a) 2
x -x-6
First, you need to factor the numerator and denominator of this
expression.
( x − 3) ( x + 3)
( x − 3) ( x + 2 )
Before you simplify this rational expression, you need to state the non-
permissible values. Recall that the non-permissible values of the variable
occur when the denominator of the original rational expression equals
zero.
x-3=0 x+2=0
x = 3 x = -2
Therefore, the non-permissible values are 3 and -2.
Now you can go ahead and simplify the rational expression.
( x − 3) ( x + 3) x+3
= , where x ≠ 3 , − 2
( x − 3) ( x + 2 ) x+2
x 2 - 3x
b)
x
The non-permissible value is 0. Now factor.
x ( x − 3)
= x−3
x
Thus, the answer is x - 3, x ¹ 0.
6 x 2 + 3x
c)
3x 2
3 x ( 2 x + 1)
=
3x ( x )
The non-permissible value is 0 (since 3x = 0 when x = 0 and x = 0 are the

factors).
3 x ( 2 x + 1) 2 x + 1
= ,x≠0
3x ( x ) x

x-3
d)
3-x
At first, you may think it is not possible to reduce this rational expression.
However, (3 - x) = -(x - 3).
Therefore, you can rewrite the rational expression as follows.
x−3 x−3 1
= = = −1
3 − x −( x − 3 ) −1
The non-permissible value of this rational expression is x = 3.
125x 3 y 4
e)
5x 5 y 2
The non-permissible values of this rational expression are x = 0 and y = 0.

When you see an expression in this form, it may be helpful for you to
expand the expression as follows:
125x 3 y 4 ( 5)( 5)( 5)( x )( x )( x ) ( y )( y )( y )( y )
=
5x 5 y 2 ( 5)( x )( x )( x )( x ) ( x ) ( y )( y )
It is now easier to see what is going on, and what factors you can cancel
from both the numerator and denominator.
( 5) ( 5)( 5) ( x ) ( x ) ( x ) ( y ) ( y ) ( y )( y ) ( 5) ( 5) ( y )( y ) 25y 2
= = 2 , x ≠ 0, y ≠ 0
( 5) ( x ) ( x ) ( x ) ( x )( x ) ( y ) ( y ) ( x )( x ) x
Example 3
x 2 + x − 12
Is the domain of all real numbers except x = -3?
x2 − 9
Solution
x 2 + x − 12 ( x + 4 ) ( x − 3) x + 4
= =
x2 − 9 ( x − 3) ( x + 3) x + 3
x = -3 is a non-permissible value of this rational expression. However, in
order to find all non-permissible values of a rational expression, you need to
find the values at which the denominator of the original expression equals
zero.
Therefore, the non-permissible values of this expression are x = 3 and x = -3.
The domain of this rational expression is all real numbers except 3 and -3.

Equivalent Rational Expressions
Just as it is possible to reduce fractions, you can also find equivalent fractions
by multiplying the denominator and numerator of a fraction by the same
value. In other words, you are multiplying by 1 in some form. Multiplying by
1 does not change the value of an expression.
2 2 ( 5) 10
= =
3 3 ( 5) 15
2 10
and are equivalent fractions. Here you multiplied by 1 in the form
3 15
5
of .
5
It is also possible to create equivalent rational expressions. However,

instead of just multiplying the numerator and the denominator by the same
numerical value, you can also multiply them by a polynomial as long as its
value is not zero, as shown below.
x + 3 ( x + 3 ) ( x + 1) x 2 + 4 x + 3
= = 2
x − 2 ( x − 2 ) ( x + 1) x −x−2
x+3 x 2 + 4x + 3
and 2 are equivalent fractions for x ≠ 2 and x ≠ −1,
x−2 x −x−2
x+1
and you multiplied by 1 in the form .
x+1
Finding Non-Permissible Values of Equivalent Rational Expressions

The non-permissible values of equivalent rational expressions are always
determined from the polynomial with more factors in its denominator. When
you are creating equivalent rational expressions by multiplying the numerator
and denominator by the same polynomial, the non-permissible values are
found by equating the denominator of your new rational expression to zero.

Example 4
Create equivalent rational expressions for each of the following rational
expressions. State the non-permissible values of the new equivalent rational
expression.
x+6
a)
x+2
x2 + 3
b)
x−7
Solution
x+6
a) To create an equivalent rational expression for , you can multiply
x+2
the numerator and denominator by any polynomial, say (x + 8).
x + 6 ( x + 6 ) ( x + 8) x 2 + 14 x + 48
= =
x + 2 ( x + 2 ) ( x + 8) x 2 + 10 x + 16
The non-permissible values of this new rational expression are determined
where its denominator equals zero.
x+2=0 x+8=0
x = -2 x = -8
Therefore, the non-permissible values of the rational expression are -2
and -8.
There are other possible answers as well.
x2 + 3
b) To create an equivalent rational expression equal to, , you can
x−7
multiply the numerator and denominator by any polynomial, say (x2 + 1).
x 2 + 3 ( x + 3 ) ( x + 1)
2 2
x 4 + 4x 2 + 3
= =
x−7 ( x − 7 ) ( x 2 + 1) x3 − 7x2 + x − 7
The non-permissible value of this new rational expression is determined

where its denominator equals zero.
x-7=0
x = 7
Note: x2 + 1 never equals zero for real numbers.

The non-permissible value is x = 7.

Finding Errors in Simplifications of Rational Expressions
Many students find simplifying rational expressions requires greater
concentration. Because of this, there are mistakes that students could make.
Being aware of these mistakes makes you less likely to make them in the
future. Consider the following examples.
Example 5
Explain why the simplification of the following rational expressions is
incorrect.
4 − 8x 4−x
a) = = 4−x
8 1
( x + 1) + 6 6
b) = =2
3 − ( x + 1) 3
Solution
a) It is only possible to cancel out factors of a rational expression. The value
“8” is not a factor of the rational expression as it only occurs in one term
in the numerator. Therefore, it is not possible to cancel out this value.
However, it is possible to first factor the numerator and denominator and
then cancel out common factors.
4 − 8x 4 (1 − 2 x ) 1 − 2 x
= =
8 4 (2) 2
b) Again, it is only possible to cancel out factors of a rational expression.

Since (x + 1) does not appear in both terms in the numerator and the
denominator, the expression needs to be factored before factors of the
numerator and denominator can be cancelled out. However, there are no
common factors between the denominator and the numerator. Thus, this
rational expression cannot be reduced any further. It can be simplified by
first removing the brackets.
( x + 1) + 6 x + 1 + 6 x + 7
= =
3 − ( x + 1) 3 − x − 1 2 − x
The following learning activity will allow you to practice factoring and
simplifying rational expressions. Be sure to complete this learning activity,
as it will allow you to know whether or not you have learned the material. If
you check your answers in the answer key and discover you have answered
many questions incorrectly, you should go back and relearn the material in
the lesson.

Part A: BrainPower
1. Factor: x2 - 5x - 6
3. The air you breathe is a mixture of different gases including nitrogen,
carbon dioxide, oxygen, and argon. If the air is 78.1% nitrogen, 0.1% carbon
dioxide, 20.9% oxygen, and 0.7% argon, what percentage of the air is
composed of other gases?
4
4. State the reciprocal of .
3
5. Your grandma is making a turkey dinner for the family and needs you to
figure out when to start putting everything in the oven. If the turkey takes
five hours to cook, the ham takes three hours to cook, and the meatballs
take one hour to cook (they cannot go in the oven at the same time), what
time does your grandma need to start putting food in the oven to have
dinner ready by 2:00 pm?
For questions 6, 7, and 8, consider the following values:
3, 4, 4, 4, 6, 7, 9, 10, 16, 17.
6. Find the mode.
7. Find the mean.
8. Find the median.
continued

Part B: Equivalent Forms of Rational Expressions
1. State the domain and the non-permissible values of each rational
expression.
( x + 3) ( x − 2 )
a)
(x + 2)(x − 2)
x ( x − 1)
b)
(x + 2)
x (x − 2)
c)
( x + 3) ( x − 3)
x ( x − 1) ( x + 2 )
d)
( x − 1) ( x + 1) ( x + 2 )
x ( x − 1)
e)
( x − 1) x
2. Simplify each rational expression. State the non-permissible values of x for

each expression. Your final answer may be in factored form.
2 x 2 − 18
a)
x 2 − x − 12
x 3 − 2 x 2 − 15x
b)
x 3 − 25x
2 x 3 + 8x
c)
2x2
3x + 6
d)
x2 − 4
2x − 2
e)
1−x
100 x 3 y 2
f)
25x 3 y 3
continued

3. Is the following method an acceptable way to reduce fractions? Explain.
5 1
a) =
x+ 5 x+1
6 x 3 − 24 x
b) = x 3 − 24
6x
5 + 10 x 5 (1 + 2 x ) 1 + 2 x
c) = =
5x ( 5)( x ) x
A x
4. Write the polynomial A if 2
reduced to .
x -9 x-3
5. Explain why 7 may not be the only non-permissible value for the following
x
rational expression: .
x-7
6. Create a rational expression that has two non-permissible values: x = -1
and x = 5.
7. The distance, d, can be found using the formula d = rt, where r is the speed
and t is the time.
a) If the distance is represented by 2x2 + 3x - 2 and the speed is
represented by 4x + 8, what is an expression for the time? Simplify
your answer.
b) State any non-permissible values of the expression in part (a) above.
8. Create equivalent rational expressions for each of the following rational
expressions by multiplying by a form of 1. State the non-permissible
values for each rational expression.
x+1
a)
x−2
x−7
b)
x2

Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned how factoring is related to simplifying, or

reducing, rational expressions. You also discovered how to find the non-
permissible values of rational expressions. Multiplying the numerator
and denominator by the same polynomial to create equivalent rational
expressions was another mathematical skill that you learned.
In addition, you related rational expressions to rational numbers, or fractions.
Just as it is possible to multiply and divide rational numbers, it is also possible
to multiply and divide rational expressions. In the next lesson, you will learn
how to multiply and divide rational expressions using similar rules to those
you would use when multiplying and dividing fractions.

L e s s o n 4: M u lt i p l ic at io n a n d D i v i s io n
of R at ion a l E xpr e s sion s
Lesson Focus

q learn how to find and simplify the product of rational
expressions
q learn how to find and simplify the quotient of rational
expressions
Lesson Introduction
In the last lesson, you learned how to simplify rational expressions. This
knowledge becomes very useful when you are asked to multiply and divide
rational expressions. These expressions can sometimes become very complex.
However, knowing how to simplify these expressions makes multiplication
and division much easier.
Just as simplifying rational expressions is related to simplifying fractions,
multiplying and dividing rational expressions is similar to multiplying and
dividing fractions. In this lesson, you will learn about these similarities. These
similarities make multiplying and dividing rational expressions similar to
calculations you have completed before.
Remember, multiplying or dividing fractions does not require finding a
common denominator.
Operations on Rational Expressions
You know how to simplify products of rational numbers. For example,

4 3 ( 2 )( 2 ) 3 4 4
× = × = =
9 7 ( 3) ( 3) 7 3 (7 ) 21
To simplify products of rational numbers, you use the following steps:

1. Factor the numerators and denominators
2. Cancel out factors common to the numerator and denominator
3. Multiply the numerators
4. Multiply the denominators

Example 1
4 9
Find the product of ´ .
3 2
Solution
4 9 2 ( 2 ) 3 ( 3)
× = ×
3 2 3 2
2 ( 2 ) 3 ( 3)
Now, in the expression × , 2 is common to both the numerator and
3 2
denominator. Therefore, you are able to cancel out a factor of 2.
2 (2) 3 ( 3)
×
3 2
Also, 3 is common to both the numerator and denominator. Thus, you can
cancel out a factor of 3 as well.
2 (2) 3 ( 3)
×
3 2
The new fraction thus becomes:
2 ( 3)
=6
1
Another way to calculate the answer is to multiply first, then cancel:
4 9 36
× = =6
3 2 6
However, with algebraic fractions, this method becomes too cumbersome. It is
easier to factor first, then cancel and write your answer.
Multiplying Rational Expressions

Multiplying rational expressions is identical to multiplying fractions. The
following are the steps to multiplying rational expressions:
1. Factor the numerators and denominators.
2. Identify non-permissible values.
3. Cancel out factors that are common to both the numerator and
denominator.
4. Multiply the numerators. Leave in factored form.
5. Multiply the denominators. Leave in factored form.

Example 2
Simplify the following rational expressions. Identify the non-permissible
values.
x 2 − 4 x 2 + 6x + 9
a) ×
x+3 x+2
3x 2 10 y
b) ×
5y 3 9x 2
x−1 x2 − x − 6
c) ×
x2 − 4 2x2 − 2
Solution
x 2 − 4 x 2 + 6x + 9
a) ×
x+3 x+2
Factoring:
( x − 2 ) ( x + 2 ) ( x + 3) ( x + 3)
= ×
( x + 3) (x + 2)
The non-permissible values are x = -3 and x = -2.
Cancelling out like terms:
(x − 2) (x + 2) ( x + 3) ( x + 3)
= ×
( x + 3) (x + 2)
Multiplying the numerators and denominators to get the answer:

= (x - 2)(x + 3), x ¹ -3, x ¹ -2
Notice the product may be left in factored form.
3x 2 10 y 3 (x) (x) 2 ( 5) ( y ) 2
b) 3
× 2
= × = 2
5y 9x 5 ( y )( y ) ( y ) 3 ( 3) ( x ) ( x ) 3y
The non-permissible values are x = 0 and y = 0.
x−1 x2 − x − 6 x−1 ( x − 3) ( x + 2 ) x−3

c) 2
× 2
= × =
x −4 2x − 2 ( x − 2 ) ( x + 2 ) 2 ( x − 1) ( x + 1) 2 ( x − 2 ) ( x + 1)
The non-permissible values are x = 2, -2, 1, and -1.

Dividing Rational Expressions
Just as you know how to simplify the product of rational numbers, you can
simplify quotients of rational numbers. Consider the following example.
Example 3
4 6
Find the quotient for ÷ .
3 5
Solution
4 6 4 5 2 (2) 5 2 ( 5) 10
÷ = × = × = =
3 5 3 6 3 2 ( 3) 3 ( 3) 9
To divide fractions, you use the following steps:

1. Multiply by the reciprocal of the second fraction.
3. Cancel out factors common to the numerator and denominator.
4. Multiply the numerators.
5. Multiply the denominators.
Finding the quotient of rational expressions is similar. The following are the
steps for dividing rational expressions:
1. Write the reciprocal of the second fraction and change the division to
multiplication.
3. Identify non-permissible values.
4. Cancel out factors that are common to both the numerator and the
denominator.
5. Multiply the numerators. Leave in factored form.
6. Multiply the denominators. Leave in factored form.
Note: Because rational expressions involve non-permissible values, there is an
extra step or two when performing operations with rational expressions.

Example 4
Simplify the following rational expressions. Identify the non-permissible
values.
x2 − 4 x+2
a) ÷ 2
x+3 x −9
x + y x2 − y 2
b) ÷
x2 4x
x 2 + 3x x2 − 2x
c) ÷
x2 + x − 6 x−4
x 2 − 36
2
d) 2 x − 49
x − 12 x + 36
x 2 + 14 x + 49
Solution
x2 − 4 x+2
a) ÷ 2
x+3 x −9
Multiplying by the reciprocal of the second fraction:
x2 − 4 x2 − 9
×
x+3 x+2
Factoring:
( x − 2 ) ( x + 2 ) ( x − 3) ( x + 3)
×
( x + 3) (x + 2)
The non-permissible values are x = -3, 3, and -2.
Cancelling out common factors:
(x − 2) (x + 2) ( x − 3) ( x + 3)
×
( x + 3) (x + 2)
Multiplying the numerators and denominators:

( x − 2 ) ( x − 3)
= ( x − 2 ) ( x − 3) , x ≠ −3 , 3 , −2
1

Note: In the original expression, x2 - 9 is in the denominator of the

second fraction. Therefore, x2 - 9, or (x - 3)(x + 3) cannot equal zero. The
non-permissible values thus include x = -3 and x = 3. Thus, there are
three places in the original expression where you need to check for non-
permissible values: both denominators and the numerator of the fraction
after the division sign.
x + y x2 − y 2 x+y 4x x+y 4x 4
b) 2
÷ = 2
× 2 2
= × =
x 4x x x −y ( x ) ( x ) (x − y ) (x + y ) x (x − y )
The non-permissible values of x are x = 0, y, and –y, as shown below.

Note: (x – y) and (x + y) are factors in the denominator. Therefore, they

cannot equal zero.
x-y=0 x+y=0
x = y x = -y
Thus, –y and y become non-permissible values of x.
x 2 + 3x x2 − 2x
c) 2 ÷
x +x−6 x−4
x 2 + 3x x−4 x ( x + 3) x−4 x−4
= 2
× 2
= × =
x + x − 6 x − 2x ( x + 3) ( x − 2 ) x ( x − 2 ) ( x − 2 ) ( x − 2 )
x−4
=
( x − 2 )2
The non-permissible values are x = -3, x = 2, x = 0, and x = 4.
x 2 − 36
2 x 2 − 36 x 2 − 12 x + 36
d) 2 x − 49 = 2 ÷
x − 12 x + 36 x − 49 x 2 + 14 x + 49
x 2 + 14 x + 49
x 2 − 36 x 2 + 14 x + 49
= 2 ×
x − 49 x 2 − 12 x + 36
(x − 6) (x + 6) (x + 7 ) (x + 7 )
= ×
(x − 7 ) (x + 7 ) (x − 6) (x − 6)
(x + 6) (x + 7 )
=
(x − 7 ) (x − 6)
The non-permissible values are x = 7, -7, and 6.

Example 5
For what value(s) of x is the following expression not defined? Simplify the
expression.
x 2 x + 10 5x
2
× ÷
x − 25 x+2 x−8
Solution
x 2 x + 10 5x
2
× ÷
x − 25 x+2 x−8
x 2 ( x + 5) x−8 2 ( x − 8)
= × × =
( x − 5) ( x + 5) x+2 5x 5 ( x − 5) ( x + 2 )
Since no denominators can have a value of 0, it follows that the non-

permissible values are x = 5, -5, -2, 0, and 8, since x - 8 is a denominator in
the original expression, and x is a denominator in the multiplication step.
Make sure you complete the following learning activity and check your
answers in the Module 2 Learning Activity Answer Keys. If you do well on
this learning activity, you are likely to do well on Assignment 2.2, as similar
questions will appear there.

Part A: BrainPower
1. What is the perimeter of a regular hexagon if one side measures 4 cm?
2. You and your friends want to drive to the beach but you want to know
how far away it is. The map you are using has a scale of 1 cm = 100 km.
On the map, if the beach is 1.4 cm away from your house, how many
kilometres are you from the beach?
8 1
3. Calculate: -
9 5
4. Factor: 2x + 4xy
5. Simplify: (42)2
6. Solve the inequality 10x + 4 £ 3x - 1.
8. What is the sum of the reciprocals of the factors of 4?
continued

Part B: Multiplying and Dividing Rational Expressions
1. Perform the indicated operation. Identify any non-permissible values.
x+1 x2 x2 x
a) × 2 g) ÷ 2
x x −1 y y
x−2 x+2 x2 − 9 x2 + 4
b) ÷ 2 h) ×
x x 3x 2 + 12 x+3
x2 + 2x + 1 x 2 − 25 x4 − y 4 x2 − x − 6
c) × 2 i) ÷
5−x x + 6x + 5 x2 − y 2 x+2
3x 2 + 10 x + 3 3x + 1 2 x − 6 3x − 9
d) ÷ j) ÷
x2 − 9 x−3 x2 y xy
3
e) x 2 + 2 x − 8 x 2 − 8x + 16
2 k) × 2
x x 2 − 16 x − 6x + 8
2x + 6 5a − a2 a2 − 5a + 4 a2 − 7 a
l) 2 × ÷
x+1 a − 4 a + 3 a2 − 9 a + 20 a2 − 10 a + 21
f)
x+3
m2 − m − 20 m2 + 2 m − 8 m2 + 5m + 4
x2 − 1 m) ÷ 2 ÷
m2 − 25 m −m−2 m2 + 5m
continued

2. Stephanie was asked to simplify the following expression completely. Her
4 x + 16 5x + 20
÷
3x 2 4x
4 x + 16 5x + 20
= ×
3x 2 4x
4 ( x + 4) 5 ( x + 4)
= ×
3x 2 4x
5 (x + 4) (x + 4)
=
3x 2
Is Stephanie’s work correct? Explain why or why not. If Stephanie’s answer
is incorrect, find the correct answer.
3. Charles’ Law relates the temperature and volume of one gas to the
temperature and volume of another gas at a constant pressure according
to the formula:
V1 T
 1
V2 T2
2 x 2 + x − 10 x ( x − 1) x 3 − 9x
If V1 = , V2 = , and T2 = , find T1 .
x2 + x − 6 x2 − 1 2 x 2 − x − 15
Express your answer in simplest form.
Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned how you can multiply and divide rational
expressions using similar rules to those you use to multiply and divide
fractions. You also used your factoring skills to simplify these new
expressions. It is also possible to add and subtract rational expressions, which
you will be learning about in the next lesson.

Assignment 2.2
Multiplying, Dividing, and Simplifying Rational Expressions
Total: 51 marks
1. Simplify the following rational expressions. State the non-permissible values.
( x + 2 ) ( x − 3)
a)
3−x
x ( x + 5) ( x − 5)
b)
(5 − x)(5 + x)
x2 − 4
c)
x 2 + 4x + 4
continued

Expressions (continued)
4-x
d)
4 x 2 - 64
1 - x2
e) 2
x -1
x 2 − 6x − 7
f)
x 2 − 9 x + 14
continued

2. Are the following simplifications of rational expressions correct? Explain why or
why not. (2 marks each, for a total of 4 marks)
x+ 7
a) = x+1
7
x−1
b) =1
1−x
3. Create equivalent rational expressions for each of the following expressions. Your
answer may be left in factored form. (1 mark each, for a total of 2 marks)
x−1
a)
x2 + 5
3
b)
(x + 7 )(x − 2)
continued

4. Create two different rational expressions with non-permissible values of x = –1 and
x = 9. (4 marks)

x 2 + 3x + 2 x+3
a) × 2 (4 marks)
x+1 x + 5x + 6
x 2 − 7 x + 10 x 2 − 25 x + 2
b) 2 × 2 × (6 marks)
x − 2 x − 15 x −4 x+5
continued

4x 2 − 9 4x − 6
c) ÷ (5 marks)
12 x + 18 6 x + 12
x 2 − 5x − 14 x 2 + 7 x
d) × (3 marks)
x 2 − 49 5
x2 x
e) ÷ 2 (3 marks)
x − 3 x − 4x + 3
continued

6. Jeremiah was asked to simplify the following rational expression completely and
state the non-permissible values. His work is shown below.
x − x2 x2 − 2x + 1
÷
10 x + 8 5x 2 + 4 x
x − x2 5x 2 + 4 x
= ×
10 x + 8 x 2 − 2 x + 1
x (1 − x ) x ( 5x + 4 )
= ×
2 ( 5 x + 4 ) ( x − 1) ( x − 1)
(−x ) ( x − 1) x ( 5x + 4 )
= ×
2 ( 5x + 4 ) ( x − 1) ( x − 1)
−x 2
=
2 ( x − 1)
−4
The non-permissible values are x = 1, .
5
Is Jeremiah’s work correct? Explain why or why not. If Jeremiah’s work is incorrect,
find the correct answer. (2 marks)

L e s s o n 5: A d di t io n a n d S u b t r ac t io n o f
R at ion a l E xpr e s sion s
Lesson Focus

q learn how determine the sum or difference of two or more
rational expressions with the same denominator
q learn how to determine the sum or difference of two or more
rational expressions with different denominators
Lesson Introduction
In the last lesson, you learned how to multiply and divide rational
expressions. In this lesson, you will learn how to add and subtract rational
expressions. Adding and subtracting rational expressions is similar to adding
and subtracting fractions. As with fractions, you need to have the same
denominator before you can add or subtract rational expressions. This makes
adding and subtracting rational expressions more complicated than just
multiplying or dividing them.
Operations on Rational Expressions
When you are adding and subtracting fractions, there are two situations that
can occur. The first situation involves fractions with the same denominator.
If this occurs, you can just add or subtract the numerators and keep the
denominator the same. The second situation involves fractions with different
denominators. In this situation you need to first find a common denominator
before you add or subtract. The same is true for adding and subtracting
rational expressions.

Adding and Subtracting Rational Expressions with the Same
Denominator
Recall how to add and subtract fractions with the same denominator.
2 5 2+5 7
+ = = or
3 3 3 3
2 5 2 − 5 −3
− = = = −1
3 3 3 3
If the rational expressions contain the same denominator, you can add or
subtract the numerators the same way you would if you were dealing with
fractions. Consider the steps for adding or subtracting rational expressions
that have a common denominator.
Steps for adding or subtracting rational expressions that have a common
denominator:
1. Add or subtract the terms in the numerators.
2. Keep the denominator the same.
3. Reduce the resulting expression, if possible, by factoring.
Include these steps on your resource sheet.
Example 1
Perform the operation and simplify your answer. From now on, you do not
need to write the non-permissible values unless you are asked to do so.
x+3 x+1
a) +
2 2
x+3 x+1
b) −
2 2
x − 1 3x + 1
c) +
x+1 x+1
x 2 + 6 x − 7 3x − 8
d) −
x2 x2
Solution
x+3 x+1
a) +
2 2
( x + 3 ) + ( x + 1) x + 3 + x + 1 2x + 4 2 (x + 2)
= = = = = x+2
2 2 2 2

x+3 x+1
b) −
2 2
( x + 3 ) − ( x + 1) x+3−x−1 2
= = = =1
2 2 2
x − 1 3x + 1
c) +
x+1 x+1
( x − 1) + ( 3 x + 1) x − 1 + 3x + 1 4x
= = =
x+1 x+1 x+1
x 2 + 6 x − 7 3x − 8
d) −
x2 x2
( x 2 + 6 x − 7 ) − ( 3x − 8 ) x 2 + 6 x − 7 − 3x + 8 x 2 + 3x + 1
= = =
x2 x2 x2
Adding and Subtracting Rational Expressions with Different

Denominators
When rational expressions do not have the same denominator, adding or
subtracting them means you need to do an extra step. Before you can add
or subtract these rational expressions, you need to find the lowest common
denominator (LCD) for both rational expressions and then find equivalent
fractions using the LCD.
Finding the Lowest Common Denominator (LCD)

Steps for finding equivalent rational expressions having a specified LCD:
1. Factor each denominator completely.
2. Form the least common multiple of these denominators in factored form.
This is your LCD.
3. Complete the following steps for each rational expression to find the
equivalent fraction.
n Find the factors that do not occur in the original denominator but
appear in the LCD.
n Multiply the numerator and denominator by these factors to create an
equivalent rational expression.
Note: You should now have equivalent rational expressions all with the same
common denominator.

Write these steps down on your resource sheet. The following examples
will help clarify how to find the lowest common denominator for
rational expressions by finding the least common multiple of the factored
denominators.
Example 2
Find the least common multiple of the following polynomials.
a) x and (x - 4)
b) x2 and 2x
c) (x2 - 9) and (x - 3)
d) (x2 - 4x + 4) and (x2 - 4)
Solution
You first need to factor each of the polynomials. Remember, the lowest
common multiple (LCM) needs to be common. You need to include each of
the factors at least once and you need to use each factor at most the greatest
number of times it occurs in any of the polynomials. The LCM is the product
of the required number of factors.
Polynomials Factored Maximum Least

Polynomials Occurrence Common
in Any One Multiple (LCM)
Polynomial
a) x and (x - 4) x x once x(x - 4)
and x - 4 once
(x - 4)
b) x2 and 2x xx x twice 2xx
and 2 once or, simply
2x 2x2
c) (x2 - 9) and (x - 3)(x + 3) x - 3 once (x - 3)(x + 3)
(x - 3) and x + 3 once
(x - 3)
d) (x2 - 4x + 4) (x - 2)(x - 2) x - 2 twice (x - 2)(x - 2)(x + 2)
and (x2 - 4) and x + 2 once or, simply
(x - 2)(x + 2) (x - 2)2(x + 2)
The lowest common denominator (LCD) of two or more rational expressions

is the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators of the rational
expressions.

Example 3
Find the lowest common denominator for each set of fractions. Write
equivalent fractions for each set.
5 7
a) ,
4 12
7 29
b) ,
36 27
Solution
a) First, you need to factor each denominator completely.
4 = (2)(2)
12 = (3)(2)(2)
To find the least common multiple, you need to find the greatest number
of times each factor appears in a denominator. “2” appears twice in both
denominators and “3” appears once in one denominator. Therefore, the
least common multiple of these factors is (2)(2)(3) = 12. This means that
12 is the smallest value that can be used for the denominator in order to
5 7
make equivalent fractions for and and 12 is called the LCD.
4 12
Therefore, each fraction needs to have a denominator of 12.
Now, for each fraction, you need to find the factors that do not occur in the
original denominator but appear in the LCD.
5
Consider .
4
The factor that does not occur in 4 but occurs in the LCD of 12 is 3.
5 3
Therefore, needs to be multiplied by .
4 3
5 3 ( 5)( 3) 15
× = =
4 3 ( 4 )( 3) 12
15 7
Now, equivalent fractions having the same LCD of 12 are and .
12 12

b) First, you need to factor each denominator completely.
36 = (2)(2)(3)(3)
27 = (3)(3)(3)
The least common multiple of these factors is (2)(2)(3)(3)(3) = 108.
Notice that to find the least common multiple, you first need to find the
greatest number of times each factor occurs in each denominator. In this
example, “3” occurs only twice in 36, but 3 times in 27. Therefore, (3)(3)(3)
is necessary in the least common multiple. Also, “2” occurs twice in 36 but
not at all in 27. Therefore, (2)(2) are necessary factors of the least common
multiple. The least common multiple is (3)(3)(3)(2)(2) = 108.
Thus, the LCD is 108.
Now find the equivalent fractions.
7
Consider .
36
The factor that does not occur in 36 but occurs in the LCD of 108 is 3.
7 3
Therefore, needs to be multiplied by .
36 3
7 3 (7 )( 3) 21
× = =
36 3 ( 36 )( 3) 108
29
Consider .
27
The factors that do not occur in 27 but occur in the LCD of 108 are 2 and 2,
29 4
or (2)(2) = 4. Therefore, needs to be multiplied by .
27 4
29 4 ( 29 )( 4 ) 116
× = =
27 4 ( 27 )( 4 ) 108
Now, the equivalent fractions written with a common denominator of 108
21 116
are and .
108 108

Example 4
For each set of rational expressions, find their lowest common denominator.
Then write equivalent fractions using the LCD.
x+1 x
a) ,
( x − 1) ( x + 1) ( x − 2 ) ( x − 1)
x−2 x−1
b) 2
,
( x + 3) ( x − 7 ) x + 3
Solution
a) The first step is to factor each denominator completely. This is already
completed. Now you can form the least common multiple of these factors.
The least common multiple = (x - 1)(x + 1)(x - 2). This is the LCD for the
set of fractions.

Note: (x - 1) only appears once in the LCD because it only occurs once in
each denominator.
Now write equivalent fractions using the LCD.
x+1
Consider. .
( x − 1) ( x + 1)
The factor that does not occur in (x - 1)(x + 1) but appears in the LCD is
x+1 x-2
(x - 2). Therefore, needs to be multiplied by .
( x − 1) ( x + 1) x-2
x+1 x−2 ( x + 1) ( x − 2 )
× =
( x − 1) ( x + 1) x − 2 ( x − 1) ( x + 1) ( x − 2 )
x
Consider ( .
x − 2 ) ( x − 1)
The factor that does not occur in (x - 2)(x - 1) but appears in the LCD is
x
(x + 1). Therefore, needs to be multiplied by x + 1 .
( x − 2 ) ( x − 1) x+1
x x+1 ( x ) ( x + 1)
× =
( x − 2 ) ( x − 1) x + 1 ( x − 2 ) ( x − 1) ( x + 1)
Thus, equivalent fractions having the same denominator are
( x + 1) ( x − 2 ) ( x ) ( x + 1)
and .
( x − 1) ( x + 1) ( x − 2 ) ( x − 2 ) ( x − 1) ( x + 1)

b) Both of the denominators have already been factored. Therefore, you can
find the LCD right away.
LCD = (x + 3)2(x - 7)
The first rational expression already has the LCD as its denominator.
Therefore, only the second rational expression needs to be changed into an
equivalent fraction. The two factors present in the LCD that do not occur
in the denominator of the second rational expression are (x + 3) and
(x - 7).
x − 1 ( x − 1) ( x + 3 ) ( x − 7 ) ( x − 1) ( x + 3 ) ( x − 7 )
= × =
x + 3 ( x + 3) ( x + 3) ( x − 7 ) ( x + 3)2 ( x − 7 )
Now, equivalent fractions having the same denominator are
x−2 ( x − 1) ( x + 3 ) ( x − 7 )
and .
( x + 3)2 ( x − 7 ) ( x + 3)2 ( x − 7 )
Now that you know how to change rational expressions into equivalent
fractions having a common denominator, you can learn how to add or
subtract rational expressions that do not have a common denominator.
Steps for adding or subtracting rational expressions that do not have a
common denominator:
1. Factor each denominator.
2. Find the lowest common denominator (LCD).
3. Find equivalent rational expressions all having the same LCD.
4. Add or subtract the numerators.
5. Keep the denominator the same.
6. Reduce the resulting expression, if possible, by factoring.
Include these steps on your resource sheet.

Consider the following example that compares finding equivalent fractions to
finding equivalent rational expressions.
In Arithmetic In Algebra
5 3 2 3x
+ 2
+ 2
6 20 x − 1 x + 2x + 1
5 3 2 3x
= + = +
2 ( 3) 2 ( 2 )( 5) ( x − 1) ( x + 1) ( x + 1) ( x + 1)
 LCD = 2 ( 3)( 2 )( 5)  LCD = ( x − 1) ( x + 1) ( x + 1)
   
 3   3x 
 Note: 20 requires   Note: x 2 + 2 x + 1 requires 
   
 two facto
 ors of 2.    two factors of ( x + 1) .
 

5 2 ( 5) 3 3 2 x+1
= ⋅ + ⋅ = ⋅ +
2 ( 3) 2 ( 5) 2 ( 2 )( 5) 3 ( x − 1) ( x + 1) x + 1
50 + 9 3x x−1
= ⋅
60 ( x + 1) ( x + 1) x − 1
59 2 ( x + 1) + 3 x ( x − 1)
= =
60 ( x − 1) ( x + 1) ( x + 1)
2 x + 2 + 3x 2 − 3x
=
( x − 1) ( x + 1) ( x + 1)
3x 2 − x + 2
=
( x − 1) ( x + 1) ( x + 1)
Example 5
Perform the operation and simplify your answer. Indicate the non-permissible
values for each solution.
2 5
a) +
3x 2 x
2 3
b) 2
+ 2
x −x x −1
3 2 4x
c) + − 2
x+3 x−3 x −9
2 1
d) +
x − 4 2x − x2
2

Solution
2 5
a) +
3x 2 x
LCD = ( 3)( 2 )( x ) = 6 x
2 2  5 3
= × + × 
 3x 2   2 x 3 
4 15
= +
6x 6x
19
=
6x
2 3
b) 2
+ 2
x −x x −1
2 3
= +
x ( x − 1) ( x − 1) ( x + 1)
∴ LCD = x ( x − 1) ( x + 1)
2 3 2 3
∴ 2
+ 2 = +
x − x x − 1 x ( x − 1) ( x − 1) ( x + 1)
2 x+1 3 x
= ⋅ + ⋅
x ( x − 1) x + 1 ( x − 1) ( x + 1) x
2 ( x + 1) + 3 x
=
x ( x − 1) ( x + 1)
2 x + 2 + 3x
=
x ( x − 1) ( x + 1)
5x + 2
=
x ( x − 1) ( x + 1)
The non-permissible values are x = 0, 1, and -1.

3 2 4x
c) + − 2
x+3 x−3 x −9
3 2 4x
= + −
x + 3 x − 3 ( x − 3) ( x + 3)
∴ LCD = ( x + 3) ( x − 3)
3 2 4x
+ − 2
x+3 x−3 x −9
3 x−3 2 x+3 4x
= ⋅ + ⋅ −
x + 3 x − 3 x − 3 x + 3 ( x − 3) ( x + 3)
3 ( x − 3) + 2 ( x + 3) − 4 x
=
( x + 3) ( x − 3)
3x − 9 + 2 x + 6 − 4 x
=
( x + 3) ( x − 3)
x−3
=
( x + 3) ( x − 3)
1
=
x+3
The non-permissible values are x = 3 and -3.

2 1
d) +
x − 4 2x − x2
2
2 1
= +
(x − 2)(x + 2) −x ( x − 2 )
2 1
= −
(x − 2)(x + 2) x (x − 2)
∴ LCD = ( x − 2 ) ( x + 2 ) x
2 1
+
x − 4 2x − x2
2
2 x 1 x+2
= ⋅
− ⋅
(x − 2)(x + 2) x x (x − 2) x + 2
2x − (x + 2)
=
x (x − 2)(x + 2)
2x − x − 2
=
x (x − 2)(x + 2)
x−2
=
x (x − 2) (x + 2)
1
=
x (x + 2)
The non-permissible values are x = 0, 2, and -2.

Part A: BrainPower
1. What are two numbers that sum to 8 and multiply to -65?
2. Camille has $200 to buy a new outfit. She wants to buy a sweater for
$55.95, a shirt for $44.99, jeans for $49.99, and new shoes for $54.99.
Ignoring tax, does Camille have enough money to buy her outfit?
 3   14 
3. Evaluate:  × 
7   6 
4. On Monday it rained 5 mm, Tuesday it rained 1.3 cm, Wednesday it rained

4 mm, and on Thursday it rained 1.7 cm. How many millimetres did it
rain in total?
5. Factor: 2x2 - x - 6
Use the following right-angled triangle to answer the next three questions.


continued

Part B: Operations on Rational Expressions
1. Add and subtract as indicated.
x 5x
a) +
4 4
5x x
b) −
2 2
5a 5b
c) +
a+b a+b
3d d
d) −
c+d c+d
2 a2 + 4 a + 17 a2 − 4 a + 2
e) −
( a + 2 ) ( a + 3) ( a + 2 ) ( a + 3)
2. Find the lowest common denominator for each of the following sets of
4 3x 4x
a) , ,
x − 8 2 x − 16 x + 1
x+1 x−1
b) ,
( x + 2 ) ( x − 3) ( x − 2 ) ( x − 6 ) ( x − 3)2
continued

3. Add and subtract as indicated. Identify the non-permissible values.
4x 3x
a) 2
− 2
x + x − 6 x + 5x + 6
3 4
b) 2
+ 2
x − 4 x + 3 x − 5x + 6
2x 3 3
c) 2
− +
x − 6x − 7 x + 1 x − 7
2x x
d) − 2
x + 5xy x + 8xy + 15 y 2
2
y −4 y −7 y+8
e) − + 2
y − 3 y + 8 y + 5 y − 24
7 5 y + 18
f) − + 2
y+2 2−y y −4
2x 2 − 3x x+2
g) + 2 −
x−2 x −x−2 x+1
4. Simplify the following rational expressions.

x (x + 2) x
−
5 2 ( x − 1)
a)
5 7
+
x+2 x−1
1 1
+
b) x+2 x−2
x 1
2 +
x −4 x+2
x  x−3 x2 − 9 
c) + 2 ÷ 
2 x − 4  x − 3x + 2 x−1 
continued

5. Kahlia is trying to simplify a rational expression. However, the answer she
received does not match the answer at the back of the textbook. Kahlia’s
x−1 2x
−
( x + 2 ) ( x − 3) ( x + 2 )
x − 1 − 2x
=
( x + 2 ) ( x − 3)
−x − 1
=
( x + 2 ) ( x − 3)
Explain Kahlia’s mistake and simplify the rational expression correctly.
6. A swimmer swam 50 laps at a constant speed. For the remaining 50 laps,
he reduced his speed by 3 km/h. Write a rational expression for the total
time of this swimmer’s workout. You do not need to simplify your answer.
Note: distance = (speed)(time), or d = rt.
7. A rational expression puzzle is shown on the following page. Work with
your learning partner to cut out each puzzle piece and reassemble them
all in a 4 ´ 4 configuration so that each expression matches its factored
form or its simplified form. If you are stuck, you can look in the Module 2
Answer Key to find helpful hints.
Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned how to add and subtract rational expressions with
the same denominator and with different denominators. As with fractions,
rational expressions need to have the same denominator before you can add
or subtract them. Therefore, you learned how to find the lowest common
denominator for rational expressions.
The following Assignment 2.3 will test your knowledge of material covered
in this lesson. Make sure you complete the preceding learning activity and
check your answers in the Module 2 Answer Key before you complete this
assignment. This is the last assignment in Module 2.

Rational Expression Puzzle
(x + 7 )(x + 2) a 3 ( 3x − 5) (6 x − 13) 2 (x + 2 ) (x − 9)
4c
3x + 6
1
2 x 2 − x − 10
A B C D
x3
x2
×
x2  4
4 ( x − 1)
x2  x  2
−x ( 4x + 33)
x2 + 2x − 3
(x + 7 )(x + 2)
( x − 3 ) ( x + 1)
6
x 5x
2 
4x 2 − 7 x + 3 ( x + 2 ) ( x + 1) 2 ( x − 6 ) + 10 ( x − 6 ) − 48 x 7 x 2
4 x 2 − 25
x 2  36 ( 4 x − 3 ) ( x − 1) x 2  3x  2 ( 3x + 2 y + 3 ) ( 3x − 2 y + 5 )
x
4m
(
+
1
2

E F G H
2x  5
x 2 + 6x − 6
4 x + 1)
2
8m
( x − 3) ( x + 4 )
3 x 2 ( 2 x + 1)
a2 bc abc 2
x−3 x+4
( 4 x + 3 ) ( x + 1)
5x 2 + 13x + 18
x 2 + 5x + 6 x+3 3 x
2 ÷ 2 
( x − 1) ( x + 2 ) ( x + 3 )
6 ( 3x − 4 ) − 21 ( 3x − 4 ) + 15 x2 + x − 2 x −1 25x 2  20 x  4 x 2
1  100 x 2 ( 2 x + 9 ) (6x + 13) ( x + 5) ( x − 5) 100 x 2  1
8x
2x
x+1
a
2c
I J x3 K L
× 2
x − 10
x 2  4x
x (x − 2)
6 x 3  3x 2
2x
( x − 3 ) ( x − 1)
x 2  7 x  12 x
x −1
x 5 4 x x
3
 
x − 1 ( x + 2 ) ( x + 3)
(10x − 1) (10x + 1) 2 x x1 2 4
x1 x3 3x ( 5x + 2 )2
x 4
5
5x
Module 2: Fac toring and Rational E xpressions


−
M N O P
x2  4
( x + 1)
(x + 2)
x 2  25
x x2
x
6 xy 2  2 y
2 y (3xy − 1)
x +7 x +2
( x + 3 ) ( x − 1)
2 2
( x + 3)2 − 6 ( x + 3) − 16 (x − 6) ( x + 6) ( 3x + 4 )2 − (2 y − 1) 3 ( 2 x + 5) + 10 ( 2 x + 5) − 8
85
Assignment 2.3
Adding and Subtracting Rational Expressions
Total: 30 marks
1. Add and subtract as indicated. Identify the non-permissible values. (3 marks each, for
a total of 12 marks)
2 3
a) − 2
x−1 x +x−2
2 3
b) 2
+ 2
x − 4 x + 3x − 10
continued

(continued)
2 x+1
c) − 2
x − 5 x − 7 x + 10
2x2 −5x + 3
d) −
x−5 5−x
continued

(continued)
2. Find the lowest common denominator for each of the following sets of rational
expressions. (2 marks each, for a total of 4 marks)
5 5x + 1
a) 2
, 2
x − 36 x − 6 x
2x + 1 2
b) 2
, 2
x + 6 x + 8 x − x − 20
continued

(continued)
3. Simplify the following rational expressions. (4 marks each, for a total of 8 marks)
 x+2  x + 1 
 2  
 x + 3x + 2  x + 5 
a)
x+5
x2
x  x 2 + 3x − 40  x 2 + 3x − 18 
b) + 2  
x + 7  x + 2 x − 35  x 2 + 2 x − 48 
continued

(continued)
4. Kenny is trying to simplify the following expression. His work is shown below.
5x + 2 10 x 2 − 4 x + 4
−
( x + 1) ( x + 2 ) ( x + 1) ( x + 2 )
5x + 2 − 10 x 2 − 4 x + 4
=
( x + 1) ( x + 2 )
−10 x 2 + x + 6
=
( x + 1) ( x + 2 )
Is Kenny’s work correct? Explain why or why not. Correct Kenny’s work if his work
is incorrect. (2 marks)
continued

(continued)
5 A triathlete is preparing to compete in a triathlon. During her workout, she can
swim 1 km at a constant speed. After swimming, she can bike for 10 km at 15 km/h
faster than she can swim. After biking, she can run for 5 km at 5 km/h faster
than she can swim. Write a rational expression for the total time of this triathlete’s
workout. Do not simplify your answer. Recall: d = rt. (4 marks)

Notes

Module 2 Summary
In this module, you studied factoring and rational expressions. You reviewed
your previous knowledge of factoring and extended this knowledge to factor
more complex polynomials. You then related factoring to rational expressions.
You learned how rational expressions are similar to fractions. You can add,
subtract, multiply, divide, and simplify rational expressions in similar ways to
those you would use to add, subtract, multiply, divide, and simplify fractions.
Having this knowledge of factoring and rational expressions will be very
useful in Module 3, where you will be learning about quadratic functions.
Quadratic equations can sometimes be solved by factoring. You will learn
how to do this in Module 4. However, before you learn how to solve quadratic
equations by factoring, you need to understand what a quadratic function is
and the patterns these functions follow.
q Assignment 2.1: Factoring
q Assignment 2.2: Multiplying, Dividing, and Simplifying Rational
Expressions
q Assignment 2.3: Adding and Subtracting Rational Expressions

Notes

Module 2

Module 2:
Part A: BrainPower
3. Multiply: (2x + 1)(x - 5)
9
4. Evaluate: 21
3
63
5. Factor: x2 + 7x + 12
7. Simplify: (2x2 - 6x + 11) - (-14x2 - 2x + 4)
Answers:
1. 73 (13 + 18 + 23 + 19)
2. 5 and 6
3. 2x2 - 9x - 5
 9 
 9  63   3  21  63 
4. 9  21 =
  =  = 
 3  21  3   7  1  7 
 63 
5. (x + 3)(x + 4)
6. 2300 metres (2.3 ´ 1000)
7. 16x2 - 4x + 7 (2x2 - 6x + 11 + 14x2 + 2x - 4)
8. No, the greatest common factor is 2xy2. (6x2y2 + 8xy3 = 2xy2(3x + 4y))

a) 5x + 20
b) 5x3 + 20x2
c) 30x2y - 24xy3
d) x3 + x2
Answers:
a) 5(x + 4)
b) 5x2(x + 4)
c) 6xy(5x - 4y2)
d) x2(x + 1)

a) x2 + 7x - 8-
b) x2 - 2x - 8
c) x2 - 11x + 28
d) 3x3 + 30x2 + 63x
e) 2x2 + 7x - 15
f) 4x2 - 12x + 9
Answers:
a) (x + 8)(x - 1)
b) (x - 4)(x + 2)
c) (x - 7)(x - 4)
d) First factor out the GCF. Then factor the remaining trinomial.
3x(x2 + 10x + 21) = 3x(x + 7)(x + 3)
e) 2x2 - 3x + 10x - 15
= x(2x - 3) + 5(2x - 3)
= (2x - 3)(x + 5)

f) 4x2 - 6x - 6x + 9
= 2x(2x - 3) - 3(2x - 3)
= (2x - 3)(2x - 3)
= (2x - 3)2
2 2
g) x − 4x + 6
3
2 2
=
3
( x − 6x + 9)
2
= ( x − 3) ( x − 3)
3
2
= ( x − 3)2
3

a) x2 - 100
b) 9x2 - 49
c) 9x2 - 16y2
d) 2x2 - 50y2z2
Answers:
a) (x - 10)(x + 10)
b) (3x - 7)(3x + 7)
c) (3x - 4y)(3x + 4y)
d) First factor out the GCF. Then factor the remaining binomial as a
difference of squares.
= 2(x2 - 25y2z2)
= 2(x - 5yz)(x + 5yz)

Answer:
See the following page for one example of the graphic organizer.

Factoring
Means finding the monomials, polynomials,
or a combination of the two whose product
is the original polynomial.
Step 1:
Greatest Common Factor
1. Find the GCF.
2. Write the GCF multiplied by the “leftovers”
in parentheses (GCF)(leftovers).
Step 2: Step 2:
Trinomials Difference of Squares
OR
ax + bx + c
2
A2 – B2
Factors of (A – B)(A + B)
if a = 1 if a ¹ 1
1. Find factors of “c” 1. Find factors of “ac”
that sum to “b.” that sum to “b.”
2. Factor 2. Split the middle term.
3. Factor by grouping.
Step 3:
Check to see if any of the factors can be
factored further.
Step 4:
Check your work by multiplying the factors
to get the original polynomial.
Step 5:
Write your answer.

Part A: BrainPower
2. Evaluate: 5 ´ 17 ´ 20
28
6. Simplify: 2
4
Answers:
1. 64 people (50% of 80 = 40; 10% of 80 = 8; 80% of 80 = 40 + 8 + 8 + 8)
2. 1700 (5 ´ 17 ´ 20 = 5 ´ 20 ´ 17 = 100 ´ 17)
3. 7:45 pm (7 am + 3 hours = 10 am; 10 am + 2.5 hours = 12:30; 12:30 +
7.25 hours = 7:45 pm)
4. 48
5. 6300 metres (There are 1000 metres in 1 kilometre, so 6.3 ´ 1000)
 8 
 2 28 4
6. 16  = 4 =2 
2 2 2
 ( 2 ) 
2 2 1 4 2 
7. −  y = − x −  6 y = −4 x − 2 ; y = − x −  
3 3 3 6 6 
Recall: Parallel lines have the same slope.

8. 8 cm3. (The sides of a cube are equal in length. Therefore, each side length
must be 2 cm. The total surface area is (2 ´ 2) ´ 6 = 24 cm2, as each side is
2 cm ´ 2 cm and there are 6 equal sides on a cube.)
Answer:
Quadratic Patterns
a(f(x))2 – b(f(x)) + c a2(f(x))2 – b2(g(y))2

1. Replace f(x) with w. 1. Factor as (a(f(x)) – b(g(y)) (a(f(x)) + b(g(y))
2. Factor. or
3. Replace w with f(x). 1. Replace f(x) with w and g(y) with p.
4. Simplify. 2. Factor.
5. Factor again if possible. 3. Replace w with f(x) and p with g(y).
4. Simplify.
5. Factor again if possible.

a) (7x - 6)2 - 8(7x - 6) + 15
Answer:
Replace (7x - 6) by w:
(w)2 - 8(w) + 15
Factor:
(w - 5)(w - 3)
Replace w with (7x - 6):
(7x - 6 - 5)(7x - 6 - 3)
Simplify:
(7x - 11)(7x - 9)
b) 9(2x - 1)2 - 42(2x - 1) + 49

Answer:
9w2 - 42w + 49
Factor:
9w2 - 21w - 21w + 49
= 3w(3w - 7) - 7(3w - 7)
= (3w - 7)(3w - 7)
= (3w - 7)2
[3(2x - 1) - 7]2
Simplify:
(6x - 3 - 7)2
= (6x - 10)2
= (6x - 10)(6x - 10)
= 2(3x - 5)(2)(3x - 5)
= 4(3x - 5)2

c) (x2 - x)2 - 7(x2 - x) + 6
Answer:
Replace (x2 - x) by w:
w2 - 7w + 6
Factor:
(w - 6)(w - 1)
Replace w with (x2 - x):
(x2 - x - 6)(x2 - x - 1)
Factor again:
(x - 3)(x + 2)(x2 - x - 1)
d) (x - 1)2 + 4(x - 1) - 32
Answer:
Replace (x - 1) by w:
w2 + 4w - 32
Factor:
(w + 8)(w - 4)
Replace w with (x - 1):
(x - 1 + 8)(x - 1 - 4)
Simplify:
(x + 7)(x - 5)

a) 50(2x - 7)2 - 162(3y - 4)2
Answer:
50(2x - 7)2 - 162(3y - 4)2
Let w = 2x - 7
p = 3y - 4
50(2x - 7)2 - 162(3y - 4)2
= 50w2 - 162p2
=2(25w2 - 81p2)
= 2(5w - 9p)(5w + 9p)

Substitute:
= 2[5(2x - 7) - 9(3y - 4)][5(2x - 7) + 9(3y - 4)
= 2[10x - 35 - 27y + 36][10x - 35 + 27y - 36]
= 2(10x - 27y + 1)(10x + 27y - 71)
b) 25x2 - 4y2
Answer:
25x2 - 4y2
= (5x)2 - (2y)2
a(f(x)) = 5x
b(g(y)) = 2y
= (5x - 2y)(5x + 2y)
c) 16(7x - 6)2 - 121(4y - 7)2

Answer:
16(7x - 6)2 - 121(4y - 7)2
Let w = 7x - 6
p = 4y - 7
16(7x - 6)2 - 121(4y - 7)2
= 16w2 - 121p2
= (4w - 11p)(4w + 11p)
= [4(7x - 6) - 11(4y - 7)][4(7x - 6) + 11(4y - 7)]
= [28x - 24 - 44y + 77][28x - 24 + 44y - 77]
= (28x - 44y + 53)(28x + 44y - 101)

d) 144(x + 3)4 - 729(y - 1)4
Answer:
144(x + 3)4 - 729(y - 1)4
Let w = x + 3
p = y - 1
144(x + 3)4 - 729(y - 1)4
= 144w4 - 729p4
= 9[16w4 - 81p4]
= 9(4w2 - 9p2)(4w2 + 9p2)
= 9(2w - 3p)(2w + 3p)(4w2 + 9p2)
= 9[2(x + 3) - 3(y - 1)][2(x + 3) + 3(y - 1)][4(x + 3)2 + 9(y - 1)2]
= 9(2x + 6 - 3y + 3][2x + 6 + 3y - 3][4(x2 + 6x + 9) + 9(y2 - 2y + 1)]
= 9[2x - 3y + 9][2x + 3y + 3][4x2 + 24x + 36 + 9y2 - 18y + 9]
= 9(2x - 3y + 9)(2x + 3y + 3)(4x2 + 9y2 + 24x - 18y + 45)
4. Determine if (x - 2) is a factor of each of the following polynomials.

a) 8x2 - 30x + 28
Answer:
x-2=0
x = 2
8x2 - 30x + 28
= 8(2)2 - 30(2) + 28
= 32 - 60 + 28
=0
This evaluated polynomial equals zero. Therefore, (x - 2) is a factor of
this polynomial.
b) (x - 2)2 + 4(x - 2) - 32
Answer:
x-2=0
x = 2
(x - 2)2 + 4(x - 2) - 32
= (2 - 2)2 + 4(2 - 2) - 32
= 0 + 0 - 32
= -32
This evaluated polynomial does not equal zero. Therefore, (x - 2) is
not a factor of this polynomial.

c) -15x2 - 196x - 572
Answer:
x-2=0
x = 2
–15x2 - 196x - 572
= -15(2)2 - 196(2) - 572
= -60 - 392 - 572
= -1024
5. Determine if (7x - 6) is a factor of each of the following polynomials.

a) (7x - 6)2 - 8(7x - 6) + 15
Answer:
7x − 6 = 0
7x = 6
6
x=
7
(7 x − 6 )2 − 8 (7 x − 6 ) + 15
 6 2  6 
=7 ⋅ − 6  − 87 ⋅ − 6 + 15
 7    7  
2 2
= (6 − 6 ) − 8 (6 − 6 ) + 15
= 0 − 0 + 15
= 15
This evaluated polynomial does not equal zero. Therefore, (7x - 6) is

b) 7x2 + 22x - 24
Answer:
7x − 6 = 0
7x = 6
6
x=
7
7 x 2 + 22 x − 24
 6 2 6
= 7  + 22 − 24
7  7 
36 132
= + − 24
7 7
168 168
= −
7 7
=0
This evaluated polynomial equals zero. Therefore, (7x – 6) is a factor of
this polynomial.
c) 16(7x - 6)2 - 121(4x - 7)2

Answer:
7x − 6 = 0
7x = 6
6
x=
7
For this question, you might use the calculator to manipulate the
fractions:
2 2
16 (7 x − 6 ) − 121 ( 4 x − 7 )
2 2
 6   6 
= 16 7 − 6  − 121 4 − 7 
 7    7  
−75 625
=
49
This evaluated polynomial does not equal zero. Therefore, (7x – 6) is

d) 35x2 - 58x + 24
Answer:
7x − 6 = 0
7x = 6
6
x=
7
35x 2 − 58x + 24
 6 2 6
= 35  − 58 + 24
7  7 
=0
This evaluated polynomial equals zero. Therefore, (7x - 6) is a factor of
this polynomial.

4x2 + 2x - 12
= 4x2 + 8x - 6x - 12
= 4x(x + 2) - 6(x + 2)
= (4x - 6)(x + 2)
Answer:
Janique’s work is correct so far. However, she has not factored the
polynomial completely. The expression (4x - 6) has a common factor of 2
that Janique can factor out. Therefore, the completely factored expression
is:
4x2 + 2x - 12 = 2(2x - 3)(x + 2)
Also, Janique could have factored out the common factor of 2 at the
beginning of her factoring steps.
4x2 + 2x - 12
2(2x2 + x - 6)
2(2x2 + 4x - 3x - 6)
2[2x(x + 2) - 3(x + 2)]
2[(x + 2)(2x - 3)]

Part A: BrainPower
1. Factor: x2 - 5x - 6
carbon dioxide, oxygen, and argon. If the air is 78.1% nitrogen, 0.1%
carbon dioxide, 20.9% oxygen, and 0.7% argon, what percentage of the air
is composed of other gases?
4
3
3, 4, 4, 4, 6, 7, 9, 10, 16, 17.
6. Find the mode.
7. Find the mean.
8. Find the median.
Answers:
1. (x - 6)(x + 1)
2. 2
3. 0.2% (100% - (78.1% + 0.1% + 20.9% + 0.7%) = 100% - 99.8%)
3
4.
4
5. 5:00 am (You need to use the oven for 9 hours; 9 hours before 2 pm is
5 am.)

6. 4 (The mode is the most frequently occurring number.)
 3 + 4 + 4 + 4 + 6 + 7 + 9 + 10 + 16 + 17 80 
7. 8  = 
 10 10 
(Look for friendly pairs of numbers to add without a calculator.)
6 + 7 13 
8. 6.5  = = 6.5
 2 2 
(Since there is an even number of numbers, the median will be the sum of
the two middle values divided by two.)
expression.
( x + 3) ( x − 2 )
a)
(x + 2)(x − 2)
Answer:
The non-permissible values are x = -2 and x = 2.
The domain is {x|x ¹ ±2, x Î Â}.
x ( x − 1)
b)
(x + 2 )
Answer:
The non-permissible value is x = -2.
The domain is {x|x ¹ -2, x Î Â}.
x (x − 2)
c)
( x + 3) ( x − 3)
Answer:

x ( x − 1) ( x + 2 )
d)
( x − 1) ( x + 1) ( x + 2 )
Answer:
The non-permissible values are x = -1, x = 1, and x = -2.
The domain is {x|x ¹ -1, 1, -2, x Î Â}.
x ( x − 1)
e)
( x − 1) x
Answer:
The non-permissible values are x = 1 and x = 0.
The domain is {x|x ¹ 1, 0, x Î Â}.

2 x 2 - 18
a) 2
x - x - 12
Answer:
2 (x 2 − 9) 2 ( x − 3) ( x + 3) 2 ( x − 3)
= =
( x − 4 ) ( x + 3) ( x − 4 ) ( x + 3) x−4
The non-permissible values are x = 4 and x = -3.
x 3 - 2 x 2 - 15x
b)
x 3 - 25x
Answer:
x ( x 2 − 2 x − 15) x ( x − 5) ( x + 3) x + 3
= =
x ( x 2 − 25) x ( x − 5) ( x + 5) x + 5
The non-permissible values are x = 0, x = -5, and x = 5.

2 x 3 + 8x
c)
2x2
Answer:
2x (x 2 + 4) x2 + 4
=
2x2 x
3x + 6
d)
x2 − 4
Answer:
3 (x + 2) 3
=
(x − 2)(x + 2) x − 2
2x - 2
e)
1-x
Answer:
2 ( x − 1)
= −2
−( x − 1)
100 x 3 y 2
f)
25x 3 y 3
Answer:
100 x 3 y 2 ( 25) ( 4 ) ( x ) ( x ) ( x ) ( y ) ( y ) 4
3 3
= =
25x y ( 25) ( x ) ( x ) ( x ) ( y ) ( y ) ( y ) y

5 1
a) =
x+ 5 x+1
Answer:
No. The value “5” is not a factor of the denominator. Therefore, even
though “5” is a factor of the numerator, it is not possible to cancel out
a “5” from the numerator and denominator. The original expression
cannot be reduced.
6 x 3 − 24 x
b) = x 3 − 24
6x
Answer:
No. The value “6” is a factor of the numerator. However, you would
also have to factor out a 6 from 24 before you cancel the factor “6” from
the numerator and denominator. Again, x is a factor of the numerator
and the denominator. However, you would have to factor out an x from
6x3 before you are able to cancel the factor “x” from both the numerator
6x ( x 2 − 4)
and the denominator. The correct answer is = x 2 − 4.
6x
5 + 10 x 5 (1 + 2 x ) 1 + 2 x
c) = =
5x ( 5)( x ) x
Answer:
Yes. This is a correct reduction as 5 is a factor of both the numerator
and denominator and thus can be eliminated from the rational
expression.

A x
reduced to .
x -9 x-3
Answer:
A x
If 2 reduces to , it follows that the rational expressions are
x -9 x-3
equivalent.
A x
2
=
x −9 x−3
A x
=
( x − 3) ( x + 3) x−3
Now solve for A.
x ( x − 3) ( x + 3)
A= = x ( x + 3) , x ≠ ±3
( x − 3)
x
x-7
Answer:
This rational expression may be the simplified form of another rational
expression. Therefore, another non-permissible value from the original
rational expression may have been factored out. For example, the original
x x+3 x ( x + 3)
expression may have been ⋅ = , in which case
x − 7 x + 3 ( x − 7 ) ( x + 3)
x = -3 is also a non-permissible value. Thus, x = 7 may not be the only
non-permissible value of this rational expression.

and x = 5.
Answer:
(x + 1) and (x - 5) must be factors of the denominator in order to have
non-permissible values of x = -1 and x = 5. Therefore, any rational
expression with (x + 1) and (x - 5) in the denominator would have non-
permissible values of x = -1 and x = 5. An example is:
(x + 2)
( x + 1) ( x − 5 )

and t is the time.
your answer.
Answer:
d = rt
2 x 2 + 3x − 2 = ( 4 x + 8) t
2 x 2 + 3x − 2 ( 4 x + 8) t
=
4x + 8 4x + 8
( 2 x − 1) ( x + 2 )
=t
4 (x + 2)
2x − 1
t=
4

Answer:
The non-permissible value is x = -2. Thus, the expression for time is
2x − 1
written as t = , x ≠ −2.
4

x+1
a)
x−2
Answer:
Answers will vary. An example is:
x + 1 ( x + 1) ( x + 1) x 2 + 2 x + 1
= = 2
x − 2 ( x − 2 ) ( x + 1) x −x−2
Note: x = 2 will be one of the non-permissible values no matter what
equivalent expression you create. Note also that your answer may be
( x + 1) ( x + 1)
left in factored form as .
( x − 2 ) ( x + 1)
x-7
b)
x2
Answer:
x − 7 ( x − 7 ) ( x − 5) x 2 − 12 x + 35
= =
x2 x 2 ( x − 5) x 3 − 5x 2


equivalent expression you create.

Part A: BrainPower
8 1
3. Calculate: -
9 5
4. Factor: 2x + 4xy
5. Simplify: (42)2
Answers:
1. 24 cm (6 ´ 4; a hexagon has 6 sides)
2. The beach is 140 km away (1.4 ´ 100 = 140 km).
31  40 9
3.  − 
45  45 45 
4. 2x(1 + 2y)
5. 256 [(42)2 = 44 = 256 or 162 = 256]
5
6. x ≤ − (7 x ≤ −5)
7
7. The factors of 180 are 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 12, 15, 18, 20, 30, 36, 45, 60, 90, and
180.
 1 1 
 The factors of 4 are 1, 2 , and 4. Their reciprocals are 1, , and .
7 2 4 
8.
4 1 1 4 2 1 7 
 The sum is 1 + + = + + = . 
 2 4 4 4 4 4 

x+1 x2
a) × 2
x x −1
Answer:
x+1 x2 x
⋅ =
x ( x − 1) ( x + 1) x − 1
x ≠ 0 , 1, −1
x−2 x+2
b) ÷ 2
x x
Answer:
x−2 x2 (x − 2) x
⋅ =
x x+2 x+2
x ≠ 0 , −2
x2 + 2x + 1 x 2 − 25
c) × 2
5−x x + 6x + 5
Answer:
( x + 1) ( x + 1) ( x − 5 ) ( x + 5 )
⋅
(−1) ( x − 5) ( x + 5) ( x + 1)
= −( x + 1) or −x − 1
x ≠ 5 , −5 , −1

3x 2 + 10 x + 3 3x + 1
d) ÷
x2 − 9 x−3
Answer:
( 3 x + 1) ( x + 3 ) x − 3
⋅ =1
( x − 3 ) ( x + 3 ) 3x + 1
1
x ≠ 3 , −3 , −
3
3
e)
2
x
Answer:
2
3÷
x
x 3x
= 3⋅ =
2 2
x≠0
2x + 6
f) x+1
x+3
x2 − 1
Answer:
2x + 6 x+3
÷ 2
x+1 x −1
2 ( x + 3 ) ( x − 1) ( x + 1)
= ⋅ = 2 ( x − 1)
x+1 x+3
x ≠ −1, 1, −3

x2 x
g) ÷ 2
y y
Answer:
x2 y 2
⋅ = xy
y x
x ≠ 0, y ≠ 0
x2 − 9 x2 + 4
h) ×
3x 2 + 12 x+3
Answer:
( x − 3) ( x + 3) x 2 + 4 x−3
⋅ =
3 (x 2 + 4) x+3 3
x ≠ −3
x4 − y 4 x2 − x − 6
i) ÷
x2 − y 2 x+2
Answer:
(x2 − y 2 )(x2 + y 2 ) x+2
2 2
⋅
x −y ( x − 3) ( x + 2 )
x2 + y2
=
x−3
x ≠ 3 , −2 ; x ≠ ±y
2 x − 6 3x − 9
j) ÷
x2 y xy
Answer:
2 ( x − 3) xy 2
2
⋅ =
x y 3 ( x − 3) 3x
x ≠ 0 , 3; y ≠ 0

x 2 + 2 x − 8 x 2 − 8x + 16
k) × 2
x 2 − 16 x − 6x + 8
Answer:
(x + 4) (x − 2 ) (x − 4) (x − 4)
⋅ =1
(x − 4) (x + 4) (x − 4) (x − 2 )
x ≠ 4 , −4 , 2
5a − a2 a2 − 5a + 4 a2 − 7 a
l) × ÷
a2 − 4 a + 3 a2 − 9 a + 20 a2 − 10 a + 21
Answer:
(−a) ( a − 5) ( a − 4 ) ( a − 1) ( a − 3) ( a − 7 )
⋅ ⋅ = −1
( a − 3 ) ( a − 1) ( a − 5 ) ( a − 4 ) a (a − 7)
a ≠ 3 , 1, 5 , 4 , 0 , 7
m2 − m − 20 m2 + 2 m − 8 m2 + 5m + 4
m) ÷ 2 ÷
m2 − 25 m −m−2 m2 + 5m
Answer:
( m − 5 ) ( m + 4 ) ( m − 2 ) ( m + 1) m ( m + 5) m
⋅ ⋅ =
( m − 5 ) ( m + 5 ) ( m + 4 ) ( m − 2 ) ( m + 4 ) ( m + 1) m + 4
m ≠ 5 , −5 , −4 , 2 , −1, 0

4 x + 16 5x + 20
÷
3x 2 4x
4 x + 16 5x + 20
= ×
3x 2 4x
4 ( x + 4) 5 ( x + 4)
= ×
3x 2 4x
5 (x + 4) (x + 4)
=
3x 2
Answer:
Stephanie’s work is not correct. Stephanie forgot to write the reciprocal of
the second fraction before she multiplied. She also did not find the non-
permissible values and her answer should have a denominator of 3x3.
The correct solution is:
4 x + 16 5x + 20
÷
3x 2 4x
4 x + 16 4x
= 2
×
3x 5x + 20
4 (x + 4) 4x
= ×
3 (x) (x) 5 (x + 4)
4 ( 4)
=
3 ( 5)( x )
16
= , x ≠ 0 , −4
15x

to the formula:
V1 T
 1
V2 T2
2 x 2 + x − 10 x ( x − 1) x 3 − 9x
If V1 = , V2 = , and T2 = , find T1 .
x2 + x − 6 x2 − 1 2 x 2 − x − 15
Answer:
2 x 2 + x − 10
x2 + x − 6 = T1
x ( x − 1) x 3 − 9x
2
x −1 2 x 2 − x − 15 Multiply both sides by
2 x 2 + x − 10 x ( x − 1) x 3 − 9x x 3 - 9x
T1 = ÷ × .
x2 + x − 6 x2 − 1 2 x 2 − x − 15 2 x 2 - x - 15
2 x 2 + x − 10 x2 − 1 x 3 − 9x
T1 = 2 × ×
x +x−6 x ( x − 1) 2 x 2 − x − 15
( 2 x + 5 ) ( x − 2 ) ( x − 1) ( x + 1) x ( x − 3 ) ( x + 3 )
T1 = × ×
( x + 3) ( x − 2 ) x ( x − 1) ( 2 x + 5) ( x − 3)
5
T1 = x + 1, x ≠ −3 , 2 , 0 , 1, − , 3 , −1
2

Part A: BrainPower
1. What are two numbers that sum to 8 and multiply to –65?
 3   14 
7   6 

rain in total?
5. Factor: 2x2 - x - 6


Answers:
1. 13 and -5
2. No ($200 - ($55.95 + $44.99 + $49.99 + $54.99) = $200 - $205.92
or 200 - (56 + 45 + 50 + 55) = 200 - 206)
 1  2  
3  14  2
3. 1  =
 7  6  2
 1 
 2  
4. 39 mm (5 mm + 13 mm + 4 mm + 17 mm)

5. 2x2 - 4x + 3x - 6
2x(x - 2) + 3(x - 2)
(2x + 3)(x - 2)
3
6.
5
4
7.
5
3
8.
4
x 5x
a) +
4 4
Answer:
x + 5x 6 x 3x
= =
4 4 2
5x x
b) -
2 2
Answer:
5x − x 4x
= = 2x
2 2
5a 5b
c) +
a+b a+b
Answer:
5 a + 5b 5 ( a + b)
= =5
a+b a+b

3d d
d) −
c+d c+d
Answer:
3d − d 2d
=
c+d c+d
2 a2 + 4 a + 17 a2 − 4 a + 2
e) −
( a + 2 ) ( a + 3) ( a + 2 ) ( a + 3)
Answer:
2 a2 + 4 a + 17 − ( a2 − 4 a + 2 )
( a + 2 ) ( a + 3)
2 a 2 + 4 a + 17 − a 2 + 4 a − 2
=
( a + 2 ) ( a + 3)
a2 + 8 a + 15
=
( a + 2 ) ( a + 3)
( a + 5) ( a + 3)
=
( a + 2 ) ( a + 3)
a+5
=
a+2
4 3x 4x
a) , ,
x − 8 2 x − 16 x + 1
Answer:
4 3x 4x
Factor the denominator: , ,
x − 8 2 ( x − 8) x + 1
\ LCD = 2(x - 8)(x + 1)
x+1 x−1
b) ,
( x + 2 ) ( x − 3) ( x − 2 ) ( x − 6 ) ( x − 3)2
Answer:
LCD: (x + 2)(x - 3)2(x - 2)(x - 6)

4x 3x
a) 2
− 2
x + x − 6 x + 5x + 6
Answer:
4x 3x
− LCD = ( x + 3) ( x − 2 ) ( x + 2 )
( x + 3) ( x − 2 ) ( x + 3) ( x + 2 )
4x x+2 3x x−2
= ⋅ − ⋅
( x + 3) ( x − 2 ) x + 2 ( x + 3) ( x + 2 ) x − 2
4 x 2 + 8x − 3x 2 + 6 x
=
( x + 3) ( x − 2 ) ( x + 2 )
x 2 + 14 x
=
( x + 3) ( x − 2 ) ( x + 2 )
Non-permissible values: x = –3, 2, and –2.
3 4
b) 2
+ 2
x − 4 x + 3 x − 5x + 6
Answer:
3 4
+ LCD = ( x − 3) ( x − 1) ( x − 2 )
( x − 3 ) ( x − 1) ( x − 2 ) ( x − 3)
3 x−2 4 x−1
= ⋅ + ⋅
( x − 3 ) ( x − 1) x − 2 ( x − 2 ) ( x − 3 ) x − 1
3x − 6 + 4 x − 4
=
( x − 3 ) ( x − 1) ( x − 2 )
7 x − 10
=
( x − 3 ) ( x − 1) ( x − 2 )
Non-permissible values: x = 3, 1, and 2.

2x 3 3
c) − +
x 2 − 6x − 7 x + 1 x − 7
Answer:
2x 3 3
− + LCD = ( x − 7 ) ( x + 1)
( x − 7 ) ( x + 1) ( x + 1) x − 7
2x 3 x−7 3 x+1
= − ⋅ + ⋅
( x − 7 ) ( x + 1) x + 1 x − 7 x − 7 x + 1
2 x − 3x + 21 + 3x + 3
=
( x − 7 ) ( x + 1)
2 x + 24
=
( x − 7 ) ( x + 1)
Non-permissible values: x = 7 and -1.
2x x
d) − 2
x + 5xy x + 8xy + 15 y 2
2
Answer:
2x x
−
x (x + 5y ) (x + 3y ) (x + 5y )
2 x
= − LCD = (x + 3 y ) (x + 5 y )
x + 5y (x + 3y ) (x + 5y )
2 x + 3y x
= ⋅ −
x + 5y x + 3y (x + 3y ) (x + 5y )
2x + 6y − x
=
(x + 3y ) (x + 5y )
x + 6y
=
(x + 3y ) (x + 5y )
Non-permissible values: x = 0, -5y, and -3y.

y −4 y −7 y+8
e) − + 2
y − 3 y + 8 y + 5 y − 24
Answer:
y −4 y −7 y+8
− + LCD = ( y − 3) ( y + 8)
y − 3 y + 8 ( y + 8) ( y − 3)
y −4 y +8 y −7 y −3 y+8
= ⋅ − ⋅ +
y − 3 y + 8 y + 8 y − 3 ( y + 8) ( y − 3)
y 2 + 4 y − 32 − ( y 2 − 10 y + 21) + y + 8
=
( y − 3) ( y + 8)
y 2 + 4 y − 32 − y 2 + 10 y − 21 + y + 8
=
( y − 3) ( y + 8)
15 y − 45
=
( y − 3) ( y + 8)
15 ( y − 3)
=
( y − 3) ( y + 8)
15
=
y+8
Non-permissible values: y = 3 and -8.

7 5 y + 18
f) − + 2
y+2 2−y y −4
Answer:
7 5 y + 18
− +
y + 2 (−1) ( y − 2 ) ( y − 2 ) ( y + 2 )
7 5 y + 18
= + + LCD = ( y + 2 ) ( y − 2 )
y + 2 y − 2 (y − 2 )(y + 2 )
7 y−2 5 y+2 y + 18
= ⋅ + ⋅ +
y + 2 y − 2 y − 2 y + 2 (y − 2 )(y + 2 )
7 y − 14 + 5 y + 10 + y + 18
=
(y − 2 )(y + 2 )
13 y + 14
=
(y − 2 )(y + 2 )
Non-permissible values: y = -2 and 2.
2x 2 − 3x x+2
g) + 2 −
x−2 x −x−2 x+1
Answer:
2x 2 − 3x x+2
+ −
x − 2 ( x − 2 ) ( x + 1) x + 1
2x x+1 2 − 3x x+2 x−2
= ⋅ + − ⋅ LCD = ( x − 2 ) ( x + 1)
x − 2 x + 1 ( x − 2 ) ( x + 1) x + 1 x − 2
2 x 2 + 2 x + 2 − 3x − ( x 2 − 4 )
=
( x − 2 ) ( x + 1)
2x2 − x + 2 − x2 + 4
=
( x − 2 ) ( x + 1)
x2 − x + 6
=
( x − 2 ) ( x + 1)

x (x + 2) x
−
5 2 ( x − 1)
a)
5 7
+
x+2 x−1
Answer:
 x (x + 2) x   5 7 
 − ÷ +  Rewrite
 5 2 ( x − 1)   x + 2 x − 1 
LCD of first expreession: ( 5)( 2 ) ( x − 1)
LCD of second expression: ( x + 2 ) ( x − 1)
Make common denominators:
 x ( x + 2 )( 2 ) ( x − 1) 5x   5 ( x − 1) 7 (x + 2) 
 − ÷ + 
 5 ( 2 ) ( x − 1) 5 ( 2 ) ( x − 1)   ( x + 2 ) ( x − 1 ) ( x − 1) ( x + 2 ) 
2 ( x ) ( x 2 + x − 2 ) − 5x 5x − 5 + 7 x + 14
= ÷ Simplify the numerators
5 ( 2 ) ( x − 1) ( x + 2 ) ( x − 1)
2 x 3 + 2 x 2 − 4 x − 5x 5x − 5 + 7 x + 14
= ÷ Simplify the numeerators
5 ( 2 ) ( x − 1) ( x + 2 ) ( x − 1)
2 x 3 + 2 x 2 − 9x 12 x + 9
5 ( 2 ) ( x − 1) ( x + 2 ) ( x − 1)
Multiply by the reciprocal and factor
x (2x 2 + 2 x − 9) ( x + 2 ) ( x − 1)
= ×
5 ( 2 ) ( x − 1) 3 ( 4 x + 3)
x (2 x 2 + 2 x − 9) (x + 2 )
= Multiiply and cancel
30 ( 4 x + 3)

1 1
+
b) x + 2 x − 2
x 1
2 +
x −4 x+2
Answer:
 1 1   x 1 
 + ÷ 2 + 
x + 2 x − 2 x − 4 x + 2
 1 1   x 1 
 + ÷ + 
 x + 2 x − 2   (x − 2)(x + 2) x + 2 
LCD of first expression: ( x − 2 ) ( x + 2 )
nd expression: ( x − 2 ) ( x + 2 )
LCD of secon
 x−2 x+2   x x−2 
 + ÷ + 
 (x + 2)(x − 2) (x + 2)(x − 2)   (x − 2)(x + 2) (x + 2)(x − 2) 
x−2+x+2 x+x−2
= ÷
(x + 2)(x − 2) (x − 2)(x + 2)
2x 2x − 2
= ÷
(x + 2)(x − 2) (x − 2)(x + 2)
2x (x − 2)(x + 2)
= ×
(x + 2)(x − 2) 2 ( x − 1)
x
=
x−1

x  x−3 x2 − 9 
c) + 2 ÷ 
2 x − 4  x − 3x + 2 x−1 
Answer:
x  x−3 x2 − 9 
+ 2 ÷ 
2 x − 4  x − 3x + 2 x−1 
x  x−3 x−1 
= + ×  Factor and multiply
2 ( x − 2 )  ( x − 2 ) ( x − 1) ( x + 3 ) ( x − 3 )  by the reciprocal
x 1
= + Cancel to reduce
2 ( x − 2 ) ( x − 2 ) ( x + 3)
LCD = 2 ( x − 2 ) ( x + 3)
x ( x + 3) 2
= +
2 ( x − 2 ) ( x + 3) 2 ( x − 2 ) ( x + 3)
x 2 + 3x + 2 ( x + 2 ) ( x + 1)
= or
2 ( x − 2 ) ( x + 3) 2 ( x − 2 ) ( x + 3)

x−1 2x
−
( x + 2 ) ( x − 3) ( x + 2 )
x − 1 − 2x
=
( x + 2 ) ( x − 3)
−x − 1
=
( x + 2 ) ( x − 3)
Answer:
The two original rational expressions do not have the same denominator.
Therefore, these rational expressions need to be changed to equivalent
rational expressions that have the same denominator before you can
subtract them.
x−1 2x LCD: (x + 2)(x - 3)
−
( x + 2 ) ( x − 3) ( x + 2 )
x−1 2 x ( x − 3)
= −
( x + 2 ) ( x − 3) ( x + 2 ) ( x − 3)
x−1 2 x 2 − 6x
= −
( x + 2 ) ( x − 3) ( x + 2 ) ( x − 3)
x − 1 − 2 x 2 + 6x
=
( x + 2 ) ( x − 3)
−2 x 2 + 7 x − 1
=
( x + 2 ) ( x − 3)

Answer:
d  rt
d
t
r
Let x = original constant speed
50
Time of first 50 laps:
x
50
Time of second 50 laps:
x-3
50 50
Total time of 100 laps: + hours
x x−3


Rational Expression Puzzle Solution
(x + 7 )(x + 2) x3 1  100 x 2 a
x 4c
5
8x
x+1

1
A N I B
x2
4
× 2
x2  4
x − 10
( x + 1)
(x + 2)
4 ( x − 1)
x (x − 2)
x x2
x2  x  2
2x
( x − 3 ) ( x + 1)
x −1
4x 2 − 7 x + 3 (x − 6) ( x + 6) (10x − 1) (10x + 1) ( x + 2 ) ( x + 1)
( 4 x − 3 ) ( x − 1) x 2  36 100 x 2  1 x 2  3x  2
x
4m
+
1
a

2c
2
F E L G
4 ( x + 1)
x−3 x+4
x 2 + 6x − 6
6 x 3  3x 2
8m
a2 bc abc 2
3 x 2 ( 2 x + 1)
( x − 3) ( x + 4 )
( 4 x + 3 ) ( x + 1)
x 2 + 5x + 6 x+3 x x
÷ 2 2 
x2 + x − 2 x −1 6 ( 3x − 4 ) − 21 ( 3x − 4 ) + 15 2 4 25x 2  20 x  4
x1 3 ( 3x − 5) (6 x − 13) 3x ( 5x + 2 )2
4
5x
−
M C O P
x2  4
x 2  25
x
6 xy 2  2 y
−x ( 4 x + 33)
x2 + 2x − 3
2 y (3xy − 1)
(x + 7 )(x + 2)
x +7 x +2
( x + 3 ) ( x − 1)
2 2
2
( x + 3)2 − 6 ( x + 3) − 16 2 ( x − 6 ) + 10 ( x − 6 ) − 48 ( 3x + 4 )2 − (2 y − 1) 3 ( 2 x + 5) + 10 ( 2 x + 5) − 8
( x + 5) ( x − 5) 2 (x + 2 ) (x − 9) ( 3x + 2 y + 3 ) ( 3x − 2 y + 5 ) ( 2 x + 9 ) (6x + 13)
2x

3x + 6
2 x 2 − x − 10
2
x3
K D H J
x3
×
2x  5
x 2  4x
+
x 2  7 x  12 x
5x 2 + 13x + 18
( x − 3 ) ( x − 1)
6
5 4 x 5x 3 x x
3
  
( x − 1) ( x + 2 ) ( x + 3 )
x − 1 ( x + 2 ) ( x + 3)
x x1 x 7 x 2 x 2 2
4 x 2 − 25
43
Notes

Module 2

Module 2:
Part A: BrainPower
3. Multiply: (2x + 1)(x - 5)
9
4. Evaluate: 21
3
63
5. Factor: x2 + 7x + 12
7. Simplify: (2x2 - 6x + 11) - (-14x2 - 2x + 4)
Answers:
1. 73 (13 + 18 + 23 + 19)
2. 5 and 6
3. 2x2 - 9x - 5
 9 
 9  63   3  21  63 
4. 9  21 =
  =  = 
 3  21  3   7  1  7 
 63 
5. (x + 3)(x + 4)
6. 2300 metres (2.3 ´ 1000)
7. 16x2 - 4x + 7 (2x2 - 6x + 11 + 14x2 + 2x - 4)
8. No, the greatest common factor is 2xy2. (6x2y2 + 8xy3 = 2xy2(3x + 4y))

a) 5x + 20
b) 5x3 + 20x2
c) 30x2y - 24xy3
d) x3 + x2
Answers:
a) 5(x + 4)
b) 5x2(x + 4)
c) 6xy(5x - 4y2)
d) x2(x + 1)

a) x2 + 7x - 8-
b) x2 - 2x - 8
c) x2 - 11x + 28
d) 3x3 + 30x2 + 63x
e) 2x2 + 7x - 15
f) 4x2 - 12x + 9
Answers:
a) (x + 8)(x - 1)
b) (x - 4)(x + 2)
c) (x - 7)(x - 4)
d) First factor out the GCF. Then factor the remaining trinomial.
3x(x2 + 10x + 21) = 3x(x + 7)(x + 3)
e) 2x2 - 3x + 10x - 15
= x(2x - 3) + 5(2x - 3)
= (2x - 3)(x + 5)

f) 4x2 - 6x - 6x + 9
= 2x(2x - 3) - 3(2x - 3)
= (2x - 3)(2x - 3)
= (2x - 3)2
2 2
g) x − 4x + 6
3
2 2
=
3
( x − 6x + 9)
2
= ( x − 3) ( x − 3)
3
2
= ( x − 3)2
3

a) x2 - 100
b) 9x2 - 49
c) 9x2 - 16y2
d) 2x2 - 50y2z2
Answers:
a) (x - 10)(x + 10)
b) (3x - 7)(3x + 7)
c) (3x - 4y)(3x + 4y)
d) First factor out the GCF. Then factor the remaining binomial as a
difference of squares.
= 2(x2 - 25y2z2)
= 2(x - 5yz)(x + 5yz)

Answer:
See the following page for one example of the graphic organizer.

Factoring
Means finding the monomials, polynomials,
or a combination of the two whose product
is the original polynomial.
Step 1:
Greatest Common Factor
1. Find the GCF.
2. Write the GCF multiplied by the “leftovers”
in parentheses (GCF)(leftovers).
Step 2: Step 2:
Trinomials Difference of Squares
OR
ax + bx + c
2
A2 – B2
Factors of (A – B)(A + B)
if a = 1 if a ¹ 1
1. Find factors of “c” 1. Find factors of “ac”
that sum to “b.” that sum to “b.”
2. Factor 2. Split the middle term.
3. Factor by grouping.
Step 3:
Check to see if any of the factors can be
factored further.
Step 4:
Check your work by multiplying the factors
to get the original polynomial.
Step 5:
Write your answer.

Part A: BrainPower
2. Evaluate: 5 ´ 17 ´ 20
28
6. Simplify: 2
4
Answers:
1. 64 people (50% of 80 = 40; 10% of 80 = 8; 80% of 80 = 40 + 8 + 8 + 8)
2. 1700 (5 ´ 17 ´ 20 = 5 ´ 20 ´ 17 = 100 ´ 17)
3. 7:45 pm (7 am + 3 hours = 10 am; 10 am + 2.5 hours = 12:30; 12:30 +
7.25 hours = 7:45 pm)
4. 48
5. 6300 metres (There are 1000 metres in 1 kilometre, so 6.3 ´ 1000)
 8 
 2 28 4
6. 16  = 4 =2 
2 2 2
 ( 2 ) 
2 2 1 4 2 
7. −  y = − x −  6 y = −4 x − 2 ; y = − x −  
3 3 3 6 6 
Recall: Parallel lines have the same slope.

8. 8 cm3. (The sides of a cube are equal in length. Therefore, each side length
must be 2 cm. The total surface area is (2 ´ 2) ´ 6 = 24 cm2, as each side is
2 cm ´ 2 cm and there are 6 equal sides on a cube.)
Answer:
Quadratic Patterns
a(f(x))2 – b(f(x)) + c a2(f(x))2 – b2(g(y))2

1. Replace f(x) with w. 1. Factor as (a(f(x)) – b(g(y)) (a(f(x)) + b(g(y))
2. Factor. or
3. Replace w with f(x). 1. Replace f(x) with w and g(y) with p.
4. Simplify. 2. Factor.
5. Factor again if possible. 3. Replace w with f(x) and p with g(y).
4. Simplify.
5. Factor again if possible.

a) (7x - 6)2 - 8(7x - 6) + 15
Answer:
(w)2 - 8(w) + 15
Factor:
(w - 5)(w - 3)
(7x - 6 - 5)(7x - 6 - 3)
Simplify:
(7x - 11)(7x - 9)
b) 9(2x - 1)2 - 42(2x - 1) + 49

Answer:
9w2 - 42w + 49
Factor:
9w2 - 21w - 21w + 49
= 3w(3w - 7) - 7(3w - 7)
= (3w - 7)(3w - 7)
= (3w - 7)2
[3(2x - 1) - 7]2
Simplify:
(6x - 3 - 7)2
= (6x - 10)2
= (6x - 10)(6x - 10)
= 2(3x - 5)(2)(3x - 5)
= 4(3x - 5)2

c) (x2 - x)2 - 7(x2 - x) + 6
Answer:
Replace (x2 - x) by w:
w2 - 7w + 6
Factor:
(w - 6)(w - 1)
Replace w with (x2 - x):
(x2 - x - 6)(x2 - x - 1)
Factor again:
(x - 3)(x + 2)(x2 - x - 1)
d) (x - 1)2 + 4(x - 1) - 32
Answer:
Replace (x - 1) by w:
w2 + 4w - 32
Factor:
(w + 8)(w - 4)
Replace w with (x - 1):
(x - 1 + 8)(x - 1 - 4)
Simplify:
(x + 7)(x - 5)

a) 50(2x - 7)2 - 162(3y - 4)2
Answer:
50(2x - 7)2 - 162(3y - 4)2
Let w = 2x - 7
p = 3y - 4
50(2x - 7)2 - 162(3y - 4)2
= 50w2 - 162p2
=2(25w2 - 81p2)
= 2(5w - 9p)(5w + 9p)

Substitute:
= 2[5(2x - 7) - 9(3y - 4)][5(2x - 7) + 9(3y - 4)
= 2[10x - 35 - 27y + 36][10x - 35 + 27y - 36]
= 2(10x - 27y + 1)(10x + 27y - 71)
b) 25x2 - 4y2
Answer:
25x2 - 4y2
= (5x)2 - (2y)2
a(f(x)) = 5x
b(g(y)) = 2y
= (5x - 2y)(5x + 2y)
c) 16(7x - 6)2 - 121(4y - 7)2

Answer:
16(7x - 6)2 - 121(4y - 7)2
Let w = 7x - 6
p = 4y - 7
16(7x - 6)2 - 121(4y - 7)2
= 16w2 - 121p2
= (4w - 11p)(4w + 11p)
= [4(7x - 6) - 11(4y - 7)][4(7x - 6) + 11(4y - 7)]
= [28x - 24 - 44y + 77][28x - 24 + 44y - 77]
= (28x - 44y + 53)(28x + 44y - 101)

d) 144(x + 3)4 - 729(y - 1)4
Answer:
144(x + 3)4 - 729(y - 1)4
Let w = x + 3
p = y - 1
144(x + 3)4 - 729(y - 1)4
= 144w4 - 729p4
= 9[16w4 - 81p4]
= 9(4w2 - 9p2)(4w2 + 9p2)
= 9(2w - 3p)(2w + 3p)(4w2 + 9p2)
= 9[2(x + 3) - 3(y - 1)][2(x + 3) + 3(y - 1)][4(x + 3)2 + 9(y - 1)2]
= 9(2x + 6 - 3y + 3][2x + 6 + 3y - 3][4(x2 + 6x + 9) + 9(y2 - 2y + 1)]
= 9[2x - 3y + 9][2x + 3y + 3][4x2 + 24x + 36 + 9y2 - 18y + 9]
= 9(2x - 3y + 9)(2x + 3y + 3)(4x2 + 9y2 + 24x - 18y + 45)
4. Determine if (x - 2) is a factor of each of the following polynomials.

a) 8x2 - 30x + 28
Answer:
x-2=0
x = 2
8x2 - 30x + 28
= 8(2)2 - 30(2) + 28
= 32 - 60 + 28
=0
This evaluated polynomial equals zero. Therefore, (x - 2) is a factor of
this polynomial.
b) (x - 2)2 + 4(x - 2) - 32
Answer:
x-2=0
x = 2
(x - 2)2 + 4(x - 2) - 32
= (2 - 2)2 + 4(2 - 2) - 32
= 0 + 0 - 32
= -32

c) -15x2 - 196x - 572
Answer:
x-2=0
x = 2
–15x2 - 196x - 572
= -15(2)2 - 196(2) - 572
= -60 - 392 - 572
= -1024
5. Determine if (7x - 6) is a factor of each of the following polynomials.

a) (7x - 6)2 - 8(7x - 6) + 15
Answer:
7x − 6 = 0
7x = 6
6
x=
7
(7 x − 6 )2 − 8 (7 x − 6 ) + 15
 6 2  6 
=7 ⋅ − 6  − 87 ⋅ − 6 + 15
 7    7  
2 2
= (6 − 6 ) − 8 (6 − 6 ) + 15
= 0 − 0 + 15
= 15
This evaluated polynomial does not equal zero. Therefore, (7x - 6) is

b) 7x2 + 22x - 24
Answer:
7x − 6 = 0
7x = 6
6
x=
7
7 x 2 + 22 x − 24
 6 2 6
= 7  + 22 − 24
7  7 
36 132
= + − 24
7 7
168 168
= −
7 7
=0
This evaluated polynomial equals zero. Therefore, (7x – 6) is a factor of
this polynomial.
c) 16(7x - 6)2 - 121(4x - 7)2

Answer:
7x − 6 = 0
7x = 6
6
x=
7
For this question, you might use the calculator to manipulate the
fractions:
2 2
16 (7 x − 6 ) − 121 ( 4 x − 7 )
2 2
 6   6 
= 16 7 − 6  − 121 4 − 7 
 7    7  
−75 625
=
49
This evaluated polynomial does not equal zero. Therefore, (7x – 6) is

d) 35x2 - 58x + 24
Answer:
7x − 6 = 0
7x = 6
6
x=
7
35x 2 − 58x + 24
 6 2 6
= 35  − 58 + 24
7  7 
=0
This evaluated polynomial equals zero. Therefore, (7x - 6) is a factor of
this polynomial.

4x2 + 2x - 12
= 4x2 + 8x - 6x - 12
= 4x(x + 2) - 6(x + 2)
= (4x - 6)(x + 2)
Answer:
Janique’s work is correct so far. However, she has not factored the
polynomial completely. The expression (4x - 6) has a common factor of 2
that Janique can factor out. Therefore, the completely factored expression
is:
4x2 + 2x - 12 = 2(2x - 3)(x + 2)
Also, Janique could have factored out the common factor of 2 at the
beginning of her factoring steps.
4x2 + 2x - 12
2(2x2 + x - 6)
2(2x2 + 4x - 3x - 6)
2[2x(x + 2) - 3(x + 2)]
2[(x + 2)(2x - 3)]

Part A: BrainPower
1. Factor: x2 - 5x - 6
carbon dioxide, oxygen, and argon. If the air is 78.1% nitrogen, 0.1%
carbon dioxide, 20.9% oxygen, and 0.7% argon, what percentage of the air
is composed of other gases?
4
3
3, 4, 4, 4, 6, 7, 9, 10, 16, 17.
6. Find the mode.
7. Find the mean.
8. Find the median.
Answers:
1. (x - 6)(x + 1)
2. 2
3. 0.2% (100% - (78.1% + 0.1% + 20.9% + 0.7%) = 100% - 99.8%)
3
4.
4
5. 5:00 am (You need to use the oven for 9 hours; 9 hours before 2 pm is
5 am.)

6. 4 (The mode is the most frequently occurring number.)
 3 + 4 + 4 + 4 + 6 + 7 + 9 + 10 + 16 + 17 80 
7. 8  = 
 10 10 
(Look for friendly pairs of numbers to add without a calculator.)
6 + 7 13 
8. 6.5  = = 6.5
 2 2 
(Since there is an even number of numbers, the median will be the sum of
the two middle values divided by two.)
expression.
( x + 3) ( x − 2 )
a)
(x + 2)(x − 2)
Answer:
x ( x − 1)
b)
(x + 2 )
Answer:
The non-permissible value is x = -2.
x (x − 2)
c)
( x + 3) ( x − 3)
Answer:

x ( x − 1) ( x + 2 )
d)
( x − 1) ( x + 1) ( x + 2 )
Answer:
The non-permissible values are x = -1, x = 1, and x = -2.
The domain is {x|x ¹ -1, 1, -2, x Î Â}.
x ( x − 1)
e)
( x − 1) x
Answer:
The domain is {x|x ¹ 1, 0, x Î Â}.

2 x 2 - 18
a) 2
x - x - 12
Answer:
2 (x 2 − 9) 2 ( x − 3) ( x + 3) 2 ( x − 3)
= =
( x − 4 ) ( x + 3) ( x − 4 ) ( x + 3) x−4
x 3 - 2 x 2 - 15x
b)
x 3 - 25x
Answer:
x ( x 2 − 2 x − 15) x ( x − 5) ( x + 3) x + 3
= =
x ( x 2 − 25) x ( x − 5) ( x + 5) x + 5
The non-permissible values are x = 0, x = -5, and x = 5.

2 x 3 + 8x
c)
2x2
Answer:
2x (x 2 + 4) x2 + 4
=
2x2 x
3x + 6
d)
x2 − 4
Answer:
3 (x + 2) 3
=
(x − 2)(x + 2) x − 2
2x - 2
e)
1-x
Answer:
2 ( x − 1)
= −2
−( x − 1)
100 x 3 y 2
f)
25x 3 y 3
Answer:
100 x 3 y 2 ( 25) ( 4 ) ( x ) ( x ) ( x ) ( y ) ( y ) 4
3 3
= =
25x y ( 25) ( x ) ( x ) ( x ) ( y ) ( y ) ( y ) y

5 1
a) =
x+ 5 x+1
Answer:
No. The value “5” is not a factor of the denominator. Therefore, even
though “5” is a factor of the numerator, it is not possible to cancel out
a “5” from the numerator and denominator. The original expression
cannot be reduced.
6 x 3 − 24 x
b) = x 3 − 24
6x
Answer:
No. The value “6” is a factor of the numerator. However, you would
also have to factor out a 6 from 24 before you cancel the factor “6” from
the numerator and denominator. Again, x is a factor of the numerator
and the denominator. However, you would have to factor out an x from
6x3 before you are able to cancel the factor “x” from both the numerator
6x ( x 2 − 4)
and the denominator. The correct answer is = x 2 − 4.
6x
5 + 10 x 5 (1 + 2 x ) 1 + 2 x
c) = =
5x ( 5)( x ) x
Answer:
Yes. This is a correct reduction as 5 is a factor of both the numerator
and denominator and thus can be eliminated from the rational
expression.

A x
reduced to .
x -9 x-3
Answer:
A x
If 2 reduces to , it follows that the rational expressions are
x -9 x-3
equivalent.
A x
2
=
x −9 x−3
A x
=
( x − 3) ( x + 3) x−3
Now solve for A.
x ( x − 3) ( x + 3)
A= = x ( x + 3) , x ≠ ±3
( x − 3)
x
x-7
Answer:
This rational expression may be the simplified form of another rational
expression. Therefore, another non-permissible value from the original
rational expression may have been factored out. For example, the original
x x+3 x ( x + 3)
expression may have been ⋅ = , in which case
x − 7 x + 3 ( x − 7 ) ( x + 3)
x = -3 is also a non-permissible value. Thus, x = 7 may not be the only
non-permissible value of this rational expression.

and x = 5.
Answer:
(x + 1) and (x - 5) must be factors of the denominator in order to have
non-permissible values of x = -1 and x = 5. Therefore, any rational
expression with (x + 1) and (x - 5) in the denominator would have non-
permissible values of x = -1 and x = 5. An example is:
(x + 2)
( x + 1) ( x − 5 )

and t is the time.
your answer.
Answer:
d = rt
2 x 2 + 3x − 2 = ( 4 x + 8) t
2 x 2 + 3x − 2 ( 4 x + 8) t
=
4x + 8 4x + 8
( 2 x − 1) ( x + 2 )
=t
4 (x + 2)
2x − 1
t=
4

Answer:
The non-permissible value is x = -2. Thus, the expression for time is
2x − 1
written as t = , x ≠ −2.
4

x+1
a)
x−2
Answer:
x + 1 ( x + 1) ( x + 1) x 2 + 2 x + 1
= = 2
x − 2 ( x − 2 ) ( x + 1) x −x−2
equivalent expression you create. Note also that your answer may be
( x + 1) ( x + 1)
left in factored form as .
( x − 2 ) ( x + 1)
x-7
b)
x2
Answer:
x − 7 ( x − 7 ) ( x − 5) x 2 − 12 x + 35
= =
x2 x 2 ( x − 5) x 3 − 5x 2


equivalent expression you create.

Part A: BrainPower
8 1
3. Calculate: -
9 5
4. Factor: 2x + 4xy
5. Simplify: (42)2
Answers:
1. 24 cm (6 ´ 4; a hexagon has 6 sides)
2. The beach is 140 km away (1.4 ´ 100 = 140 km).
31  40 9
3.  − 
45  45 45 
4. 2x(1 + 2y)
5. 256 [(42)2 = 44 = 256 or 162 = 256]
5
6. x ≤ − (7 x ≤ −5)
7
7. The factors of 180 are 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 12, 15, 18, 20, 30, 36, 45, 60, 90, and
180.
 1 1 
 The factors of 4 are 1, 2 , and 4. Their reciprocals are 1, , and .
7 2 4 
8.
4 1 1 4 2 1 7 
 The sum is 1 + + = + + = . 
 2 4 4 4 4 4 

x+1 x2
a) × 2
x x −1
Answer:
x+1 x2 x
⋅ =
x ( x − 1) ( x + 1) x − 1
x ≠ 0 , 1, −1
x−2 x+2
b) ÷ 2
x x
Answer:
x−2 x2 (x − 2) x
⋅ =
x x+2 x+2
x ≠ 0 , −2
x2 + 2x + 1 x 2 − 25
c) × 2
5−x x + 6x + 5
Answer:
( x + 1) ( x + 1) ( x − 5 ) ( x + 5 )
⋅
(−1) ( x − 5) ( x + 5) ( x + 1)
= −( x + 1) or −x − 1
x ≠ 5 , −5 , −1

3x 2 + 10 x + 3 3x + 1
d) ÷
x2 − 9 x−3
Answer:
( 3 x + 1) ( x + 3 ) x − 3
⋅ =1
( x − 3 ) ( x + 3 ) 3x + 1
1
x ≠ 3 , −3 , −
3
3
e)
2
x
Answer:
2
3÷
x
x 3x
= 3⋅ =
2 2
x≠0
2x + 6
f) x+1
x+3
x2 − 1
Answer:
2x + 6 x+3
÷ 2
x+1 x −1
2 ( x + 3 ) ( x − 1) ( x + 1)
= ⋅ = 2 ( x − 1)
x+1 x+3
x ≠ −1, 1, −3

x2 x
g) ÷ 2
y y
Answer:
x2 y 2
⋅ = xy
y x
x ≠ 0, y ≠ 0
x2 − 9 x2 + 4
h) ×
3x 2 + 12 x+3
Answer:
( x − 3) ( x + 3) x 2 + 4 x−3
⋅ =
3 (x 2 + 4) x+3 3
x ≠ −3
x4 − y 4 x2 − x − 6
i) ÷
x2 − y 2 x+2
Answer:
(x2 − y 2 )(x2 + y 2 ) x+2
2 2
⋅
x −y ( x − 3) ( x + 2 )
x2 + y2
=
x−3
x ≠ 3 , −2 ; x ≠ ±y
2 x − 6 3x − 9
j) ÷
x2 y xy
Answer:
2 ( x − 3) xy 2
2
⋅ =
x y 3 ( x − 3) 3x
x ≠ 0 , 3; y ≠ 0

x 2 + 2 x − 8 x 2 − 8x + 16
k) × 2
x 2 − 16 x − 6x + 8
Answer:
(x + 4) (x − 2 ) (x − 4) (x − 4)
⋅ =1
(x − 4) (x + 4) (x − 4) (x − 2 )
x ≠ 4 , −4 , 2
5a − a2 a2 − 5a + 4 a2 − 7 a
l) × ÷
a2 − 4 a + 3 a2 − 9 a + 20 a2 − 10 a + 21
Answer:
(−a) ( a − 5) ( a − 4 ) ( a − 1) ( a − 3) ( a − 7 )
⋅ ⋅ = −1
( a − 3 ) ( a − 1) ( a − 5 ) ( a − 4 ) a (a − 7)
a ≠ 3 , 1, 5 , 4 , 0 , 7
m2 − m − 20 m2 + 2 m − 8 m2 + 5m + 4
m) ÷ 2 ÷
m2 − 25 m −m−2 m2 + 5m
Answer:
( m − 5 ) ( m + 4 ) ( m − 2 ) ( m + 1) m ( m + 5) m
⋅ ⋅ =
( m − 5 ) ( m + 5 ) ( m + 4 ) ( m − 2 ) ( m + 4 ) ( m + 1) m + 4
m ≠ 5 , −5 , −4 , 2 , −1, 0

4 x + 16 5x + 20
÷
3x 2 4x
4 x + 16 5x + 20
= ×
3x 2 4x
4 ( x + 4) 5 ( x + 4)
= ×
3x 2 4x
5 (x + 4) (x + 4)
=
3x 2
Answer:
Stephanie’s work is not correct. Stephanie forgot to write the reciprocal of
the second fraction before she multiplied. She also did not find the non-
permissible values and her answer should have a denominator of 3x3.
The correct solution is:
4 x + 16 5x + 20
÷
3x 2 4x
4 x + 16 4x
= 2
×
3x 5x + 20
4 (x + 4) 4x
= ×
3 (x) (x) 5 (x + 4)
4 ( 4)
=
3 ( 5)( x )
16
= , x ≠ 0 , −4
15x

to the formula:
V1 T
 1
V2 T2
2 x 2 + x − 10 x ( x − 1) x 3 − 9x
If V1 = , V2 = , and T2 = , find T1 .
x2 + x − 6 x2 − 1 2 x 2 − x − 15
Answer:
2 x 2 + x − 10
x2 + x − 6 = T1
x ( x − 1) x 3 − 9x
2
x −1 2 x 2 − x − 15 Multiply both sides by
2 x 2 + x − 10 x ( x − 1) x 3 − 9x x 3 - 9x
T1 = ÷ × .
x2 + x − 6 x2 − 1 2 x 2 − x − 15 2 x 2 - x - 15
2 x 2 + x − 10 x2 − 1 x 3 − 9x
T1 = 2 × ×
x +x−6 x ( x − 1) 2 x 2 − x − 15
( 2 x + 5 ) ( x − 2 ) ( x − 1) ( x + 1) x ( x − 3 ) ( x + 3 )
T1 = × ×
( x + 3) ( x − 2 ) x ( x − 1) ( 2 x + 5) ( x − 3)
5
T1 = x + 1, x ≠ −3 , 2 , 0 , 1, − , 3 , −1
2

Part A: BrainPower
1. What are two numbers that sum to 8 and multiply to –65?
 3   14 
7   6 

rain in total?
5. Factor: 2x2 - x - 6


Answers:
1. 13 and -5
2. No ($200 - ($55.95 + $44.99 + $49.99 + $54.99) = $200 - $205.92
or 200 - (56 + 45 + 50 + 55) = 200 - 206)
 1  2  
3  14  2
3. 1  =
 7  6  2
 1 
 2  
4. 39 mm (5 mm + 13 mm + 4 mm + 17 mm)

5. 2x2 - 4x + 3x - 6
2x(x - 2) + 3(x - 2)
(2x + 3)(x - 2)
3
6.
5
4
7.
5
3
8.
4
x 5x
a) +
4 4
Answer:
x + 5x 6 x 3x
= =
4 4 2
5x x
b) -
2 2
Answer:
5x − x 4x
= = 2x
2 2
5a 5b
c) +
a+b a+b
Answer:
5 a + 5b 5 ( a + b)
= =5
a+b a+b

3d d
d) −
c+d c+d
Answer:
3d − d 2d
=
c+d c+d
2 a2 + 4 a + 17 a2 − 4 a + 2
e) −
( a + 2 ) ( a + 3) ( a + 2 ) ( a + 3)
Answer:
2 a2 + 4 a + 17 − ( a2 − 4 a + 2 )
( a + 2 ) ( a + 3)
2 a 2 + 4 a + 17 − a 2 + 4 a − 2
=
( a + 2 ) ( a + 3)
a2 + 8 a + 15
=
( a + 2 ) ( a + 3)
( a + 5) ( a + 3)
=
( a + 2 ) ( a + 3)
a+5
=
a+2
4 3x 4x
a) , ,
x − 8 2 x − 16 x + 1
Answer:
4 3x 4x
Factor the denominator: , ,
x − 8 2 ( x − 8) x + 1
\ LCD = 2(x - 8)(x + 1)
x+1 x−1
b) ,
( x + 2 ) ( x − 3) ( x − 2 ) ( x − 6 ) ( x − 3)2
Answer:
LCD: (x + 2)(x - 3)2(x - 2)(x - 6)

4x 3x
a) 2
− 2
x + x − 6 x + 5x + 6
Answer:
4x 3x
− LCD = ( x + 3) ( x − 2 ) ( x + 2 )
( x + 3) ( x − 2 ) ( x + 3) ( x + 2 )
4x x+2 3x x−2
= ⋅ − ⋅
( x + 3) ( x − 2 ) x + 2 ( x + 3) ( x + 2 ) x − 2
4 x 2 + 8x − 3x 2 + 6 x
=
( x + 3) ( x − 2 ) ( x + 2 )
x 2 + 14 x
=
( x + 3) ( x − 2 ) ( x + 2 )
Non-permissible values: x = –3, 2, and –2.
3 4
b) 2
+ 2
x − 4 x + 3 x − 5x + 6
Answer:
3 4
+ LCD = ( x − 3) ( x − 1) ( x − 2 )
( x − 3 ) ( x − 1) ( x − 2 ) ( x − 3)
3 x−2 4 x−1
= ⋅ + ⋅
( x − 3 ) ( x − 1) x − 2 ( x − 2 ) ( x − 3 ) x − 1
3x − 6 + 4 x − 4
=
( x − 3 ) ( x − 1) ( x − 2 )
7 x − 10
=
( x − 3 ) ( x − 1) ( x − 2 )
Non-permissible values: x = 3, 1, and 2.

2x 3 3
c) − +
x 2 − 6x − 7 x + 1 x − 7
Answer:
2x 3 3
− + LCD = ( x − 7 ) ( x + 1)
( x − 7 ) ( x + 1) ( x + 1) x − 7
2x 3 x−7 3 x+1
= − ⋅ + ⋅
( x − 7 ) ( x + 1) x + 1 x − 7 x − 7 x + 1
2 x − 3x + 21 + 3x + 3
=
( x − 7 ) ( x + 1)
2 x + 24
=
( x − 7 ) ( x + 1)
2x x
d) − 2
x + 5xy x + 8xy + 15 y 2
2
Answer:
2x x
−
x (x + 5y ) (x + 3y ) (x + 5y )
2 x
= − LCD = (x + 3 y ) (x + 5 y )
x + 5y (x + 3y ) (x + 5y )
2 x + 3y x
= ⋅ −
x + 5y x + 3y (x + 3y ) (x + 5y )
2x + 6y − x
=
(x + 3y ) (x + 5y )
x + 6y
=
(x + 3y ) (x + 5y )
Non-permissible values: x = 0, -5y, and -3y.

y −4 y −7 y+8
e) − + 2
y − 3 y + 8 y + 5 y − 24
Answer:
y −4 y −7 y+8
− + LCD = ( y − 3) ( y + 8)
y − 3 y + 8 ( y + 8) ( y − 3)
y −4 y +8 y −7 y −3 y+8
= ⋅ − ⋅ +
y − 3 y + 8 y + 8 y − 3 ( y + 8) ( y − 3)
y 2 + 4 y − 32 − ( y 2 − 10 y + 21) + y + 8
=
( y − 3) ( y + 8)
y 2 + 4 y − 32 − y 2 + 10 y − 21 + y + 8
=
( y − 3) ( y + 8)
15 y − 45
=
( y − 3) ( y + 8)
15 ( y − 3)
=
( y − 3) ( y + 8)
15
=
y+8
Non-permissible values: y = 3 and -8.

7 5 y + 18
f) − + 2
y+2 2−y y −4
Answer:
7 5 y + 18
− +
y + 2 (−1) ( y − 2 ) ( y − 2 ) ( y + 2 )
7 5 y + 18
= + + LCD = ( y + 2 ) ( y − 2 )
y + 2 y − 2 (y − 2 )(y + 2 )
7 y−2 5 y+2 y + 18
= ⋅ + ⋅ +
y + 2 y − 2 y − 2 y + 2 (y − 2 )(y + 2 )
7 y − 14 + 5 y + 10 + y + 18
=
(y − 2 )(y + 2 )
13 y + 14
=
(y − 2 )(y + 2 )
Non-permissible values: y = -2 and 2.
2x 2 − 3x x+2
g) + 2 −
x−2 x −x−2 x+1
Answer:
2x 2 − 3x x+2
+ −
x − 2 ( x − 2 ) ( x + 1) x + 1
2x x+1 2 − 3x x+2 x−2
= ⋅ + − ⋅ LCD = ( x − 2 ) ( x + 1)
x − 2 x + 1 ( x − 2 ) ( x + 1) x + 1 x − 2
2 x 2 + 2 x + 2 − 3x − ( x 2 − 4 )
=
( x − 2 ) ( x + 1)
2x2 − x + 2 − x2 + 4
=
( x − 2 ) ( x + 1)
x2 − x + 6
=
( x − 2 ) ( x + 1)

x (x + 2) x
−
5 2 ( x − 1)
a)
5 7
+
x+2 x−1
Answer:
 x (x + 2) x   5 7 
 − ÷ +  Rewrite
 5 2 ( x − 1)   x + 2 x − 1 
LCD of first expreession: ( 5)( 2 ) ( x − 1)
LCD of second expression: ( x + 2 ) ( x − 1)
Make common denominators:
 x ( x + 2 )( 2 ) ( x − 1) 5x   5 ( x − 1) 7 (x + 2) 
 − ÷ + 
 5 ( 2 ) ( x − 1) 5 ( 2 ) ( x − 1)   ( x + 2 ) ( x − 1 ) ( x − 1) ( x + 2 ) 
2 ( x ) ( x 2 + x − 2 ) − 5x 5x − 5 + 7 x + 14
5 ( 2 ) ( x − 1) ( x + 2 ) ( x − 1)
2 x 3 + 2 x 2 − 4 x − 5x 5x − 5 + 7 x + 14
= ÷ Simplify the numeerators
5 ( 2 ) ( x − 1) ( x + 2 ) ( x − 1)
2 x 3 + 2 x 2 − 9x 12 x + 9
5 ( 2 ) ( x − 1) ( x + 2 ) ( x − 1)
Multiply by the reciprocal and factor
x (2x 2 + 2 x − 9) ( x + 2 ) ( x − 1)
= ×
5 ( 2 ) ( x − 1) 3 ( 4 x + 3)
x (2 x 2 + 2 x − 9) (x + 2 )
= Multiiply and cancel
30 ( 4 x + 3)

1 1
+
b) x + 2 x − 2
x 1
2 +
x −4 x+2
Answer:
 1 1   x 1 
 + ÷ 2 + 
x + 2 x − 2 x − 4 x + 2
 1 1   x 1 
 + ÷ + 
 x + 2 x − 2   (x − 2)(x + 2) x + 2 
LCD of first expression: ( x − 2 ) ( x + 2 )
nd expression: ( x − 2 ) ( x + 2 )
LCD of secon
 x−2 x+2   x x−2 
 + ÷ + 
 (x + 2)(x − 2) (x + 2)(x − 2)   (x − 2)(x + 2) (x + 2)(x − 2) 
x−2+x+2 x+x−2
= ÷
(x + 2)(x − 2) (x − 2)(x + 2)
2x 2x − 2
= ÷
(x + 2)(x − 2) (x − 2)(x + 2)
2x (x − 2)(x + 2)
= ×
(x + 2)(x − 2) 2 ( x − 1)
x
=
x−1

x  x−3 x2 − 9 
c) + 2 ÷ 
2 x − 4  x − 3x + 2 x−1 
Answer:
x  x−3 x2 − 9 
+ 2 ÷ 
2 x − 4  x − 3x + 2 x−1 
x  x−3 x−1 
= + ×  Factor and multiply
2 ( x − 2 )  ( x − 2 ) ( x − 1) ( x + 3 ) ( x − 3 )  by the reciprocal
x 1
= + Cancel to reduce
2 ( x − 2 ) ( x − 2 ) ( x + 3)
LCD = 2 ( x − 2 ) ( x + 3)
x ( x + 3) 2
= +
2 ( x − 2 ) ( x + 3) 2 ( x − 2 ) ( x + 3)
x 2 + 3x + 2 ( x + 2 ) ( x + 1)
= or
2 ( x − 2 ) ( x + 3) 2 ( x − 2 ) ( x + 3)

x−1 2x
−
( x + 2 ) ( x − 3) ( x + 2 )
x − 1 − 2x
=
( x + 2 ) ( x − 3)
−x − 1
=
( x + 2 ) ( x − 3)
Answer:
The two original rational expressions do not have the same denominator.
Therefore, these rational expressions need to be changed to equivalent
rational expressions that have the same denominator before you can
subtract them.
x−1 2x LCD: (x + 2)(x - 3)
−
( x + 2 ) ( x − 3) ( x + 2 )
x−1 2 x ( x − 3)
= −
( x + 2 ) ( x − 3) ( x + 2 ) ( x − 3)
x−1 2 x 2 − 6x
= −
( x + 2 ) ( x − 3) ( x + 2 ) ( x − 3)
x − 1 − 2 x 2 + 6x
=
( x + 2 ) ( x − 3)
−2 x 2 + 7 x − 1
=
( x + 2 ) ( x − 3)

Answer:
d  rt
d
t
r
Let x = original constant speed
50
Time of first 50 laps:
x
50
Time of second 50 laps:
x-3
50 50
Total time of 100 laps: + hours
x x−3


Rational Expression Puzzle Solution
(x + 7 )(x + 2) x3 1  100 x 2 a
x 4c
5
8x
x+1

1
A N I B
x2
4
× 2
x2  4
x − 10
( x + 1)
(x + 2)
4 ( x − 1)
x (x − 2)
x x2
x2  x  2
2x
( x − 3 ) ( x + 1)
x −1
4x 2 − 7 x + 3 (x − 6) ( x + 6) (10x − 1) (10x + 1) ( x + 2 ) ( x + 1)
( 4 x − 3 ) ( x − 1) x 2  36 100 x 2  1 x 2  3x  2
x
4m
+
1
a

2c
2
F E L G
4 ( x + 1)
x−3 x+4
x 2 + 6x − 6
6 x 3  3x 2
8m
a2 bc abc 2
3 x 2 ( 2 x + 1)
( x − 3) ( x + 4 )
( 4 x + 3 ) ( x + 1)
x 2 + 5x + 6 x+3 x x
÷ 2 2 
x2 + x − 2 x −1 6 ( 3x − 4 ) − 21 ( 3x − 4 ) + 15 2 4 25x 2  20 x  4
x1 3 ( 3x − 5) (6 x − 13) 3x ( 5x + 2 )2
4
5x
−
M C O P
x2  4
x 2  25
x
6 xy 2  2 y
−x ( 4 x + 33)
x2 + 2x − 3
2 y (3xy − 1)
(x + 7 )(x + 2)
x +7 x +2
( x + 3 ) ( x − 1)
2 2
2
( x + 3)2 − 6 ( x + 3) − 16 2 ( x − 6 ) + 10 ( x − 6 ) − 48 ( 3x + 4 )2 − (2 y − 1) 3 ( 2 x + 5) + 10 ( 2 x + 5) − 8
( x + 5) ( x − 5) 2 (x + 2 ) (x − 9) ( 3x + 2 y + 3 ) ( 3x − 2 y + 5 ) ( 2 x + 9 ) (6x + 13)
2x

3x + 6
2 x 2 − x − 10
2
x3
K D H J
x3
×
2x  5
x 2  4x
+
x 2  7 x  12 x
5x 2 + 13x + 18
( x − 3 ) ( x − 1)
6
5 4 x 5x 3 x x
3
  
( x − 1) ( x + 2 ) ( x + 3 )
x − 1 ( x + 2 ) ( x + 3)
x x1 x 7 x 2 x 2 2
4 x 2 − 25
43
Notes

Module 3
Quadratic Functions
M odu l e 3:
Q ua dr at ic Func t ion s
Introduction
Quadratic functions have many applications in everyday life. Quadratic

functions appear in many sports including football, basketball, soccer, and
even golf. Quadratic functions can also model situations including satellite
dishes, suspension bridges, and maximizing the profit of a business.
In this module, you will look at quadratic functions, their important
properties, and how to graph them. This will allow you to learn how to create
quadratic functions that model a certain situation. By the end of this module,
you will be able to solve application problems such as those modelling the
situations listed above.
2 Assignment 3.1 Quadratic Functions and Transformations
Graphing Quadratic Functions Using

4 Assignment 3.2
Transformations
Completing the Square and Finding the

6 Assignment 3.3
Vertex
7 Assignment 3.4 Applications of Quadratic Functions
Module 3: Quadratic Func tions 3

Resource Sheet
Modules 1 to 4.

formula is used.

L e s s o n 1: Wh at I s a Q u a d r at ic
Fu n c t io n?
Lesson Focus

q learn how to distinguish between linear and quadratic functions
q learn how to find the vertex, domain and range, direction of
opening, minimum and maximum values, axis of symmetry, and
intercepts of a quadratic function in general form
q learn how to graph quadratic functions given the general form
Lesson Introduction
In Grade 10 Introduction to Applied and Pre-Calculus Mathematics, you studied

linear functions. You learned how linear functions, when graphed, are
straight lines. You also learned how to find the slope of these lines. In
this lesson, you will begin to learn about quadratic functions. Quadratic
functions are not straight lines when graphed; instead, they are curved. More
specifically, quadratic functions have one turn. This turn, called the vertex,
is just one of the important properties of quadratic functions that you will be
learning about in this lesson.
Functions
Before you begin to look at quadratic functions, it will be helpful for you to
review your knowledge of linear functions.
Linear Functions
Recall the definition of a linear function. A linear function is a function
whose graph is a straight line. Its form is f(x) = mx + b. Remember that a
straight line equation is of the form y = mx + b.
This first section contains many definitions. These definitions should
be familiar to you from previous courses. However, you can copy these
definitions on your resource sheet if you need to.

Remember, on a line, the rate of change of y with respect to x is a constant
called the slope (m).
For example:

The change in y-value of this line is 1. Also, the change in the x-value of this
rise 1
m
line is 1. Therefore, the slope of this line is   1.
run 1
What are the x- and y-intercepts of this function?

Recall:
Q The x-intercept of a function is the x-coordinate(s) of the point(s) where
the graph of the function intersects the x-axis. The y-coordinate of this
point is zero.
Q The y-intercept of a function is the y-coordinate of the point where the
graph of the function intersects the y-axis. The x-coordinate of this point is
zero.
In the graph above, when the y-coordinate is 0, the x-coordinate is also 0.
Therefore, the x-intercept is 0.
As well, when the x-coordinate is 0, the y-coordinate is also 0. Therefore, the
y-intercept is 0.
Note: In the linear equation y = mx + b, the y-intercept is symbolized using
the letter b.

Example 1
Find the x- and y-intercepts of the function f(x) = -2x + 3. Then use these
intercepts to graph the function.
Solution
To find the x-intercept, let f(x) = 0 since f(x) is always 0 for any point on the
x-axis. Then solve for x.
−2 x + 3 = 0
−2 x = −3
3
x=
2
3
The x-intercept is .
2
To find the y-intercept, let x = 0 since the x-coordinate is always zero for any
point on the y-axis. Then solve for y.
y = −2 x + 3
y = −2 (0 ) + 3
y=3
The y-intercept is 3.
Note that the x-intercept or the y-intercept is only one number and not the
coordinates of a point on the graph.
The graph would be:
y
3
2
1

1 2 x
When you are given the graph of a linear function, you should be able to
write its rule or equation.

Example 2
Find the equation of the straight line that passes through the points (0, 2) and
(-1, 0).
Solution
Recall:
y 2 − y1
Slope = m =
x 2 − x1
0−2 −2
The slope of this line = = = 2. Its y-intercept is 2. You know this
−1 − 0 −1
because you are given the point (0, 2).
The equation of the linear function is f(x) = 2x + 2.
The graph of this linear function is shown below.
y
2

1 x

Example 3
A special case of the linear function results when the slope of the function
is 0.
In this diagram, b = 2 and the slope is 0. Find its equation.
y
Solution
The equation is f(x) = 0x + 2. Therefore, f(x) = 2 or y = 2.
Every point on this horizontal line has a y-value of 2. The y-intercept of this
line is 2. There is no x-intercept. The domain is {x|x Î Â} and the range is {2}.
Example 4
A vertical straight line is said to have a slope that is undefined. The line has
rise rise
rise but no run. The slope formula becomes m   no answer.
run 0
The equation of the line shown below is x = 2. Is this a function or a relation?

y
2 x

Solution
Recall: A relation is a set of ordered pairs (x, y). A function is a relation such
that for each x-value there is exactly one value of y.
Therefore, a vertical line is not a linear function but it is a relation. Two points
on the line would be (2, 0) and (2, 1), both having the same x-value.
Every point on this vertical line has an x-value of 2. Therefore, the x-value of
2 has more than one value of y associated with it. Notice the x-intercept of the
line is also 2. There is no y-intercept.
Not every pattern is linear. By studying quadratic functions and relations, you
greatly expand the applications that you can model in science, engineering,
business, sports, and in many other fields.
Quadratic Functions
Quadratic functions take the shape of a parabola when graphed. A parabola
is basically a ‘U’ shape. The shape of a parabola is created because the
quadratic functions contain a squared term (for example, y = x2 or y = 5x2).
Remember that if you multiply two linear functions together you get a
squared term.
For example, if f(x) = x and g(x) = x + 3, then [f(x)][g(x)] = x(x + 3) = x2 + 3x.
A quadratic function is a function that can be written in the general form
f(x) = ax2 + bx + c, where a, b, and c are real numbers and a ¹ 0. Note that in
this course, a, b, and c will be rational numbers only.
Include all definitions from this section on your resource sheet.
Quadratic functions can be written in various forms:
f(x) = ax2 + bx + c, a ¹ 0
f : x ® ax2 + bx + c, a ¹ 0
y = ax2 + bx + c, a ¹ 0

Example 5
Here are six examples of quadratic functions. For each of the six examples,
determine a, b, and c. Remember that a is the coefficient of the squared term,
x2; b is the coefficient of the linear term, x; and c is the constant term.
a) f : x → 2 x 2 + x + 1
b) f ( x ) = x 2
c) y = 3x 2 − 1
1 2
d) f ( x ) = 2 + x
2
e) g ( x ) = 7 x − x 2
f) y = x − x 2
Solution
a b c
a) 2 1 1
b) 1 0 0
c) 3 0 -1
1
d) 0 2
2
e) -1 7 0
f) -1 1 0
Example 6
Determine whether the following are quadratic functions.
a) f ( x ) = 3x 2
1
b) x 2 + y=2
2
c) y = 2 x + 5
d) y 2 = x

Solution
a) Yes, a = 3, b = 0, and c = 0.
b) Yes. Re-arrange to get
1
y = −x 2 + 2
2
y = −2 x 2 + 4 (multiply by 2)
with a = –2, b = 0, and c = 4.

c) Since there is no squared term, it is not a quadratic function.
d) The relation y2 = x is not a quadratic function because y is squared rather
than x. Instead, it is a quadratic relation.
In the following example, you will graph a quadratic function where a = 1,
b = 0, and c = 0. This graph will give you the basic quadratic function graph.
Its table of values and its graph should be memorized. This quadratic function
is used extensively in the discussion of transformations in Lessons 2, 3, and 4.
Example 7
Given the function f(x) = x2, draw the graph of f. Make a table of values for
-3 £ x £ 3.
Solution
f(x) = x2
x
-3 9
-2 4
-1 1 y
10
0 0
 9 
1 1
8
2 4 7
3 9 6
5
 4 
3
 1 
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
1
2

From the table of values, the points are plotted. A smooth curve is drawn
through the points.
From the above graph of f(x) = x2, note the following:
Q The domain is all real numbers or in set notation is {x|x Î Â}. Recall that
the domain is the set of all x-values for which a function is defined.
Q The range is {y|y ³ 0, y Î Â}. Recall that the range is the set of all y-values
for which a function is defined.
Q The turning point of a parabola is called the vertex. The vertex of the
graph of a quadratic function is defined as the point where the graph has
its maximum y-value if the parabola opens down and where it has its
minimum y-value if the parabola opens up. In this example, the vertex is
(0, 0).
Q The parabola opens upward. When a parabola opens upward, its
minimum y-value is at its vertex. This function is said to have a minimum
value of 0. The minimum value is the y-coordinate of the vertex when the
parabola opens up.
Q An imaginary vertical line passing through the vertex is the axis of
symmetry. This line divides a parabola into two symmetrical parts, which
are mirror images of each other, using the axis of symmetry as the mirror.
Every point on the parabola except its vertex has a reflection image with
respect to the line of symmetry. In this example, the y-axis is the axis of
symmetry. Its equation is x = 0.
axis of
symmetry
y
(2, 4)  (2, 4)

reflection reflection
image of image of
(2, 4) (2, 4)

(0, 0) x
vertex


Q The zeros of a quadratic function are the value(s) of x which make the
quadratic function zero. These values of x also are called the x-intercepts
of the graph and occur where the graph crosses or touches the x-axis. In
this example, the quadratic function is zero when x = 0. Notice that this
is the same definition as an x-intercept. Thus, zero of a function and the
x-intercept of the graph mean the same thing.
Make sure you include the definitions for domain, range, vertex, minimum
value, axis of symmetry, x-intercept, and zeros on your resource sheet.
Example 8
Draw the graph of g(x) = -x2 + 6x - 5. Use a table of values for -1 £ x £ 7.
Write the domain, range, coordinates of the vertex, the equation of the axis of
symmetry, x-intercept(s), y-intercept, and zeros.
Solution
Table of values
x -1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
g(x) -12 -5 0 3 4 3 0 -5 -12
Note: You
can use any
x-values for the
table of values.
The table of
values above
used x-values
that were easy
to calculate and
easy to graph.

Domain: {x|x Î Â}
Range: {y|y £ 4, y Î Â} }
Vertex: (3, 4)
Equation of axis of symmetry: x = 3
x-intercepts: 1, 5
y-intercept: -5
Zeros: 1, 5
This function is said to have a maximum value when y = 4. The graphs
of quadratic functions have a maximum value when the graphs open
downward. This maximum value is the y-coordinate of the vertex when the
parabola opens downward.
Include the definition for maximum value on your resource sheet.
Part A: BrainPower
1. Evaluate for t = 5: 3t2 - 6t + 8
2. The daily recommended intake of water is around 2 litres. If Ashton
drinks 250 mL of water for breakfast, 550 mL of water for lunch, 620 mL
of water during basketball practice, and 300 mL during dinner, how much
water does he still need drink to reach the recommended amount?
7 x
3. Solve for x: +4=
8 8
4. Ms. Sparling’s class has 24 students. If there are 3 girls for every boy, how
many boys are in the class?
continued

4
6. Express as a radical: 16 3 . Do not simplify.
9 2
7. Rationalize the denominator:
4 5
8. Find the slope of the line perpendicular to the line 2x + y = 1.
Part B: Quadratic Functions
1. Draw the graph of the following functions:
a) y = 3x + 2
b) 2x - y + 1 = 0
c) Join these points with a smooth curve.
x -3 -2 0 2 3
y 10 5 1 5 10
2. Find the slope and intercepts for the linear functions in Question 1.
3. Which of the following describe a quadratic function?
a) f : x → 3x 2
b) g : x → 2 x 3 − 5
c) y = 2 x 2 − x + 1
1
d) f ( x ) = 3x −
x
continued

e) y f) y
5 5
5 5 x 5 5 x
5 5
4. A graph of a quadratic function is shown below.

y
6
 
4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 x
1
2
3 
4
5
6
a) What is the domain of the graph?

b) What is the range of the graph?
c) What are the coordinates of the vertex?
d) What is the equation of the axis of symmetry?
e) What are the zeros of the function?
f) What are the x-intercepts?
g) Does the curve have a maximum? What is its value?
h) Does the curve have a minimum? What is its value?
continued

5. For each of the following, write the domain, range, coordinates of the
vertex, equation of the axis of symmetry, y-intercept, and maximum or
minimum value.
a) y
6
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
1
2
3
4
5
6
b) y
7
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
1
2
3
4
5
continued

c) y
6
4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 x
1
2
3
4
5
6
6. Sketch the graphs of the following quadratic functions. Use a suitable table
of values. Find the domain, range, coordinates of vertex, equation of axis
of symmetry, zeros, x-intercept(s), y-intercept, and the maximum value or
minimum value.
a) f ( x ) = x 2 − 4 x − 5
b) f : x → −x 2 − 2 x + 8
7. Match the equation with its graph. Use a table of values to graph each
function if necessary.
a) y = x2 - 2
b) y = x2 + 4x - 1
c) y = -x2 - 4x - 3
d) y = x2 + 2
e) y = -x2 + 4x + 1
f) y = -x2 + 2
continued

i) y ii) y
2 4
1 2
4 2 2 4 x 4 2 2 4 x
1 2
2 4
iii) y iv) y
4 4
2 2
4 2 2 4 x 4 2 2 4 x
2 2
4 4
v) y vi) y
4 2
2 1
4 2 2 4 x 4 2 2 4 x
2 1
4 2
continued

8. a) The point (4, 3) is on the graph of f(x) = 2x2 - 8x + 3. Use symmetry
to find the coordinates of another point on the parabola if the axis of
symmetry is x = 2.
b) A parabola has a vertex at (2, 3) and passes through the point P(-1, 6).
Find the coordinates of a third point on the parabola.
c) Given certain reflection image points (0, 2) and (4, 2) on a parabola, find
the equation of the line of symmetry.
Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you first considered linear functions. Linear functions are
functions that produce a straight line when graphed. You then looked
at quadratic functions. Quadratic functions are functions that produce a
parabola when graphed. You learned how to find certain characteristics of
quadratic functions including the vertex and axis of symmetry. You also
learned how to graph quadratic functions using a table of values. In the next
lesson, you will begin to look at transformations of quadratic functions.

Notes

L e s s o n 2 : Q u a d r a t i c F u n c t i o n s y = ax2
a n d y = ax2 + q
Lesson Focus

q learn how to determine basic characteristics of the quadratic
functions y = ax2 and y = ax2 + q
q learn how to use translations, stretches, compressions, and
reflections with respect to the quadratic function y = x2 to obtain
a new quadratic function of the form y = ax2 + q
Lesson Introduction
In Lesson 1, you looked at quadratic functions in general form:

y = ax2 + bx + c. In this lesson, you will begin to look at quadratic functions
in vertex form: y = a(x - p)2 + q. These two forms of the quadratic function
are useful in different situations. The general form of the quadratic function
is useful when you are trying to determine the zeros of a quadratic function
using the quadratic formula or by factoring. You will learn how to do this in
Module 4. The vertex form of the quadratic function is useful when you are
finding the graph of a quadratic function.
Quadratic Functions
You have learned how to find characteristics of the graphs of quadratic

functions that were written in the form f(x) = ax2 + bx + c, where a ¹ 0.
The simplest and most basic quadratic function is f(x) = x2. The functional
notation f(x) = x2 means the same thing as y = x2. These notations will be used
interchangeably in this course.

y
10
(3, 9)  9  (3, 9)
8
7
6
5
(2, 4)  4  (2, 4)
3
2
(1, 1)  1  (1, 1)
5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 x
1
2
Observe that for f(x) = x2, if (x, y) is a point on the graph, (-x, y) is also. This is
because y = x2 and y = (-x)2 produce the same y-value. For the graph f(x) = x2,
the y-axis is the line of symmetry. The point (0, 0) is the minimum or lowest
point of the graph and is called the vertex.
Throughout this lesson and Lesson 3, you will see how a, p, and q in
the quadratic function f(x) = a(x - p)2 + q, determine the size of the
corresponding parabola and its placement on the coordinate plane. These
changes that occur in the placement and size of a function are called
transformations.
The Effect of ‘a’ in the Quadratic Function y = ax2

Example 1
Use a table of values or a graphing calculator to graph the following functions
on the same coordinate plane. State the similarities and differences that occur.
a) f ( x ) = x 2
b) g ( x ) = 2 x 2
1 2
c) k ( x ) = x
2

Solution
A table of values for each of the functions is listed below.
x -3 -2 –1 0 1 2 3
a) f(x) 9 4 1 0 1 4 9
b) g(x) 18 8 2 0 2 8 18
9 1 1 9
c) k(x) 2 0 2
2 2 2 2
Notice that f(x) is the basic quadratic function.

You have: g(-3) = 18 which is equal to 2 × f(-3) = 2(9) = 18
g(-2) = 8 which is equal to 2 × f(-2) = 2(4) = 8, and so on.
9 1 1 9
Also, k (−3) = which is equal to f (−3) = (9 ) =
2 2 2 2
1 1
k (−2 ) = 2 which is equal to
o f (−2 ) = ( 4 ) = 2 , and so on.
2 2
In general, if f(x) = x2 and j(x) = ax2, then j(x) = a × f(x) for all x. This means the
y-values are affected by the multiplication of f(x) by a. If (x, y) is a point on f(x),
then (x, ay) is a point on j(x). Mapping notation is written as (x, y) ® (x, ay).
Include this description and the following rules for ‘a’ on your resource sheet.
The effect of ‘a’ on the graph f(x) = ax2:
Q If a > 1, the graph of f(x) = ax2 can be obtained from the graph of y = x2
with a vertical stretch of the graph of y = x2 by multiplying the y-values by
a. The resulting graph is narrower than the graph of y = x2.
Q If 0 < a < 1 (any real number between 0 and 1), the graph of f(x) = ax2 can
be obtained from the graph of y = x2 with a vertical compression of the
graph of y = x2 by multiplying each of the y-values by a. The resulting
graph is wider than the graph of y = x2.
The following graph will help you to see the difference between a vertical
stretch and a vertical compression. For comparison, the graph of f(x) = x2 is
dashed. Remember, functional notation is used interchangeably—that is,
f(x) = x2 means the same as y = x2.

y
y = 2x2
y = x2
1
4 y = x2
2
4 x
Compare some of the coordinates of y = x2 and y = 2x2, as shown below.
y = x2 (0, 0) (1, 1) (2, 4)

y = 2x2 (0, 0) (1, 2) (2, 8)
In each case, the y-values of y = 2x2 are double the y-values of y = x2.
Therefore, the graph of y = 2x2 increases more quickly than the graph of
y = x2. This results in a vertical stretch of the graph of y = x2 to obtain the
graph of y = 2x2. The graph of y = 2x2 is narrower than the graph of y = x2.
1 2
Now, let’s compare the y-values of y = x2 and y  x .
2
y = x2 (0, 0) (1, 1) (2, 4)
1 2  1
y x (0, 0)  1,  (2, 2)
2  2
1 2
In each case, the y-values of y  x are half the y-values of y = x2. Therefore,
2
1 2
the graph of y  x increases slower than the graph of y = x2. This results in
2
1
a vertical compression of the graph of y = x2 to obtain the graph of y  x 2 .
2
1
The graph of y  x 2 is wider than the graph of y = x2.
2

Notice the similarities and differences amongst all three graphs:
1. The graphs open upward.
2. The graphs have the same axis of symmetry, x = 0.
3. The graphs share the same vertex (0, 0) and each has a minimum y-value
of 0.
4. The greater the coefficient a when a > 1, the narrower the corresponding
parabola (e.g., the graph of j(x) = 3x2 will be narrower than the graph of
f(x) = 2x2).
5. The smaller the coefficient a when 0 < a < 1, the wider the graph (e.g., the
1 1 
graph of j ( x ) = x 2 will be wider than the graph of f ( x ) = x 2 .
3 2 
6. The domain is {x|x Î Â} for all functions.
7. The range is {y|y ³ 0} for all functions.
8. The zero or the x-intercept is 0.
9. The y-intercept is 0.
Reflections in the x-axis

Example 2
Graph the following functions on the same co-ordinate system using a table
of values or a graphing calculator.
Note: -x2 means -(x2). This is because of BEDMAS. The order of operations
rule says to do the squaring (exponents) before multiplying by negative one
(multiplication).
a) F ( x ) = −x 2
b) m ( x ) = −2 x 2
1
c) n ( x ) = − x 2
2

Solution
A table of values for each of the functions is listed below.
f(x) = x2 (-3, 9) (-2, 4) (-1, 1) (0, 0) (1, 1) (2, 4) (3, 9)
a) F(x) = -x2 (-3, -9) (-2, -4) (-1, -1) (0, 0) (1, -1) (2, -4) (3, -9)
b) m(x) = -2 x2 (-3, -18) (-2, -8) (-1, -2) (0, 0) (1, -2) (2, -8) (3, -18)
1  9  1  1  9
c) n ( x ) = − x 2 −3 , −  (-2, -2) −1, −  (0, 0)  1, −  (2, -2)  3, − 
2  2  2  2  2
y
y = 2x2
y = x2
1
y = x2
2
1
y =  2 x2
y = x2
y = 2x2
If you compare the graph of f(x) = x2 with the graph of F(x) = -x2, you can
note the change in the y-values. Each one has been changed to its opposite
value. If (x, y) is a point on f(x), then (x, -y) is a point on F(x). Therefore, F(x)
is the mirror reflection or mirror image of f(x) in the x-axis. The mapping
notation is (x, y) ® (x, -y).

If you compare the graph of f(x) with m(x), you can note the changes in the
y-values. Each has been changed to its opposite value and doubled. You
can see that the graph of f(x) has been reflected in the x-axis and vertically
stretched by a factor of 2 to get m(x). The graph of m(x) is narrower than the
graph of f(x). If (x, y) is a point on f(x), then (x, -2y) is a point on m(x).
If you compare f(x) with n(x), you can note the changes in the y-values. Each
has been changed to its opposite value and halved. You can see that the
graph of f(x) has been reflected in the x-axis and vertically compressed by
1
multiplying by . The graph of n(x) is wider than the graph of f(x). If (x, y) is
2
 1 
a point on f(x), then  x , − y  is a point on n(x).
 2 
Notice the following characteristics of graphs with negative a values, where a

is the coefficient for the x2 term.
1. The graphs open downward.
2. The graphs share the line of symmetry, x = 0.
3. The graphs share a common vertex (0, 0) and have a maximum y-value
of 0.
4. The graphs have the same shapes as those for the corresponding positive
values of a, but now they open downward.
5. The domain is {x|x Î Â} for all functions.
6. The range is {y|y £ 0} for all functions.
7. The zero or the x-intercept is 0.
8. The y-intercept is 0.
The Effect of ‘–a’ on the Graph of f(x) = –ax2

Any graph of the form y = -ax2 can be obtained by reflecting, or flipping, the
graph of y = ax2 over the x-axis. If (x, y) is a point on the graph of y = ax2, then
(x, -y) is a point on the graph of y = -ax2.
Example 3
Describe how the graph of g(x) = -5x2 can be obtained from the graph of
f(x) = x2. Sketch the graph of g(x) = -5x2.

Solution
There are two methods for finding the solution. You can vertically stretch the
graph of f(x) = x2 by a factor of 5 and then reflect in the x-axis. Or, you can
reflect the graph of f(x) = x2 in the x-axis and then stretch the graph of
y = -x2 by a factor of 5. The result will be the same because both are
multiplying operations—multiply by 5 and by (-1).
Consider the following table of values.
x -3 -2 –1 0 1 2 3
x2 9 4 1 0 1 4 9
5x2 45 20 5 0 5 20 45
g(x) = -5x2 -45 -20 -5 0 -5 -20 -45
Notice that the scale on the y-axis has been changed. It is different than the
scale on the x-axis. The effect of narrowing the width of the curve is thereby
distorted. The graph of y = -x2 is shown as a dotted line.
y
5

3 2 1 1 2 3 x
 10 
y = x2
 20 
30
40
 
50
y = 5x2

In general, the following statements are true about each quadratic function of
the type y = ax2.
1. Its axis of symmetry is the y-axis.
2. The coordinates of its vertex are (0, 0).
3. Its graph opens upward if a > 0, or downward if a < 0.
4. Its graph is narrower than the graph of y = x2 if a > 1 or a < -1 and wider
if -1 < a < 1.
5. The graph has a minimum value of 0 if a > 0, or a maximum value of 0 if
a < 0.
If you do not already have this information on your resource sheet, add it
now.
Example 4
Write an equation in the form y = ax2 that contains the point (-2, 8).
Solution
Substitute x = -2 and y = 8 into y = ax2 and solve for a.
8 = a(-2)2
8 = a(4)
2=a
The equation is y = 2x2.
The Effect of ‘q’ in the Quadratic Function y = x2 + q

Now that you know the effect of a in the quadratic function y = ax2, you will
now examine graphs of quadratic functions of the type y = ax2 + q or
f(x) = ax2 + q to determine the effect of q.
What is the effect of adding a real number q to ax2 in the defining equation
y = ax2?
Example 5
Using a table of values or a graphing calculator, graph the following functions
on the same coordinate system, where a = 1.
a) f ( x ) = x 2
b) g ( x ) = x 2 + 2
c) h ( x ) = x 2 − 3

Solution
Your table of values should look like the following:
-2 -1 0 1 2
a) f(x) = x2 4 1 0 1 4
b) g(x) = x2 + 2 6 3 2 3 6
c) h(x) = x2 - 3 1 -2 -3 -2 1
g(x) = x2 + 2
5
f(x) = x2
h(x) = x2  3
3 5 x
3
Notice that if the graph of y = x2 is shifted up 2 units, you obtain the graph of
y = x2 + 2. If the graph of y = x2 is shifted down 3 units, you obtain the graph
of y = x2 - 3
From the graph, f(x) is the basic function y = x2.
Observe the graphs of g(x) and h(x):
Q The axis of symmetry is the y-axis.
Q The vertices for g(x) and h(x) are (0, 2) and (0, -3), respectively.
Q The minimum values of g(x) and h(x) are 2 and -3, respectively.
Q The size and shape of the resulting graph is same as for y = x2.
Notice that g(-2) = f(-2) + 2 and h(-2) = f(-2) - 3
In general, if f(x) = ax2 and g(x) = ax2 + q, then g(x) = f(x) + q for all x. Also,
notice that only the y-values are affected by the value of q. If (x, y) is a point
on f(x), then (x, y + q) is a point on g(x).

Include the following definitions on your resource sheet.
The graph of f(x) = ax2 + q is obtained from the graph of y = ax2 by a vertical
shift.
Q If q > 0, the shift is up q units.
Q If q < 0, the shift is down -q units
For example, given the equation y = 3x2 - 2 = 3x2 + (-2), the value of q is -2
and q < 0. The graph is shifted down -(-2) = 2 units.
For any q, the graph of f(x) = ax2 + q has a vertex at (0, q) and the y-axis is the
line of symmetry.
Example 6
Using your graphing calculator or a table of values, graph the following
functions.
a) K ( x ) = −x 2
b) L ( x ) = −x 2 + 2
c) M ( x ) = −x 2 − 1
Solution
-2 -1 0 1 2
a) K(x) -4 -1 0 -1 -4
b) L(x) -2 1 2 1 -2
c) M(x) -5 -2 -1 -2 -5

y
3 x
L(x) = x2 + 2
K(x) = x2
5
M(x) = x2 1
Notice that L(-2) = K(-2) + 2 and M(-2) = K(-2) - 1.

Notice that the pattern follows the same idea as Example 5.
The graph of L is the graph of K shifted up 2 units and the graph of M is the
graph of K shifted down 1 unit.
In general, the following statements are true about each quadratic function of
the type y = ax2 + q.
1. The axis of symmetry is the y-axis with equation x = 0.
2. Coordinates of vertex: (0, q).
3. y = ax2 + q is the graph of y = ax2 shifted q units vertically.
If q > 0, the parabola is shifted upward.
If q < 0, the parabola is shifted downward.
4. If a > 0, the minimum value of y is q.
5. If a < 0, the maximum value of y is q.
If you do not already have these statements on your resource sheet, include
them now.
In the following learning activity and assignment you will be expected to
complete stretches, compressions, and vertical shifts without using a table
of values. If you use graph paper and transform the coordinates of y = x2
appropriately, you will be able to make a table of values from your graph. It
is important, therefore, that you complete the following learning activity to
practice your skills before you complete Assignment 3.1, which will be sent to
the Distance Learning Unit for assessment.

Part A: BrainPower
1. Water is trickling out of a faucet at a speed of 3 mL per second. If Paula
holds up a cup to collect the water, how much water will she collect in
3 minutes?
2. Factor: x2 - 9
3. If x = -1 and y = 2, evaluate the expression: 3x3 - xy.
4. What is the lowest common multiple of 10 and 14?
5. At The Burger Palace, you have a choice between what type of bun and
what type of burger you want. If there are three types of buns (white,
whole wheat, and sesame) and three types of burgers (angus, chicken, and
lean), how many different combinations of burgers are there?
6. Determine the distance between the following two points: (26, -13) and
(25, -1).
7. Solve the inequality: -6x - 7 > 3x - 9.
8. Simplify. (9x2 - 7x + 5) - (2x2 - 6x - 3)
continued

Part B: Quadratic Functions: y = ax2 and y = ax2 + q
1. Determine whether each statement is true or false. If the statement is false,
rewrite it so that it is true.
a) x2 + y = 1 is a quadratic function.
b) t(x) = 1 - x is a quadratic function.
c) f(x) = 4x2 is a quadratic function.
d) The graph of r(x) = x2 + 1 is symmetric with respect to the y-axis.
1 2
e) The graph of y = x2 is a “wider” parabola than the graph of y  x .
4
f) The graph of y = 5x2 is a “narrower” parabola than the graph of y = x2.
1 2
g) The graph of y  x is a parabola that opens downward.
4
h) The graph of y = -2x2 is a parabola that opens downward.
i) The maximum value of the function y
pictured at the right is 4. 5
j) The minimum value of the function

pictured at the right is 0.
k) The domain of the function pictured
at the right is {y|y ³ 4}. x
5
continued

2. Complete the following table.
1 2
y x y  x2 y = −3x 2
3
Vertex
Equation of axis of
symmetry
Domain
Range
x-intercepts or zeros
Direction of opening
Maximum y-value
Minimum y-value
y-intercept
3. Describe the transformations needed to arrive at the graph of each of the

following using y = x2 as the reference curve.
a) y = 4 x 2
1 2
b) y = x
2
c) y = −7 x 2
4. Find the following for the graph given by y = ax2:

a) What is the direction of the opening of the graph if a > 0?
b) What is the direction of the opening of the graph if a < 0?
c) If a > 0, does y = ax2 have a minimum value or a maximum value?
d) If a < 0, does y = ax2 have a maximum value or a minimum value?
continued

5. Match the letter corresponding to each function with the number
corresponding to its graph.
y
a) y = −2 x 2
2
b) y = 1.6 x 2
1
2
c) y = −2 π x
d) y = 6 x 2 x
3
4
6. Write an equation in the form y = ax2 if (1, -4) lies on the curve.
7. Write the equation of the graph. Then write the equation of its reflection in
the x-axis. Note each mark represents 1 unit on the graph.
y
 (2, 6)
continued

rewrite it so it is true.
a) The graph of y = 3x2 + 4 is the graph of y = 3x2 shifted downward
4 units.
b) The graph of f(x) = -x2 - 3 is the graph of h(x) = -x2 shifted
downward 3 units.
c) The vertex of the graph of y = 2x2 is the origin.
1 2
d) The vertex of the graph of y = x − 2 is (0, -2).
2
e) An equation of the axis of symmetry of the graph of y = x2 - 1 is
x = -1.
f) The graph of y = x2 - 1 opens downward.
g) The graph of y = -x2 - 2 opens downward.
h) The maximum value of {(x, y)|y = -2x2 + 3} is -2.
i) The minimum value of is {(x, y)|y = 3x2 - 4} is -4.
j) If f(x) = 2x2 + 3, then f(x) = f(-x), for all x.
k) The graph of y = x2 + 4 is symmetric with respect to the y-axis.
l) The graphs of y = x2 + 2 and y = -x2 + 2 are mirror reflections of each
other in the x-axis.
1 2
m) The graph of y = x2 is a narrower parabola than the graph of y  x .
4
n) The range of f(x) = -x2 + 2 is {y|y ≤ 2}.
9. A quadratic function f is defined by f : x ® ax2 + q, a ¹ 0. Describe whether
the graph of f opens up or down and give its maximum or minimum
value.
a) a > 0 and q > 0
b) a > 0 and q < 0
c) a < 0 and q > 0
d) a < 0 and q < 0
10. Graph y = -3x2 + 1 using transformations on y = x2. Then make a table of
values with 5 points in it.

Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you discovered how a and q affect quadratic functions of the
form y = ax2 + q. You learned how a affects the basic quadratic function
y = x2 by a vertical stretch, vertical compression, or a reflection. You also
learned how q affects the basic quadratic function y = x2 by a vertical shift.
These are three of the four transformations of quadratic functions that you
will be learning about in this course. In the next lesson, you will be learning
about the last transformation of quadratic functions: the effect of p in the
quadratic function y = a(x - p)2.

Assignment 3.1
Quadratic Functions and Transformations
Total: 58 marks
1. Which of the following describes a quadratic function?
(1 mark each, for a total of 4 marks)
a) f(x) = -x2 + 3x2 - 1
b) g(x) = x - 2
c) y
 
3 x
d) y
2

2 x

continued

Assignment 3.1: Quadratic Functions and Transformations (continued)
2. For the following, write the domain, range, coordinates of the vertex, equation of the
axis of symmetry, y-intercept, x-intercept(s), maximum value, and minimum value.
(4 marks)
y Domain:
Range:
x
Coordinates of the Vertex:
2 2
2 
Axis of Symmetry:
y-intercept:
 
x-intercept(s):
Maximum Value:
Minimum Value:
3. Sketch the graph of the following quadratic function. Fill in the table of values.
Find the coordinates of the vertex, the equation of the axis of symmetry, and the
maximum or minimum value. (5 marks)
y = -2x2 + 1
x -2 -1 0 1 2
y = -2x2 + 1
Vertex:
Axis of Symmetry:
Maximum or
Minimum Value:
continued

4. Match the equation with its graph. Use a table of values to graph each function if
necessary. (1 mark each, for a total of 4 marks)
a) y = -x2 + 3
b) y = x2 + 3
c) y = -x2 - 3
d) y = x2 - 3
i) ii)
y y
3
 
3 3 x 3 3 x
 1 
3 
iii) iv)
y y
2 2 x
 7 
3 
3
 7 
2 2 x
continued

5. Write an equation in the form y = ax2 if (-2, 7) lies on the curve. (2 marks)
6. Complete the following table. (20 marks)

y = x2 + 4 y = x2 y = x2 - 1 y = -x2 + 1
Vertex
Equation of axis symmetry
Domain
Range
x-intercepts
y-intercept
Maximum value
Minimum value
continued

7. Match the letter corresponding to each function with the number corresponding to
its graph. (1 mark each, for a total of 4 marks)
a) y = −3x 2 y
b) y = 3x 2
c) y = −x 2 2
1 2
d) y = x
2 1
 
 
 
x
 
 
4
 
3
continued

8. Describe how to arrive at the graph of each of the following if y = x2 is the reference
curve. (2 marks each, for a total of 8 marks)
a) f : x → 5x 2 + 4
b) f ( x ) = −2 x 2 + 1
1 2
c) h ( x ) = x −1
2
d) −y + 3x 2 = 2
continued

9. Graph y = -2x2 + 3 using transformations on y = x2. Then make a table of values
with 5 points in it. (4 marks)
continued

10. Write an equation in the form y = ax2 + q, given the vertex is at (0, -3) and the
parabola passes through the point (1, -1). (3 marks)

L e s s o n 3 : Q u a d r a t i c F u n c t i o n s y = a(x – p)2
Lesson Focus

q learn how to determine characteristics of the graph y = a(x – p)2
Lesson Introduction
In the last lesson, you learned the effect a and q had on the quadratic function
y = ax2 + q. In this lesson, you will learn the effect p has on the quadratic
functions y = (x - p)2 and y = a(x - p)2. Once you learn this, quadratic
functions will be easier to graph. You will be able to put all your knowledge
of transformations of quadratic functions together to graph any quadratic
function in vertex form.
Quadratic Functions
In the last lesson, you learned about quadratic functions in the form
y = ax2 + q. Another type of quadratic function is one defined by an equation
of the form y = a(x - p)2. Just as a and q had certain effects on the graph of the
quadratic function, so does p.
Example 1
Use a table of values or a graphing calculator to graph the following functions
on the same coordinate plane.
a) f(x) = x2
b) g(x) = (x - 6)2
c) i(x) = (x + 6)2
Note: In this example, we let a have a fixed value of 1 to consider the effect of
changes in p.
Solution
The following tables of values give some ordered pairs that satisfy the above
functions.

a) f(x) = x2
x -2 -1 0 1 2
y 4 1 0 1 4
b) g(x) = (x – 6)2
x 4 5 6 7 8
y 4 1 0 1 4
Notice each x-value in g(x) = (x - 6)2 is 6 more than the corresponding

x-value in f(x). The y-values remain the same.
c) i(x) = (x + 6)2
x -8 -7 -6 -5 -4
y 4 1 0 1 4
Notice each x-value in i(x) = (x + 6)2 is 6 less than the corresponding

x-value in f(x). The y-values are unchanged.
Notice that the pattern of the y-values is the same. However, because the
corresponding x-values have changed, the vertex of each of the curves, g(x)
and i(x), has been shifted horizontally. The graph of g(x) = (x - 6)2 is shifted
to the right 6 units and the graph of i(x) = (x + 6)2 is shifted to the left 6 units.
Notice also that the operation in the formula is subtract. The formula is
written as y = a(x - p)2, not y = a(x + p)2.
y
i f g
6 0 6 x

Consider the following pattern:
f(x) = x2
g(x) = f(x - 6) = (x - 6)2
and i(x) = f(x + 6) = (x + 6)2
Now consider some points on the graphs.
g(5) = (x - 6)2 = (5 - 6)2 = (-1)2 = 1
and g(5) = f(x - 6) = f(5 - 6) = f(-1) = (-1)2 = 1
Thus, g(5) = f(1) = 1
i(-5) = (x + 6)2 = (-5 + 6)2 = 12 = 1
and i(–5) = f(-5 + 6) = f(1) = 12 = 1
Thus, i(-5) = f(1) = 1
In general, if f(x) = x2 and g(x) = (x - p)2 then g(x) = f(x - p) for all x.
Include the following information on your resource sheet.
The Effect of p in the Quadratic Function f(x) = (x – p)2

The graph of f(x) = (x - p)2 is said to be obtained from the graph of y = x2 by a
horizontal shift.
Q If p > 0, the horizontal shift is p units to the right.
Q If p < 0, the horizontal shift is (-p) units to the left.
Remember that there is a subtract sign in the formula y = a(x - p)2. If p > 0
and p = 6, then y = (x - (+6))2 = (x - 6)2, and the graph of y = x2 would be
shifted 6 units to the right. If p < 0 and p = –6, then y = (x - (-6))2 = (x + 6)2,
and the graph of y = x2 would be shifted 6 units to the left.
For any p, the graph of f has a vertex (p, 0) and the line of symmetry x = p.
You can visualize the graph of y = (x - 6)2 as being the graph of y = x2 shifted
6 units to the right and the graph of y = (x + 6)2 as being the graph of y = x2
shifted 6 units to the left.
Note: y = (x + 6)2 can be written as y = (x - (-6))2. This format uses the
definition and shows that if you have the function y = (x + 6)2, then the value
of p is -6 and not positive 6.

Notice the following:
Q The vertex of g(x) is (6, 0) and the vertex of i(x) is (-6, 0).
Q The equation of the axis of symmetry of g(x) is x = 6 and of i(x) is x = -6.
Q The minimum values of g(x) and i(x) are 0.
Q The size and shape of the g(x) and i(x) are the same as f(x).
Example 2
Continue your investigation by giving a different values. Using a combination
of shifts and stretches or compressions, graph the following functions on a
coordinate plane.
2
a) k ( x ) = 4 ( x − 5)
1
b) l ( x ) = ( x − 5)2
4
2
c) m ( x ) = −( x − 5)
Solution
Begin with the basic graph y = x2 and shift it 5 units to the right to get
y = (x - 5)2.
a) For k(x), stretch y = (x - 5)2 vertically by a factor of 4 to get y = 4(x - 5)2. Its
graph will be narrower than the graph of y = (x - 5)2.
b) For l(x), compress y = (x - 5)2 vertically by multiplying the y-coordinates
1 1 2
by to get y = ( x − 5) . Its graph will be wider than y = (x - 5)2.
4 4
c) For m(x), reflect y = (x - 5)2 over the x-axis to get y = -(x - 5)2. Its graph
will be the same shape as y = (x - 5)2.
In the figure below, the graphs of k(x), l(x), and m(x) are contrasted with the
graph of y = (x - 5)2 indicated by dashed marking.

y
k(x) = 4(x  5)2
y = (x  5)2
1
l(x) = (x  5)2
4
4      
   
0 3 9 x
 
 
m(x) = (x  5)2
Example 3
The vertex of a given parabola is at (2, 0). Another point on the graph is
(-2, 8). Write its equation in the form y = a(x - p)2.
Solution
Since the vertex of y = x2 is shifted 2 units to the right, p = 2. Use the other
ordered pair to substitute y = 8 and x = -2 into the equation y = a(x - p)2.
2
y = a (x − p )
2
8 = a (−2 − 2 )
2
8 = a (−4 )
8 = 16 a
8
=a
16
1
=a
2
1
The equation is y = ( x − 2 )2 .
2

The following generalizations can be made for functions of the type
y = a(x - p)2.
1. The axis of symmetry is the line x = p.
2. Coordinates of the vertex are (p, 0).
3. y = a(x - p)2 is the graph of y = ax2 shifted p units horizontally.
If p > 0, the parabola is shifted to the right.
If p < 0, the parabola is shifted to the left.
4. If a > 0, the minimum value of y is 0.
If a < 0, the maximum value of y is 0.
If you do not already have these generalizations on your resource sheet, make
sure you include them now.
Part A: BrainPower
1. Simplify: (a + b)2
1 2
2. Evaluate: +
5 3
3. If Mark’s meal comes to $16.27 with tax and he adds a tip of $1.50, how
much change should he get back if he pays with a $20 bill?
4. Samuel and Cassy weigh 333 pounds together. If Samuel weighs twice as
much as Cassy, how many pounds does Cassy weigh?
5. Factor: x2 - 3x - 28
 55 × 57 3
6. Simplify:  2

 5 
2- 8
10 7
8. Find the slope of the line that contains the points (2, -7) and (9, -14).
continued

Part B: Quadratic Functions: a(x – p)2
1. State whether each statement is true or false. If the statement is false,
a) The graph of y = (x + 5)2 is the graph of y = x2 shifted 5 units to the left.
b) The graph of y = (x - 7)2 is the graph of y = x2 shifted 7 units to the left.
c) The vertex of the graph of y = (x - 1)2 is (1, 0).
d) The vertex of the graph of y = 2(x - 2)2 is (1, 0).
1
e) The equation of the axis of symmetry of the graph of y = ( x − 3)2
2
1
is x  .
2
1 2
f) The equation of the axis of symmetry of the graph of y = − ( x + 3)
2
is y = –3.
1 2
g) The graph of y = − ( x − 2 ) is a narrower parabola than the graph of
3
2
y = -3(x - 2) .
1 2
h) The graph of y = − ( x + 4 ) opens downward.
4
1 2
i) The quadratic function y = ( x − 2 ) has 0 for its minimum value.
3
j) If g(x) = (x + 4)2, then g(x - 4) = g(-x - 4) for all x.
continued

2. Match the equation with its graph.
a) y = (x - 4)2
b) y = x2 + 4
c) y = -(x + 2)2
d) y = -(x - 3)2
i) y ii) y
8
2 4 6 8 x
2 6
4 4
6 2
8
2 4 6 8 x
y y
iii) iv)
8
6 4 2 2 x
2 6
4 4
6 2
8
4 2 2 4 x
3. Without using tables of values, sketch the graphs of the following on

graph paper. Provide a written explanation of the steps involved in the
transformation. Then make a table of values with 5 points in it, showing
how the coordinates of y = x2 are transformed.
1
a) f : x → ( x − 4 )2
2
2
b) y = −2 ( x − 1)
2
c) f ( x ) = 2 ( x + 1)
continued

(a) (b) (c) (d)

4
y = (x + 2)2 y = (x - 1)2 y = 2(x - 3)2 y = ( x + 6 )2
3
Vertex
Equation of axis
of symmetry
Domain
Range
x-intercepts
y-intercept
Maximum value
Minimum value
Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned about the final transformation of quadratic

functions: the effect of p in the quadratic function y = a(x - p)2. You should
now be able to graph any quadratic function in vertex form. You will combine
all of the rules for the effects of a, p, and q to graph quadratic functions in
vertex form in the next lesson.

Notes

L e s s o n 4: G r a p hin g U s in g
Tr a n s f o r m at io n s
Lesson Focus

q learn how to graph quadratic functions of the form
f(x) = a(x - p)2 + q
q learn how to write the equation of a quadratic function given
characteristics of its graph
q learn how to write the equation of a quadratic function given its
graph
q learn how to determine the number of x-intercepts of a quadratic
function using a and q
Lesson Introduction
In the previous lessons, you explored the effects of the parameters a, p, and
q on the graphs of quadratic functions. In this lesson, you will combine the
effects of all of these parameters together to investigate graphs of quadratic
functions of the form f(x) = a(x - p)2 + q.
Transformations
The vertex form of a quadratic function y = f(x) is f(x) = a(x - p)2 + q, where a,
p, and q are real numbers, and in this course they are rational numbers.
Transforming y = x2 to f(x) = a(x – p)2 +q.

The graph of a quadratic function in vertex form f(x) = a(x - p)2 + q can
be obtained from the graph of y = x2 through following a sequence of
transformations, usually performed in the order of “multiplying then adding.”
In other words, do the stretching, compressing, and reflecting first, and then
the shifting.

1. Vertical stretch/compression: Stretch by a factor of a if a > 1 or a < -1 and
1
compress by a factor of if -1 < a < 1. (x, y) ® (x, ay)
a
2. Reflect in x-axis if a < 0. (x, y) ® (x, -y)
3. Horizontal shift p units: Shift right if p > 0 and left
if p < 0. (x, y) ® (x + p, y)
4. Vertical shift q units: Shift up if q > 0 and down if q < 0. (x, y) ® (x, y + q)
The vertex of the graph of f is the point (p, q), and its line of symmetry is
x = p.
The complete transformation from y = x2 to y = a(x - p)2 + q is:
(x, y) ® (x + p, ay + q)
Note: The stretch or compression factor is always a number greater than 1. If
1 1
a > 1, the stretch factor is a. If 0 < a < 1, the compression factor is , and  1.
a a
If you have not updated your resource sheet to include all of the above
information, now would be a good time to do so.
Example 1
Sketch the graph given by y = (x + 2)2 - 3.
Solution
1. Sketch the graph of y = x2.
Notice the key coordinates (0, 0), (1, 1), (2, 4), and (3, 9). Others can be found
by reflection over the axis of symmetry.
y
5
4
3
2
1
4 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 x
1

2. To obtain the graph of y = (x + 2)2, apply a horizontal shift of 2 units to the
left to the graph in Step 1.
For each coordinate listed in Step 1, subtract 2 from the x-values to get
(-2, 0), (-1, 1), (0, 4), and (1, 9).
y
5
4
3
2
1
6 5 4 3 2 1 0 1 2 x
1
3. To obtain the graph of y = (x + 2)2 - 3, apply a vertical shift of 3 units

downward to the graph in Step 2.
For each of the coordinates in Step 2, subtract 3 from the y-values to get
(-2, -3), (-1, -2), (0, 1), and (1, 6).
y
5
4
3
2
1
6 5 4 3 2 1 0 1 2 x
1
2
3
Therefore, the graph of y = (x + 2)2 - 3 is obtained.

The transformation formula to transform y = x2 into y = (x + 2)2 - 3 is
(x, y) ® (x + (-2), y - 3) or (x, y) ® (x - 2, y - 3).
In Example 1, notice that since a = 1, there was no vertical stretch or
compression. In the next example, a = -1 and a reflection will be applied.

Example 2
Sketch the graph given by y = -(x - 1)2 + 2.
Solution
1. Sketch the graph of y = x2.
y
5
4
3
2
1
4 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 x
1
2. To obtain the graph of y = (x - 1)2, apply a horizontal shift of 1 unit to the

right to the graph in Step 1.
Add 1 to each x-value: (x, y) ® (x + 1, y).
y
5
4
3
2
1
4 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 x
1

3. To obtain the graph of y = -(x - 1)2, apply a reflection to the graph in
Step 2 in the x-axis.
Multiply each y-value by (-1). (x, y) ® (x, -y).
y
3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 x
1
2
3
4
5
4. To obtain the graph of y = -(x - 1)2 + 2, apply a vertical shift of 2 units up

to the graph in Step 3.
Add 2 to each y-value: (x, y) ® (x, y + 2)
y
2
1
3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 x
1
2
3
4
The complete transformation from y = x2 to y = -(x - 1)2 + 2 is

(x, y) ® (x + 1, -y + 2).
Note that the same graph results if you apply both horizontal and vertical
shifts first and then the reflection. The value of a is -1.
Example 3
Write a sequence of transformations that will produce the graph of
y = -(x - 7)2 - 3 from y = x2.
Solution
Reflect y = x2 over the x-axis, shift 7 units to the right and 3 units downward.

Below is a summary of observations concerning the graph of y = a(x - p)2 + q.
Include these on your resource sheet if you haven’t done so already.
1. The graph is a parabola.
2. The coordinates of the vertex are (p, q).
3. An equation defining the axis of symmetry is x = p.
4. The graph opens upward if a > 0 or downward if a < 0.
5. The graph is narrower than the graph of y = x2 if a > 1 or a < -1 and wider
if -1 < a < 1.
6. If a > 0, the minimum value of y is at y = q.
7. If a < 0, the maximum value of y is at y = q.
Example 4
A graph has the following properties:
Q The vertex is at (1, -7)
Q The graph passes through the point (3, -23)
Write a quadratic function in the form y = a(x - p)2 + q that represents this
graph.
Solution
The vertex is (1, -7), which corresponds to the point (p, q). Therefore, p = 1
and q = -7.
y = a(x - 1)2 - 7
You also know the parabola passes through the point (3, -23). Substitute these
values into the above equation for x and y.
-23 = a(3 - 1)2 - 7
-23 = a(2)2 - 7
-23 = 4a - 7
-16 = 4a
-4 = a
Therefore, the quadratic function is y = -4(x - 1)2 - 7.

Example 5
Write a quadratic function in the form y = a(x - p)2 + q that represents the
following graph.
y
2 x

  3
 9 
Solution
It is possible to find a quadratic function in vertex form for this graph using
two methods. Method #1 involves finding the coordinates of the vertex and
one other point. Method #2 involves comparing the graph with the graph of
y = x2.
Method #1: Algebraically
To use Method #1, you need to find the coordinates of the vertex and of one
other point. The coordinates of the vertex are (-2, -1), and of one other point
is (-1, -3).
In vertex form, the coordinates of the vertex are (p, q).
(p, q) = (-2, -1)
\ p = -2
q = -1
Substituting these values for p and q into the vertex form of the quadratic
function:
y = a(x - (-2))2 - 1
y = a(x + 2)2 - 1

You also have another point on the curve, (-1, -3). You can substitute these
values into the quadratic function for x and y.
-3 = a(-1 + 2)2 - 1
-3 = a(1)2 - 1
-3 = a - 1
-2 = a
Therefore, the quadratic function representing this graph is
y = -2(x + 2)2 - 1.
Method #2: Graphically

To use Method #2, you need to compare the given graph with the graph of
y = x2. To do this, it may be helpful to recall the key numbers on its graph.
The vertex is located at (-2, -1). Therefore, p = -2 and q = -1. In other words,
this graph is shifted two units to the left and one unit down, compared to
y = x2.
The graph opens downward, so the value of a is negative.
The graph is narrower than the graph of y = x2. Therefore, a < -1.
To determine the value of a, compare the vertical distances of points on this
new parabola to the graph of y = x2.
Compare the point (2, 4) on y = x2 to the point (0, -9) on the parabola. Moving
two units to the right of the vertex at (-2, -1) shows the vertical distance from
the vertex should be 4 units down from -1. But the point on the curve is
(0, -9), which is 8 units down from -1. This is twice as much as expected; the
y-value is doubled, and the value of a must be -2. Remember, a < 0 because
the graph opens downward.
The quadratic function in vertex form is y = -2(x + 2)2 - 1.
Determining the Number of x-intercepts of a Quadratic Function

using a and q
Now that you know how to graph quadratic functions using transformations,
you can determine how many x-intercepts a quadratic function has by
considering a couple of methods. One method is to consider values of a and q.
The other method considers a, p, and q and a simple sketch.

Example 6
Determine the number of intercepts for each quadratic function.
a) y = x2 - 4
b) y = 2x2 - 5
Solution
a) y = x2 is shifted down 4 units to y
obtain the graph of y = x2 - 4.
This graph has two x-intercepts,
as it crosses the x-axis twice.  
x
2 2
 
4 
b) y = x2 is shifted down 5 units and y

stretched vertically by a factor of 2
to obtain the graph of y = 2x2 - 5.
 
This graph has two x-intercepts,
as it crosses the x-axis twice.
2 2 x
 
5 
Consider the quadratic function in vertex form, y = a(x - p)2 + q. In both (a)
and (b) above, the value for a was greater than zero. Also, the value for q was
less than zero. Both of these graphs contained two x-intercepts. Therefore,
when a > 0 and q < 0, the graph of the quadratic function contains two
x-intercepts.

Example 7
Determine the number of x-intercepts for each quadratic function.
a) y = x2
b) y = 2x2
Solution
a) The basic quadratic graph has one x-intercept as the vertex of this
parabola is on the x-axis.
b) y = x2 is stretched vertically by a factor of 2 to obtain the graph of y = 2x2.
This graph has one x-intercept, as the vertex of this parabola is on the
x-axis.
Consider the quadratic function in vertex form, y = a(x - p)2 + q. In both
(a) and (b) above, the value for a was greater than zero. Also, the value for q
equaled zero. Both of these graphs contained one x-intercept. Therefore, when
a > 0 and q = 0, the graph of the quadratic function contains one x-intercept.
Example 8
Determine the number of x-intercepts for each quadratic function.
a) y = -x2 - 4
b) y = -2x2 - 5
Solution
a) y = x2 is reflected over the x-axis and y
shifted down 4 units to obtain
the graph of y = -x2 - 4. 2 1 x
This graph has no x-intercepts,  (0, 4)

as it does not cross the x-axis.  
 

b) y = x2 is stretched vertically by a factor y
of 2, reflected over the x-axis, and
shifted down 5 units to obtain the 1 1 x
graph of y = -2x2 - 5.
This graph has no x-intercepts, as it 5 

does not cross the x-axis.
 
Consider the quadratic function in vertex form, y = a(x - p)2 + q. In both (a)
and (b) above, the value for a was less than zero. Also, the value for q was less
than zero. Both of these graphs contained no x-intercepts. Therefore, when
a < 0 and q < 0, the graph of the quadratic function contains no x-intercepts.
The following chart displays the information you discovered in Examples 6,
7, and 8. Note that not all possible cases of a- and q-values are represented in
this chart. You may want to explore the other cases and see if you can find
any patterns.
Value of a Value of q Graph Number of x-intercepts

a>0 q<0 y 2
This graph crosses the x-axis
twice, as the vertex is below
  the x-axis and the graph opens
x
upward.
a>0 q=0 y 1
This graph crosses the x-axis
once, as the vertex is on the
x-axis.

x
a<0 q<0 y 0
This graph does not cross the
x x-axis, as the vertex is below
the x-axis and the graph opens
downward.
However, perhaps the easiest way to determine the number of x-intercepts is

to quickly make a sketch of the parabola if it is given in vertex form. There is
no need to memorize this chart.

Part A: BrainPower
1. You need to make 100 cupcakes for a bake sale. However, your recipe only
allows you to make cupcakes in multiples of 12. What is the least number
of cupcakes you can make to have enough cupcakes for the bake sale?
2. What is the area of a park that measures 13 km by 62 km?
 3   1   1   5 
3. Evaluate:  − + + 
 4   2   6   3 
4. What is the slope of the line defined by the equation y = 2x + 3?

5. Does the parabola y = -3x2 + 4x + 2 open up or down?
7. Write this percent as a decimal: 8.07%
8. Is 71 a prime or composite number?
Part B: Transformations of Quadratic Functions
a) The vertex of the graph of y = (x - 4)2 + 2 is (-4, 2).
b) The vertex of the graph of y = 3(x - 5)2 - 2 is (5, 2).
c) The vertex of the graph of y = 2x2 + 7 is (2, 7).
d) The vertex of the graph of y = -3x2 + 4 is (0, 4).
continued

e) The vertex of the graph of y = -2(x - 3)2 is (-2, 3).
f) The equation of the axis of symmetry of the graph of
y = -3(x - 6)2 + 1 is x = 1.
g) The equation of the axis of symmetry of the graph of
2
 1 1
y = 3 x −  + 4 is x  .
 2 2
h) The equation of the axis of symmetry of the graph of y = (x + 2)2 + 1 is
x = -2.
i) The graph of y = 4(x - 3)2 - 1 opens downward.
j) The graph of y = 4(x + 2)2 - 3 opens upward.
k) The range of y = -2(x + 3)2 + 4 is {y|y £ 4}.
l) The maximum value of y = 3(x - 5)2 - 2 is -2.
2. Match each equation with its graph.
1 2
a) y = 3x 2 e) y − 1 = ( x + 2 )
3
−1 2 2
b) y = x f) y + 1 = −3 ( x − 2 )
3
2 1 2
c) y = 3 ( x + 2 ) g) y = − ( x − 2 )
3
2 1 2
d) y + 1 = 3 ( x + 2 ) h) y − 1 = − ( x − 2 )
3
i) y ii) y
6 6
4 4
2 2
6 4 2 2 4 6 x 6 4 2 2 4 6 x
2 2
4 4
6 6
continued

iii) y iv) y
6 6
4 4
2 2
6 4 2 2 4 6 x 6 4 2 2 4 6 x
2 2
4 4
6 6
v) y vi) y
6 6
4 4
2 2
6 4 2 2 4 6 x 6 4 2 2 4 6 x
2 2
4 4
6 6
vii) y viii) y
6 6
4 4
2 2
6 4 2 2 4 6 x 6 4 2 2 4 6 x
2 2
4 4
6 6
continued

(a) (b) (c) (d)
y = (x - 1)2 + 2 y = -(x - 1)2 - 2 y = (x + 1)2 + 2 y = -(x + 1)2 - 2
Vertex
Equation of axis of
symmetry
Domain
Range
y-intercept
Maximum value
Minimum value
4. For each of the following parabolas, state:

n the direction of opening
n the coordinates of the vertex
n the equation of the axis of symmetry
n whether the given graph is narrower or wider than y = x2
2
a) y = 2 ( x + 1)
1 2
b) y = − ( x − 1) + 6
2
2
c) y = 2 ( x + 6 ) − 10
2
d) y = 6 ( x − 1) + 8
continued

5. Without making a table of values, sketch the graph of each of the following
functions. Explain the various steps. State the vertex and the equation of
the axis of symmetry. Use graph paper.
2
a) y = 2 ( x + 1)
1 2
b) y = − ( x − 1) + 6
2
2
c) y = 2 ( x + 6 ) − 10
2
d) y = 6 ( x − 1) + 8
6. For each of the following quadratic functions,

n specify whether the function has a minimum or a maximum value and
what that value is.
n specify the range.
n find the y-intercept.
2
 1
a) f ( x ) = − x +  + 2
 2
2
b) y = 2 ( x + 4 ) − 2
2
c) g ( x ) = −3 ( x − 2 ) − 1
1
d) y = 
 ( x + 1)2 + 4 

2
 3
7. If  1,  is a point on the quadratic function represented by
 2
y = (x - 2)2 + q, what real number is the minimum value of the function?
continued

8. Write a quadratic function in the form y = a(x - p)2 + q that represents the
following graph.
9. A graph has the following properties:

n The vertex is at (-2, 5)
n The graph passes through the point (2, -35)
graph.
10. Determine the number of intercepts of each quadratic function by
considering the values of a and q.
a) y = -2(x - 3)2 - 6
b) y = 4x2 - 1
c) y = 6x2
d) y = -(x + 1)2
11. Redo question 10 above by considering the vertex (p, q) and the direction
of opening using the value of a. Make a quick sketch.

Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you combined your knowledge of transformations of quadratic

functions. You learned how to graph any quadratic function when you are
given the function in vertex form. In the next lesson, you will learn how to
transform quadratic functions in general form to quadratic functions in vertex
form by completing the square.

Assignment 3.2
Graphing Quadratic Functions Using Transformations
Total: 65 marks
1. Match the equation with its graph. (1 mark each, for a total of 4 marks)
a) y = (x + 4)2
b) y = -(x - 4)2
c) y = -(x + 8)2
d) y = (x - 2)2
i) y ii) y
4  
4 x
1  
 
  
2 x
iii) y iv) y

8 x
  1
 
 
  1

4 x
continued

(continued)
2 Without using tables of values, sketch the graphs of the following on graph paper.
Provide a written explanation of the steps involved in the transformation. Then,
make a table of values with 5 points in it, showing how the coordinates of y = x2 are
transformed into points on the new graph. (4 marks each, for a total of 8 marks)
1 2
a) f ( x ) = − ( x + 2 )
2
continued

(continued)
2
b) y = 3 ( x − 1)
continued

(continued)
1 2
y = -(x + 1)2 y = ( x − 5) y = 2(x + 3)2
3
Vertex
Equation of axis of symmetry
Domain
Range
x-intercept(s)
y-intercept
Maximum value
Minimum value
4. Match each equation with its graph. (1 mark each, for a total of 4 marks)
2 y
a) y = 3 ( x − 7 ) + 3
2 iv)
b) y + 2 = −( x − 2 )
1 i)
c) y = ( x + 2 )2 − 4  
2
2  4 
d) y + 3 = −2 ( x + 1) 
2 2 7 x
a)
  
b)   
c) 


d)  
iii)
 
ii)
continued

(continued)
y = 2(x - 2)2 + 1 y = 3(x + 1)2 + 4 y = -(x + 8)2 - 7
Vertex
Equation of axis of symmetry
Domain
Range
y-intercept
Maximum value
Minimum value
6. For each of the following parabolas, state the following: (1 mark each, for a total of
10 marks)
a) The direction of opening
b) The coordinates of the vertex
c) The equation of the axis of symmetry
d) Whether the given graph is narrower or wider than y = x2
e) The number of x-intercepts the graph has
1 2
i) y = − ( x + 5) − 3
2
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
ii) y = 2(x + 8)2 - 9
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
continued

(continued)
functions. Explain the various transformations. State the vertex and the equation of
the axis of symmetry. (5 marks each, for a total of 10 marks)
a) y = 3(x + 4)2 - 2
1
b) y = ( x − 3)2 + 4
2
continued

(continued)
8. If (3, 6) is a point on the quadratic function represented by y = -(x + 4)2 + q, what
real number is the maximum value of the function? (2 marks)
9. Write a quadratic function in the form y = a(x - p)2 + q that represents the following
graph. (3 marks)
y
6 x
 4
 
 

Notes

L e s s o n 5: C o m p l e t in g t h e S q ua r e
Lesson Focus

q learn how to apply a geometric approach to completing the
square using tiles
q learn how to transform f(x) = ax2 + bx + c into the form
f(x) = a(x - p)2 + q by using an algebraic method of completing
the square
q learn how to use quadratic functions to model situations
Lesson Introduction
You have now learned how to graph quadratic functions when they are given
to you in vertex form. What happens if you are asked to graph a quadratic
function in general form? This can be difficult to do without creating a
table of values. Therefore, it is useful to transform quadratic functions from
general form into vertex form. You can do this by learning how to complete
the square. Completing the square is an important algebraic skill to master. It
involves factoring and algebraic manipulation so it is a good opportunity to
practise these skills. Are you up for the challenge?
Completing the Square
You discovered how to find the maximum or minimum value of a quadratic

function when it is written in the form f(x) = a(x - p)2 + q. You will now
concentrate on writing any general quadratic function f(x) = ax2 + bx + c into
the form f(x) = a(x - p)2 + q. This process is called completing the square.
In algebra, there are many times when you can complete the square to help
solve a problem. Completing the square in quadratic expressions can be
modelled with geometric shapes called tiles.

Example 1
a) Model x2 with a square tile that is x units long on each side. Its area is
(x)(x) = x2.
Solution

b) Model x with a rectangular tile that is x units long and 1 unit wide. Its
area is (x)(1) = x.
Solution

c) Model a unit with a square tile that is 1 unit long on each side. Its area is
(1)(1) = 1.
Solution

d) Model a square that has 1 x2-tile, 4 x-tiles, and 4 unit tiles. The area of this
square is the sum of the tiles x2 + 4x + 4.
Solution

Since the length of a side of this square is x + 2, the area can be written as
(x + 2) (x + 2) = (x + 2)2.
This model of x2 + 4x + 4 forms a complete square. The quadratic expression
is a complete square and is called a perfect square trinomial.

A perfect square trinomial such as x2 + 4x + 4 can also be written in factored
form as (x + 2)2. This form is called the square of a binomial.
Include all of the above definitions on your resource sheet.
Example 2
a) Write a quadratic expression modelled by these tiles.
b) Rearrange all the tiles and find the minimum number of additional unit
tiles needed to form a square.
c) Write the perfect square trinomial modelled by the completed square.
Solution
a) There are 1 x2-tile, 6 x-tiles, and 0 unit tiles. The expression is x2 + 6x.
1
b) Take of the x-tiles and move them to the bottom side of x2.
2
Now you will need 9 unit tiles to fill in the missing corner to complete the
square.
c) By adding the tiles, the new square models the perfect square trinomial
x2 + 6x + 9.
From the above two examples a pattern emerges. In the perfect square
2
 4 2
trinomial x + 4x + 4, the square of half the coefficient of x or   is the
2
constant term 4.
In the perfect square trinomial x2 + 6x + 9, the square of half the coefficient
 6 2
of x or   is the constant term 9.
2

Thus, if x2 + bx + c is a perfect square trinomial, then the constant term, c,
 b 2
must be   .
2
For more practice, see question 3 in Learning Activity 3.5.

You can use the technique of completing the square to transform a general
quadratic function f(x) = ax2 + bx + c into the vertex form f(x) = a(x - p)2 + q.
Example 3
Complete the square to find the vertex and the equation of the axis of
symmetry for the quadratic function y = x2 + 6x.
Solution
The number required to complete the square is the square of one-half the
coefficient of the x-term.
 6 2 2
2
y = x + 6x   =3 =9
2
y + 9 = x 2 + 6x + 9 Add 9 to each side
2
y + 9 = ( x + 3) Factor the perfect square trinomial
2
y = ( x + 3) − 9 Subtract 9 from each side
The vertex is (-3, -9). The vertex can also be denoted as V(-3, -9)
The equation of the axis of symmetry is x = -3.
Note: To know that you are completing the square correctly, you should be
able to multiply out all the terms at any point and get back to the equation
you started with. If you do not get back to the equation you started with, you
know you made a mistake.
Checking to ensure y = (x + 3)2 - 9 is equivalent to y = x2 + 6x.
y = (x + 3)2 - 9
y = (x + 3)(x + 3) - 9 Expand the square
y= x2 + 3x + 3x + 9 - 9 Distribute
y = x2 + 6x Combine like terms
Thus, the two forms are equivalent. Also, you could graph the quadratic
function in vertex form and general form to ensure you completed the square
correctly. Consider the following example.

Example 4
Express y = x2 - 4x + 3 in the vertex form and find the maximum or
minimum value. Verify that the quadratic function in vertex form is the same
as the quadratic in general form by graphing both forms with or without a
graphing calculator.
Solution
y = x2 - 4x + 3
y - 3 = x2 - 4x Isolate the x2- and x-terms
 4 2
y-3+4= x2 - 4x + 4 Complete the square:   = 4 , and add 4 to each
2
side

y + 1 = (x - 2)2 Factor the trinomial and simplify
y = (x - 2)2 - 1 Solve for y
V(2, -1) Write the vertex
Since a = 1 and is positive, the parabola opens upward and the function has a
minimum value of -1.
Verifying that your answer is correct by graphing both forms is shown below.
Graphing Using Graph Paper and a Table of Values

The quadratic function in general form is y = x2 - 4x + 3.
The quadratic function in vertex form is y = (x - 2)2 - 1.
It is possible to graph the function in vertex form by using transformations.
This is the graph of y = x2 shifted two units to the right and one unit down.
y
3 
 
4 x
1 
(2, 1)

You can make a table of values from the graph.
x y
0 3
1 0
2 -1
3 0
4 3
Now make a similar table of values using the general form and the same
x-values obtained from the graph.
General form: y = x2 - 4x + 3
Table of Values using the x-values 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4.
x y = x2 - 4x + 3
0 y = 02 - 4(0) + 3 = 3
1 y = 12 - 4(1) + 3 = 0
2 y = 22 - 4(2) + 3 = -1
3 y = 32 - 4(3) + 3 = 0
4 y = 42 - 4(4) + 3 = 3
Since the tables for each form are the same, the verification is complete.
Therefore, the quadratic function in vertex form represents the same function
as the corresponding quadratic function in general form.

Example 5
Find the coordinates of the vertex and the equation of the axis of symmetry of
f(x) = 3x2 + 12x + 16.
Solution
Express the equation in the form y = a(x - p)2 + q by completing the square.
f ( x ) = 3x 2 + 12 x + 16
f ( x ) − 16 = 3x 2 + 12 x Remove the constant term from the
right side of the equation.
f ( x ) − 16 3x 2 12 x Change the coefficient of x2 to 1 by
= +
3 3 3 dividing each term by 3.
f ( x ) − 16
= x 2 + 4x Simplify.
3
f ( x ) − 16 Complete the square and add 4 to each
+ 4 = x 2 + 4x + 4
3 side of the equation.
f ( x ) − 16 2
+ 4 = (x + 2) Factor.
3
f ( x ) − 16 2 Subtract 4 from both sides of the
= (x + 2) − 4
3 equation.
2
f ( x ) − 16 = 3 ( x + 2 ) − 12 Multiply each term by 3.
2
f (x) = 3 (x + 2) + 4 Add 16 to both sides of the equation.
V(-2, 4) Write the vertex.
The vertex is at (-2, 4) and the equation of the axis of symmetry is x = -2.
Now that you have completed a few examples of how to complete the square,
it may be helpful for you to write a description of the process on your
resource sheet. Feel free to include a completed example on your resource
sheet if you feel the example will help you remember how to complete the
square.
Although this solution looks complicated, it allows us to isolate the perfect
square trinomial on the right side. Later on in this lesson, a few alternate
solutions to this question are provided. Compare this solution to the solutions
for Examples 11 and 12. You can use any of these methods when there is a
coefficient in front of the x2 term. Choose the one that you find easiest while
still consistently letting you find the right answer.

Example 6
Express f(x) = -2x2 + 16x + 5 in vertex form and find the domain and range
of the function.
Solution
f ( x ) = −2 x 2 + 16 x + 5
f ( x ) − 5 = −2 x 2 + 16 x Eliminate the constant term by
subtracting 5 from both sides.
f ( x ) − 5 −2 x 2 16 x Convert the coefficient of x2 to 1 by
= +
−2 −2 −2 dividing all terms by (-2).
f (x) − 5
= x 2 − 8x Simplify.
−2
f (x) − 5 Complete the square and add 16 to
+ 16 = x 2 − 8x + 16
−2 both sides.
f (x) − 5 2
+ 16 = ( x − 4 ) Factor.
−2
f (x) − 5 2 Subtract 16 from both sides of the
= ( x − 4 ) − 16 equation.
−2
2
f ( x ) − 5 = −2 ( x − 4 ) + 32 Multiply each term by (-2).
2
f ( x ) = −2 ( x − 4 ) + 37 Add 5 to both sides of the equation.
V(4, 37) Write the vertex.
Domain: {x|x Î Â}
Range: {y|y £ 37, y Î Â}

Example 7
1
Express y = − x 2 − x + 4 in vertex form. Determine whether the function
2
has a maximum or minimum value, and determine its corresponding x-value.
Solution
1
y = − x2 − x + 4
2
1
y − 4 = − x2 − x Subtract 4.
2
1 2
y − 4 −2 x x  1
= − Divide by − . Be careful here.
1 1 1  2
− − −
2 2 2
y−4
= x2 + 2x Simplify.
1
−
2
y−4 Complete the square and add 1 to both
+ 1 = x2 + 2x + 1
1 sides.
−
2
y−4 2
+ 1 = ( x + 1) Factor.
1
−
2
y−4 2 Subtract 1 from both sides of the
= ( x + 1) − 1
1 equation.
−
2
1 2 1  1
y − 4 = − ( x + 1) + Multiply by − .
2 2  2
1 2 1
y = − ( x + 1) + 4 Add 4.
2 2
 1
V−1, 4  Write the vertex.
 2
Since the parabola opens downward, the function has a maximum value at
1
4 . The corresponding x-value is -1.
2

Example 8
Find the values of a, p, and q that will make the statement true.
a) x2 - 6x = (x - p)2 + q
b) 3x2 - 12x + 5 = a(x - p)2 + q
Solution
a) x2 - 6x = (x - p)2 + q
If you complete the square for the left side of the equation, you can
determine the value for a, p, and q.
Let y = x2 - 6x
y + 9 = x2 - 6x + 9 Complete the square and add 9.
y + 9 = (x - 3)2 Factor.
y = (x - 3)2 - 9 Subtract 9.
Now compare your answer with the right side of the original equation.
The value for a is 1, for p is 3, and for q is -9.
b) 3x2 - 12x + 5 = a(x - p)2 + q
To find the values for a, p, and q, the expression on the left side of the
equation needs to be converted into vertex form by completing the square.
Let y = 3x 2 + 18x + 5
y − 5 = 3x 2 + 18x Remove the constant term.
y−5
= x 2 + 6x Divide by 3.
3
y−5
+ 9 = x 2 + 6x + 9 Complete the square and add 9.
3
y−5 2
+ 9 = ( x + 3) Factor.
3
y−5 2
= ( x + 3) − 9 Subtract 9.
3
2
y − 5 = 3 ( x + 3) − 27 Multiply by 3.
2
y = 3 ( x + 3) − 22 Add 5.
Thus, a = 3, p = -3, and q = -22.

Common Mistakes when Completing the Square
There are many common mistakes other students make when completing the
square. If you are aware of these mistakes, you are less likely to make them
yourself. Consider the following examples.
Example 9
Nehemiah is trying to complete the square of the following quadratic
function. His work is shown below.
2 x 2 − 5x + 1 = y
2 x 2 − 5x = y − 1
5 y−1
x2 − x=
2 2
5 25 y − 1 25
x2 − x+ = +
2 4 2 4
2
 5 y − 1 25
x −  = +
 2 2 4
2
 5 25
2 x −  − +1= y
 2 2
2
 5 27
2 x −  − = y
 2 2
Identify, explain, and correct Nehemiah’s mistakes in completing the square.

Solution
Nehemiah completed the square correctly until he got to the fourth line. He
forgot to take one-half of the coefficient of x before squaring. On the last line,
he did not add correctly. He also skipped some steps, which makes checking
the work more difficult.

Therefore, Nehemiah should have completed the square as follows:
2 x 2 − 5x + 1 = y
2 x 2 − 5x = y − 1
5 y−1
x2 − x=
2 2
2 5 25 y − 1 25 −5 2 −5 1 2 −5 2 25

x − x+ = +  ÷ 2  = ×  =  =
2 16 2 16  2   2 2  4  16
2
 5 y − 1 25
 x −  = +
 4 2 16
2
 5 25 y−1
x −  − =
 4 16 2
2
 5 25
2 x −  − ( 2 ) = y − 1
 4 16
2
 5 25
2 x −  − +1= y
 4 8
2
 5 17 25 25 8 17
2 x −  − =y − +1 =− + =−
 4 8 8 8 8 8
Don’t be afraid of the fraction calculations. You could use the a b c button or
the Math:Frac program on your calculator to check your answers.

Example 10
Identify, explain, and correct the errors in the following example of
completing the square.
y = −2 x 2 = 3x − 7
y + 7 = −2 x 2 − 3x
y +7 3
= x2 − x
−2 2
y +7 3 9
= x2 − x +
−2 2 16
2
y +7 9  3
+ = x − 
−2 16  4
2
y +7  3 9
= x −  −
−2  4 16
2
 3 9
y + 7 = −2 x −  − (−2 )
 4 16
2
 3 9
y = −2 x −  + − 7
 4 8
2
 3 47
y = −2 x −  −
 4 8
Solution
The error in this completion of the square occurs in the third line. When
3
dividing (-2) out each term, the -3 should turn into a positive instead of
2
3
staying as negative .
2

Therefore, the square should be completed as follows:
y = −2 x 2 − 3x − 7
y + 7 = −2 x 2 − 3x
y +7 3
= x2 + x
−2 2
y +7 9 3 9
+ = x2 + x +
−2 16 2 16
2
y +7 9  3
+ = x + 
−2 16  2
2
y +7  3 9
= x +  −
−2  2 16
2
 3 9
y + 7 = −2 x +  − (−2 )
 2 16
2
 3 9
y = −2 x +  + − 7
 2 8
2
 3 47
y = −2 x +  −
 2 8
Note: A good way to ensure that you have completed the square correctly is
to multiply out the vertex form of the quadratic function that you found to see
if it simplifies to the general form of the quadratic function you were given in
the question.
Another way to check your work is to use a different process for completing
the square. Two alternate methods are shown below. You may find them
easier, but they require great concentration and understanding. Compare
Examples 11 and 12 with Example 5.
Example 11
Find the coordinates of the vertex and the equation of the axis of symmetry of
f(x) = 3x2 + 12x + 16.

Solution
Express the equation in the form y = a(x - p)2 + q by completing the square.
f ( x ) = 3 ( x 2 + 4x ) + 16 Factor the coefficient of x2 out of the x2-

and x-terms. Leave a space and write
the constant term outside the bracket.
Complete the square. Add and

f ( x ) = 3 ( x 2 + 4 x + 4 − 4 ) + 16 subtract 4 inside the bracket.
Remove (-4) from the bracket

f ( x ) = 3 ( x 2 + 4 x + 4 ) + 16 + 3 (−4 )
multiplied by 3.
2
f ( x ) = 3 ( x + 2 ) + 16 − 12 Factor and simplify.
2
f (x) = 3 (x + 2) + 4 Simplify.
The vertex is at (-2, 4) and the equation of the axis of symmetry is x = -2.
Example 12
Complete the square to find the vertex for f(x) = 3x2 + 12x + 16.
Solution
f(x) = 3x2 + 12x + 16
f(x) = 3(x2 + 4x + ) + 16 Factor the coefficient of x2 out of the x2 and
x-terms. Leave one space and write the
constant term outside of the brackets.
f(x) = 3(x2 + 4x + 4) + 16 - 4(3) Complete by adding 4 inside the brackets
and subtracting away (4)(3) outside the
brackets. You notice that 3 is both the first
number and the last number on this line.
f(x) = 3(x + 4)2 + 16 - 12 Factor.
f(x) = 3(x + 4)2 + 4 Simplify.

Using Quadratic Functions to Model Situations
One of the more important roles of quadratic functions is their use in
modelling the path of a falling object. You can write a quadratic function that
represents a situation such as the height of a basketball when thrown.
After t seconds, the height of an object is represented by the following
function:
h(t) = –4.9t2 + v0t + h0
where: t = time in seconds
v0 = initial upward velocity in metres per second
h0 = initial height (a constant)
In the equation h(t) = -4.9t2 + v0t + h0, half of the acceleration due to the
force of gravity is represented by the coefficient of the squared term. In other
words, the falling object is affected by acceleration of 4.9 m/s2.
Initially, when t = 0, h(0) = -4.9(0)2 + v0(0) + h0 = h0, a positive number.
Therefore, an object has a predetermined initial height, denoted by h0.
As the time increases, the squared term will have an increasingly larger
negative value. The height will eventually reach a maximum and then
become increasingly smaller as the object falls towards the ground.
Consider the following example.
Example 13
A tennis ball at an initial height of 1.5 metres is hit upwards with an initial
velocity of 25 metres per second.
a) Write a quadratic function h(t) for the height in metres after t seconds
using the formula h(t) = -4.9t2 + v0t + h0.
b) Use your graphing calculator, if you have one, to find the maximum
height reached by the ball. Round to the nearest hundredth.
c) Complete the square algebraically to find the maximum height, rounded
to the nearest hundredth.
Solution
a) Substitute the given values into h(t) = -4.9t2 + v0t + h0 where v0 is the
initial velocity in metres per second and h0 is the initial height. This is a
physics formula, which you may or may not be familiar with. You do not
need to memorize this formula.
v0 = 25
h0 = 1.5
h(t) = -4.9t2 + 25t + 1.5

b) Input y1 = -4.9x2 + 25x + 1.5
The coordinates of the vertex are V(2.55, 33.39).

Therefore, the maximum height is 33.39 m and occurs when the time is
2.55 seconds.
c) Completing the square:
h (t ) = −4.9t 2 + 25t + 1.5
h (t ) − 1.5 −4.9t 2 25t
= +
−4.9 −4.9 −4.9
h (t ) − 1.5
= t 2 − 5.102t
−4.9
2
h (t ) − 1.5 −5.102  2 −5.102 2
+  = t − 5.102t + 
−4.9  2   2 
h (t ) − 1.5
+ 6.508 = t 2 − 5.102t + 6.508
−4.9
h (t ) − 1.5 2
+ 6.508 = (t − 2.551)
−4.9
h (t ) − 1.5 2
= (t − 2.551) − 6.508
−4.9
2
h (t ) − 1.5 = −4.9 (t − 2.551) − 6.508 (−4.9 )
2
h (t ) = −4.9 (t − 2.551) + 31.889 + 1.5
2
h (t ) = −4.9 (t − 2.551) + 33.389
The vertex is (2.551, 33.389).

Thus, the maximum height is 33.39 m.

Part A: BrainPower
1. Factor: x2 - 10x + 25
2. Your computer has a battery life of 12 hours. If you use your computer for
15 minutes in the morning to check the weather, 6 hours during school to
complete school work, 25 minutes during lunch to go on your favourite
social networking site, and 1.6 hours to watch a movie, how much battery
life do you have left on your laptop?
3. Evaluate for g = -2: 5g3 + g2 - 6g - 13
4. Continue the pattern: 2, 6, 18, 54, ,
5. You are at the store to buy your sister a birthday present. You have $50 to
spend and the item you want to purchase is $60 on sale for 25% off. Will
you have enough money to buy the item (ignoring tax)?
6. Simplify: (x2 - 4x + 1)(2x2)
7. Find the midpoint between the following two points: (2, 6) and (-7, -4)
8. What is the slope of a horizontal line?
Part B: Completing the Square
1. Write a quadratic expression modelled by this set of tiles.
continued

2. Draw a tile model to represent x2 + 3x + 2 in the shape of a rectangle.
3. What value of k makes the expression a perfect square trinomial? Write
each expression as the square of a binomial.
a) x2 + 8x + k b) x2 - 8x + k
c) x2 + 20x + k d) x2 - 2x + k
e) x2 - 5x + k f) x2 + 7x + k
4. Find the values of a, p, and q for each of the following.
2
a) x 2 − 8x = a (x − p ) + p
2
b) x 2 + 5x = a (x − p ) + p
1 2 2
c) x + 8x + 4 = a ( x − p ) + p
2
5. For each of the following equations, answer the questions below.
a) f(x) = -x2 + 6x
b) f : x ® 2x2 + 5x - 3
c) y = -4x - x2
i) Express in the form f(x) = a(x - p)2 + q.
ii) Find the coordinates of the vertex and equation of the axis of
symmetry.
iii) Find the range.
iv) Determine the maximum or minimum value.
continued

6. Given y = ax2 + bx + c, the steps for expressing the function in the vertex
form y = a(x - p)2 + q are written below. The coordinates of the vertex are
shown. Supply the reasons for each step.
y = ax 2 + bx + c
y − c = ax 2 + bx
y−c ax 2 b
= + x
a a a
y−c b
= x2 + x
a a
2
y−c  b  b  b 2
+  = x 2 + x + 
a  2a  a  2a 
2
y−c b2  b
+ 2 = x + 
a 4a  2a 
2
y−c  b b2
= x +  − 2
a  2a  4a
2
 b b2
y − c = a x +  − a ⋅ 2
 2a  4a
2
 b b2
y = a x +  − +c
 2a  4a
2
 b 4 ac − b 2
y = a x +  +
 2a  4a
 b 4 ac − b 2 
V− , 
 2a 4a 
continued

7. Dominic was asked to complete the square. His work is shown below.
x2 + 8x + 10 = y

x2 + 8x = y - 10
x2 + 8x + 64 = y - 10 + 64
(x + 4)2 = y + 54
y = (x + 4)2 - 54
Identify, explain, and correct the error in his work. Verify your answer is
correct by completing the square using a different method.
8. Explain why a(x - p)2 + q = y is a quadratic function.
Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned how to transform quadratic functions from general
form into vertex form by completing the square. As you know, quadratic
functions in vertex form are easier to graph by using transformations.
However, as you found out in the learning activity, it is possible to determine
important characteristics of quadratic functions in general form, such as the
vertex, without transforming them into vertex form first. In the next lesson,
you will learn more about how to determine characteristics of quadratic
functions in general form.

Notes

L e s son 6: Spec i a l Fe at ur e s of t he
Q ua dr at ic Func t ion
Lesson Focus

q learn how to find the coordinates of the vertex of a quadratic
function given its x-intercepts
q learn how to find the coordinates of the vertex of a quadratic
b
function in general form using the formula x = −
2a
q learn how to use interval notation to express the domain and
range of relations and functions
Lesson Introduction
In the last lesson, you learned how to complete the square in order to
transform quadratic functions in general form to vertex form. It is fairly easy
to find the vertex of a quadratic function in vertex form y = a(x - p)2 + q
by considering the values of p and q. However, it is also possible to find the
vertex of a quadratic function in general form y = ax2 + bx + c by considering
the values of a and b. You can also find the vertex of a quadratic function
in general form by first factoring and finding the x-intercepts. Overall, the
vertex can be considered to be one of the easier characteristics to find.
The Quadratic Function
The zeros of a function, f, are the values of x that make f(x) = 0. Zeros are
another way to say x-intercepts. In order to find the x-intercepts of a quadratic
function written as the product of linear functions, you use the zero product
property.
Zero Product Property

If ab = 0, then either a = 0 or b = 0 must be true.
Include this property on your resource sheet.

Example 1
Find the x-coordinate of the vertex of a function whose zeros are 4 and -2.
Find the axis of symmetry.
Solution
The zeros are 4 and -2.
 
4 x
2
The x-intercepts are at the points (4, 0) and (-2, 0). Remember that these
points are on the x-axis, and the y-coordinate of these points is always 0.
Since you know a parabola is symmetric about its axis of symmetry, the axis
must lie halfway between the two x-intercepts. This average value will be the
x-coordinate of the vertex.
To find the x-coordinate of the vertex, find the average of the x-intercepts.
4 + (−2 ) 2
p = average of the x-intercepts = = =1
2 2
p
  
4 x
2 1
(average)
The axis of symmetry is the vertical line passing through the vertex—that is,
x = 1.
Example 2
Find the vertex of the function y = x2 - 8x + 12.
Solution
Factor y = x2 - 8x + 12 to get y = (x - 6)(x - 2).
Use the Zero Product Property to find the x-intercepts:
0 = (x - 6)(x - 2)
x - 6 = 0 or x - 2 = 0
x = 6, x = 2
The x-intercepts are 6 and 2.
6 + (+2 ) 8
Find the average of the x-intercepts: = =4
2 2
Therefore the vertex is at x = 4.

Substitute x = 4 into the original equation:
y = (4)2 - 8(4) + 12
to get y = -4.
Therefore, the vertex is at (4, -4).
This method can be used to find the vertex of a quadratic function in general
form if it factors readily. You will explore this is more depth in Module 4.
A second method of finding the coordinates of the vertex uses a formula
developed in Learning Activity 3.5, Question 6, where you developed the
generalization of completing the square to get
 b 4 ac − b 2 
V− , 
 2a 4a 
The x-coordinate can be derived quickly when the function is given in general
form.
Example 3
Find the coordinates of the vertex and equation of axis of symmetry of
f(x) = x2 - 6x + 4.
Solution
This function is written in general form. Therefore, you can find the vertex by
using the following steps.
b
1. Find the x-coordinate of the vertex using x = − .
2a
a = 1 b = −6
−(−6 ) 6
x= = =3
2 ( 1) 2
2. Find the y-coordinate of the vertex by substituting x = 3 into the original
function.
y = x2 - 6x + 4
y = (3)2 - 6(3) + 4
y = 9 - 18 + 4
y = -5
The vertex is at (3, -5).
−b
Note: If you are having trouble remembering x = , you could complete
2a
the square to find the vertex.

Interval Notation
how to express domain and range in set notation and interval notation.
Interval notation uses square brackets [ ] to indicate that all the numbers
between two specified numbers and the numbers themselves are included,
whereas round parentheses ( ) are used to exclude the end numbers.

The symbol ¥ is used to indicate that the interval of numbers has no upper
limit; -¥ means the interval
has no lower limit.

The chart below provides you with the link between

the set notation and
interval notation.

Set Corresponding
Interval
Notation
Line Graph Notation

[a, b]
{x|a £ x £ b} a and b are included so
square brackets are used

[a, b)

the open circle indicates b is
{x|a £ x < b} not included and so a round

parenthesis is used with b
(a, b]

the open circle at a indicates

{x|a < x £ b}
a is not included and so a

round parenthesis is used

with a

(a, b)
the open circles at a and b
{x|a < x < b}
mean that a and b are not

included—hence, the round

parentheses

[b, ¥)
the line has a closed circle at
{x|x ³ b} b and goes infinitely to the

right

(b, ¥)
means b is excluded but that
{x|x > b}
the line goes infinitely to the
right
(-¥, a]
a is included and the line
{x|x £ a} continues infinitely to the
left of a

110 Grade 11 Pr e- C alculus M a t h e m a ti c s

Set Corresponding Interval
Notation Line Graph Notation
(-¥, a)
a is excluded and the line
{x|x < a} continues infinitely to the left
of a

[a, a]
{a} There is only one point in the

set
Example 3
Find the domain and range of the following functions or relations using
interval notation. Note that domain is stated as (left bound, right bound) and
range is stated as (lower bound, upper bound).
a) y Solution
D: (-¥, ¥)
3 Â: (-¥, ¥)
No restrictions are placed on the
domain and range, as this line can
 take on all x- and y-values.
2 x
b) y Solution
D: (-¥, ¥)
Â: {2}
2 The x-values are not restricted for
this line; this set notation indicates
the range is constant at 2 and is used
x when the interval contains a single
value.

c) y Solution
D: {2}
Â: (-¥, ¥)
The x-values are the same on
a vertical line; y-values are not
 restricted.
2 x
d) y Solution
D: (-¥, ¥)
4 Â: [0, ¥)
The x-values are not restricted for
this curve. The y-values include 0
  as a lower bound and have no upper
limit.
2 2 x
e) y Solution
D: (-¥, ¥)
4 Â: [0, ¥)
3 Notice that the domain and range
2 are the same as in (d), even though
1 the function is different.
2 2 x

f) y Solution
D: (-¥, ¥)
2 Â: (-¥, 0]
Notice that the domain is the
same as in (d); the y-values have a
2 2 x
  maximum of 0 and no lower limit.
4
y
g) Solution
D: (-¥, ¥)
Â: [-4, ¥)
The x-values are not limited; the
 
1 2 x y-values have a minimum of -4 and
increase to infinitely large numbers.
4 
h) y Solution
D: (-¥, ¥)
Â: (-¥, -1]
Because the parabola opens
downward, -1 is included, as well
4 2 x
 1 as an infinite number of y-values
approaching negative infinity.

i) y Solution
D: [-2, 2]
Â: [-2, 2]
2 Notice that it is possible to find the
domain and range of relations as
well as functions.
2 2 x
2
Example 4
For the function y = x2 + 6x + 5, state the following:
a) the coordinates of the vertex
b) equation of axis of symmetry
c) the y-intercept
d) domain and range using interval notation
Solutions
a) The x-coordinate of the vertex is given by
−b
x=
2a
a = 1, b = 6
−6
x= = −3
2 ( 1)
Substitute the x-value of -3 into the function to evaluate the y-coordinate

of the vertex.
y = x 2 + 6x + 5
2
y = (−3) + 6 (−3) + 5
y = 9 − 18 + 5
y = −4
∴ V (−3 , − 4 )
b) The axis of symmetry is the vertical line passing through the vertex:
\ x = -3.

c) The y-intercept is found by letting x = 0 in the function.
y = x2 + 6x + 5
y = 02 + 6(0) + 5
y = 5
\ the y-intercept is at the point (0, 5).
d) D: (-∞, ∞)
Â: [-4, ∞)
Make sure you complete the following learning activity, as similar questions
will be on the assignment directly following this learning activity. Also, be
sure to check your answers in the Module 3 Answer Key to ensure you are
completing the questions correctly.
Part A: BrainPower
1. There are 15 females and 12 males in your family. On average, each female
eats 2 pieces of pizza and each male eats 3 pieces of pizza. How many
pizzas will you have to buy in order for everyone to eat as much pizza as
they wish if each pizza is cut into 12 pieces?
2. Multiply: (3x + 4)(2x - 7)
3. Evaluate for n = 4: 4n2 + n - 9
4. Calculate 30% of 42 000.
5. What is the perimeter of a square with an area of 169 units?
6. Factor completely: 4x4 - 20x3 + 24x2
7. Find the slope of the line defined by the equation 7x + 3y - 4 = 0.
8. Multiply. (3x2 + 7)(8x - 4)
continued

Part B: Special Features of Quadratic Equations
1. Given the following x-intercepts and a-value,
a) x = -1, x = 3, a = 1
b) x = -4, x = -2, a = -1
find the following and then sketch the graph:
i) vertex
ii) equation of axis of symmetry
iii) y-intercept
iv) direction of opening
v) maximum value
vi) minimum value
vii) domain and range (state in both notations)
2. For each of the following quadratic functions
a) y = x2 + 6x - 7
b) y = x2 - 4x - 60
c) y = 2x2 + 8x - 10
d) y = 3x2 + 24x + 21
find the following:
b
i) The coordinates of the vertex using p = − and substituting to
2a
find q
ii) The equation of the axis of symmetry
iii) The y-intercept
iv) The direction of opening
v) The maximum or minimum value
vi) The domain and range in interval notation

Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned how to find the vertex of a quadratic function
in general form using two methods. You also reviewed your knowledge
from Grade 10 Introduction to Applied and Pre-Calculus Mathematics, including
interval notation. You then wrote the domain and range of various functions,
including quadratic functions, and relations in interval notation. In the next
lesson, you will be learning about applications of quadratic functions.

Notes

Assignment 3.3
Completing the Square and Finding the Vertex
Total: 38 marks
1. What value of k makes the expression a perfect square trinomial? Write each
expression as the square of a binomial. (1 mark each, for a total of 2 marks)
a) x2 + 9x + k
b) x2 - 7x + k
2. Find the values of a, p, and q for each of the following. (3 marks each, for a total of
6 marks)
a) x2 - 3x = a(x - p)2 + q
b) x2 + 10x = a(x - p)2 + q
(continued)

(continued)
3. For the following function, answer the questions below. (1.5 marks each, for a total of
3 marks)
f(x) = -x2 + 7x
a) Express in the form f(x) = a(x - p)2 + q.
b) Find the coordinates of the vertex and equation of the axis of symmetry.
4. Lawon is trying to complete the square. His work is shown below.

-x2 + 8x = y
-(x2 - 8x) = y
-(x2 - 8x + 16) = y + 16
-(x - 4)2 - 16 = y

Identify, explain, and correct Lawon’s error. (2 marks)
continued

(continued)
5. Create a poster with two quadratic functions. Your poster must include the following
items. A marking rubric for the poster is provided on the following page.
n Two quadratic functions expressed in general form (2 marks)
n These quadratic functions need to have different directions of opening.
Therefore, one quadratic function needs to open up and one quadratic
function needs to open down.
n Two instances of completing the square, one for each function, to express the
above functions in vertex form (4 marks)
n An explanation of how to tell if a quadratic function opens up or down by
looking at the equation (2 marks)
n The graphs of both quadratic functions on graph paper
n On the graphs, label the vertex and mark the position of the zeros (if any).
(4 marks)
n State the domain and range in set notation of each function. (4 marks)
continued

(continued)
Module 3, Assignment 3.3: Math Poster Marking Rubric
Category 0 1 2 Score
Quadratic No quadratic Only one quadratic Two quadratic functions
Functions in functions are function is included in are included in general
General Form included in general general form, or two form. One quadratic
form. quadratic functions are function opens up and
included but they have one quadratic function
the same direction of opens down.
opening.
Completing The square is not The work for completing The general form of this
the Square for completed correctly. the square is not shown, function is transformed
Function #1 or there are a few into the vertex form by
errors in the method of correctly completing the
completing the square. square.
Completing The square is not The work for completing The general form of this
the Square for completed correctly. the square is not shown, function is transformed
Function #2 or there are a few into the vertex form by
errors in the method of correctly completing the
completing the square. square.
Explanation of No explanation is An incomplete An accurate explanation
Direction of given. explanation is given for is given for the direction
Opening the direction of opening of opening of a parabola
of a parabola where one including when a is
or two of the following positive or negative.
cases are missing: a is
positive, or a is negative.
Graph of The graph is The labels for the vertex An accurate graph is
Function #1 not given or is and zeros are given, but drawn of this function
improperly drawn the graph is incorrectly with labels for the vertex
and labelled. drawn. and position of the zeros
(if any).
Graph of The graph is The labels for the vertex An accurate graph is
Function #2 not given or is and zeros are given, but drawn of this function
improperly drawn the graph is incorrectly with labels for the vertex
and labelled. drawn. and position of the zeros
(if any).
Graph #1 The domain and The domain or range is The domain and range of
Information range are incorrectly correctly stated. this function are correctly
stated. stated.
The domain and The domain and range of
Graph #2 The domain or range is
range are incorrectly this function are correctly
Information correctly stated.
stated. stated.
TOTAL
continued

(continued)
6. For the following quadratic function
y = -x2 + 3x + 4
find the following: (1 mark each, for a total of 3 marks)
b
a) The coordinates of the vertex using p = − and substituting to find q
2a
b) The maximum or minimum value
c) The domain and range in interval notation
continued

(continued)
7. For a quadratic function whose x-intercepts are -3 and -2 and whose a-value is 1,
find the following:
a) The coordinates of the vertex by finding the average of the x-intercepts. (3 marks)
b) The y-intercept. (1 mark)
c) The domain and range in both set notation and interval notation. (2 marks)

L e s s o n 7: A p p l ic at io n s o f Q u a d r at ic
Functions
Lesson Focus

q learn how to find a function to model problem situations that are
quadratic in nature
q learn how to solve quadratic word problems
Lesson Introduction
You have learned about quadratic functions in vertex and general form,
including how to graph both forms of functions. You have learned how to
find important properties of quadratic functions, including their vertices.
You have also learned how to complete the square. In this lesson, you will
combine all of your knowledge on quadratic functions to solve problems
about applications of quadratic functions.
Quadratic functions have many applications including maximizing the area,
yield, height, or profit in different situations. Throughout this lesson, you will
see examples of these types of maximization problems.
Applications of Quadratic Functions
The area of a rectangular figure can be modelled by a quadratic function and

its graph can be used to find its maximum area.
Example 1
John has 50 m of fencing to enclose a rectangular area. He needs to know
the maximum area that can be enclosed. What are the dimensions that will
produce this maximum area?

Solution
Draw a table showing the possibilities. If the perimeter is 50 m, then the
length plus the width must be 25 m.
Width (m) Length (m) Area (m2)

1 24 24
2 23 46
3 22 66
¼
¼
w 25 – w w(25 - w)
You can generalize the pattern in the table.
Let w = width of the rectangle.
Let 25 - w = length
25  w
Check: The perimeter = w + (25 - w) + w + (25 - w)

= 50 m
If you represent the area by A, its equation becomes:
A = length ´ width
A = (25 - w)(w)
A = 25w - w2
A = -w2 + 25w
A = -w2 + 25w is a quadratic function representing the area of the rectangle.
Since the coefficient of the squared term is negative, the curve opens down.
The function has a maximum value at its vertex.

By completing the square of the above function, you can find the vertex of the
function. The coordinates of the vertex will be (w, A) since those are the two
variables in the function equation.
A = −w 2 + 25 w
A = −( w 2 − 25 w )
 25 2 
2  25 2 
A + (−1)  = − w − 25 w + 
2  2 
2
625  25 
A− = − w − 
4  2
2
 25  625
A = − w −  +
 2 4
 25 625 
The vertex is  , .
2 4 
25 625 2
This means a width of m gives a maximum area of m .
2 4
Thus, the dimensions of the rectangular area must be:

25
width = = 12.5 m
2
length = 25 − w
= 25 − 12.5
= 12.5 m
As both the length and the width of the rectangular area have the same
lengths, 12.5 m, the maximum area occurs when a square is formed from the
fencing materials.
Example 2
Tom is the owner of an apple orchard. He knows that he has 20 trees on
one acre of his land, and that each tree produces an average of 300 apples
each season. Another acre has 21 trees and each tree produces an average of
290 apples. Another acre has 24 trees and each tree produces an average of
260 apples in a season. Another acre is examined and he finds 29 trees, and
each tree produces an average of 210 apples. He proceeds to make a chart
from his data:

Number of Trees Number of Apples Total Number of
per Acre (x) per Tree Apples Produced (y)
20 300 6000
21 290 6090
24 260 6240
29 210 6090
He concludes that having more trees per acre does not necessarily equate
with getting more apples per season from each acre of land. In fact, the
highest yields seem to be with 24 trees per acre. However, he also concludes
that due to crowding, competing for nutrients from the land, and whatever
other factors may come into play, there is probably a certain number of trees
per acre that will maximize the yield. He is interested in maximizing his
yield and, therefore, he decides to find out the best number of trees using
mathematics. Using the data from the above chart, and letting x be the
number of trees and y be the total number of apples produced, he generates
the points (x, y), (20, 6000), (21, 6090), (24, 6240), (29, 6090).
He plots the points as (x, y) on a graph and gets
y

6000  
Number of Apples
4000
2000
10 20 30 40 x
Number of Trees

He concludes that the complete graph may be parabolic and finds the
quadratic best fit for the data to be y = -10x2 + 500x. How did Tom find this
function? Consider the following methods.
Method 1: Charting
A quadratic function can be found by considering the following chart.
Number of Apples y = Total Yield =

Number of Trees (x)
per Tree (# of trees)(# of apples/tree)
20 300 (20)(300) = 6000
20 + 1 = 21
290 = 300 - 10 (21)(290) = 6090
(one additional tree)
20 + 4 = 24
260 = 300 - 40 (24(260) = 6240
(four additional trees)
20 + 9 = 29
210 = 300 - 90 (29)(210) = 6090
(nine additional trees)
Can you see the pattern of the numbers that are changing (the variables) and
those that remain the same (the constants)?
In the orchard with 20 trees, each tree produced 300 apples. When one more
tree was added to the orchard, each tree produced 10 fewer apples. Therefore,
there is a connection between the number of trees and how many apples
these trees produce, namely a factor of 10 per tree. When there are 24 trees
in the orchard, each tree produces 40 = 10(4) less apples than when there are
20 trees in the field. Therefore, these four additional trees contribute to each
tree producing 4(10) = 40 less apples.
You can now write statements to identify the variables:
Let n = number of additional trees
Let y = total yield
You can generalize the pattern and write:
Number of trees = 20 + n
Number of apples per tree = 300 - 10n
You now have a quadratic function that you can simplify, find its vertex, and
thus answer the farmer’s question.

y = ( 20 + n) ( 300 − 10n)
y = 6000 − 200n + 300n − 10n2
y = 6000 + 100n − 10n2
y = −10n2 + 100n + 6000
y − 6000 = −10n2 + 100n
y − 6000 −10n2 100n
= +
−10 −10 −10
y − 6000
= n2 − 10n
−10
y − 6000
+ 25 = n2 − 10n + 25
−10
y − 6000 2
+ 25 = (n − 5)
−10
2
y − 6000 = −10 
 (n − 5) − 25 
2
y = −10 (n − 5) + 6250
V(n, y) = V(5, 6250). Therefore, the maximum yield occurs when the number of
trees per acre is 20 + n = 20 + 5 = 25 trees. This is the same answer as shown
on Tom’s graph.
An alternate method of finding the vertex is to use the formula:
b
n =− for y = −10n2 + 100n + 6000
2a
−100
n=
2 (−10 )
−100
n=
−20
n=5
This is the same value that you found when you used the method of
completing the square. You can then find the y-coordinate of the vertex by
substituting this value back into the equation.

y = −10n2 + 100n + 6000
2
y = −10 ( 5) + 100 ( 5) + 6000
y = −250 + 500 + 6000
y = 6250
Therefore, the coordinates of the vertex are V(5, 6250). This is the same point
as the one found using the previous method. Thus, it is possible to use either
the completing the square method or the formula method to find the vertex.
You will be using both of these methods in the upcoming learning activity.
Method 2:
The farmer also uses his graph of the quadratic function to find the
maximum yield:
Looking at the highest point of the curve, the vertex, he finds a maximum
number of 6250 apples reached when there are 25 trees per acre.
To maximize the yield, he should plant 25 trees per acre and expect to get
6250 apples.
Notice that the graph also indicates that no apples will be produced where
there are no trees and also where there are 50 trees. That is when x = 0 and
x = 50. These two x-values are the x-intercepts or zeros of the function.
Method 3: Computer Technology

The quadratic function can also be found using Microsoft Excel. Let x
represent the number of trees and let y represent the total number of apples
produced. Input the data and use a scatterplot to get the graph and trendline
to calculate its equation.

The completed graph with a function defining the curve is shown below.
(y)
(x)
The function defining this curve is y = -10x2 + 500x - 9E-11, where y

represents the yield and x represents the number of trees. This is the same as
y = -10x2 + 500x – 0.000 000 000 09. This is essentially the same as
y = -10x2 + 500x. Therefore, you have arrived at the same function using
Excel as Tom did by graphing his data. Also, by extending the trendline, you
can see that the x-intercepts of this graph are 0 and 50, which are the same
values that you found before. Thus, it is possible to solve application problems
involving quadratic functions by using a computer program such as Microsoft
Excel.
Note that this is a different function than y = -10n2 + 100n + 6000 because
the variables t and n represent different amounts. The values for y are the
same at the vertex.

Example 3
A car dealership can sell 20 cars per week at a profit of $2400 for each car. The
dealership has determined that for every $300 increase in profit per car, one
less car per week is sold. What is the maximum the dealership can make and
how many cars would then be sold per week?
Solution
Make a chart to establish a pattern.
Total Profit =
Number of Cars
Profit per Car (Profit per Car)
Sold per Week
(Number of Cars Sold)
2400
20 (2400)(20)
(original amount)
2400 + 300(1) 20 - 1
[2400 + 300(1)](20 - 1)
(first increase) (one less car sold)
2400 + 300(2) 20 - 2
[2400 + 300(2)](20 - 2)
(second increase) (two less cars sold)
2400 + 300(n) 20 - n
(n is the number of (or n is the number of [2400 + 300(n)](20 - n)
increases in profit/car) decreases in cars sold)
Now you can make the “let” statements to identify the variables, write the
quadratic function, find the vertex, check to ensure a maximum occurs, and
answer the question.
Let n = number of increases in the profit per car
(or the number of decreases in cars sold)
Let P = total weekly profit
The quadratic function is P = (2400 + 300n)(20 - n).
Now you can simplify, and by completing the square or using the formula,
b
- , you can find the vertex. The method of completing the square is shown
2a
below.

P = (2400 + 300n)(20 - n)
P = 48 000 - 2400n + 6000n - 300n2
P = -300n2 + 3600n + 48 000
P = -300(n2 - 12n) + 48 000
P = -300(n2 - 12n + 36) + 48 000 - 36(-300)
P = -300(n - 6)2 + 48 000 + 10 800
P = -300(n - 6)2 + 58 800
Vertex: V(n, P) = V(6, 58 800)
At the vertex, n = 6 and P = 58 800. Since a = -300, the curve opens
downward and there is a maximum. The number of increases in profit is 6.
The number of decreases in cars is 6. The maximum profit is $58,800.
Now you can write the answer. The maximum the dealership can make is
$58,800. The number of cars sold per week = 20 - 6 = 14 cars.
Example 4
If 400 children attend an afternoon movie, the price of admission is $8 per
ticket. For each $1 added to the price of the admission, the attendance drops
by 40 children. How many increases of $1 should the theatre add to the price
in order to maximize income?
Solution
Approach 1: Using the Graphing Calculator
Choose some prices, and calculate the numbers of people expected to attend
and the income.
Price of Ticket (x) Attendees Income for Theatre (y)

$8 400 $3200.00
$9 360 $3240.00
$10 320 $3200.00
Now enter the data for x and y into Stat Editor of your graphing calculator
and calculate a quadratic regression equation.
The required quadratic regression equation that approximates the data is
y = -40x2 + 720x.
Enter and graph y = -40x2 + 720x.
When the function is graphed and a maximum value is found, the answer is
y = 3240 when x = 9, which indicates that the price of the ticket should be $9 in
order to bring about a maximum income of $3240.00 for the theatre.

Approach 2: Algebraic
Let y = income for the theatre
Let n = number of $1 increases
Notice that the n variable represents the number of increases in the ticket
price, not the ticket price itself.
Income = (Price per ticket) ´ (children in attendance)
y = (8 + 1n)(400 - 40n)
y = 3200 - 320n + 400n - 40n2
y = -40n2 + 80n + 3200
y = -40(n2 - 2n ) + 3200
y= -40(n2 - 2n + 1) + 3200 - 1(-40)
y = -40(n - 1)2 + 3240
V(1, 3240) = V(n, y)
Since a = -40, the parabola opens down and has a maximum value at its
vertex.
The vertex represents one increase of $1 and shows that the maximum income
is $3240.00. One $1 increase brings the ticket price to $9, which is the same as
is given by the graphing calculator approach.
Approach 3: Microsoft Excel

Use the same steps as you used in Example 2 to find an approximation of the
quadratic function to represent this information.
Let x = the price per ticket
Let y = the income for the theatre
A completed graph with a function defining the curve is shown below. Its
vertex appears to be around 9 with the maximum income between 3000 and
3500.

The function defining this curve is y = -40x2 + 720x. Thus, you have
arrived at the same function using Microsoft Excel and by using a graphing
calculator. The algebraic approach gave an exact equation for the function.
−b 720
The vertex of this function, y = -40x2 + 720x, occurs at =− = 9.
2a 2 (−40 )
Substituting 9 into the function gives:
y = -40(9)2 + 720(9)
y = 3240
Therefore, the vertex is at (9, 3240). The maximum income of this theatre is
$3240 and occurs when the ticket price is $9.
Note: You will not be tested on how to use Microsoft Excel to create a graph
or to find a curve of best fit using the graphing calculator for a graph in
this course. However, it is useful to know how to do it, as using Microsoft
Excel can be an easy way to check whether you are completing the questions
correctly.

Part A: BrainPower
1. You want to save up to buy a car worth $6000 in two years. How much
will you have to save per month to afford this car?
2. On your first three assignments in Canadian history, you received marks
of 82%, 63%, and 77%. What is your average assignment mark in Canadian
history?
3. Factor: 2x(x - 4) + 3(x - 4)
4. What is the domain of the parabola y = 3x2 - 5x - 12?
 30   75 
5. Evaluate when y = 5:  − 
5 y
6. Estimate: 122
7. How many millimetres are in 6.3 metres?
8. What is the greatest common factor of 18x3y4z + 6x2y6z3?
Part B: Applications of Quadratic Functions
Each question can be solved by using either completing the square or by
using the formula for the vertex. Practice both methods! The solution method
given in the answer key is indicated in each question.
continued

1. The height, h, in metres, after the launching of a rocket at any time, t, in
seconds, is defined by the following equation.
81
h = −3t 2 + 9t +
4
Find the maximum height reached by the rocket and the time it takes to
reach this height. Use the completing-the-square method.
2. At the local beach, the lifeguard has 620 m of marker buoys to rope off
a safe swimming area. Calculate the dimensions of the rectangular
swimming area to create the maximum swimming area if one side of the
area is to be the beach. Use the formula method.
3. If 65 apple trees are planted in an orchard, the average yield per tree will
be 1500 apples per year. For each additional tree planted in the orchard,
the annual yield per tree drops by 20 apples. How many trees should be
planted in order to produce a maximum yield? Use the formula method.
4. The difference between two numbers is 14. Find the two numbers so that
their product is a minimum. Use the completing-the-square method.
5. Honest John’s used car lot sells an average of 20 cars per week at an
average price of $6,400 each. Honest John would like to increase the
average price by $300; however, he knows that his sales would fall by one
car if he does. If the dealer’s cost per car is $4000, for what price should he
sell the cars to maximize profits? Use the formula method.
6. A rectangular field is to be enclosed by a fence and divided into
three smaller plots by two fences parallel to one of the sides. Find the
dimensions of the largest such field if 800 m of fencing is available. Use
the formula method.
7. Tom Katz’s company sold tickets to a Bon Jovi concert. If 1000 or less
people purchased tickets, the price was $60.00 per ticket. For every
100 tickets sold over 1000, the ticket was discounted by $3.00. What ticket
price will give a maximum income? Use the completing-the-square
method.

Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you applied your knowledge from the previous lessons to
solve applications problems involving quadratic functions. For example,
you learned how to find the maximum area, profit, and yield by finding the
vertex of a quadratic function. This is the last lesson in the module. However,
make sure you complete the last assignment in this module, Assignment 3.4,
before you continue on to Module 4.

Notes

Assignment 3.4
Applications of Quadratic Functions
Total: 19 marks
1. A projectile is shot straight up from a height of 6 metres with an initial velocity of
80 metres per second. Its height in metres above the ground after t seconds is given
by the equation h = 6 + 80t - 5t2. After how many seconds does the projectile reach
its maximum height, and what is this height? Use the formula method. (4 marks)
2. A rectangular parking lot is to be placed with one side along a straight street where
no fence is required. If 1000 metres of wire are available for fencing the other three
sides of the lot, what is the maximum area the lot may have, and what are the
dimensions of the lot of a maximum area? Use the formula method. (5 marks)
continued

Assignment 3.4: Applications of Quadratic Functions (continued)
3. Find two positive real numbers whose sum is 13 and whose product is a maximum.
Use the completing-the-square method. (5 marks)
continued

Assignment 3.4: Applications of Quadratic Functions (continued)
4. The price of a video game is $50, and 40 games are sold each day. For each $1.00 the
price is raised, the store sells one fewer video game. If each video game costs $18 to
make, how much should the price be set at to maximize profits? Use the completing-
the-square method. (5 marks)

Notes

Module 3 Summary
In this module, you extended your knowledge of linear functions to learn

about quadratic functions. You learned how linear functions produce a
straight line when graphed, while quadratic functions produce a parabola,
or a U-shape when graphed. You then learned how to find the important
characteristics of quadratic functions in general form and vertex form.
Completing the square, or transforming quadratic functions in general
form to quadratic functions in vertex form, was another important skill you
learned. When quadratic functions are in vertex form, they can be graphed
using transformations. After learning all of this, you were able to solve
application problems involving quadratic functions.
In the next module, you will build on your knowledge of rational expressions
and quadratic functions to learn how to solve rational equations and
quadratic equations.
q Assignment 3.1: Quadratic Functions and Transformations
q Assignment 3.2: Graphing Quadratic Functions Using Transformations
q Assignment 3.3: Completing the Square and Finding the Vertex
q Assignment 3.4: Applications of Quadratic Functions

Notes

Module 3
Quadratic Functions

M odu l e 3:
Part A: BrainPower
7 x
3. Solve for x: +4=
8 8
4
9 2
4 5
Answers:
1. 53 (3(25) - 30 + 8 = 75 - 30 + 8 = 45 + 8 = 53)
2. 280 mL (2000 mL - (250 mL + 550 mL + 620 mL + 300 mL) = 2000 mL -
1720 mL = 280 mL)
 7  x 
3. 39  8 + 4 = (8) ; 7 + 32 = x ; 39 = x 
 8  8 
4. 6 (The ratio 3 girls : 1 boy implies you need 4 students in each group;
24 ¸ 4 = 6, so there are 6 boys in the class.)
5. 34
3
6. 16 4

9 10 9 2 9 2 5 9 10 
7. 
 = = 
20 4 5 4 ( 5) 20 
1
8. (y = -2x + 1)
2
a) y = 3x + 2
b) 2x - y + 1 = 0
x -3 -2 0 2 3
y 10 5 1 5 10
Answers:
3
a) y = 3x + 2 is the equation of a linear function with slope of and
1
y-intercept of 2.
y
6
5 
3
2
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
 1
2
3
4
5
6

b) Change into the slope-intercept form:
y = mx + b; -y = -2x - 1; y = 2x + 1
2
slope =
1
y-intercept = 1
y
6
5
4
3 
2
1
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
1
2
3
4
5
6
c) y
 10 
7
6
 5 
3
2
1
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
1
2

Answer:
a) y = 3x + 2
To find the x-intercept, let y = 0.
0 = 3x + 2
−2 −2
−2 = 3x
−2 3x
=
3 3
−2
x=
3
b) 2x - y + 1 = 0
Let y = 0
2x − 0 + 1 = 0
2x + 1 = 0
−1 −1
2 x = −1
2 x −1
=
2 2
−1
x=
2
c) This function does not intersect the x-axis. There are no x-intercepts.

a) f : x → 3x 2
b) g : x → 2 x 3 − 5
c) y = 2 x 2 − x + 1
1
d) f ( x ) = 3x −
x

e) y f) y
5 5
5 5 x 5 5 x
5 5
Answers:
a) quadratic because it is in the form f(x) = ax2 + bx + c
b) not quadratic since it has the variable x raised to the third power
c) quadratic because it is of the form f(x) = ax2 + bx + c
d) not quadratic
e) linear, not quadratic
f) quadratic since its graph is a parabola, which opens up

y
6
 
4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 x
1
2
3 
4
5
6

Answers:
a) Domain {x|x Î Â}
b) Range: {y|y ³ -3, y Î Â}
c) Vertex: (4, –3). Remember this is the turning point.
d) Axis of symmetry equation: x = 4. This is the equation of the vertical
line that passes through the vertex.
e) Zeros: 2, 6. Remember this is not an ordered pair. It represents the
x-coordinates of the points where the curve intersects the x-axis.
f) x-intercepts: 2, 6
g) Maximum value does not exist.
h) Minimum value is at -3, the y-coordinate of the vertex.
minimum value.
a) y Answer:
6
5
D: {x|x Î Â}
4 R: {y|y £ 3, y Î Â}
3 Vertex coordinates: (0, 3)
2 Axis of symmetry
1 equation: x = 0
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x y-intercept: 3 is the
1
y-coordinate of the point
2 where the curve crosses
3 the y-axis
4
Maximum value at 3
5
Minimum value does not
6
exist

b) y
Answer:
7
6
D: {x|x Î Â}
5 R: {y|y ³ 2, y Î Â}
4 Vertex: (1, 2)
3
Axis of symmetry
2 equation: x = 1
1
y-intercept: 3
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x Maximum value does not
1
exist
2
3
Minimum value is 2
4
5
c) y
Answer:
6
5
D: {x|x Î Â}
4 R: {y|y ³ -5, y Î Â}
3 Vertex: (4, -5)
2
Axis of symmetry
1 equation: x = 4
4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 x y-intercept: 5
1
2
Maximum value: none
3 Minimum value: -5
4
5
6

minimum value.
a) f ( x ) = x 2 − 4 x − 5
b) f : x → −x 2 − 2 x + 8
Answer:
a) x -2 -1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6
y 7 0 -5 -8 -9 -8 -5 0 7
Domain: {x|x Î Â}
Range: {y|y ³ -9, y Î Â}
Vertex: (2, -9)
Axis of symmetry equation: x = 2
Zeros: -1 and 5
x-intercepts: -1 and 5
y-intercept: -5
Maximum value does not exist
Minimum value is at -9

b) x -5 -4 -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3
y -7 0 5 8 9 8 5 0 -7
y
 9
 8
7
6
 5 
4
3
2
1
 
9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 x
1
2
3
4
5
6
 7 
8
9
Domain: {x|x Î Â}
Vertex: (-1, 9)
Axis of symmetry equation: x = -1
Zeros: -4 and 2
y-intercept: 8
Maximum value at 9
Minimum value does not exist

a) y = x2 - 2
b) y = x2 + 4x - 1
c) y = -x2 – 4x - 3
d) y = x2 + 2
e) y = -x2 + 4x + 1
f) y = -x2 + 2
i) y ii) y
2 4
1 2
4 2 2 4 x 4 2 2 4 x
1 2
2 4
iii) y iv) y
4 4
2 2
4 2 2 4 x 4 2 2 4 x
2 2
4 4

v) y vi) y
4 2
2 1
4 2 2 4 x 4 2 2 4 x
2 1
4 2
Answers:
a) and ii)
b) and vi)
c) and v)
d) and iii)
e) and i)
f) and iv)

symmetry is x = 2.
Answer:
Since the axis of symmetry for the graph of the function is the line
x = 2, and since the point (4, 3) is 2 units to the right of it, then the
reflection point must be 2 units to the left of it. Thus, (0, 3) is the
required point.

y
6
5
4
(0, 3)
3  (4, 3)
2 2
2
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
1
2
3
4
5 
x=2
6
Answer:
(-1, 6) is 3 units left of the axis of symmetry, so the reflection point
must be 3 units to the right of the axis. Thus, (5, 6) is the required
point.
y
 6 
original
5
point reflection
(1, 6) 4 point
(5, 6)
3 
V(2, 3)
2
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
1
2
3 axis of
symmetry
4
5
6

Answer:
The axis of symmetry lies halfway between the reflection image
points. Therefore, the point halfway between them is at (2, 2) and the
equation of the axis of symmetry is x = 2.
y
x=2
6
5
4
3 (0, 2)  (2, 2)  (4, 2)

2
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
1
2
3
4
5
6

Part A: BrainPower
3 minutes?
2. Factor: x2 - 9
(25, -1).
8. Simplify. (9x2 - 7x + 5) - (2x2 - 6x - 3)
Answers:
1. 540 mL (There are 60 ´ 3 = 180 seconds in 3 minutes. 3 mL ´ 180 seconds
= 540 mL.)
2. (x - 3)(x + 3)
3. 3(-1)3 - (-1)(2) = -3 + 2 = -1
4. 70
5. 9 (3 choices of bun ´ 3 choices of burgers = 9 choices)
 2 2 2 2 
6. 145  d = ( 25 − 26 ) + (−1 − (−13)) = (−1) + (12 ) = 1 + 144 = 145 
 
7. -9x > -2
(Recall: When you divide by a negative, you need to flip the inequality
sign.
−2 2
x< ;x< 
−9 9
8. 9x2 - 7x + 5 - 2x2 + 6x + 3 = 7x2 - x + 8

1 2
4
1 2
4

Answers:
a) True, because it rearranges to
y = -x2 + 1, which is quadratic.
b) False, because it has no squared term 5
and so is linear. The equation
t(x) = 1 - x is a linear function whereas
t(x) = 1 - x2 is a quadratic function.
c) True, because there is an x2 term.
d) True, since the axis of symmetry is the y-axis.
1 2
e) False, since the graph of y = x2 is narrower than y  x . The graph of
4
1 2
y x is a wider parabola than the graph of y = x2.
4

f) True, because the value of a is 5, which is greater than 1.
g) False, because when a > 0 the parabola opens upward. The graph
1 1
y  x 2 of is a parabola that opens upward or the graph of y = − x 2
4 4
is a parabola that opens downward.
h) True, because when a < 0, the parabola opens downward.
i) True, because the function has a maximum value when the function
opens downward.
j) False, because the minimum value is not defined when the parabola
opens downward and continues indefinitely. The minimum value of
the function pictured at the right cannot be stated.
k) False, because the range of the function is {y|y £ 4}.
1 2
y x y  x2 y = −3x 2
3
Vertex (0, 0) (0, 0) (0, 0)
Equation of axis of
x=0 x=0 x=0
symmetry
Domain {x|x Î Â} {x|x Î Â} {x|x Î Â}
Range {y|y ³ 0} {y|y ³ 0} {y|y £ 0}
x-intercepts or zeros 0 0 0
Direction of opening upward upward downward
Maximum y-value none none 0
cannot be
Minimum y-value 0 0
determined
y-intercept 0 0 0

a) y = 4 x 2
1 2
b) y = x
2
c) y = −7 x 2
Answers:
a) y = x2 is stretched vertically by a factor of 4; each coordinate (x, y) on
the original curve becomes (x, 4y) on the new curve.
1
b) y = x2 is compressed vertically by multiplying each y-coordinate by .
2
c) y = x2 is stretched vertically by a factor of 7 and reflected over the
x-axis.

Answers:
a) upward
b) downward
c) minimum
d) maximum

y Answers:
a) y = −2 x 2
2 a) and 3)
2
b) y = 1.6 x b) and 1)
1
2
c) y = −2 π x c) and 4)
d) and 2)
d) y = 6 x 2
x
3
4

Answer:
Substitute in x = 1, y = -4 into y = ax2.
-4 = a(1)2
-4 = a
Therefore, the equation is y = -4x2.
y
 (2, 6)

Answer:
A point on the curve is (2, 6). The vertex is (0, 0). The equation is y = ax2.
\ Substitute x = 2, y = 6
2
6 = a (2)
6 = 4a
6
=a
4
3
=a
2
3 2
y= x
2
The reflection in the x-axis of this parabola will have the same size and
3
vertex but will open downward. Its equation is y = − x 2 .
2
a) The graph of y = 3x2 + 4 is the graph of y = 3x2 shifted downward 4
units.
downward 3 units.
1 2
2
e) An equation of the axis of symmetry of the graph of y = x2 - 1 is x = -1.
h) The maximum value of {(x, y)|y = –2x2 + 3} is -2.
1 2
4

Answers:
a) False. The graph of y = 3x2 + 4 is the graph of y = 3x2 shifted upward
4 units or the graph of y = 3x2 - 4 is the graph of y = 3x2 shifted
downwards 4 units.
b) True
c) True
d) True
e) False. An equation of the axis of symmetry of y = x2 - 1 is x = 0.
f) False. The graph of y = x2 - 1 opens upward or the graph of y = -x2 - 1
opens downward.
g) True
h) False. The maximum value of y = -2x2 + 3 is 3.
i) True
j) True. f(–x) = 2(-x)2 + 3
= 2x2 + 3
Thus, f(-x) = f(x).
k) True
l) False. The graph of y = x2 + 2 and y = -x2 + 2 are mirror reflections of
each other in the line y = 2.
m) True
n) True

value.
a) a > 0 and q > 0
b) a > 0 and q < 0
c) a < 0 and q > 0
d) a < 0 and q < 0
Answers:
a) The graph opens upward and the minimum value, q, is positive.
b) The graph opens upward and the minimum value of q is negative.
c) The graph opens downward and the maximum value of q is positive.
d) The graph opens downward and the maximum value of q is negative.

Answer:
Recall the key coordinates of y = x2: from the vertex at (0, 0), we move over
1 and up 1 to mark (1, 1). Then from the vertex, move over 2 and up 4 to
mark (2, 4), then over 3 and up 9 from the vertex to mark (3, 9).
Now, let’s transform the points (0, 0), (1, 1), (2, 4), and (3, 9) for the equation:
y = -3x2 + 1.
The vertex is (0, 1). The curve opens down. There is a vertical stretch of 3.
On your graph paper, starting at (0, 1), move right 1 and down 1(3) = 3
to mark the point (1, -2). Then, move right 2 from the vertex and down
4(3) = 12 to mark the point (2, -11). Then, right 3 from the vertex and down
9(3) = 27 to mark the point (3, -26).
Now reflect these points in the axis of symmetry to get (-1, -2) and
(-2, -11). Now draw the graph and make a table of values from the graph.
y
1
2 1 1 2 x
 2 
 11 
x 2 1 0 -1 -2
y -11 -2 1 -2 -11

Part A: BrainPower
1 2
2. Evaluate: +
5 3
5. Factor: x2 - 3x - 28
 55 × 57 3
6. Simplify:  2

 5 
2- 8
10 7
Answers:
1. (a + b)(a + b) = a2 + 2ab + b2
3 10 13
2. + =
15 15 15
3. $2.23 ($16.27 + $1.50 = $17.77; $20.00 - $17.77 = $2.23)
 333 
4. 111  
 3 
5. (x - 7)(x + 4)
 5 3 3 
5 × 57   512  10 3
6. 5 30 
 =  = (5 ) = 5 30 
 52   52  
 

7. 2 7 − 56  2 − 8 7 2 7 − 56 2 7 − 56

 ⋅ = =
70  10 7 7 10 ⋅ 7 70
2 7 − 2 14 7 − 14 
or or 

70 35 
 y − y1 −14 − (−7 ) 7 
8. −1  m = 2 ;m= = − = −1
 x 2 − x1 9−2 7 
1
2
1
is x  .
2
1 2
2
is y = -3.
1 2
3
2
y = -3(x - 2) .
1 2
4
1 2
3

Answers:
a) True
b) False. The graph of y = (x - 7)2 is the graph of y = x2 shifted 7 units
to the right or the graph of y = (x + 7)2 is the graph of y = x2 shifted
7 units to the left.
c) True
d) False. The vertex of the graph of y = 2(x - 1)2 is (1, 0) or the vertex of
the graph of y = 2(x - 2)2 is (2, 0).
e) False. The equation of the axis of symmetry of the graph of
1 2
y = ( x − 3) is x = 3 or the equation of the axis of symmetry of the
2
2
 1 1
graph of y = 3 x −  is x = .
 2 2
f) False. The equation of the axis of symmetry of the graph of
1 2
y = − ( x + 3) is x = −3.
2
1 2
g) False. The graph of y = − ( x − 2 ) is a wider parabola than the graph
3
of y = -3(x - 2) or the graph of y = -3(x - 2)2 is a narrower parabola
2
1 2
than the graph of y = − ( x − 2 ) .
3
h) True
i) True
j) True
2
g ( x − 4 ) = (( x − 4 ) + 4 )
2
= (x)
= x2
2
g (−x − 4 ) = ((−x − 4 ) + 4 )
2
= (−x )
= x2
Thus, g ( x − 4 ) = g (−x − 4 ) .

a) y = (x - 4)2
b) y = x2 + 4
c) y = -(x + 2)2
d) y = -(x - 3)2
i) y ii) y
8
2 4 6 8 x
2 6
4 4
6 2
8
2 4 6 8 x
y y
iii) iv)
8
6 4 2 2 x
2 6
4 4
6 2
8
4 2 2 4 x
Answers:
a) ii
b) iv
c) iii
d) i

1
a) f : x → ( x − 4 )2
2
2
b) y = −2 ( x − 1)
2
c) f ( x ) = 2 ( x + 1)

Answers:
1
a) y = x2 compressed vertically by multiplying the y-values by and
2
shifted horizontally 4 units to the right.
y
6 1
y = (x  4)2
2
y = x2 5
4
3
2
4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 x
1
2
3
4
5
6
1
f :x → ( x − 4 )2
2
 1 
Transformation: (x, y) →  x + 4 , y 
 2 
Coordinates for Coordinates for

y = x2 f(x)
(2, 4) (6, 2)
 1
(1, 1)  5, 
 2
(0, 0) (4, 0)
 1
(-1, 1)  3, 
 2
(-2, 4) (2, 2)

b) y = x2 stretched vertically by a factor of 2, reflected over the x-axis, and
shifted horizontally 1 unit to the right.
y
4
3
2

6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
y = -2(x - 1)2
Transformation: (x, y) ® (x + 1, -2y)
y = x2 f(x)
(2, 4) (3, -8)
(1, 1) (2, -2)
(0, 0) (1, 0)
(-1, 1) (0, -2)
(-2, 4) (-1, -8)

c) y = x2 stretched vertically by a factor of 2 and shifted horizontally 1
unit to the left.
y
8
5
4
3
2
1

6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
1
2
3
4
f(x) = 2(x + 1)2

Transformation: (x, y) ® (x - 1, 2y)
y = x2 f(x)
(2, 4) (1, 8)
(1, 1) (0, 2)
(0, 0) (-1, 0)
(-1, 1) (-2, 2)
(-2, 4) (-3, 8)

Answer:
(a) (b) (c) (d)

4
y = (x + 2)2 y = (x - 1)2 y = 2(x - 3)2 y = ( x + 6 )2
3
Vertex (-2, 0) (1, 0) (3, 0) (-6, 0)

Equation of axis
x = -2 x=1 x=3 x = -6
of symmetry
Domain {x|x Î Â} {x|x Î Â} {x|x Î Â} {x|x Î Â}
Range {y|y ³ 0} {y|y ³ 0} {y|y ³ 0} {y|y ³ 0}
x-intercepts -2 1 3 -6
y-intercept* 4 1 18 48
Direction of opening up up up up
Maximum value none none none none
Minimum value 0 0 0 0
* Note:
To find the y-intercepts, let x = 0 in the equation and solve for y.
a) y = (x + 2)2 = (0 + 2)2 = 4
b) y = (x - 1)2 = (0 - 1)2 = 1
c) y = 2(x - 3)2 = 2(0 - 3)2 = 2(9) = 18
4 4 4
d) y = ( x + 6 )2 = (0 + 6 )2 = ( 36 ) = 48
3 3 3

Part A: BrainPower
 3   1   1   5 
3. Evaluate:  − + + 
 4   2   6   3 

Answers:
1. 9 dozen (12 ´ 8 = 96; 12 ´ 9 = 108; If you make 8 dozen, you will only have
96 cupcakes. Therefore, you need to make 9 dozen to make sure you have
enough cupcakes.)
2. 806 (13 ´ 62 = 10 ´ 62 + 3 ´ 62 = 620 + 186 = 806)
25  9 6   2 20  3 22 25 
3.  − + + = + = 
12  12 12   12 12  12 12 12 
4. 2
5. Down (The a-value is negative.)
6. 1, 2, 4, 5, 8, 10, 20, 25, 40, 50, 100, 125, 200, 250, 500, and 1000.
7. 0.0807
8. Prime number

y = -3(x - 6)2 + 1 is x = 1.
2
 1
g) The equation of the axis of symmetry of the graph of y = 3 x −  + 4
 2
1
is x  .
2
x = -2.
Answers:
a) False. The vertex of the graph of y = (x - 4)2 + 2 is (4, 2) or the vertex of
the graph of y = (x + 4)2 + 2 is (-4, 2).
b) False. The vertex of the graph of y = 3(x - 5)2 - 2 is (5, -2) or the vertex
of the graph of y = 3(x - 5)2 + 2 is (5, 2).
c) False. The vertex of the graph of y = 2x2 + 7 is (0, 7), or the vertex of the
graph of y = 2(x - 2)2 + 7 is (2, 7).
d) True.
e) False. The vertex of the graph of y = -2(x - 3)2 is (3, 0), or the vertex of
the graph of y = -2(x + 2)2 + 3 is (-2, 3).

y = -3(x - 6)2 + 1 is x = 6, or the equation of the axis of symmetry of
the graph of y = -3(x - 1)2 + 1 is x = 1.
g) True.
h) True.
i) False. The graph of y = 4(x - 3)2 - 1 opens upward, or the graph of
y = -4(x - 3)2 - 1 opens downward.
j) True.
k) True.
l) False. The minimum value of y = 3(x - 5)2 - 2 is -2.

1 2
a) y = 3x 2 e) y − 1 = ( x + 2 )
3
−1 2 2
b) y = x f) y + 1 = −3 ( x − 2 )
3
2 1 2
c) y = 3 ( x + 2 ) g) y = − ( x − 2 )
3
2 1 2
d) y + 1 = 3 ( x + 2 ) h) y − 1 = − ( x − 2 )
3
i) y ii) y
6 6
4 4
2 2
6 4 2 2 4 6 x 6 4 2 2 4 6 x
2 2
4 4
6 6

iii) y iv) y
6 6
4 4
2 2
6 4 2 2 4 6 x 6 4 2 2 4 6 x
2 2
4 4
6 6
v) y vi) y
6 6
4 4
2 2
6 4 2 2 4 6 x 6 4 2 2 4 6 x
2 2
4 4
6 6
vii) y viii) y
6 6
4 4
2 2
6 4 2 2 4 6 x 6 4 2 2 4 6 x
2 2
4 4
6 6
Answers:
a) and iii) e) and i)
b) and v) f) and vii)
c) and viii) g) and vi)
d) and ii) h) and iv)

(a) (b) (c) (d)
y = (x - 1)2 + 2 y = -(x - 1)2 - 2 y = (x + 1)2 + 2 y = -(x + 1)2 - 2
Vertex (1, 2) (1, -2) (-1, 2) (-1, -2)

Equation of axis of
x=1 x=1 x = -1 x = -1
symmetry
Range {y|y ³ 2} {y|y £ -2} {y|y ³ 2} {y|y £ -2}
y-intercept* 3 -3 3 -3
Direction of opening up down up down
Maximum value none -2 none -2
Minimum value 2 none 2 none
* The y-intercepts can be found by letting x = 0 and solving for y.

a) y = (x - 1)2 + 2 b) y = -(x - 1)2 - 2
y = (0 - 1)2 + 2 y = -(0 - 1)2 - 2
y = 1 + 2 y = -1 - 2
y = 3 y = -3
c) y = (x + 1)2 + 2 d) y = -(x + 1)2 - 2
y = (0 + 1)2 + 2 y = -(0 + 1)2 - 2
y = 1 + 2 y = -1 - 2
y = 3 y = -3

2
a) y = 2 ( x + 1)
1 2
b) y = − ( x − 1) + 6
2
2
c) y = 2 ( x + 6 ) − 10
2
d) y = 6 ( x − 1) + 8
Answers:
a) Direction of opening: up
Vertex: (-1, 0)
Axis of Symmetry: x = -1
Narrower than y = x2
b) Direction of opening: down
Vertex: (1, 6)
Axis of Symmetry: x = 1
Wider than y = x2
c) Direction of opening: up
Vertex: (-6, -10)
d) Direction of opening: up
Vertex: (1, 8)

2
a) y = 2 ( x + 1)
1 2
b) y = − ( x − 1) + 6
2
2
c) y = 2 ( x + 6 ) − 10
2
d) y = 6 ( x − 1) + 8
Answers:
a) y = x2 is stretched vertically by a factor of 2 and shifted horizontally to
the left by 1 unit.
Vertex: (-1, 0) y
8
Axis of symmetry: x = -1 7
5
4
3
2
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
1
2
3
4

b) y = x2 is compressed vertically by a factor of 2, reflected over the x-axis,
shifted horizontally to the right one unit and up 6 units.
Vertex: (1, 6) y
8
Axis of symmetry: x = 1
7
(1, 6)
6
5
4
3
2
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
1
2
3
4
c) y = x2 is stretched vertically by a factor of 2, shifted left 6 units and

down 10 units.
Vertex: (-6, -10)
Axis of symmetry: x = -6
y
4
10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 x
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
(6, 10) 10

d) y = x2 is stretched vertically by a factor of 6 shifted 1 unit right and
8 units up.
Vertex: (1, 8)
y
15
14
13
12
11
10
9
8
(1, 8)
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 x

what that value is.
2
 1
a) f ( x ) = − x +  + 2
 2
2
b) y = 2 ( x + 4 ) − 2
2
c) g ( x ) = −3 ( x − 2 ) − 1
1
d) y = 
 ( x + 1)2 + 4 

2

Answers:
a) Maximum value at 2
Range: {y|y £ 2}
2
 1
f ( x ) = − x +  + 2
 2
let x = 0
2
 1
f (0 ) = − 0 +  + 2
 2
1
f (0 ) = − + 2
4
3
f (0) = 1
4
3
The y-intercept is 1 .
4
b) Minimum value at -2
Range: {y|y ³ -2}
y = 2(x + 4)2 - 2
let x = 0
y = 2(0 + 4)2 - 2
y = (2)(16) - 2
y = 30
c) Maximum value at -1
Range: {y|y £ -1}
g(x) = -3(x - 2)2 - 1
let x = 0
g(0) = -3(0 - 2)2 - 1
g(0) = -3(4) - 1
g(0) = -13
The y-intercept is -13.

1
d) Remove the square brackets first by distributing the through the
2
1
brackets to get y = ( x + 1)2 + 2.
2
Minimum value at 2
Range: {y|y ³ 2}
1
y= 
 ( x + 1)2 + 4 

2
let x = 0
1
y= 
 (0 + 1)2 + 4 

2
1
y= [1 + 4 ]
2
5
y=
2
5
The y-intercept is .
2
 3
 2
Answer:
y = (x - 2)2 + q
3
Substitute x = 1 and y = into the above equation.
2
3 2
= (1 − 2 ) + q
2
3
= 1+q
2
3 2
− =q
2 2
1 q represents the minimum value because the
=q
2 parabola opens up.
1
Therefore, the minimum value is .
2

following graph.
Answer:
To use Method #1, you need to find the coordinates of the vertex and one
other point. The coordinates of the vertex are (2, -6), and one other point
is (4, -4).
Now, in vertex form, the coordinates of the vertex are (p, q).
(p, q) = (2, -6)
\ p=2
q = -6
function:
y = a(x - 2)2 - 6
You also have another point on the curve, (4, -4). You can substitute these
-4 = a(4 - 2)2 - 6
-4 = a(2)2 - 6
-4 + 6 = 4a
2 = 4a
1
=a
2
1
Therefore, the quadratic function representing this graph is y = ( x − 2 )2 − 6.
2

To use Method #2, you need to compare this graph with the graph of
y = x2. The vertex is located at (2, -6). Therefore, p = 2 and q = -6. In other
words, this graph is shifted two units to the right and six units down.
The graph opens up, so the value of a is greater than 0.
The graph is wider than the graph of y = x2. Therefore, 0 < a < 1.
To determine the value of a, compare the vertical distances of points on
this new parabola to the graph of y = x2.
Compare the point (2, 4) on y = x2 to the point (4, -4) on the translated
parabola. Since the vertical distance from the vertex is half as much, the
1
y-value is halved, and the value of a = .
2
1
The quadratic function in vertex form is y = ( x − 2 )2 − 6.
2

graph.
Answer:
The vertex is at (-2, 5). Therefore, p = -2 and q = 5.
y = a(x + 2)2 + 5
Another point is (2, -35). Substitute these values into the equation
y = a(x + 2)2 + 5 to find the value of a.
2
−35 = a ( 2 + 2 ) + 5
2
−35 − 5 = a ( 4 )
−40 = 16 a
−40
=a
16
−5
=a
2
−5
Therefore, the quadratic function is y = (x + 2 )2 + 5.
2

a) y = -2(x - 3)2 - 6
b) y = 4x2 - 1
c) y = 6x2
d) y = -(x + 1)2
Answers:
a) In this quadratic function, a = -2 and q = -6. Therefore, both a and
q are less than zero. This means that the corresponding graph of the
quadratic function has no x-intercepts.
b) In this quadratic function, a = 4 and q = -1. Therefore, a is greater than
zero while q is less than zero. This means that the corresponding graph
of the quadratic function has two x-intercepts.
c) In this quadratic function, a = 6 and q = 0. Therefore, a is greater than
zero while q equals zero. This means that the corresponding graph of
the quadratic function has one x-intercept.
d) In this quadratic function, a = -1 and q = 0. Therefore, a is less than
zero while q = 0. There are no rules for this situation on the chart
presented in this lesson. However, q = 0. Therefore, this graph sits
on the x-axis. Also, this graph is a reflection through the x-axis of
the graph y = (x + 1)2. The graph of y = (x + 1)2 has one x-intercept.
Therefore, if you reflect this graph, which is located on the x-axis,
over the x-axis, the resulting graph, y = -(x + 1)2, will still have one
x-intercept.
Answer:
a) y = -2(x - 3)2 - 6
Vertex (3, -6) and a is negative
Opens down
y
Sketch:
\ no x-intercepts

b) y = 4x2 - 1
Vertex (0, -1) and a is positive
Opens up
y
Sketch:
\ two x-intercepts
c) y = 6x2
Vertex (0, 0) and a is positive
Opens up
y
Sketch:
\ one x-intercept
d) y = -(x + 1)2
Vertex (-1, 0) and a is negative
Opens down
y
Sketch:
\ one x-intercept

Part A: BrainPower
1. Factor: x2 - 10x + 25
6. Simplify: (x2 – 4x + 1)(2x2)
Answers:
1. (x - 5)(x - 5) or (x - 5)2
2. 3 hours and 44 minutes (You used your computer for 15 minutes +
6 hours + 25 minutes + 1 hour + 36 minutes = 7 hours and 76 minutes =
8 hours and 16 minutes. 12 hours - 8 hours and 16 minutes = 3 hours and
44 minutes.)
3. -37 (5(-8) + 4 + 12 - 13 = -40 + 16 - 13 = -53 + 16 = -37)
4. 162, 486
5. Yes (25% of $60 = $15; $60 - $15 = $45)
6. 2x4 - 8x3 + 2x2
 5   x1 + x2 y1 + y 2   2 + (−7 ) 6 + (−4 )   5 2   5 
7. − , 1M = , = , =− , =− , 1
 2   2 2   2 2   2 2   2 
8. 0

Answer:
x2 + 5x + 4

Answer:
x2 x x
x 1 1

a) x2 + 8x + k b) x2 - 8x + k
c) x2 + 20x + k d) x2 - 2x + k
e) x2 - 5x + k f) x2 + 7x + k
Answers:
a) x 2 + 8x + k
 8 2
k =  = 16
2
2
x 2 + 8x + 16 = ( x + 4 )

b) x 2 − 8x + k
−8 2
k =  = 16
 2 
2
x 2 − 8x + 16 = ( x − 4 )
c) x 2 + 20 x + k
 20 2
k =  = 100
2
2
x 2 + 20 x + 100 = ( x + 10 )
d) x 2 − 2 x + k
−2 2
k =  = 1
 2 
2
x 2 − 2 x + 1 = ( x − 1)
e) x 2 − 5x + k
−5 2 25
k =  =
 2  4
2
25  5
x 2 − 5x + = x − 
4  2
f) x 2 + 7 x + k
 7 2 49
k =  =
2 4
2
49  7
x2 + 7x + = x + 
4  2

2
a) x 2 − 8x = a (x − p ) + p
2
b) x 2 + 5x = a (x − p ) + p
1 2 2
c) x + 8x + 4 = a ( x − p ) + p
2
Answers:
Each solution shows a different method for completing the square.
Whichever one you choose to use is fine. All of them will be used
throughout the rest of the module, but you only need to know and use
one.
2
a) x 2 − 8x = a (x − p ) + q
let y = x 2 − 8x
y + 16 = x 2 − 8x + 16
2
y + 16 = ( x − 4 )
2
y = ( x − 4 ) − 16
Thus, (x - 4)2 - 16 = a(x - p)2 + q

and a = 1, p = 4, q = -16
2
b) x 2 + 5x = a (x − p ) + q
let y = x 2 + 5x
 25 25 
y = x 2 + 5 x + − 
 4 4
2
 5 25
y = x +  −
 2 4
2
 5 25 2
Thus,  x +  − = a (x − p) + q
 2 4
5 25
and a = 1, p = − , q = −
2 4

1 2 2
c) x + 8x + 4 = a ( x − p ) + q
2
1 2
let y = x + 8x + 4
2
1 2
y=
2
(x + 16x )+ 4
1 2 1
y=
2
( x + 16 x + 64 ) + 4 − 64 
2
1
y= ( x + 8)2 + 4 − 32
2
1
y= ( x + 8)2 − 28
2
1 2
Thus, ( x + 8)2 − 28 = a (x − p ) + q
2
1
and a = , p = −8 , q = −28
2

a) f(x) = -x2 + 6x
b) f : x ® 2x2 + 5x - 3
c) y = -4x - x2
symmetry.

Answers:
a) f(x) = -x2 + 6x
i) f(x) = -x2 + 6x
f(x) = -1(x2 - 6x) Factor out -1 to make sure that the
coefficient of x2 is 1.
f(x) = -1(x2 - 6x + 9) - 9(-1) Complete the square.
f(x) = -1(x - 3)2 + 9 Factor and simplify.
ii) V(3, 9); equation of axis of symmetry: x = 3
iii) Range: {y|y £ 9}
iv) Maximum value of 9.
b) f : x ® 2x2 + 5x - 3
i) For convenience, replace f : x ® with y.
y = 2 x 2 + 5x − 3
 5  Factor out 2 to make the
y = 2 x 2 + x − 3
 2  coefficient of x2 equal to 1.
 5 25  25
y = 2 x 2 + x + − 3 − ( 2 ) Complete the square.
 2 16  16
2
 5 25 Simplify.
y = 2 x +  − 3 −
 4 8
2
 5 49
y = 2 x +  −
 4 8
2
 5 49
f : x → 2 x +  −
 4 8
 5 49  5
ii) V− , − ; equation of axis of symmetry: x = −
 4 8 4
 49 
iii) Range: y | y ≥ − 
 8
49
iv) Minimum value of -
8

c) y = -4x - x2
i) y = −x 2 − 4 x Rearrange.
y = −( x 2 + 4 x ) Factor out (-1).

2  4 2  Complete the square and add -4
y − 4 = −
 x + 4 x +  to each side.
 2  
2
y = −(x + 2 ) + 4 Factor and add 4.
ii) V(-2, 4); equation of axis of symmetry: x = -2

iv) Maximum value of 4
form y = a(x – p)2 + q are written below. The coordinates of the vertex are
y = ax 2 + bx + c Given
y − c = ax 2 + bx Subtract c
y−c ax 2 b Divide by a
= + x
a a a
y−c b Simplify
= x2 + x
a a
2
y−c  b  2 b  b 2
+  = x + x +  Complete the square
a  2a  a  2a 
2
y−c b2  b
+ 2 = x +  Factor
a 4a  2a 
y−c  b
2
b2 b2
= x +  − 2 Subtract
a  2a  4a 4 a2
2
 b b2
y − c = a x +  − a ⋅ 2 Multiply by a
 2a  4a
2
 b b2
y = a x +  − +c Add c and simplify
 2a  4a
2
 b 4 ac − b 2
y = a x +  + Simplify
 2a  4a
 b 4 ac − b 2 
V− ,  Write the vertex
 2a 4a 

b
You can use x = − for finding the x-coordinate at the vertex if the
2a
given equation is in the form y = ax2 + bx + c. You can substitute that
value into the quadratic equation to find the corresponding y-coordinate.
You can write this formula on your resource sheet.
x2 + 8x + 10 = y

x2 + 8x = y - 10
x2 + 8x + 64 = y - 10 + 64
(x + 4)2 = y + 54
y = (x + 4)2 - 54
Answer:
When completing the square, Dominic forgot to divide eight by two before
squaring. Therefore, Dominic added 64 to both sides when he should have
added 16 to both sides. The correct completion of the square is:
x2 + 8x = y - 10
x2 + 8x + 16 = y - 10 + 16
(x + 4)2 = y + 6
y = (x + 4)2 - 6
Verification:
x2 + 8x + 10 = y
(x2 + 8x ) + 10 = y
(x2 + 8x + 16) + 10 - 16 = y
(x + 4)2 - 6 = y
This is the same answer as the one obtained above.

Answer:
A quadratic function is a function in the form ax2 + bx + c = y.
If you multiply out the function a(x - p)2 + q = y, you get:
a(x2 - 2px + p2) + q = y
ax2 - 2apx + (ap2 + q) = y
Therefore, when expanded, the quadratic function in vertex form is now
in the form ax2 + bx + c = y, where b = -2ap and c = ap2 + q.

Part A: BrainPower
2. Multiply: (3x + 4)(2x - 7)
8. Multiply. (3x2 + 7)(8x - 4)
Answers:
1. 6 pizzas (15 ´ 2 = 30 pieces of pizza; 12 ´ 3 = 36 pieces of pizza;
30 + 36 = 66 pieces of pizza; 6 ´ 12 = 72, so you need 6 pizzas but will
have some left)
2. 6x2 - 13x - 28
3. 59 (4(16) + 4 - 9 = 64 + 4 - 9 = 59)
4. 12 600 (10% of 42,000 = 4200; 30% of 42,000 = 4200 ´ 3 = 12 600)
5. 52 units (side length = 169  13 ; perimeter = 13 ´ 4 = 52 units)
6. 4x2(x - 2)(x - 3) [4x4 - 20x3 + 24x2 = 4x2(x2 - 5x + 6), which factors

further to 4x2(x - 2)(x - 3)]
7 7 4
7. −  3 y = −7 x + 4 ; y = − x + 
3 3 3
8. 24x3 - 12x2 + 56x - 28

a) x = -1, x = 3, a = 1
b) x = -4, x = -2, a = -1
i) vertex
iii) y-intercept
v) maximum value
vi) minimum value
Answers:
a) i) The x-intercepts are -1 and 3.
The x-coordinate of the vertex is the average of the x-intercepts:
−1 + 3 2
= =1
2 2
The equation for the function is y = a(x - 1)2 + q.
The value for a is given as 1. One point on the curve is at an
x-intercept—say, x = 3. Using the point (3, 0), solve for q.
0 = 1(3 - 1)2 + q
0 = 4 + q
-4 = q
The function is y = (x - 1)2 - 4.
The vertex is V(1, -4).
ii) Axis of symmetry equation: x = 1

iii) y-intercept
Let x = 0 to find y-intercept for y = (x - 1)2 - 4
y = (0 - 1)2 - 4
y=1-4
y = -3
iv) Opens upward because a is positive
v) Maximum value is not defined
vi) Minimum value corresponding to the y-coordinate of the
vertex = -4
vii) Set Notation Interval Notation
D: {x|x Î Â} (-¥, ¥)
R: {y|y ³ -4, y Î Â} [-4, ¥)
Graph
y
6
5
4
3
2
 
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
1
2
3
4 
5
6

b) i) The x-intercepts are -4 and -2.
x-coordinate at vertex is the average of the x-intercepts:
−4 + (−2 ) −6
= = −3
2 2
The equation for the function is y = a(x + 3)2 + q.
Using the x-intercept to get a point on the curve, solve for q.
x-intercept = -4
point (-4, 0) and a = -1
y = a(x + 3)2 + q
0 = -1(-4 + 3)2 + q
0 = -1 + q
1=q
The function is y = -(x + 3)2 + 1.
The vertex is V(-3, 1).
ii) Axis of symmetry equation: x = -3
iii) y-intercept
Let x = 0 for y = -(x + 3)2 + 1
y = -(0 + 3)2 + 1
y = -9 + 1
y = -8
iv) Opens downward, since a is negative
v) Maximum value is 1
vi) No minimum value
D: {x|x Î Â} (-¥, ¥)
R: {y|y £ 1, y Î Â} (-¥, 1]

Graph
y
3
2
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

a) y = x2 + 6x - 7
b) y = x2 - 4x - 60
c) y = 2x2 + 8x - 10
d) y = 3x2 + 24x + 21
find the following:
b
2a
find q

Answers:
a) y = x2 + 6x - 7
-b
i) x-coordinate of vertex =
2a
a=1 b=6
−6
p= = −3
2 ( 1)
y-coordinate of the vertex:
q = (-3)2 + 6(-3) - 7
q = 9 - 18 - 7
q = -16
V(-3, -16)
iii) y-intercept:
substitute x = 0 into:
y = x2 + 6x - 7
y = (0)2 + 6(0) - 7
y = -7
iv) Because a > 0, the parabola opens upward.
v) Since the parabola opens upward, the function has a minimum
value of -16.
vi) D: (-¥, ¥)
R: [-16, ¥)

b) y = x2 - 4x - 60
-b
2a
a=1 b = -4
−(−4 ) 4
p= = =2
2 ( 1) 2
q = (2)2 - 4(2) - 60
q = 4 - 8 - 60
q = -64
V(2, -64)
iii) y-intercept:
y = x2 - 4x - 60
y = (0)2 - 4(0) - 60
y = -60
iv) Opens upward, since a > 0
value at -64.
vi) D: (-¥, ¥)
R: [-64, ¥)

c) y = 2x2 + 8x - 10
b
i) x-coordinate of vertex = -
2a
a=2 b=8
−8
p= = −2
2 (2)
q = 2(-2)2 + 8(-2) - 10
q = 2(4) - 16 - 10
q = -18
V(-2, -18)
iii) y-intercept:
y = 2x2 + 8x - 10
y = 2(0)2 + 8(0) - 10
y = -10
iv) Opens upward because a > 0
v) Because the parabola opens upward, the minimum value is -18.
vi) D: (-¥, ¥)
R: [-18, ¥)

d) y = 3x2 + 24x + 21
-b
2a
a=3 b = 24
−24
p= = −4
2 ( 3)
q = 3(-4)2 + 24(-4) + 21
q = 48 - 96 + 21
q = -27
V(-4, -27)
iii) y-intercept:
substitute x = 0 into
y = 3x2 + 24x + 21
y = 3(0)2 + 24(0) + 21
y = 21
vi) D: (-¥, ¥)
R: [-27, ¥)

Part A: BrainPower
history?
3. Factor: 2x(x - 4) + 3(x - 4)
 30   75 
5 y
6. Estimate: 122
Answers:
6000 3000 1500 
1. $250 (Two years = 24 months; = = = $250 
24 12 6 
 222 
2. 74%  82 + 63 + 77 = 222 ; = 74 
 3 
3. (2x + 3)(x - 4)
4. Domain: {x | x Î Â}
 30 75 
5. −9  − = 6 − 15 = −9 
5 5 
6. »11 (122 is between 121 and 144; therefore, 122 is between 11 and 12, but
closer to 11)
7. 6300 millimetres (1000 millimetres in 1 metre; 6.3 ´ 1000 = 6300

millimetres)
8. 6x2y4z.

81
h = −3t 2 + 9t +
4
Answer:
81
h (t ) = −3t 2 + 9t +
4
81 −3 2 
2 −3 2 
h (t ) − + (−3)  = −3
 t − 3t + 
4  2    2  
2
81 27  3
h (t ) − − = −3t − 
4 4  2
2
 3 108
h (t ) = −3t −  +
 2 4
2
 3
h(t ) = −3t −  + 27
 2
The curve opens downward.
The maximum height of 27 m is reached in 1.5 seconds.

Answer:
Let x = width of the swimming area in metres
620 - 2x = length of the swimming area in metres
Let A(x) represent the area of the rectangle.
beach
x x
620  2x
Remember, you only need three sides roped off.

\ Area: A(x) = x(620 - 2x)
= 620x - 2x2
The maximum area occurs at the vertex of the quadratic function because
the parabola opens down. You need only find the x-coordinate of the
vertex.
−b 620
x= =− = 155 m
2a 2 (−2 )
When the width is 155 m, the length is 620 - 2(155) = 310 m.
The dimensions of the swimming area are 155 m ´ 310 m.

Answer:
Number of Yield per Annual
Trees Tree Yield
originally 65 1500 65(1500)
one additional tree 65 + 1 1500 - 20(1) (65 + 1)[1500 - 20(1)]
two additional trees 65 + 2 1500 - 20(2) (65 + 2)[1500 - 20(2)]
n additional trees 65 + n 1500 - 20(n) (65 + n)[1500 - 20(n)]
Maximum yield is required.

The equation will have a vertex at (n, Y) where:
n = number of additional trees
Y = annual yield
Y = (65 + n)(1500 - 20n)
Y = 97 500 - 1300n + 1500n - 20n2
Y = –20n2 + 200n + 97 500
The curve opens downward. Thus, we have a maximum at the vertex.
Using the formula method to find the vertex:
−b
x=
2a
−200
x=
2 (−20 )
x = 5
Thus, 5 additional trees should be planted. There will be 70 trees
altogether in the orchard.

Answer:
Let x = larger of the two numbers
x - 14 = smaller of the two numbers
Let P(x) = the product of the two numbers
P ( x ) = x ( x − 14 )
= x 2 − 14 x
P ( x ) + 49 = x 2 − 14 x + 49
2
P ( x ) = ( x − 7 ) − 49
Since a = 1, the parabola opens up and a minimum occurs at x = 7. If x = 7,

then x - 14 = -7.
The two numbers are 7 and -7, giving a minimum product of -49.
Answer:
Number of Net Profit Total
Cars Sold per Car Net Profit
20 2400 20(2400)
20 - 1 2400 + 3000(1) (20 - 1)[2400 + 300(1)]
20 - 2 2400 + 3000(2) (20 - 2)[2400 + 300(2)]
20 - n 2400 + 3000(n) (20 - n)[2400 + 300(n)]
Let P = total net profit

Let n = number of increases in average price per car (or number of
decreases in cars sold)
P = (20 - n)(2400 + 300n)
P = 48 000 + 6000n - 2400n - 300n2
P = -300n2 + 3600n + 48 000
The curve opens downward. The maximum occurs at the vertex.

−b −3600
At the vertex, n = = = 6.
2a 2 (−300 )
Honest John should sell his cars at a price, including cost, of:
Price = 2400 + 300(6) + 4000
= 2400 + 1800 + 4000
= $8200

the formula method.
Answer:
x = width y
y = length
Total lengths = 2y
x x x x
Total widths = 4x
2y + 4x = 800
y = 400 - 2x Divide by two and solve for y.
Area = A
A = length ´ width
A = (400 - 2x)x
A = –2x2 + 400x
−b −400
Using x = = = 100 m.
2a 2 (−2 )
y = 400 - 2x = 400 - 2(100) = 200 m
The curve opens down; there is a maximum at the vertex.
The largest area occurs when the dimensions of the field are
100 m ´ 200 m.

method.
Answer:
Number of Price per Income
Tickets Purchased Ticket
1000 60 1000(60)
1000 + 100(1) 60 - 3(1) [1000 + 100(1)][60 - 3(1)]
1000 + 100(2) 60 - 3(2) [1000 + 100(2)][60 - 3(2)]
1000 + 100(n) 60 - 3(n) [1000 + 100(n)][60 - 3(n)]
Let n = number of groups of 100 tickets sold (or number of decreases in

price of ticket)
Let I = income
I = (1000 + 100n)(60 - 3n)
I = 60 000 - 3000n + 6000n - 300n2
I = -300n2 + 3000n + 60 000
I = -300(n2 - 10n + 25) + 60 000 - 25(-300)
I = -300(n - 5)2 + 60 000 + 7500
I = -300(n - 5)2 + 67 500
V(5, 67 500) = V(n, I)
The curve opens downward; the maximum occurs at the vertex.
The ticket price for maximum income must be:
60 - 3(5) = 60 - 15 = $45.

Notes

Module 3
Quadratic Functions

M odu l e 3:
Part A: BrainPower
7 x
3. Solve for x: +4=
8 8
4
9 2
4 5
Answers:
1. 53 (3(25) - 30 + 8 = 75 - 30 + 8 = 45 + 8 = 53)
2. 280 mL (2000 mL - (250 mL + 550 mL + 620 mL + 300 mL) = 2000 mL -
1720 mL = 280 mL)
 7  x 
3. 39  8 + 4 = (8) ; 7 + 32 = x ; 39 = x 
 8  8 
4. 6 (The ratio 3 girls : 1 boy implies you need 4 students in each group;
24 ¸ 4 = 6, so there are 6 boys in the class.)
5. 34
3
6. 16 4

9 10 9 2 9 2 5 9 10 
7. 
 = = 
20 4 5 4 ( 5) 20 
1
8. (y = -2x + 1)
2
a) y = 3x + 2
b) 2x - y + 1 = 0
x -3 -2 0 2 3
y 10 5 1 5 10
Answers:
3
a) y = 3x + 2 is the equation of a linear function with slope of and
1
y-intercept of 2.
y
6
5 
3
2
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
 1
2
3
4
5
6

b) Change into the slope-intercept form:
y = mx + b; -y = -2x - 1; y = 2x + 1
2
slope =
1
y-intercept = 1
y
6
5
4
3 
2
1
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
1
2
3
4
5
6
c) y
 10 
7
6
 5 
3
2
1
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
1
2

Answer:
a) y = 3x + 2
To find the x-intercept, let y = 0.
0 = 3x + 2
−2 −2
−2 = 3x
−2 3x
=
3 3
−2
x=
3
b) 2x - y + 1 = 0
Let y = 0
2x − 0 + 1 = 0
2x + 1 = 0
−1 −1
2 x = −1
2 x −1
=
2 2
−1
x=
2
c) This function does not intersect the x-axis. There are no x-intercepts.

a) f : x → 3x 2
b) g : x → 2 x 3 − 5
c) y = 2 x 2 − x + 1
1
d) f ( x ) = 3x −
x

e) y f) y
5 5
5 5 x 5 5 x
5 5
Answers:
a) quadratic because it is in the form f(x) = ax2 + bx + c
b) not quadratic since it has the variable x raised to the third power
c) quadratic because it is of the form f(x) = ax2 + bx + c
d) not quadratic
e) linear, not quadratic
f) quadratic since its graph is a parabola, which opens up

y
6
 
4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 x
1
2
3 
4
5
6

Answers:
a) Domain {x|x Î Â}
b) Range: {y|y ³ -3, y Î Â}
c) Vertex: (4, –3). Remember this is the turning point.
d) Axis of symmetry equation: x = 4. This is the equation of the vertical
line that passes through the vertex.
e) Zeros: 2, 6. Remember this is not an ordered pair. It represents the
x-coordinates of the points where the curve intersects the x-axis.
f) x-intercepts: 2, 6
g) Maximum value does not exist.
h) Minimum value is at -3, the y-coordinate of the vertex.
minimum value.
a) y Answer:
6
5
D: {x|x Î Â}
4 R: {y|y £ 3, y Î Â}
3 Vertex coordinates: (0, 3)
2 Axis of symmetry
1 equation: x = 0
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x y-intercept: 3 is the
1
y-coordinate of the point
2 where the curve crosses
3 the y-axis
4
Maximum value at 3
5
Minimum value does not
6
exist

b) y
Answer:
7
6
D: {x|x Î Â}
5 R: {y|y ³ 2, y Î Â}
4 Vertex: (1, 2)
3
Axis of symmetry
2 equation: x = 1
1
y-intercept: 3
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x Maximum value does not
1
exist
2
3
Minimum value is 2
4
5
c) y
Answer:
6
5
D: {x|x Î Â}
4 R: {y|y ³ -5, y Î Â}
3 Vertex: (4, -5)
2
Axis of symmetry
1 equation: x = 4
4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 x y-intercept: 5
1
2
Maximum value: none
3 Minimum value: -5
4
5
6

minimum value.
a) f ( x ) = x 2 − 4 x − 5
b) f : x → −x 2 − 2 x + 8
Answer:
a) x -2 -1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6
y 7 0 -5 -8 -9 -8 -5 0 7
Domain: {x|x Î Â}
Range: {y|y ³ -9, y Î Â}
Vertex: (2, -9)
Axis of symmetry equation: x = 2
Zeros: -1 and 5
y-intercept: -5
Maximum value does not exist
Minimum value is at -9

b) x -5 -4 -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3
y -7 0 5 8 9 8 5 0 -7
y
 9
 8
7
6
 5 
4
3
2
1
 
9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 x
1
2
3
4
5
6
 7 
8
9
Domain: {x|x Î Â}
Vertex: (-1, 9)
Axis of symmetry equation: x = -1
Zeros: -4 and 2
y-intercept: 8
Maximum value at 9
Minimum value does not exist

a) y = x2 - 2
b) y = x2 + 4x - 1
c) y = -x2 – 4x - 3
d) y = x2 + 2
e) y = -x2 + 4x + 1
f) y = -x2 + 2
i) y ii) y
2 4
1 2
4 2 2 4 x 4 2 2 4 x
1 2
2 4
iii) y iv) y
4 4
2 2
4 2 2 4 x 4 2 2 4 x
2 2
4 4

v) y vi) y
4 2
2 1
4 2 2 4 x 4 2 2 4 x
2 1
4 2
Answers:
a) and ii)
b) and vi)
c) and v)
d) and iii)
e) and i)
f) and iv)

symmetry is x = 2.
Answer:
Since the axis of symmetry for the graph of the function is the line
x = 2, and since the point (4, 3) is 2 units to the right of it, then the
reflection point must be 2 units to the left of it. Thus, (0, 3) is the
required point.

y
6
5
4
(0, 3)
3  (4, 3)
2 2
2
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
1
2
3
4
5 
x=2
6
Answer:
(-1, 6) is 3 units left of the axis of symmetry, so the reflection point
must be 3 units to the right of the axis. Thus, (5, 6) is the required
point.
y
 6 
original
5
point reflection
(1, 6) 4 point
(5, 6)
3 
V(2, 3)
2
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
1
2
3 axis of
symmetry
4
5
6

Answer:
The axis of symmetry lies halfway between the reflection image
points. Therefore, the point halfway between them is at (2, 2) and the
equation of the axis of symmetry is x = 2.
y
x=2
6
5
4
3 (0, 2)  (2, 2)  (4, 2)

2
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
1
2
3
4
5
6

Part A: BrainPower
3 minutes?
2. Factor: x2 - 9
(25, -1).
8. Simplify. (9x2 - 7x + 5) - (2x2 - 6x - 3)
Answers:
1. 540 mL (There are 60 ´ 3 = 180 seconds in 3 minutes. 3 mL ´ 180 seconds
= 540 mL.)
2. (x - 3)(x + 3)
3. 3(-1)3 - (-1)(2) = -3 + 2 = -1
4. 70
5. 9 (3 choices of bun ´ 3 choices of burgers = 9 choices)
 2 2 2 2 
6. 145  d = ( 25 − 26 ) + (−1 − (−13)) = (−1) + (12 ) = 1 + 144 = 145 
 
7. -9x > -2
(Recall: When you divide by a negative, you need to flip the inequality
sign.
−2 2
x< ;x< 
−9 9
8. 9x2 - 7x + 5 - 2x2 + 6x + 3 = 7x2 - x + 8

1 2
4
1 2
4

Answers:
a) True, because it rearranges to
y = -x2 + 1, which is quadratic.
b) False, because it has no squared term 5
and so is linear. The equation
t(x) = 1 - x is a linear function whereas
t(x) = 1 - x2 is a quadratic function.
c) True, because there is an x2 term.
d) True, since the axis of symmetry is the y-axis.
1 2
e) False, since the graph of y = x2 is narrower than y  x . The graph of
4
1 2
y x is a wider parabola than the graph of y = x2.
4

f) True, because the value of a is 5, which is greater than 1.
g) False, because when a > 0 the parabola opens upward. The graph
1 1
y  x 2 of is a parabola that opens upward or the graph of y = − x 2
4 4
is a parabola that opens downward.
h) True, because when a < 0, the parabola opens downward.
i) True, because the function has a maximum value when the function
opens downward.
j) False, because the minimum value is not defined when the parabola
opens downward and continues indefinitely. The minimum value of
the function pictured at the right cannot be stated.
k) False, because the range of the function is {y|y £ 4}.
1 2
y x y  x2 y = −3x 2
3
Vertex (0, 0) (0, 0) (0, 0)
Equation of axis of
x=0 x=0 x=0
symmetry
Domain {x|x Î Â} {x|x Î Â} {x|x Î Â}
Range {y|y ³ 0} {y|y ³ 0} {y|y £ 0}
x-intercepts or zeros 0 0 0
Direction of opening upward upward downward
Maximum y-value none none 0
cannot be
Minimum y-value 0 0
determined
y-intercept 0 0 0

a) y = 4 x 2
1 2
b) y = x
2
c) y = −7 x 2
Answers:
a) y = x2 is stretched vertically by a factor of 4; each coordinate (x, y) on
the original curve becomes (x, 4y) on the new curve.
1
b) y = x2 is compressed vertically by multiplying each y-coordinate by .
2
c) y = x2 is stretched vertically by a factor of 7 and reflected over the
x-axis.

Answers:
a) upward
b) downward
c) minimum
d) maximum

y Answers:
a) y = −2 x 2
2 a) and 3)
2
b) y = 1.6 x b) and 1)
1
2
c) y = −2 π x c) and 4)
d) and 2)
d) y = 6 x 2
x
3
4

Answer:
Substitute in x = 1, y = -4 into y = ax2.
-4 = a(1)2
-4 = a
Therefore, the equation is y = -4x2.
y
 (2, 6)

Answer:
A point on the curve is (2, 6). The vertex is (0, 0). The equation is y = ax2.
\ Substitute x = 2, y = 6
2
6 = a (2)
6 = 4a
6
=a
4
3
=a
2
3 2
y= x
2
The reflection in the x-axis of this parabola will have the same size and
3
vertex but will open downward. Its equation is y = − x 2 .
2
a) The graph of y = 3x2 + 4 is the graph of y = 3x2 shifted downward 4
units.
downward 3 units.
1 2
2
e) An equation of the axis of symmetry of the graph of y = x2 - 1 is x = -1.
h) The maximum value of {(x, y)|y = –2x2 + 3} is -2.
1 2
4

Answers:
a) False. The graph of y = 3x2 + 4 is the graph of y = 3x2 shifted upward
4 units or the graph of y = 3x2 - 4 is the graph of y = 3x2 shifted
downwards 4 units.
b) True
c) True
d) True
e) False. An equation of the axis of symmetry of y = x2 - 1 is x = 0.
f) False. The graph of y = x2 - 1 opens upward or the graph of y = -x2 - 1
opens downward.
g) True
h) False. The maximum value of y = -2x2 + 3 is 3.
i) True
j) True. f(–x) = 2(-x)2 + 3
= 2x2 + 3
Thus, f(-x) = f(x).
k) True
l) False. The graph of y = x2 + 2 and y = -x2 + 2 are mirror reflections of
each other in the line y = 2.
m) True
n) True

value.
a) a > 0 and q > 0
b) a > 0 and q < 0
c) a < 0 and q > 0
d) a < 0 and q < 0
Answers:
a) The graph opens upward and the minimum value, q, is positive.
b) The graph opens upward and the minimum value of q is negative.
c) The graph opens downward and the maximum value of q is positive.
d) The graph opens downward and the maximum value of q is negative.

Answer:
Recall the key coordinates of y = x2: from the vertex at (0, 0), we move over
1 and up 1 to mark (1, 1). Then from the vertex, move over 2 and up 4 to
mark (2, 4), then over 3 and up 9 from the vertex to mark (3, 9).
Now, let’s transform the points (0, 0), (1, 1), (2, 4), and (3, 9) for the equation:
y = -3x2 + 1.
The vertex is (0, 1). The curve opens down. There is a vertical stretch of 3.
On your graph paper, starting at (0, 1), move right 1 and down 1(3) = 3
to mark the point (1, -2). Then, move right 2 from the vertex and down
4(3) = 12 to mark the point (2, -11). Then, right 3 from the vertex and down
9(3) = 27 to mark the point (3, -26).
Now reflect these points in the axis of symmetry to get (-1, -2) and
(-2, -11). Now draw the graph and make a table of values from the graph.
y
1
2 1 1 2 x
 2 
 11 
x 2 1 0 -1 -2
y -11 -2 1 -2 -11

Part A: BrainPower
1 2
2. Evaluate: +
5 3
5. Factor: x2 - 3x - 28
 55 × 57 3
6. Simplify:  2

 5 
2- 8
10 7
Answers:
1. (a + b)(a + b) = a2 + 2ab + b2
3 10 13
2. + =
15 15 15
3. $2.23 ($16.27 + $1.50 = $17.77; $20.00 - $17.77 = $2.23)
 333 
4. 111  
 3 
5. (x - 7)(x + 4)
 5 3 3 
5 × 57   512  10 3
6. 5 30 
 =  = (5 ) = 5 30 
 52   52  
 

7. 2 7 − 56  2 − 8 7 2 7 − 56 2 7 − 56

 ⋅ = =
70  10 7 7 10 ⋅ 7 70
2 7 − 2 14 7 − 14 
or or 

70 35 
 y − y1 −14 − (−7 ) 7 
8. −1  m = 2 ;m= = − = −1
 x 2 − x1 9−2 7 
1
2
1
is x  .
2
1 2
2
is y = -3.
1 2
3
2
y = -3(x - 2) .
1 2
4
1 2
3

Answers:
a) True
b) False. The graph of y = (x - 7)2 is the graph of y = x2 shifted 7 units
to the right or the graph of y = (x + 7)2 is the graph of y = x2 shifted
7 units to the left.
c) True
d) False. The vertex of the graph of y = 2(x - 1)2 is (1, 0) or the vertex of
the graph of y = 2(x - 2)2 is (2, 0).
e) False. The equation of the axis of symmetry of the graph of
1 2
y = ( x − 3) is x = 3 or the equation of the axis of symmetry of the
2
2
 1 1
graph of y = 3 x −  is x = .
 2 2
1 2
y = − ( x + 3) is x = −3.
2
1 2
g) False. The graph of y = − ( x − 2 ) is a wider parabola than the graph
3
of y = -3(x - 2) or the graph of y = -3(x - 2)2 is a narrower parabola
2
1 2
than the graph of y = − ( x − 2 ) .
3
h) True
i) True
j) True
2
g ( x − 4 ) = (( x − 4 ) + 4 )
2
= (x)
= x2
2
g (−x − 4 ) = ((−x − 4 ) + 4 )
2
= (−x )
= x2
Thus, g ( x − 4 ) = g (−x − 4 ) .

a) y = (x - 4)2
b) y = x2 + 4
c) y = -(x + 2)2
d) y = -(x - 3)2
i) y ii) y
8
2 4 6 8 x
2 6
4 4
6 2
8
2 4 6 8 x
y y
iii) iv)
8
6 4 2 2 x
2 6
4 4
6 2
8
4 2 2 4 x
Answers:
a) ii
b) iv
c) iii
d) i

1
a) f : x → ( x − 4 )2
2
2
b) y = −2 ( x − 1)
2
c) f ( x ) = 2 ( x + 1)

Answers:
1
a) y = x2 compressed vertically by multiplying the y-values by and
2
shifted horizontally 4 units to the right.
y
6 1
y = (x  4)2
2
y = x2 5
4
3
2
4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 x
1
2
3
4
5
6
1
f :x → ( x − 4 )2
2
 1 
Transformation: (x, y) →  x + 4 , y 
 2 

y = x2 f(x)
(2, 4) (6, 2)
 1
(1, 1)  5, 
 2
(0, 0) (4, 0)
 1
(-1, 1)  3, 
 2
(-2, 4) (2, 2)

b) y = x2 stretched vertically by a factor of 2, reflected over the x-axis, and
shifted horizontally 1 unit to the right.
y
4
3
2

6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
y = -2(x - 1)2
Transformation: (x, y) ® (x + 1, -2y)
y = x2 f(x)
(2, 4) (3, -8)
(1, 1) (2, -2)
(0, 0) (1, 0)
(-1, 1) (0, -2)
(-2, 4) (-1, -8)

c) y = x2 stretched vertically by a factor of 2 and shifted horizontally 1
unit to the left.
y
8
5
4
3
2
1

6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
1
2
3
4
f(x) = 2(x + 1)2

Transformation: (x, y) ® (x - 1, 2y)
y = x2 f(x)
(2, 4) (1, 8)
(1, 1) (0, 2)
(0, 0) (-1, 0)
(-1, 1) (-2, 2)
(-2, 4) (-3, 8)

Answer:
(a) (b) (c) (d)

4
y = (x + 2)2 y = (x - 1)2 y = 2(x - 3)2 y = ( x + 6 )2
3
Vertex (-2, 0) (1, 0) (3, 0) (-6, 0)

Equation of axis
x = -2 x=1 x=3 x = -6
of symmetry
Range {y|y ³ 0} {y|y ³ 0} {y|y ³ 0} {y|y ³ 0}
x-intercepts -2 1 3 -6
y-intercept* 4 1 18 48
Direction of opening up up up up
Maximum value none none none none
Minimum value 0 0 0 0
* Note:
To find the y-intercepts, let x = 0 in the equation and solve for y.
a) y = (x + 2)2 = (0 + 2)2 = 4
b) y = (x - 1)2 = (0 - 1)2 = 1
c) y = 2(x - 3)2 = 2(0 - 3)2 = 2(9) = 18
4 4 4
d) y = ( x + 6 )2 = (0 + 6 )2 = ( 36 ) = 48
3 3 3

Part A: BrainPower
 3   1   1   5 
3. Evaluate:  − + + 
 4   2   6   3 

Answers:
1. 9 dozen (12 ´ 8 = 96; 12 ´ 9 = 108; If you make 8 dozen, you will only have
96 cupcakes. Therefore, you need to make 9 dozen to make sure you have
enough cupcakes.)
2. 806 (13 ´ 62 = 10 ´ 62 + 3 ´ 62 = 620 + 186 = 806)
25  9 6   2 20  3 22 25 
3.  − + + = + = 
12  12 12   12 12  12 12 12 
4. 2
5. Down (The a-value is negative.)
6. 1, 2, 4, 5, 8, 10, 20, 25, 40, 50, 100, 125, 200, 250, 500, and 1000.
7. 0.0807
8. Prime number

y = -3(x - 6)2 + 1 is x = 1.
2
 1
g) The equation of the axis of symmetry of the graph of y = 3 x −  + 4
 2
1
is x  .
2
x = -2.
Answers:
a) False. The vertex of the graph of y = (x - 4)2 + 2 is (4, 2) or the vertex of
the graph of y = (x + 4)2 + 2 is (-4, 2).
b) False. The vertex of the graph of y = 3(x - 5)2 - 2 is (5, -2) or the vertex
of the graph of y = 3(x - 5)2 + 2 is (5, 2).
c) False. The vertex of the graph of y = 2x2 + 7 is (0, 7), or the vertex of the
graph of y = 2(x - 2)2 + 7 is (2, 7).
d) True.
e) False. The vertex of the graph of y = -2(x - 3)2 is (3, 0), or the vertex of
the graph of y = -2(x + 2)2 + 3 is (-2, 3).

y = -3(x - 6)2 + 1 is x = 6, or the equation of the axis of symmetry of
the graph of y = -3(x - 1)2 + 1 is x = 1.
g) True.
h) True.
i) False. The graph of y = 4(x - 3)2 - 1 opens upward, or the graph of
y = -4(x - 3)2 - 1 opens downward.
j) True.
k) True.
l) False. The minimum value of y = 3(x - 5)2 - 2 is -2.

1 2
a) y = 3x 2 e) y − 1 = ( x + 2 )
3
−1 2 2
b) y = x f) y + 1 = −3 ( x − 2 )
3
2 1 2
c) y = 3 ( x + 2 ) g) y = − ( x − 2 )
3
2 1 2
d) y + 1 = 3 ( x + 2 ) h) y − 1 = − ( x − 2 )
3
i) y ii) y
6 6
4 4
2 2
6 4 2 2 4 6 x 6 4 2 2 4 6 x
2 2
4 4
6 6

iii) y iv) y
6 6
4 4
2 2
6 4 2 2 4 6 x 6 4 2 2 4 6 x
2 2
4 4
6 6
v) y vi) y
6 6
4 4
2 2
6 4 2 2 4 6 x 6 4 2 2 4 6 x
2 2
4 4
6 6
vii) y viii) y
6 6
4 4
2 2
6 4 2 2 4 6 x 6 4 2 2 4 6 x
2 2
4 4
6 6
Answers:
a) and iii) e) and i)
b) and v) f) and vii)
c) and viii) g) and vi)
d) and ii) h) and iv)

(a) (b) (c) (d)
y = (x - 1)2 + 2 y = -(x - 1)2 - 2 y = (x + 1)2 + 2 y = -(x + 1)2 - 2
Vertex (1, 2) (1, -2) (-1, 2) (-1, -2)

Equation of axis of
x=1 x=1 x = -1 x = -1
symmetry
Range {y|y ³ 2} {y|y £ -2} {y|y ³ 2} {y|y £ -2}
y-intercept* 3 -3 3 -3
Direction of opening up down up down
Maximum value none -2 none -2
Minimum value 2 none 2 none
* The y-intercepts can be found by letting x = 0 and solving for y.

a) y = (x - 1)2 + 2 b) y = -(x - 1)2 - 2
y = (0 - 1)2 + 2 y = -(0 - 1)2 - 2
y = 1 + 2 y = -1 - 2
y = 3 y = -3
c) y = (x + 1)2 + 2 d) y = -(x + 1)2 - 2
y = (0 + 1)2 + 2 y = -(0 + 1)2 - 2
y = 1 + 2 y = -1 - 2
y = 3 y = -3

2
a) y = 2 ( x + 1)
1 2
b) y = − ( x − 1) + 6
2
2
c) y = 2 ( x + 6 ) − 10
2
d) y = 6 ( x − 1) + 8
Answers:
a) Direction of opening: up
Vertex: (-1, 0)
b) Direction of opening: down
Vertex: (1, 6)
Wider than y = x2
c) Direction of opening: up
Vertex: (-6, -10)
d) Direction of opening: up
Vertex: (1, 8)

2
a) y = 2 ( x + 1)
1 2
b) y = − ( x − 1) + 6
2
2
c) y = 2 ( x + 6 ) − 10
2
d) y = 6 ( x − 1) + 8
Answers:
a) y = x2 is stretched vertically by a factor of 2 and shifted horizontally to
the left by 1 unit.
Vertex: (-1, 0) y
8
Axis of symmetry: x = -1 7
5
4
3
2
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
1
2
3
4

b) y = x2 is compressed vertically by a factor of 2, reflected over the x-axis,
shifted horizontally to the right one unit and up 6 units.
Vertex: (1, 6) y
8
7
(1, 6)
6
5
4
3
2
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
1
2
3
4
c) y = x2 is stretched vertically by a factor of 2, shifted left 6 units and

down 10 units.
Vertex: (-6, -10)
Axis of symmetry: x = -6
y
4
10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 x
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
(6, 10) 10

d) y = x2 is stretched vertically by a factor of 6 shifted 1 unit right and
8 units up.
Vertex: (1, 8)
y
15
14
13
12
11
10
9
8
(1, 8)
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 x

what that value is.
2
 1
a) f ( x ) = − x +  + 2
 2
2
b) y = 2 ( x + 4 ) − 2
2
c) g ( x ) = −3 ( x − 2 ) − 1
1
d) y = 
 ( x + 1)2 + 4 

2

Answers:
a) Maximum value at 2
Range: {y|y £ 2}
2
 1
f ( x ) = − x +  + 2
 2
let x = 0
2
 1
f (0 ) = − 0 +  + 2
 2
1
f (0 ) = − + 2
4
3
f (0) = 1
4
3
The y-intercept is 1 .
4
b) Minimum value at -2
Range: {y|y ³ -2}
y = 2(x + 4)2 - 2
let x = 0
y = 2(0 + 4)2 - 2
y = (2)(16) - 2
y = 30
c) Maximum value at -1
Range: {y|y £ -1}
g(x) = -3(x - 2)2 - 1
let x = 0
g(0) = -3(0 - 2)2 - 1
g(0) = -3(4) - 1
g(0) = -13
The y-intercept is -13.

1
d) Remove the square brackets first by distributing the through the
2
1
brackets to get y = ( x + 1)2 + 2.
2
Minimum value at 2
Range: {y|y ³ 2}
1
y= 
 ( x + 1)2 + 4 

2
let x = 0
1
y= 
 (0 + 1)2 + 4 

2
1
y= [1 + 4 ]
2
5
y=
2
5
The y-intercept is .
2
 3
 2
Answer:
y = (x - 2)2 + q
3
Substitute x = 1 and y = into the above equation.
2
3 2
= (1 − 2 ) + q
2
3
= 1+q
2
3 2
− =q
2 2
1 q represents the minimum value because the
=q
2 parabola opens up.
1
Therefore, the minimum value is .
2

following graph.
Answer:
To use Method #1, you need to find the coordinates of the vertex and one
other point. The coordinates of the vertex are (2, -6), and one other point
is (4, -4).
Now, in vertex form, the coordinates of the vertex are (p, q).
(p, q) = (2, -6)
\ p=2
q = -6
function:
y = a(x - 2)2 - 6
You also have another point on the curve, (4, -4). You can substitute these
-4 = a(4 - 2)2 - 6
-4 = a(2)2 - 6
-4 + 6 = 4a
2 = 4a
1
=a
2
1
Therefore, the quadratic function representing this graph is y = ( x − 2 )2 − 6.
2

To use Method #2, you need to compare this graph with the graph of
y = x2. The vertex is located at (2, -6). Therefore, p = 2 and q = -6. In other
words, this graph is shifted two units to the right and six units down.
The graph opens up, so the value of a is greater than 0.
The graph is wider than the graph of y = x2. Therefore, 0 < a < 1.
To determine the value of a, compare the vertical distances of points on
this new parabola to the graph of y = x2.
Compare the point (2, 4) on y = x2 to the point (4, -4) on the translated
parabola. Since the vertical distance from the vertex is half as much, the
1
y-value is halved, and the value of a = .
2
1
The quadratic function in vertex form is y = ( x − 2 )2 − 6.
2

graph.
Answer:
The vertex is at (-2, 5). Therefore, p = -2 and q = 5.
y = a(x + 2)2 + 5
Another point is (2, -35). Substitute these values into the equation
y = a(x + 2)2 + 5 to find the value of a.
2
−35 = a ( 2 + 2 ) + 5
2
−35 − 5 = a ( 4 )
−40 = 16 a
−40
=a
16
−5
=a
2
−5
Therefore, the quadratic function is y = (x + 2 )2 + 5.
2

a) y = -2(x - 3)2 - 6
b) y = 4x2 - 1
c) y = 6x2
d) y = -(x + 1)2
Answers:
a) In this quadratic function, a = -2 and q = -6. Therefore, both a and
q are less than zero. This means that the corresponding graph of the
quadratic function has no x-intercepts.
b) In this quadratic function, a = 4 and q = -1. Therefore, a is greater than
zero while q is less than zero. This means that the corresponding graph
of the quadratic function has two x-intercepts.
c) In this quadratic function, a = 6 and q = 0. Therefore, a is greater than
zero while q equals zero. This means that the corresponding graph of
the quadratic function has one x-intercept.
d) In this quadratic function, a = -1 and q = 0. Therefore, a is less than
zero while q = 0. There are no rules for this situation on the chart
presented in this lesson. However, q = 0. Therefore, this graph sits
on the x-axis. Also, this graph is a reflection through the x-axis of
the graph y = (x + 1)2. The graph of y = (x + 1)2 has one x-intercept.
Therefore, if you reflect this graph, which is located on the x-axis,
over the x-axis, the resulting graph, y = -(x + 1)2, will still have one
x-intercept.
Answer:
a) y = -2(x - 3)2 - 6
Vertex (3, -6) and a is negative
Opens down
y
Sketch:
\ no x-intercepts

b) y = 4x2 - 1
Vertex (0, -1) and a is positive
Opens up
y
Sketch:
\ two x-intercepts
c) y = 6x2
Vertex (0, 0) and a is positive
Opens up
y
Sketch:
\ one x-intercept
d) y = -(x + 1)2
Vertex (-1, 0) and a is negative
Opens down
y
Sketch:
\ one x-intercept

Part A: BrainPower
1. Factor: x2 - 10x + 25
6. Simplify: (x2 – 4x + 1)(2x2)
Answers:
1. (x - 5)(x - 5) or (x - 5)2
2. 3 hours and 44 minutes (You used your computer for 15 minutes +
6 hours + 25 minutes + 1 hour + 36 minutes = 7 hours and 76 minutes =
8 hours and 16 minutes. 12 hours - 8 hours and 16 minutes = 3 hours and
44 minutes.)
3. -37 (5(-8) + 4 + 12 - 13 = -40 + 16 - 13 = -53 + 16 = -37)
4. 162, 486
5. Yes (25% of $60 = $15; $60 - $15 = $45)
6. 2x4 - 8x3 + 2x2
 5   x1 + x2 y1 + y 2   2 + (−7 ) 6 + (−4 )   5 2   5 
7. − , 1M = , = , =− , =− , 1
 2   2 2   2 2   2 2   2 
8. 0

Answer:
x2 + 5x + 4

Answer:
x2 x x
x 1 1

a) x2 + 8x + k b) x2 - 8x + k
c) x2 + 20x + k d) x2 - 2x + k
e) x2 - 5x + k f) x2 + 7x + k
Answers:
a) x 2 + 8x + k
 8 2
k =  = 16
2
2
x 2 + 8x + 16 = ( x + 4 )

b) x 2 − 8x + k
−8 2
k =  = 16
 2 
2
x 2 − 8x + 16 = ( x − 4 )
c) x 2 + 20 x + k
 20 2
k =  = 100
2
2
x 2 + 20 x + 100 = ( x + 10 )
d) x 2 − 2 x + k
−2 2
k =  = 1
 2 
2
x 2 − 2 x + 1 = ( x − 1)
e) x 2 − 5x + k
−5 2 25
k =  =
 2  4
2
25  5
x 2 − 5x + = x − 
4  2
f) x 2 + 7 x + k
 7 2 49
k =  =
2 4
2
49  7
x2 + 7x + = x + 
4  2

2
a) x 2 − 8x = a (x − p ) + p
2
b) x 2 + 5x = a (x − p ) + p
1 2 2
c) x + 8x + 4 = a ( x − p ) + p
2
Answers:
Each solution shows a different method for completing the square.
Whichever one you choose to use is fine. All of them will be used
throughout the rest of the module, but you only need to know and use
one.
2
a) x 2 − 8x = a (x − p ) + q
let y = x 2 − 8x
y + 16 = x 2 − 8x + 16
2
y + 16 = ( x − 4 )
2
y = ( x − 4 ) − 16
Thus, (x - 4)2 - 16 = a(x - p)2 + q

and a = 1, p = 4, q = -16
2
b) x 2 + 5x = a (x − p ) + q
let y = x 2 + 5x
 25 25 
y = x 2 + 5 x + − 
 4 4
2
 5 25
y = x +  −
 2 4
2
 5 25 2
Thus,  x +  − = a (x − p) + q
 2 4
5 25
and a = 1, p = − , q = −
2 4

1 2 2
c) x + 8x + 4 = a ( x − p ) + q
2
1 2
let y = x + 8x + 4
2
1 2
y=
2
(x + 16x )+ 4
1 2 1
y=
2
( x + 16 x + 64 ) + 4 − 64 
2
1
y= ( x + 8)2 + 4 − 32
2
1
y= ( x + 8)2 − 28
2
1 2
Thus, ( x + 8)2 − 28 = a (x − p ) + q
2
1
and a = , p = −8 , q = −28
2

a) f(x) = -x2 + 6x
b) f : x ® 2x2 + 5x - 3
c) y = -4x - x2
symmetry.

Answers:
a) f(x) = -x2 + 6x
i) f(x) = -x2 + 6x
f(x) = -1(x2 - 6x) Factor out -1 to make sure that the
coefficient of x2 is 1.
f(x) = -1(x2 - 6x + 9) - 9(-1) Complete the square.
f(x) = -1(x - 3)2 + 9 Factor and simplify.
ii) V(3, 9); equation of axis of symmetry: x = 3
iv) Maximum value of 9.
b) f : x ® 2x2 + 5x - 3
i) For convenience, replace f : x ® with y.
y = 2 x 2 + 5x − 3
 5  Factor out 2 to make the
y = 2 x 2 + x − 3
 2  coefficient of x2 equal to 1.
 5 25  25
y = 2 x 2 + x + − 3 − ( 2 ) Complete the square.
 2 16  16
2
 5 25 Simplify.
y = 2 x +  − 3 −
 4 8
2
 5 49
y = 2 x +  −
 4 8
2
 5 49
f : x → 2 x +  −
 4 8
 5 49  5
ii) V− , − ; equation of axis of symmetry: x = −
 4 8 4
 49 
iii) Range: y | y ≥ − 
 8
49
iv) Minimum value of -
8

c) y = -4x - x2
i) y = −x 2 − 4 x Rearrange.
y = −( x 2 + 4 x ) Factor out (-1).

2  4 2  Complete the square and add -4
y − 4 = −
 x + 4 x +  to each side.
 2  
2
y = −(x + 2 ) + 4 Factor and add 4.
ii) V(-2, 4); equation of axis of symmetry: x = -2

iv) Maximum value of 4
form y = a(x – p)2 + q are written below. The coordinates of the vertex are
y = ax 2 + bx + c Given
y − c = ax 2 + bx Subtract c
y−c ax 2 b Divide by a
= + x
a a a
y−c b Simplify
= x2 + x
a a
2
y−c  b  2 b  b 2
+  = x + x +  Complete the square
a  2a  a  2a 
2
y−c b2  b
+ 2 = x +  Factor
a 4a  2a 
y−c  b
2
b2 b2
= x +  − 2 Subtract
a  2a  4a 4 a2
2
 b b2
y − c = a x +  − a ⋅ 2 Multiply by a
 2a  4a
2
 b b2
y = a x +  − +c Add c and simplify
 2a  4a
2
 b 4 ac − b 2
y = a x +  + Simplify
 2a  4a
 b 4 ac − b 2 
V− ,  Write the vertex
 2a 4a 

b
You can use x = − for finding the x-coordinate at the vertex if the
2a
given equation is in the form y = ax2 + bx + c. You can substitute that
value into the quadratic equation to find the corresponding y-coordinate.
You can write this formula on your resource sheet.
x2 + 8x + 10 = y

x2 + 8x = y - 10
x2 + 8x + 64 = y - 10 + 64
(x + 4)2 = y + 54
y = (x + 4)2 - 54
Answer:
When completing the square, Dominic forgot to divide eight by two before
squaring. Therefore, Dominic added 64 to both sides when he should have
added 16 to both sides. The correct completion of the square is:
x2 + 8x = y - 10
x2 + 8x + 16 = y - 10 + 16
(x + 4)2 = y + 6
y = (x + 4)2 - 6
Verification:
x2 + 8x + 10 = y
(x2 + 8x ) + 10 = y
(x2 + 8x + 16) + 10 - 16 = y
(x + 4)2 - 6 = y
This is the same answer as the one obtained above.

Answer:
A quadratic function is a function in the form ax2 + bx + c = y.
If you multiply out the function a(x - p)2 + q = y, you get:
a(x2 - 2px + p2) + q = y
ax2 - 2apx + (ap2 + q) = y
Therefore, when expanded, the quadratic function in vertex form is now
in the form ax2 + bx + c = y, where b = -2ap and c = ap2 + q.

Part A: BrainPower
2. Multiply: (3x + 4)(2x - 7)
8. Multiply. (3x2 + 7)(8x - 4)
Answers:
1. 6 pizzas (15 ´ 2 = 30 pieces of pizza; 12 ´ 3 = 36 pieces of pizza;
30 + 36 = 66 pieces of pizza; 6 ´ 12 = 72, so you need 6 pizzas but will
have some left)
2. 6x2 - 13x - 28
3. 59 (4(16) + 4 - 9 = 64 + 4 - 9 = 59)
4. 12 600 (10% of 42,000 = 4200; 30% of 42,000 = 4200 ´ 3 = 12 600)
5. 52 units (side length = 169  13 ; perimeter = 13 ´ 4 = 52 units)
6. 4x2(x - 2)(x - 3) [4x4 - 20x3 + 24x2 = 4x2(x2 - 5x + 6), which factors

further to 4x2(x - 2)(x - 3)]
7 7 4
7. −  3 y = −7 x + 4 ; y = − x + 
3 3 3
8. 24x3 - 12x2 + 56x - 28

a) x = -1, x = 3, a = 1
b) x = -4, x = -2, a = -1
i) vertex
iii) y-intercept
v) maximum value
vi) minimum value
Answers:
a) i) The x-intercepts are -1 and 3.
The x-coordinate of the vertex is the average of the x-intercepts:
−1 + 3 2
= =1
2 2
The equation for the function is y = a(x - 1)2 + q.
The value for a is given as 1. One point on the curve is at an
x-intercept—say, x = 3. Using the point (3, 0), solve for q.
0 = 1(3 - 1)2 + q
0 = 4 + q
-4 = q
The function is y = (x - 1)2 - 4.
The vertex is V(1, -4).

iii) y-intercept
Let x = 0 to find y-intercept for y = (x - 1)2 - 4
y = (0 - 1)2 - 4
y=1-4
y = -3
iv) Opens upward because a is positive
v) Maximum value is not defined
vi) Minimum value corresponding to the y-coordinate of the
vertex = -4
D: {x|x Î Â} (-¥, ¥)
R: {y|y ³ -4, y Î Â} [-4, ¥)
Graph
y
6
5
4
3
2
 
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
1
2
3
4 
5
6

b) i) The x-intercepts are -4 and -2.
x-coordinate at vertex is the average of the x-intercepts:
−4 + (−2 ) −6
= = −3
2 2
The equation for the function is y = a(x + 3)2 + q.
Using the x-intercept to get a point on the curve, solve for q.
x-intercept = -4
point (-4, 0) and a = -1
y = a(x + 3)2 + q
0 = -1(-4 + 3)2 + q
0 = -1 + q
1=q
The function is y = -(x + 3)2 + 1.
The vertex is V(-3, 1).
iii) y-intercept
Let x = 0 for y = -(x + 3)2 + 1
y = -(0 + 3)2 + 1
y = -9 + 1
y = -8
iv) Opens downward, since a is negative
v) Maximum value is 1
vi) No minimum value
D: {x|x Î Â} (-¥, ¥)
R: {y|y £ 1, y Î Â} (-¥, 1]

Graph
y
3
2
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

a) y = x2 + 6x - 7
b) y = x2 - 4x - 60
c) y = 2x2 + 8x - 10
d) y = 3x2 + 24x + 21
find the following:
b
2a
find q

Answers:
a) y = x2 + 6x - 7
-b
2a
a=1 b=6
−6
p= = −3
2 ( 1)
q = (-3)2 + 6(-3) - 7
q = 9 - 18 - 7
q = -16
V(-3, -16)
iii) y-intercept:
y = x2 + 6x - 7
y = (0)2 + 6(0) - 7
y = -7
iv) Because a > 0, the parabola opens upward.
value of -16.
vi) D: (-¥, ¥)
R: [-16, ¥)

b) y = x2 - 4x - 60
-b
2a
a=1 b = -4
−(−4 ) 4
p= = =2
2 ( 1) 2
q = (2)2 - 4(2) - 60
q = 4 - 8 - 60
q = -64
V(2, -64)
iii) y-intercept:
y = x2 - 4x - 60
y = (0)2 - 4(0) - 60
y = -60
iv) Opens upward, since a > 0
value at -64.
vi) D: (-¥, ¥)
R: [-64, ¥)

c) y = 2x2 + 8x - 10
b
i) x-coordinate of vertex = -
2a
a=2 b=8
−8
p= = −2
2 (2)
q = 2(-2)2 + 8(-2) - 10
q = 2(4) - 16 - 10
q = -18
V(-2, -18)
iii) y-intercept:
y = 2x2 + 8x - 10
y = 2(0)2 + 8(0) - 10
y = -10
vi) D: (-¥, ¥)
R: [-18, ¥)

d) y = 3x2 + 24x + 21
-b
2a
a=3 b = 24
−24
p= = −4
2 ( 3)
q = 3(-4)2 + 24(-4) + 21
q = 48 - 96 + 21
q = -27
V(-4, -27)
iii) y-intercept:
substitute x = 0 into
y = 3x2 + 24x + 21
y = 3(0)2 + 24(0) + 21
y = 21
vi) D: (-¥, ¥)
R: [-27, ¥)

Part A: BrainPower
history?
3. Factor: 2x(x - 4) + 3(x - 4)
 30   75 
5 y
6. Estimate: 122
Answers:
6000 3000 1500 
1. $250 (Two years = 24 months; = = = $250 
24 12 6 
 222 
2. 74%  82 + 63 + 77 = 222 ; = 74 
 3 
3. (2x + 3)(x - 4)
4. Domain: {x | x Î Â}
 30 75 
5. −9  − = 6 − 15 = −9 
5 5 
6. »11 (122 is between 121 and 144; therefore, 122 is between 11 and 12, but
closer to 11)
7. 6300 millimetres (1000 millimetres in 1 metre; 6.3 ´ 1000 = 6300

millimetres)
8. 6x2y4z.

81
h = −3t 2 + 9t +
4
Answer:
81
h (t ) = −3t 2 + 9t +
4
81 −3 2 
2 −3 2 
h (t ) − + (−3)  = −3
 t − 3t + 
4  2    2  
2
81 27  3
h (t ) − − = −3t − 
4 4  2
2
 3 108
h (t ) = −3t −  +
 2 4
2
 3
h(t ) = −3t −  + 27
 2
The curve opens downward.
The maximum height of 27 m is reached in 1.5 seconds.

Answer:
Let x = width of the swimming area in metres
620 - 2x = length of the swimming area in metres
Let A(x) represent the area of the rectangle.
beach
x x
620  2x
Remember, you only need three sides roped off.

\ Area: A(x) = x(620 - 2x)
= 620x - 2x2
The maximum area occurs at the vertex of the quadratic function because
the parabola opens down. You need only find the x-coordinate of the
vertex.
−b 620
x= =− = 155 m
2a 2 (−2 )
When the width is 155 m, the length is 620 - 2(155) = 310 m.
The dimensions of the swimming area are 155 m ´ 310 m.

Answer:
Number of Yield per Annual
Trees Tree Yield
originally 65 1500 65(1500)
one additional tree 65 + 1 1500 - 20(1) (65 + 1)[1500 - 20(1)]
two additional trees 65 + 2 1500 - 20(2) (65 + 2)[1500 - 20(2)]
n additional trees 65 + n 1500 - 20(n) (65 + n)[1500 - 20(n)]
Maximum yield is required.

The equation will have a vertex at (n, Y) where:
n = number of additional trees
Y = annual yield
Y = (65 + n)(1500 - 20n)
Y = 97 500 - 1300n + 1500n - 20n2
Y = –20n2 + 200n + 97 500
The curve opens downward. Thus, we have a maximum at the vertex.
Using the formula method to find the vertex:
−b
x=
2a
−200
x=
2 (−20 )
x = 5
Thus, 5 additional trees should be planted. There will be 70 trees
altogether in the orchard.

Answer:
Let x = larger of the two numbers
x - 14 = smaller of the two numbers
Let P(x) = the product of the two numbers
P ( x ) = x ( x − 14 )
= x 2 − 14 x
P ( x ) + 49 = x 2 − 14 x + 49
2
P ( x ) = ( x − 7 ) − 49
Since a = 1, the parabola opens up and a minimum occurs at x = 7. If x = 7,

then x - 14 = -7.
The two numbers are 7 and -7, giving a minimum product of -49.
Answer:
Number of Net Profit Total
Cars Sold per Car Net Profit
20 2400 20(2400)
20 - 1 2400 + 3000(1) (20 - 1)[2400 + 300(1)]
20 - 2 2400 + 3000(2) (20 - 2)[2400 + 300(2)]
20 - n 2400 + 3000(n) (20 - n)[2400 + 300(n)]
Let P = total net profit

Let n = number of increases in average price per car (or number of
decreases in cars sold)
P = (20 - n)(2400 + 300n)
P = 48 000 + 6000n - 2400n - 300n2
P = -300n2 + 3600n + 48 000
The curve opens downward. The maximum occurs at the vertex.

−b −3600
At the vertex, n = = = 6.
2a 2 (−300 )
Honest John should sell his cars at a price, including cost, of:
Price = 2400 + 300(6) + 4000
= 2400 + 1800 + 4000
= $8200

the formula method.
Answer:
x = width y
y = length
Total lengths = 2y
x x x x
Total widths = 4x
2y + 4x = 800
y = 400 - 2x Divide by two and solve for y.
Area = A
A = length ´ width
A = (400 - 2x)x
A = –2x2 + 400x
−b −400
Using x = = = 100 m.
2a 2 (−2 )
y = 400 - 2x = 400 - 2(100) = 200 m
The curve opens down; there is a maximum at the vertex.
The largest area occurs when the dimensions of the field are
100 m ´ 200 m.

method.
Answer:
Number of Price per Income
Tickets Purchased Ticket
1000 60 1000(60)
1000 + 100(1) 60 - 3(1) [1000 + 100(1)][60 - 3(1)]
1000 + 100(2) 60 - 3(2) [1000 + 100(2)][60 - 3(2)]
1000 + 100(n) 60 - 3(n) [1000 + 100(n)][60 - 3(n)]
Let n = number of groups of 100 tickets sold (or number of decreases in

price of ticket)
Let I = income
I = (1000 + 100n)(60 - 3n)
I = 60 000 - 3000n + 6000n - 300n2
I = -300n2 + 3000n + 60 000
I = -300(n2 - 10n + 25) + 60 000 - 25(-300)
I = -300(n - 5)2 + 60 000 + 7500
I = -300(n - 5)2 + 67 500
V(5, 67 500) = V(n, I)
The curve opens downward; the maximum occurs at the vertex.
The ticket price for maximum income must be:
60 - 3(5) = 60 - 15 = $45.

Notes

Module 4
Solving Quadratic and Rational Equations
M o d u l e 4:
S olv ing Q ua dr at ic a nd R at ion a l E quat ion s
Introduction
In Module 3, you learned about quadratic functions. In this module, you will
learn how to solve quadratic equations. There are many different methods
used to solve quadratic equations including factoring, taking square roots,
using the quadratic formula, and even completing the square. In this module,
you will learn when it is best to use each method. You will learn how to
derive the quadratic formula and important properties of the discriminant (a
part of the quadratic formula). The last part of this module introduces rational
equations and presents some problems where, in order to solve them, you will
be required to use rational equations.
In Module 2, you learned how to add, subtract, multiply, and divide rational
expressions. This knowledge will be helpful when you learn how to solve
rational equations in this module. As mentioned in Module 2, it is possible
to solve application problems involving rational equations, such as motion
problems.
Solving Quadratic Equations by Graphing

2 Assignment 4.1
and Taking Square Roots
4 Assignment 4.2 Solving Quadratic Equations
The Discriminant and Solving Rational

6 Assignment 4.3
Equations
Module 4: Solving Quadr atic and R ational Equations 3

Resource Sheet
Modules 1 to 4.

formula is used.

Writing Your Midterm Examination
You will write the midterm examination when you have completed Module 4
of this course. The midterm examination is based on Modules 1 to 4, and is
worth 20 percent of your final mark in the course. To do well on the midterm
examination, you should review all the work you complete in Modules 1 to
4, including all the learning activities and assignments. You will write the
midterm examination under supervision.

Notes

L e s s o n 1: S o lv i n g Q u a d r at ic E q u at io n s
G r a p h ic a l ly
Lesson Focus

q learn how to solve quadratic equations graphically
q how to recognize the connections between the zeros of a
quadratic function, the x-intercepts of the graph of a quadratic
function, and the roots of the quadratic equation
Lesson Introduction
In Module 3, you learned how to graph quadratic functions. This will be

extremely useful in this lesson when you are asked to solve quadratic
equations by graphing. As you worked through Module 3, you learned that a
quadratic function has infinitely many points on its graph. When the function
takes on the specific value of 0, you have a quadratic equation. The graph of
the related quadratic function can be used to solve the quadratic equation.
You will learn how to solve quadratic equations in this way in this lesson.
What is a Quadratic Equation?
Quadratic equations and quadratic functions are not the same. Include the
following definitions on your resource sheet to help you distinguish between
the two.
Note: You should have a definition for a quadratic function on your resource
sheet for Module 3.
A quadratic equation is an equation that can be written in the general form
ax2 + bx + c = 0 where a, b, and c are real numbers, and a ¹ 0. Note that a, b,
and c could be irrational. However, this course will not include any quadratic
equations with irrational coefficients.
Notice that a quadratic equation contains only one variable.
The number a is called the leading coefficient.
The solutions of a quadratic equation are called its roots. The roots of a
quadratic equation are also the zeros of the corresponding function or the
x-intercepts of the corresponding graph.

Solving Quadratic Equations
In Module 3, you learned how to find the x-intercepts of a quadratic function.

You also learned that the x-intercepts of a quadratic function are the same as
the zeros of a quadratic function.
Solving Quadratic Equations by Graphing

The x-intercepts and the zeros of a quadratic function are also the same as the
roots of a quadratic equation. Thus, when you are asked to solve a quadratic
equation, this is the same as you being asked to find the x-intercepts or
the zeros of the corresponding quadratic function. Consider the following
example.
Example 1
a) Find the zeros of the quadratic function by graphing:
f(x) = x2 + 8x + 7
b) Solve the quadratic equation, -3 = -(x - 2)2 - 2, for its roots, by graphing
its corresponding function and then finding the x-intercepts from the
graph.
Solution
This example asks the same question in three different ways. You are to find
the zeros of a function, the roots of a quadratic equation, and the x-intercepts
of a graph.
a) The function is f(x) = x2 + 8x + 7. Its zeros occur at the points where the
function value or y-value is zero. Those points always occur where the
function intersects the x-axis. Thus, you need to find the x-intercepts. You
can graph this function by using a calculator or by using algebra. Both
methods are shown below.
Method 1: Algebraic Method for Graphing
In Module 3, you learned several methods for graphing a quadratic
function in general form, such as changing to vertex form by completing
b
the square, or using the vertex formula, p = − , to find the vertex. Once
2a
you find the vertex, you can apply the appropriate transformations to
graph the function. The completing-the-square method is shown below.
f ( x ) = x 2 + 8x + 7
= ( x 2 + 8x + 16 ) + 7 − 16
2
= (x + 4) − 9

The vertex is at (-4, -9). The parabola opens up and is standard size.
You can use your knowledge of the key points on the basic parabola y = x2,
and the laws of transformations to plot the points of f(x) = x2 + 8x + 7. (If
you need to review these techniques, refer back to Module 3.) The formula
for the transformation is (x, y) ® (x - 4, y - 9).
Transforming Transforming Transforming

(-1, 1) and (1, 1) (-2, 4) and (2, 4) (-3, 9) and (3, 9)
Transformation Move 1 unit left Move 2 units left or Move 3 units left
for the key or right from the right from the vertex or right from the
coordinates vertex and up 1 and 4 units up vertex and 9 units
for y = x2 unit up
for f(x) = x2 + 8x + 7 (-4 ± 1, -9 + 1) (-4 ± 2, -9 + 4) (-4 ± 3, -9 + 9)

vertex (-4, -9) giving the points: giving the points: giving the points:
(–3, –8) and (–5, –8) (-2, -5) and (-6, -5) (-1, 0) and (-7, 0)
The graph is:

y
3
2
9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 x
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

The zeros are at the points where the graph intersects the x-axis. These
points are (-7, 0) and (-1, 0). The following connections should be made:
Q The zeros of the function are -7 and -1.
Q The x-intercepts are -7 and -1.
Q The solutions of the equation, x2 + 8x + 7 =0, are -7 and -1.
Q The roots of the equation, x2 + 8x + 7 = 0, are -7 and -1.

Note that this graphing method works when the equation is “nice,” when
the zeros are integer values. However, if the parabola did not cross the
x-axis at integral points, then estimating the exact value of the x-intercepts
from the graph would be difficult. The graphing method does, however,
give you a picture of what is meant by “solving a quadratic equation.”
Method 2: Using the TI-83 Graphing Calculator
Refer to the manual that came with your calculator for more specific
instructions regarding how to graph equations and find the zeros. The use
of a graphing calculator is not required for this course.
b) Start by rearranging the equation into vertex form.
2
−3 = −( x − 2 ) − 2
2
0 = −( x − 2 ) − 2 + 3
2
0 = −( x − 2 ) + 1
Write the corresponding function as y = -(x - 2)2 + 1.

Then draw the graph of the function with vertex (2, 1), opening down, and
standard size. Its graph is shown below.
y
5
4
3
2
1
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 x
1
2
3
4
5
6
7

The x-intercepts can be read from the graph. The x-intercepts are 1 and 3.
Thus, the roots are 1 and 3.

To ensure the validity of these answers, you can substitute the values into
the original equation. If the solutions can be verified, then 1 and 3 are the
roots.
Verify: -3 = -(x - 2)2 - 2
for x = 1 for x = 3
LHS = -3 LHS = -3
RHS = -(x - 2)2 - 2 RHS = -(x - 2)2 - 2
= -(1 - 2)2 - 2 = -(3 - 2)2 - 2
= -(-1)2 - 2 = -1 - 2
= -3 = -3
LHS = RHS LHS = RHS
Since both solutions are verified, the roots are x = 1, x = 3.
The following connections should be made for the function
y = -(x - 2)2 + 1:
Q The curve crosses the x-axis at the points (1, 0) and (3, 0).
Q The zeros are 1 and 3.
Q The x-intercepts of the graph are 1 and 3.
Q The roots of the equation 0 = -(x - 2)2 + 1 are 1 and 3.
Q The solutions of the equation 0 = -(x - 2)2 + 1 are 1 and 3.
If you were not able to read the zeros from the graph, you could use the
graphing calculator to solve for the zeros, or you could use an algebraic
solving method, as will be shown in the next few lessons.
Note: If ax2 + bx + c = 0 is the given equation, then ax2 + bx + c = y is the

corresponding or related function. Similarly, if ax2 + bx + c = y is the given
function, then ax2 + bx + c = 0 is the corresponding or related equation.
Example 2
Consider the quadratic function y = x2 + 2x - 24.
a) Graph the quadratic function y = x2 + 2x - 24 by completing the square
to find the vertex form and then find the x-intercepts from the graph.
b) Check your answer using a graphing calculator, if you have one. Having a
graphing calculator is not a necessity for this course.
c) Where does the graph intersect the x-axis?
d) What are the zeros of the function?
e) What are the roots of the equation?
f) Check each root is actually a solution to x2 + 2x - 24 = 0. (This is a good
idea since you are reading your answers from the graph rather than
solving for them.)

Solution
a) y = x2 + 2x - 24
y + 24 = x2 + 2x
y + 24 + 1 = x2 + 2x + 1
y + 25 = (x + 1)2
y = (x + 1)2 - 25
V(-1, -25)
In the graph shown below, notice that the y-scale is different from the
x-scale.
y
 
 
6 4 x
8
 
 16 
 
 

The x-intercepts are -6 and 4.

b) Check your answer using a graphing calculator if you have one. The
calculator should confirm that the zeros are -6 and 4.

c) The graph intersects the x-axis at (-6, 0) and (4, 0).
d) The zeros are -6 and 4.
e) The roots of the equation are -6 and 4, they are the same as the zeros of
the function.
f) Check by substituting into x2 + 2x - 24 = 0.
For x = -6 For x = 4
LHS = x2 + 2x - 24 = 0 LHS = x2 + 2x - 24
= (-6)2 + 2(-6) - 24 = (4)2 + 2(4) - 24
= 36 - 12 - 24 = 16 + 8 - 24
= 0 =0
RHS = 0 RHS = 0
\ LHS = RHS \ LHS = RHS
\ Both -6 and 4 are roots of the equation.
Part A: BrainPower
1. Brooklyn can type 55 words per minute. If her essay took her an hour to
write, how many words are in her essay?
2. What is the greatest common factor of 3x5y3 and 6x2y8?
3. Find the vertex of the following parabola: y = -2x2 + 8x - 1
4. Solve for x: 6x + 5 = 7
5. How many centimetres are in one kilometre?
continued

not simplify your answers.
6.2
6.9
3.1

Part B: Solving Quadratic Equations by Graphing
1. Rearrange each of the following into the general form of a quadratic
equation with the leading coefficient greater than 0.
a) −2 x 2 + 10 = −6
b) 3x ( x + 2 ) = 8
c) 5x 2 − 7 + 3x = 7
2
d) ( x + 3) = −4
2
e) ( x + 3) − 4 = 5
x2 − 4
f) =x
3
g) ( 2 x − 3) ( x + 2 ) = 0
continued

2. Use the graph of the related function to solve each equation.
a) 0 = (x - 2)2 - 4
b) 0 = x2 - 6x + 5
c) x2 + 6x + 1 = -7
3. a) Graph the quadratic function y = x2 - 2x - 8 by completing the square,
and then find the x-intercepts from the graph.
b) Check your answer using a graphing calculator if you have one.
e) What are the roots of the equation x2 - 2x - 8 = 0?
f) Verify each root.
4. Solve each of the following equations by graphing.
a) x2 + 2x - 8 = 0
b) x2 + 4x + 3 = 0
c) x2 + 8x = -15
d) 9 - x2 = 0
e) 2x2 - 12x + 10 = 0
continued

5. Kalia has been asked to solve the quadratic equation -x2 + 5x - 4 = 0
by graphing. Her work for completing the square and graphing the
corresponding quadratic function is shown below.
y = −x 2 + 5x − 4
y + 4 = −( x 2 − 5x )
25  25 
y+4− = − x 2 − 5x + 
4  4
2
16 25  5
y+ − = − x − 
4 4  2
2
 5 9
y = − x −  +
 2 4
y
1
64  
 
1
34  
1
24 
1 1
22 x
2
From this graph, Kalia concludes there are no x-intercepts.

Identify, explain, and correct Kalia’s mistake.

Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned how to solve quadratic equations by graphing. To

do this, you used the knowledge you gained in Module 3 about completing
the square and graphing quadratic functions using transformations. You also
learned about the connection between the zeros, the x-intercepts of a graph of
a quadratic function, the roots of a quadratic equation, and the solution to a
quadratic equation.
In the next lesson, you will learn another algebraic way to solve specific types
of quadratic equations by taking square roots.

Notes

L e s s on 2: S olv ing Q ua dr at ic E quat ion s
by Determining Square Roots
Lesson Focus

q learn how to solve quadratic equations by taking square roots
Lesson Introduction
In the last lesson, you learned how to solve quadratic equations by graphing.
However, sometimes finding roots by graphing a quadratic function can be
difficult because they are not integer values. Sometimes it is easier to solve
quadratic equations algebraically by determining square roots. It is possible
to solve quadratic equations in this way if there is no x-term in the quadratic
equation and when you complete the square, as seen in Lesson 4. Thus, you
will be able to solve quadratic equations by taking square roots in special
circumstances.
Before you learn how to solve quadratic equations by taking square roots, it
will be helpful for you to remember how to simplify square roots. In Grade 10
Introduction to Applied and Pre-Calculus Mathematics, you learned how to
simplify radicals. A radical is another name for a root (such as a square root
or cube root), and the symbol may also be called the radical symbol.
You also learned that simplifying a radical expression, such as 32 , does

not mean you find the decimal approximation. Instead, you are writing it as
another expression with the same exact value, with no perfect square factors
of the number under the radical sign.
Step 1: 32 can be written as the product of 16 and 2. To simplify 32 , write it
as (16 )( 2 ) or ( 16 )( 2 ) .
Step 2: The expression ( 16 )( 2 ) has a perfect square factor of 16, whose
root is 4. Rewrite the 16 as 4. The final product is an equivalent,

simplified expression for 32  4 2 .

Example 1
Simplify the following radical expressions.
a) 1244
b) 180
c) 75
Solution
a) 1224 can be written as the product of 36 and 34, where 36 is the largest
perfect square factor of 1224.
1224 = ( 36 )( 34 )

36 is a perfect square whose root is 6.
Thus, 6 34 is the simplified form of 1224 , as 34 cannot be simplified
any further. It does not contain any perfect square factors.
b) 180 can be written as the product of 36 and 5.
180 = ( 36 )( 5 )

Again, 36 is a perfect square whose root is 6.
Thus, 6 5 is the simplified form of 180.
c) 75 can be written as the product of 25 and 3.

75 = ( 25 )( 3 )

25 is a perfect square whose root is 5.
Thus, the simplified form of 75 is 5 3 .
Solving Quadratic Equations by Taking Square Roots

Now that you have reviewed how to simplify radical expressions, it is possible
to learn how to solve quadratic equations by taking square roots. However,
you can only solve quadratic equations of this type by taking square roots
when they are in the form ax2 + c = 0. In other words, there is no x-term. For
equations of this type, in the general form of the quadratic equation, the value
of b is zero.

Example 2
Find the value of a, b, and c for the equation 3x2 - 42 = 0.
Solution
If you compare the equation with the general form, ax2 + bx + c = 0, then
a = 3, b = 0, and c = -42.
Example 3
Solve the equation: 2x2 - 50 = 0.
Solution
2 x 2 − 50 = 0
2 x 2 = 50 Adding 50 to each side
x 2 = 25 Dividing each side by 2
x = ± 25 Taking the square root of each side
x = ±5
Note that when you are finding the square root of a variable (x), you need to
include both the positive and the negative answers. Therefore, there are two
solutions for this equation. There is more discussion on this topic of square
roots in Module 5.
You could check your work for Example 3 by graphing the corresponding
function, y = 2x2 - 50, and then finding the zeros of the function at the points
(5, 0) and (-5, 0).
Example 4
Solve x2 = 0.
Solution
If x2 = 0, then x = 0. There is only one solution for this equation.

Example 5
Solve x2 + 3 = 0.
Solution
When you arrange the equation and write x2 = -3, you can take the square
root of both sides to solve for x. However, you will not get a real number
answer. There is no real number solution. No real number squared will give
an answer of -3.
If you graph the related function, y = x2 + 3, you get a parabola with vertex at
(0, 3), opening up. The parabola does not intersect the x-axis. The function has
no zeros. The equation has no real roots. The graph has no x-intercepts.
y
2 x
The following learning activity will allow you to practice the skills you
learned in this lesson. After completing this learning activity, make sure
you check your answers in the Module 4 Learning Activity Answer Keys to
ensure you are completing the questions correctly. This learning activity will
help prepare you for the upcoming assignment.

Part A: BrainPower
1. Cameron is packing his suitcase for Mexico. If his suitcase measures
110 cm by 40 cm by 60 cm, what is the volume of his suitcase?
2. You and your friend are going out for dinner and you want to split the bill
evenly. If the bill comes to $76.36 and you want to tip the waiter $4, how
much should you give the waiter?
3. Factor: 14m - 28
4. Does the parabola y = 3x2 + 2x - 1 open up or down?
5. Continue the pattern: A, E, F, H, I, K, L, M, ,
6. Find the midpoint between the two points (9, -24) and (4, 12).
7. Solve the inequality, 13x - 2 > x.
8. Find the slope of the line parallel to the line 8x = 3y - 2.
Part B: Solving Quadratic Equations by Taking Square Roots
1. Find the roots of the following equations.
a) x2 = 16
b) 3x2 - 18 = 0
c) x2 - 6 = -5
d) 6x2 + 3 = 2x2 + 7
continued

e) x2 = 6x2 - 1
f) 4x2 - 9 = -3
g) x2 - 20 = 0
h) 24 - 2x2 = 0
i) (x - 2)2 = 5
2 2
j) x + 6 = 18
3
2. A square, ABCD, with sides of length 6 cm, is circumscribed by a circle.

The four points, A, B, C, and D, are on the circumference of the circle.
Find the area of a circle. Leave p in your answer. Remember if p is not
approximated, your answer is exact. If p is approximated, your answer is
approximate.
3. Jordon is asked to solve the following quadratic equation by taking square
roots. His work is shown below.
x 2 − 40 = 0
x 2 = 40
x = ± 40
x = ±4 10
Identify, explain, and correct Jordon’s error.
Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned another method of solving quadratic equations.

First, you reviewed how to simplify radical expressions. Then, you learned
how to solve quadratic equations of the form ax2 + c = 0 by taking square
roots. In the next lesson, you will learn an additional way of solving quadratic
equations by factoring.

Assignment 4.1
Solving Quadratic Equations by Graphing and Taking Square Roots
Total: 33 marks
1. Use the graph of the related function to find the roots of each equation. (3 marks each,
for a total of 6 marks)
a) 0 = (x - 1)2 - 4
continued

Assignment 4.1: Solving Quadratic Equations by Graphing and Taking
Square Roots (continued)
b) -x2 + 6x + 7 = 0
continued

2. a) Graph the quadratic function y = x2 + x - 12. Find the vertex by completing the
square. (3 marks)
b) Verify the x-intercepts of the function are 3 and -4 by substitution. (2 marks)
c) What are the zeros of the function? (1 mark)
d) What are the roots of the equation 0 = x2 + x - 12? (1 mark)
continued

3. Identify, explain, and correct the mistake Julie made when solving the following
quadratic equation by taking square roots. Her work is shown below. (2 marks)
4x 2 = 8 + 2 x 2
2x2 = 8
x2 = 4
x= 4
x=2
4. Solve the following equations by taking square roots. Write your answers as exact
values in simplified form.
a) x2 = 76 (1 mark)
b) 7x2 - 21 = 0 (2 marks)
continued

x2
c) − 3 = 5x 2 − 8 (4 marks)
2
d) (x + 2)2 = 4 (3 marks)
continued

5. Solve the following equations by using the graphing method or the square root
method. Explain why you chose the graphing or square root method for each
equation. (4 marks each, for a total of 8 marks)
a) x2 - 3 = 2x
continued

b) x2 + 4 = 4x2

Notes

L e s s on 3: S olv ing Q ua dr at ic E quat ion s
by Fac tor ing
Lesson Focus

q learn how to solve quadratic equations by factoring
q learn how to apply solving quadratic equations to word
problems
q learn how to write the factored form of a quadratic function
Lesson Introduction
You learned how to solve quadratic equations by graphing in Lesson 1. In

some cases, only approximate roots can be determined. However, it is also
possible to find the roots of some quadratics by factoring. This method is
based on the Zero Product Property. You have encountered this property
earlier in this course.
In Lesson 2, you examined quadratic equations of the type ax2 + c = 0, where
b = 0. You developed a method for solving those types by using inverse
operations.
The Zero Product Property states that if ab = 0, at least one of a and b has to
equal zero. This is also true if a and b are factors of polynomials. Therefore,
if (x - 3)(x + 4) = 0, either (x - 3) has to equal zero, or (x + 4) has to equal
zero. It is thus possible to solve quadratic equations by factoring them, and
equating each factor to zero.
Solving Quadratic Equations by Factoring

When using the Zero Product Property to solve quadratic equations, make
sure the equation is rearranged into general form, having one side equal to
zero. Consider the following examples.

Example 1
Solve 4x2 - 9 = 0 by factoring.
Solution
(2x - 3)(2x + 3) = 0
2x − 3 = 0 2x + 3 = 0
or
2x = 3 2 x = −3
3 −3
x= x=
2 2
You can also use factoring to solve some equations of the type ax2 + bx = 0 or
ax2 + bx + c = 0.
Example 2
Solve equations of the form ax2 + bx = 0 by factoring.
a) 3x2 = 7x
Solution
3x2 - 7x = 0 Set up equation with one side equal to zero.
x(3x - 7) = 0 Factor out the common factor of x.
x = 0 or 3x - 7 = 0 Use the Zero Product Property.
3x = 7 Solve for x.
7
x=
3
b) 2x2 - 16x = 0
Solution
2x(x - 8) = 0 Factor out common factor of 2x.
2x = 0 or x - 8 = 0
x = 0 or
x=8

Example 3
Solve equations of the form ax2 + bx + c = 0 by factoring.
a) 3x2 + 4x = 4
Solution
3x2 + 4x - 4 = 0 Rearrange the equation.
(3x - 2)(x + 2) = 0 Factor.
3x − 2 = 0 or x + 2 = 0
2 x = −2
x=
3
b) x2 + 9 = 6x
Solution
x2 - 6x + 9 = 0
(x - 3)(x - 3) = 0
x-3=0 or x-3=0
x = 3 x=3
The answer is 3.
When the same number repeats as a root or a zero, it is called a double root
or double zero. Include this definition on your resource sheet.
y
 
1  

3 x
In the graph of x2 - 6x + 9 = y, notice that the vertex is on the x-axis.

Also, the root is the same number as the x-coordinate of the vertex. This
is because double roots occur when the vertex of a parabola touches the
x-axis.

c) 2x2 + 4x - 16 = 0
Solution
2(x2 + 2x - 8) = 0 Always factor the common factor out first.
2 ( x 2 + 2 x − 8) 0
= Divide by 2.
2 2
(x + 4)(x - 2) = 0 Factor the trinomial.
x+4=0 or x - 2 = 0
x = -4 x=2
d) x3 + 5x2 - 6x = 0
Solution
This is not a quadratic equation. However, you can still solve it by
factoring and see that this method can be extended to equations that are
not quadratics.
x(x2 + 5x - 6) = 0 Factor out the common by factoring x.
x(x + 6)(x - 1) = 0 Factor the remaining trinomial.
x=0 or x + 6 = 0 or x - 1 = 0 Use ZPP.
x=0 or x = -6 or x = 1
Note: There are three roots for this cubic equation.
Solving Quadratic Word Problems

Example 4
The surface area of a rectangular prism is 184 cm2. Its length is 12 cm more
than its width. Its height is 4 cm. Find the dimensions of the prism.
(SA = 2lw + 2lh + 2wh)
Solution
Let w = width of the prism in cm
l = w + 12
Given h = 4 cm
4
SA = 184 cm2
w
w + 12

SA = 2 lw + 2 lh + 2 wh
184 = 2 ( w + 12 )( w ) + 2 ( w + 12 )( 4 ) + 2 ( w )( 4 )
2
 w + 12 w + 4 w + 48 + 4 w 
184 = 2 
2
 w + 20 w + 48 
184 = 2 
92 = w 2 + 20 w + 48
0 = w 2 + 20 w − 44
0 = ( w + 22 ) ( w − 2 )
w + 22 = 0 w-2=0
w = -22 w=2
Since width must be positive, the only solution is w = 2. The dimensions of the
prism are:
width = 2 cm
length = 2 + 12 = 14 cm
height = 4 cm
Example 5
A picture with dimensions 25 cm by 20 cm needs to be framed. The frame is
to have uniform width and the picture and its frame have an area 150% larger
than the area of the picture. Find the dimensions of the picture and its frame.
Solution
x 25 cm
20 cm
Let x = the width of the frame.

Area of picture = 25 ´ 20 = 500 cm2.
Area of picture and frame = 500 ´ 150% = 750 cm2.

Length of picture and frame = 25 + 2x
Width of picture and frame = 20 + 2x
Area = length ´ width
750 = ( 25 + 2 x ) ( 20 + 2 x )
750 = 500 + 50 x + 40 x + 4 x 2
0 = 4 x 2 + 90 x − 250
0 = 2 x 2 + 45x − 125
0 = 2 x 2 + 50 x − 5x − 125
0 = 2 x ( x + 25) − 5 (x + 25)
0 = ( 2 x − 5) ( x + 25)
2x − 5 = 0 x + 25 = 0
5 x = −25
x=
2
5
Since x must be positive, the only solution is x  .
2
The dimensions of the picture and frame are:

5
length = 25 + 2 x = 25 + 2 = 30 cm
2
5
width = 20 + 2 x = 20 + 2 = 25 cm
2
Factored Form of a Quadratic Function

The factored form of a quadratic function includes the leading coefficient, a,
and the x-intercepts of the function, x1 and x2, and is written:
y = a(x - x1)(x - x2)

Example 6
Write the quadratic function y = 3x2 - 3x - 60 in factored form.
Solution
Factored form requires the values for the leading coefficient and the
x-intercepts.
The function is y = 3x2 - 3x - 60.
The leading coefficient, a, is 3.
To find the x-intercepts, you factor the quadratic equation:
0 = 3x2 - 3x - 60
0 = 3(x2 - x - 20)
0 = 3(x - 5)(x + 4)
x-5=0 x+4=0
x = 5 x = -4
The required factored form of the quadratic function is:
y = 3(x - 5)(x - (-4))
y = 3(x - 5)(x + 4)
Example 7
The zeros of a function are -6 and 2. The function passes through the point
(-4, 6). Write the function in factored form.
Solution
The factored form of a quadratic function is:
y = a(x - x1)(x - x2)
You are given the zeros, or x-intercepts, -6 and 2. The equation becomes:
y = a(x - (-6))(x - 2)
y = a(x + 6)(x - 2)
You know the function passes through the point (-4, 6). These values can be
substituted into the equation to solve for a.

y = a ( x + 6) (x − 2 )
6 = a (−4 + 6 ) (−4 − 2 )
6 = a ( 2 ) (−6 )
6 = a (−12 )
1
− =a
2
1
The function in factored form is y = − ( x + 6 ) (x − 2 ) .
2
Part A: BrainPower
1. Your mom bought 500 g of deli meat. If you put an average of 125 g of
meat on each sandwich you make, how many days will the deli meat last
for (assuming you only eat one sandwich a day)?
2. You are playing soccer on a co-ed team. You have 20 players on your team
and 3 of them are girls. You need at least 20% of your players to be female
according to the league. Do you have enough female players?
3. Simplify: (x + 5)2
4. Give a simplified quadratic function that has zeros of -1 and -5 and a = 1.
5. Simplify: 24 ´ 32
6. Express as a power: 15
2 4
7. Are these fractions equivalent, and ?
3 3
8. The x-intercepts of a parabola are -4 and 2, and the y-intercept is 10. Write
the quadratic function in factored form.
continued

Part B: Solving Quadratic Equations by Factoring
1. Solve these equations by factoring.
a) x2 - x - 12 = 0
b) x2 - x - 20 = 0
c) -x2 - 2x + 3 = 0
d) x2 + 9x + 18 = 0
e) 2x2 + 3x - 2 = 0
2. Rearrange each of the following equations and solve by factoring, if
possible.
a) 10x2 = 7x + 12
b) 5x2 + 21x = 54
c) 3x(x - 2) - x(x + 1) + 5 = 0
9 1
d) x 2 + x−2 =0
2 2
e) x2 + 9 = 0
f) 16x2 - 64 = 0
g) x2 + 12x - 28 = 0
3. One leg of a right triangle is 7 m longer than the other leg. The hypotenuse
is 17 m long. Find the length of each leg.
4. Two square checkerboards together have an area of 1300 cm2. One has
sides that are 10 cm longer than the other. Find the length of the sides of
each checkerboard.
5. Find 3 consecutive odd integers such that the product of the second and
the third is 63.
6. A rectangular piece of cardboard is 5 cm longer than it is wide. A 3 cm-by-
3 cm square is cut out of each corner, and the four flaps are folded up to
form a box with a volume of 450 cm3. What were the length and width of
the original piece of cardboard? (Volume = length ´ width ´ height)
continued

7. Farrah was asked to solve a quadratic equation by factoring. Her work is
shown below.
x2 - 10x + 24 = 0
(x - 6)(x - 4) = 0
Therefore, x = -6 or x = -4.
Identify, explain, and correct the errors Farrah made when trying to solve
this quadratic equation.
8. Write the quadratic function y = -4(x - 3)(x + 1) in vertex form using the
average of the x-intercepts.
Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you used some of the knowledge you gained in Module 3 to
learn how to solve quadratic equations by factoring. You learned that you
needed to arrange the equation into general form, having one side equal to
zero, before you could factor the quadratic equation. Then, you equated each
factor of the quadratic equation to zero to solve the equation. This method
only works if you are able to factor the quadratic equation. In the next lesson,
you will be learning two new methods of solving quadratic equations. These
methods are useful when it may be difficult to graph the quadratic equation
and the equation is not easily factorable.

L e s s o n 4: S o lv in g Q ua d r at ic E q uat io n s
by Completing the Square
a nd by U sing t he Q ua dr at ic
Formula
Lesson Focus

q learn how to solve a quadratic equation by completing the square
q learn how solve a quadratic equation by using the quadratic
formula
q learn how to solve equations having a quadratic pattern
Lesson Introduction
In previous lessons, you have learned how to solve quadratic equations by

factoring, taking square roots and graphing. Some quadratic equations are
easier to solve by factoring than by graphing. However, not all quadratic
equations are factorable. One technique used to solve quadratic equations
that are not easily factorable is called completing the square. This method
follows a pattern similar to the method you used to complete the square in
Module 3. Another method used to solve quadratic equations that are not
easily factorable is the quadratic formula.
In Module 3, you learned how to complete the square. When completing

the square to solve a quadratic equation, you must preserve the equality.
Therefore, when you add a constant to one side of an equation, you need to
add the same constant to the other side of the equation as well.

Solving Quadratic Equations by Completing the Square
There are two cases regarding the solution to ax2 + bx + c = 0 by completing
the square.
Case 1: Quadratic equations having a leading coefficient of 1
Example 1
Solve by completing the square: x2 - 4x + 2 = 0.
Solution
x 2 − 4x + 2 = 0
Subtract 2 from each side to isolate the
2
x − 4 x = −2 variables.
2 2 Add the square of one-half the
x 2 − 4 x + (−2 ) = −2 + (−2 )
coefficient of x to each side.
x 2 − 4 x + 4 = −2 + 4 Simplify.
( x − 2 )2 = −2 + 4 Factor.
( x − 2 )2 = 2 Add.
x−2 =± 2 Take the square root of each side.
x=2± 2 Add 2 to each side.
Remember:
n 2 + 2 and 2 − 2 are the roots of the quadratic equation
n 2 + 2 and 2 − 2 are the zeros of the function
n 2 + 2 and 2 − 2 are the x-intercepts of the graph
n (2 + 2 , 0 ) and ( 2 − 2 , 0 ) are the points where the graph crosses the

x-axis
Quadratic equations having a leading coefficient that is not 1

If the leading coefficient of the quadratic is not 1, you divide both sides of the
equation by the coefficient before you complete the square.
Example 2
Find the roots of the equation by completing the square: 2x2 - 6x - 7 = 0

Solution
2 x 2 − 6x − 7 = 0
7
x 2 − 3x = Add 7 to each side and divide by 2.
2
−3 2 7 −3 
2
1
2
x − 3x +  = +  Add the square of (−3) to each side.
 2  2  2  2
2
 3 7 9
x −  = + Factor and simplify.
 2 2 4
2
 3 23 Add the fractions.
 x −  =
 2 4
3 23 Take the square root.
x − =±
2 2
3 23 3
x= ± Add to both sides.
2 2 2
3 ± 23
x= Add the fractions.
2
These are the exact roots y

of the equation. Using 5
substitution to check 4
solutions that have 3
fractions and square roots 2
is quite difficult. Instead, 1
a graphing check using
0 x
the graphing calculator 6 5 4 3 2 1
1
1 2 3 4 5 6
will give the approximate 2

placement of the 3
intersection of the curve
4
with the x-axis.
5
For example:
6
3 23 7
+ ≈ 3.9
2 2 8
9
3 23
− ≈ −0.9 10
2 2
V(1.5, -11.5)
Using the graphing calculator, the graph of y = 2x2 - 6x - 7 has approximate
x-intercepts of 3.9 and -0.9.

Example 3
A basketball follows a path h(d) = -0.05d2 + 1.5d + 4 when thrown. The
basketball’s height is represented by h while the basketball’s horizontal
distance is represented by d, where d ³ 0. If no one catches the basketball and
it falls to the ground, its height will be zero.
a) Write a quadratic equation to describe the basketball’s distance when its
height is zero.
b) Solve the quadratic equation you created in (a) by completing the square
to find out how far the basketball travels when thrown if no one catches it
and it falls to the ground.
Solution
a) The basketball follows a path represented by the equation
h(d) = -0.05d2 + 1.5d + 4. When h = 0, the equation becomes
-0.05d2 + 1.5d + 4 = 0.
b) −0.05d 2 + 1.5d + 4 = 0 Dividing both sides of the equation
by -0.05.
d 2 − 30 d − 80 = 0
Adding 80 to both sides
d 2 − 30 d = 80
Completing the square by adding
2
d − 30 d + 225 = 80 + 225 −30 2
  to each side.
 2 
( d − 15)2 = 305 Factoring and simplifying.
d − 15 = ± 305 Taking the square root of each side.
d = 15 ± 305 Add 15 to both sides.
Therefore, the distance the basketball travels is either 15 + 305 or

15 - 305 .
15 + 305 ≈ 32.464
15 − 305 ≈ −2.464
Since distance travelled cannot be negative, as defined in the function by
d ³ 0, the only solution is 15 + 305 .

The solution, d = 15 − 305 ≈ −2.464 is called an extraneous root.
An extraneous root is defined as a number obtained when solving
an equation that does not satisfy the initial restrictions on the
variable. The basketball cannot travel a negative distance, and thus
d = 15 − 305 ≈ −2.464 cannot be the correct answer. Therefore,
d = 15 + 305 ≈ 32.464.
Solving Quadratic Equations by Using the Quadratic Formula

To derive a formula for solving any quadratic equation, you can complete the
square for the general quadratic equation ax2 + bx + c = 0, a ¹ 0.
ax 2 + bx + c = 0 General form.
b c
x2 + x + = 0 Divide by a.
a a
b c Isolate terms with x onto one side.
x2 + x = −
a a
2 b  b 2 c b
2
Complete the square by adding
x + x +  = − + 
a  2a  a  2a   1 b 2
 ⋅  to each side.
2 2 a
 b b2 c
x +  = 2 − Factor and simplify.
 2a  4a a
2
 b b 2 − 4 ac
x +  = Add the fractions.
 2a  4 a2
b b 2 − 4 ac Take the square root of each side.

x+ =±
2a 4 a2
b
b b 2 − 4 ac Subtract from each side.
x =− ± 2a
2a 2a
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac Add the fractions.
x=
2a
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac
The quadratic formula is x = and can be used to solve
2a
equations of the form ax2 + bx + c = 0 where a ¹ 0.

Include this formula on your resource sheet. This formula is used extensively
throughout mathematics courses. It would be extremely beneficial if you
memorized this formula so you do not have to keep referring back to your
resource sheet.
Note: You do not have to memorize the derivation of the formula, but notice
how similar this work is to Module 3, Learning Activity 3.5, Question 6. Being
able to algebraically manipulate polynomial equations and expressions will
be useful to you in future mathematics courses.
When solving an equation using the quadratic formula, it is important to

( )
remember that −b ± b 2 − 4 ac is all divided by 2a.
However, if you think of the quadratic formula as two fractions instead of

one, you can find an easy way to find the vertex of a quadratic function in the
y = ax2 + bx + c form.
b b 2 − 4 ac y b
x1 = − + x=
2a y = ax2 + bx + c
2a 2a
b b 2 − 4 ac
x2 = − −
2a 2a
b2  4ac
2a
x
2
x
1
x
line of
symmetry
b b
As you can see, x = − is the line of symmetry of the parabola and - is
2a 2a
the x-value of its vertex, as you learned in Module 3.
You can use the quadratic formula to solve any quadratic equation. When
using the quadratic formula, you must set up the equation in the general form
of ax2 + bx + c = 0 where a ¹ 0, so that a, b, and c can be correctly identified.

Example 4
Using the quadratic formula, solve 2x2 + 5x - 3 = 0.
Solution
a = 2, b = 5, c = -3
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac
x=
2a
−5 ± 52 − 4 ( 2 ) (−3)
x=
2 (2)
−5 ± 25 + 24
x=
4
−5 ± 49
x=
4
−5 ± 7
x=
4
−5 + 7 −5 − 7
x= or x=
4 4
2 −12
x= x=
4 4
1
x= x = −3
2
Note: This equation could also have been solved by factoring because the
radicand, 49, is a perfect square.

Example 5
Solve x2 + 3x - 9 = 0.
Solution
Note: This equation does not factor. Therefore, either the quadratic formula or
the method of completing the square would have to be used.
a = 1, b = 3, c = -9
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac
x=
2a
−3 ± 32 − 4 (1) (−9 )
x=
2 ( 1)
−3 ± 9 + 36
x=
2
−3 ± 45
x=
2
−3 ± 3 5
x=
2
−3 + 3 5 −3 − 3 5
x= or x =
2 2
Equations having a Quadratic Pattern

Some equations do not appear to be quadratic at first glance. However, a
closer look reveals that they actually have a quadratic form or pattern.
Example 6
Solve: 2x4 - 5x2 + 2 = 0
Solution
Notice that the equation can be written in quadratic form:
2(x2)2 - 5(x2)1 + 2 = 0
Temporarily replace x2 by another letter p to obtain a quadratic equation:
2p2 - 5p + 2 = 0

Factoring, you get
( 2 p − 1) ( p − 2 ) = 0
1
p= or p = 2
2
Replacing p by x2, you get
1
x2 = or x2 = 2
2
1
x =± x =± 2
2
1
x =± x =± 2
2
1 −1
The answers are x = , , 2 , − 2.
2 2
2 − 2
If you rationalize the denominators, the answers are x = , , 2 , − 2.
2 2
Remember, you should always check your answers in the original equation,
in case you have made an error.
Check for the equation 2x4 - 5x2 + 2 = 0.
x= 2
4 2
LHS = 2 ( 2 ) − 5 ( 2 ) + 2
= 8 − 10 + 2
=0
RHS = 0
∴ LHS = RHS
∴ x = 2 is a solution
x = − 2 also works because the powers involved in this equation are even. A
negative value to an even power is always positive, as squaring eliminates the
negative sign.

2
x=
2
 2 4  2 2
LHS = 2  − 5
 2   +2
 2 
   
 4  2
= 2 − 5 + 2
 16   4 
1 10
= − +2
2 4
2 10 8
= − +
4 4 4
=0
RHS = 0
∴ LHS = RHS
2
∴x= is a solution
2
− 2
x= also works because the powers involved in this equation are even.
2
Example 7
 2 2  2 
Solve: 5  + 8 + 3 = 0
x − 3 x − 3
Solution
Note that x = 3 is a non-permissible value for x. If x = 3, the denominator will
have a value of zero, and division by zero is not possible.
2
This equation displays a quadratic pattern. If p = , you can rewrite the
x−3
equation and factor to solve it.
5p2 + 8p + 3 = 0
( 5 p + 3 ) ( p + 1) = 0
−3
p= or p = −1
5

2
Replace p by x - 3 to solve for x.
2 −3 2
= or = −1
x−3 5 x−3
−3 ( x − 3) = 10 −1 ( x − 3) = 2 Cross multiply.
−3x + 9 = 10 −x + 3 = 2
−3x = 1 −x = −1
1 x=1
x =−
3
Check to see that roots satisfy the original equation to ensure you have no
errors in your work and that your solution doesn’t contain a non-permissible
value for x.
 2 2  2 
Check solutions in the original equation 5  + 8 + 3 = 0.
x − 3 x − 3
1
Check: x = −
3
 2 2  2 
LHS = 5  + 8 + 3
 x − 3  x − 3
 2  
 2   2 
= 5  + 8 + 3
− 1 − 9  − 1 − 9 
 3 3  3 3
 2  
 2   2 
= 5  + 8 + 3
 −10   −10 
 3   3 
2 −10  −3 −3
Note: = 2 ÷ = 2 × =
−10  3  10 5
3

−3 2 −3 
= 5  + 8 + 3
 5   5 
 9  −24 
= 5 + + 3
 25   5 
45 −120  75
= + +
25  25  25
=0
RHS = 0
∴ LHS = RHS
1
∴ x = − is a solution
3
Check: x = 1
 2 2  2 
LHS = 5  + 8 + 3
x − 3 x − 3
 2 2  2 
= 5  + 8 + 3
1 − 3 1 − 3
 2 2  2 
= 5  + 8 + 3
−2  −2 
2
= 5 (−1) + 8 (−1) + 3
= 5−8+3
=0
RH
HS = 0
∴ LHS = RHS
∴ x = 1 is a solution

Part A: BrainPower
1. Evaluate: 115 + 27 + 76 + 25
3
2. Britney is making cookies. The recipe calls for of a cup of butter. If
8
Britney is tripling the recipe, how much butter does she need? Write your
answer as a mixed fraction.
3. Joanne makes $400 in a month. If Joanne needs to pay $66 for her phone
bill, $40 for gas to drive her parents’ car, and $120 for a haircut, will she
have enough to buy the $150 jeans she wants?
1 2 121
4. Factor: x -
3 3
5. Find the vertex of the following parabola: y = 3x2 + 6x - 5
6
2
7. Find the slope of the line perpendicular to the line, 7x + 3y - 4 = 0.
8. The circumference of a circle is 92p centimetres. What is the radius of the
circle?
continued

Part B: Solving Quadratic Equations by Completing the Square and
Using the Quadratic Formula
1. For each quadratic equation below, state the values of a, b, and c for the
general equation format.
a) x2 - 2x - 5 = 0
b) 3x2 - 2x + 5 = 0
c) 5x2 - 3x = 8
d) 2(x2 - 2x) - 1 = 0
e) 5x2 = 9x
f) 4 - 2x2 = 9x
2. Solve these equations by factoring or by using the quadratic formula. Be
sure to state the formula before substituting values into it, as this will help
you memorize it.
x2 15
a) +x− =0
2 2
b) 2w2 - 3w + 1 = 0
c) 7w2 - 3w = 0
d) 1 = 25x2
e) x2 - 0.1x - 0.06 = 0
f) -x2 - 7x - 1 = 0
3. Use the completing-the-square method to find the roots of each equation
below.
a) 3x2 - 6x - 15 = 0
b) 2x2 - 4x - 1 = 0
c) 9x2 - 18x - 7 = 0
d) x2 - x - 3 = 0
4. Find the zeros of the function using the quadratic formula.
a) f(x) = 5x2 - x - 3
b) y = 2x2 + 6x - 1
continued

5. Find the roots of the quadratic equation 6x2 + 5x - 6 = 0
a) using the quadratic formula
b) by factoring
Which method do you prefer and why?
6. Find the zeros of the quadratic function f(x) = x2 + 8x + 15 by
a) factoring
b) using the quadratic formula
c) graphing
d) completing the square.
7. Refer to the Solving Quadratic Equations chart found at the end of
this learning activity. For each of the five methods of solving quadratic
equations, describe when each method could be best used. Fill in your
answers on the chart.
8. Write a quadratic equation in general form that satisfies each of the
following descriptions. Explain your answers.
a) two distinct real roots
b) one distinct real root, or two equal roots
c) no real roots
9. Is the quadratic formula always the most efficient way to solve quadratic
equations? Explain with examples.
10. A rocket is launched and follows a path described by the quadratic
function h(d) = -0.02d2 + 0.4d + 1. The height is represented by h while
the horizontal distance is represented by d and both are measured in
metres. How far away from its original position does this rocket land?
continued

11. David is trying to solve a quadratic equation by using the quadratic
formula. His work is shown below.
10x2 + 2x + 1 = 0
a = 10, b = 2, c = 1
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac
x=
2a
−2 ± 2 2 − 4 (10 )
x=
2 (10 )
−2 ± 4 − 40
x=
20
−2 ± −36
x=
20
−2 ± 6
x=
20
−2 + 6 4 1
x= = =
20 20 5
−2 − 6 −8 −2
x= = =
20 20 5
Identify, explain, and correct David’s error.
12. Solve the equation:
(x2 - 5)2 + 3(x2 - 5) + 2 = 0
Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned two additional ways of solving quadratic

equations—completing the square and the quadratic formula. You now have
five different techniques that you can use to solve a quadratic equation. In the
learning activity, you also explained when each technique is most useful and
you learned to solve equations with a quadratic pattern. In the next lesson,
you will be learning more about the quadratic formula and how it can be
used to determine the number of roots a quadratic equation has, without
solving the equation.

Graphing
Use when:
Square Roots
Use when:
Factoring
Use when:
Use when:
Quadratic Formula
Use when:

Assignment 4.2
Total: 49 marks
1. Solve these equations by factoring. (2 marks each, for a total of 12 marks)
a) x2 + 7x + 12 = 0
b) 4x2 + 4x - 3 = 0
x2 4
c) − x=7
3 3
continued

Assignment 4.2: Solving Quadratic Equations (continued)
d) x2 - 30 = -x
e) 13x2 - 14x = 8 - 2x2
f) 2x2 + 8 - 20x = -10x2 + 8x
continued

2. Two positive numbers differ by 4 and the sum of their squares is 136. Find the
numbers. (3 marks)
3. A concrete pathway x metres wide is being built around the outside of a

40 m ´ 30 m garden. The area of the pathway is 984 m2. Find the width of the
pathway. (5 marks)
continued

4. Solve the following quadratic equations by completing the square. (2 marks each, for a
total of 6 marks)
a) x2 - 14x - 44 = 0
b) x2 - 14x = 95
c) 10x2 - 4x = 32
continued

5. Solve the following quadratic equations by using the quadratic formula. (2 marks
each, for a total of 6 marks)
a) 2x2 - 12x - 14 = 0
b) 8x2 - 11x + 3 = 0
c) 3x2 + x - 11 = 0
continued

6. Solve the following quadratic equations using a different method for each one.
Explain why you chose each particular method for each equation. (2 marks each, for a
total of 8 marks)
a) (x + 3)2 = 49
b) 2x2 - 5x - 3 = 0
c) 6x2 - 28x + 15 = 0
d) x2 + 6x - 11 = 0
continued

7. Find the roots of the quadratic equation 3x2 - 5x - 1 = 0 to one decimal place. Use
your calculator. (3 marks)
8. Solve: 2x4 - 3x2 + 1 = 0 (2 marks)
continued

9. A football is kicked and its path is described by the following quadratic function:
h(d) = -5d2 + 20d + 35. The football’s height is represented by h while the football’s
horizontal distance travelled is represented by d. Both variables are measured in
metres and both must have zero or positive values. If nothing interacts with the
football after it is kicked, how far does the football travel before it hits the ground?
Round your answer(s) to three decimal places. (4 marks)

L e s s o n 5: Th e D i s c r i m i n a n t
Lesson Focus

q learn how to use the discriminant of the quadratic formula to
describe the nature of the roots of a quadratic equation
q learn how to apply solving linear inequalities in one variable
to problems involving the nature of the roots of a quadratic
equation
Lesson Introduction
In the first four lessons of this module, you learned how to solve quadratic
equations using five different techniques. In Lesson 4, you learned how to
use the quadratic formula to solve quadratic equations. The discriminant is an
aspect of the quadratic formula that can allow you to determine how many
roots a quadratic equation has without solving for the roots. In this lesson,
you will consider the value of the discriminant of a given quadratic equation,
the roots of the quadratic equation, the number of the roots, the type of the
roots, and the graph of the corresponding quadratic function.
The Discriminant
You have found any quadratic equation of the form ax2 + bx + c = 0 can be
solved using the quadratic formula:
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac
x=
2a
The expression under the square root sign, b2 - 4ac, is called the discriminant
and it enables you to observe the nature of the roots without actually finding
the roots. The nature of the roots describes how many roots a quadratic
equation has and whether they are rational, irrational, or non-existent.
Include the above definition and any other information you deem to be
important on your resource sheet.

The Roots of a Quadratic Equation
There are four situations that can occur when you are finding the roots of
a quadratic equation. The roots can be real and rational, real and irrational,
real and equal, or none. You can determine which situation will occur by
examining the value of the discriminant.
Case 1: When b2 - 4ac > 0 and is a perfect square
Sample Equation: x2 - 6x + 5 = 0
Value of Discriminant: b2 - 4ac
a = 1, b = -6, c = 5
b2 - 4ac = (-6)2 - 4(1)(5) = 36 - 20 = 16
Note that the value of b2 - 4ac is positive and a perfect square.
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac
Roots of Quadratic: x=
2a
−(−6 ) + 16 6 + 4 10
r1 = = = =5
2 2 2
−(−6 ) − 16 6−4 2
r2 = = = =1
2 2 2
Nature of Roots: r1 and r2 are referred to as two real, rational roots.

Graph of the Quadratic Function:
y = x2 - 6x + 5 y
y = (x2 - 6x + 9) + 5 - 9 x=3
y = (x - 3)2 -4
Vertex (3, -4)
5
zero = 5
 
1 2 3 4 5 x
zero = 1
4 

Description of Zeros: The zeros are referred to as two real, rational zeros at
1 and 5.
Note: When the discriminant is a perfect square, the quadratic equation can
also be solved more easily by factoring:
x2 - 6x + 5 = 0
(x - 5)(x - 1) = 0
x = 5, 1
Case 2: When b2 - 4ac > 0 and is not a perfect square

a = 1, b = -6, c = 7
b2 - 4ac = (-6)2 - 4(1)(7) = 36 - 28 = 8
Note: The value of b2 – 4ac is not a perfect square, although it is greater than
zero.
−(−6 ) + 8 6+2 2
Roots of Quadratic: r1 = = = 3+ 2
2 ( 1) 2
−(−6 ) − 8 6−2 2
r2 = = = 3− 2
2 ( 1) 2
Nature of Roots: r1 and r2 are referred to as two real, irrational roots.

Graph of the Quadratic Function: y = x2 - 6x + 7
y = (x2 - 6x + 9) + 7 - 9
y = (x - 3)2 - 2
Vertex (3, -2)

y
x=3
7
(3 + 2, 0)
 
x
(3  2, 0)
(3, 2) 
Description of Zeros: Two real, irrational zeros at 3 + 2 and 3 − 2 .
Case 3: When b2 - 4ac = 0

a = 1, b = -6, c = 9
b2 - 4ac = (-6)2 - 4(1)(9) = 36 - 36 = 0
Note: The the value of b2 - 4ac is zero.
−(−6 ) + 0 6+0
Roots of Quadratic: r1 = = =3
2 ( 1) 2
−(−6 ) − 0 6−0
r2 = = =3
2 ( 1) 2
Nature of Roots: r1 and r2 are the same real number.

r1 and r2 are referred to as real and equal roots.

Graph of the Quadratic Function:
y = x2 - 6x + 9
y = (x - 3)2
Vertex (3, 0)
y
x=3
9

(3, 0) x
Description of Zeros: There is one zero. The graph only touches the x-axis
at its vertex.
Case 4: When b2 - 4ac < 0

a = 1, b = -6, c = 14
b2 - 4ac = (-6)2 - 4(1)(14) = 36 - 56 = -20
Note: The value of the discriminant is less than zero.
Roots of Quadratic:
−(−6 ) + −20 6 + −20
r1 = = = no real number answer
2 2
−(−6 ) − −20 6 − −20
r2 = = = no real number answer
2 2
The square root of a negative number is not a real number.

Nature of Roots: There are no real roots.
Graph of the Quadratic Function: y = x2 - 6x + 14
y = (x2 - 6x + 9) + 14 - 9
y = (x - 3)2 + 5
V(3, 5), opens up, standard size
y
x=3
14 

(3, 5)
Description of Zeros: There are no zeros since the graph does not cross or
touch the x-axis.
The following table displays the information you discovered in this lesson
about the nature of the roots of a quadratic equation. Include this information
on your resource sheet.
Nature of the Roots for the Quadratic Equation:

ax 2 + bx + c = 0
where a, b, and c are rational numbers, and a ¹ 0
Value of the Discriminant
Nature of the Roots
b 2 – 4ac
b2 - 4ac > 0 and is a perfect square 2 real, rational, unequal roots
b2 - 4ac > 0 and is not a perfect square 2 real, irrational, unequal roots
one real root (same as: 2 real, equal roots,
b2 - 4ac = 0
or one double, real root)
b2 - 4ac < 0 no real roots

Note that a, b, and c are designated as being rational numbers. However, if
they are irrational numbers, the summary chart is not valid in some cases.
The following example shows when a false conclusion may occur.
Example 1
Find the nature of the roots of the quadratic equation and check your answer
by finding the roots of the equation.
2 x 2 + 17 x − 4 2 = 0
Solution
a = 2 , b = 17 , c = −4 2
Notice these coefficients are irrational.

The discriminant is:
2
b 2 = 4 ac = ( 17 ) − 4 ( 2 ) (−4 2 )
= 17 + 16 ( 2 )
= 17 + 32
= 49
The discriminant is a perfect square. The usual conclusion would be there are
two rational roots.
Now, you can find those roots to see if they are rational.
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac
x=
2a
− 17 ± 49
=
2 2
− 17 ± 7
=
2 2
However, these roots are irrational numbers. The conclusion is false.

False conclusions may occur if the coefficients of the quadratic equation are
not rational. Note that further study in this topic will be covered at higher
levels of math. In this course, all the coefficients of a given quadratic equation
are rational.

Linear Inequalities in One Variable
Because questions involving the nature of the roots sometimes involve
inequalities, it will be helpful for you to review how to solve linear
inequalities. You learned how to do this in Grade 9 Mathematics.
Solving linear inequalities is equivalent to solving equations except for one
important rule.
When multiplying or dividing each side of the inequality by a negative
number, reverse the direction of the inequality sign. Add this rule to your
resource sheet.
The reason for this rule is shown in the following example.
Example 2
Is the following statement true or false? If the statement is false, rewrite the
statement to make it true.
If 4 < 6, then (-1)4 < (-1)(6).
Solution
False.
The first part of the statement, 4 < 6, is true, but if you simplify the second
part of the statement, you get -4 < -6, which is a false statement. Thus, the
correct statement should have the inequality sign reversed.
If 4 < 6, then (-1)4 > (-1)(6).
The following example gives you practice in solving a linear inequality in one
variable.

Example 3
Solve each of the following. Write your answer as an inequality and as an
interval using interval notation.
a) 3 - 2x > -5
b) 3(4 - x) ≤ x - (3 - 5x)
Solution
a) 3 − 2 x > −5
−2 x > −5 − 3
−2 x > −8
−2 x −8 Division by a negative number reverses the
<
−2 −2 direction of the inequality sign.
x<4
In interval notation, the solution is (-¥, 4).
b) 3 ( 4 − x ) ≤ x − ( 3 − 5x )
12 − 3x ≤ x − 3 + 5x
12 − 3x ≤ 6 x − 3
12 + 3 ≤ 6 x + 3x
15 ≤ 9 x
15
≤x
9
5
≤x
3
5
x≥
3
5 
The solution can be shown in interval notation as  , ∞.
3 

Example 4
For what values of m will x2 + 8x - m = 0 have real and unequal roots?
Solution
x2 + 8x - m = 0
a = 1, b = 8, c = -m
For real and unequal roots, b2 - 4ac > 0.
82 − 4 (1) (−m) > 0

64 + 4m > 0
4m > −64
m > −16
The value of m must be greater than -16 for the given equation to have real
and unequal roots.
Example 5
Write a quadratic equation that has two different, real solutions.
Solution
A quadratic equation in general form has two real number solutions when
b2 - 4ac > 0. Many solutions are possible.
One way to solve this problem is to choose any values of a and c, then find a
value of b that satisfies this inequality.
If a = 3, c = 11
b 2 − 4 ac > 0
b 2 − 4 ( 3)(11) > 0
b 2 − 132 > 0
b 2 > 132
A value of b could be 12 because 122 > 132. The equation is 3x2 + 12x + 11 = 0.
Note that Example 5 is a quadratic inequality that was solved by giving an
example that satisfies the conditions of the problem.

Part A: BrainPower
1. Janique is taking piano lessons and her teacher tells her she needs
to practice piano for at least 7 hours a week. If Janique practices for
45 minutes each day from Monday to Friday, 1.25 hours on Saturday, and
1.75 hours on Sunday, will Janique have practiced enough?
2. If you sleep for 9 hours a day, what fraction of the day are you awake (in
lowest terms)?
3. Evaluate for j = 3: 5j - 2j2 + 7
(2 3 )
4. Evaluate: 2
5. What is the area of a triangle with a base of 4 cm and a height of 8 cm?
6. Factor completely: 36x2 - 1
7. Two angles in an isosceles triangle measure 16° and 148°. What is the
measure of the third angle?
3
8. Express as a radical: 8 2
continued

Part B: The Discriminant
a) The discriminant of 2x2 + 5x + 6 = 0 is 23.
b) For each quadratic equation ax2 + bx + c = 0, if b2 - 4ac > 0, then the
equation has two real roots.
c) For each quadratic equation ax2 + bx + c = 0, if b2 - 4ac < 0, then the
equation has no real number solutions.
−6 + 32 −3 + 8 2
d) =
10 5
e) The equation x2 + 2x + 1 = 0 has two distinct real roots.
2. If the discriminant of a quadratic equation has the given value, state the
nature of the roots.
a) -15
b) 25
c) -9
d) 0
e) 50
3. How many times would the graph of y = ax2 + bx + c (with a, b, and c
as rational numbers and a ¹ 0) intersect the x-axis if the value of the
discriminant is
a) negative?
b) zero?
c) positive?
continued

4. Determine the nature of the roots by calculating the discriminant for each
equation.
a) x2 - 8x + 16 = 0
b) x2 + 2x + 7 = 0
c) p2 - 16 = 0
d) 2x2 + x = 5
5. Find value(s) of k so that each equation has real and equal roots.
a) kx2 - 6x + 2 = 0
b) x2 + (k - 8)x + 9 = 0
6. Sketch the graph of a quadratic function whose discriminant is positive
and whose vertex is in the second quadrant.
7. Find the value of k for each of the following situations.
a) 3x2 - 2x + k = 0 has two real roots
b) x2 + kx + 3k = 0 has a double root
c) kx2 + 8x = 4 has no real roots
8. For each of the following quadratic equations, solve by first using the
discriminant to determine if its value is a perfect square. If it is a perfect
square, use the factoring method to solve. If it is not a perfect square, use
the quadratic formula.
a) 12x2 - 19x - 21 = 0
b) 18x2 - 35x + 12 = 0
c) 60x2 - 59x - 20 = 0
9. Complete the following Quadratic Equation Puzzle with your learning
partner. Cut out all the separate pieces and arrange them into rows on the
Quadratic Equation Puzzle worksheet so that each row corresponds to a
quadratic equation. In each row, the quadratic equation must be in general
form and vertex form, and you must include the value of the discriminant,
the number of roots, the types of roots, and the actual roots themselves.

Notes

Quadratic Equation Puzzle Worksheet
General Form Vertex Form Value of the Number of Type of Roots

of Quadratic of Quadratic Discriminant Roots Roots
Equation Function
Module 4: Solving Quadr atic and R ational Equations

83
Quadratic Equation Puzzle Pieces
2
 1 Real and
y = 25 x −  none 1 25x2 - 10x + 1 = 0 -20
 5 Irrational
No Real 1 7
3x2 + 8x - 35 = 0 484 0 -5 ,
Roots 5 3
2
Real and  1 Real and
2 y = 9 x +  − 5 2 x2 - 4x + 4 = 0
Rational  3 Equal
2
−1 + 5 −1 − 5  4 121 Real and
, 9x2 + 6x - 4 = 0 0 y = 3 x +  − 0
3 3  3 3 Equal
2
 1 5
2 y = 2 x −  + 1 y = (x - 2)2 2x2 - 2x + 3 = 0 180
 2 2
Module 4: Solving Quadr atic and R ational Equations

85
Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned how the discriminant of the quadratic formula
can be used to determine the nature of the roots of the quadratic equation.
The roots of a quadratic equation can either be real and irrational, real and
rational, real and equal, or none.
You learned how to simplify, multiply, divide, add, and subtract rational
expressions in Module 2. In the next lesson, your focus will switch to dealing
with solving rational equations.

Notes

L e s s on 6: S olv ing R at ion a l E quat ion s
Lesson Focus

q learn how to solve rational equations
q learn how to determine the non-permissible values for rational
equations
q learn how to determine if you have an extraneous solution
q learn how to solve rational equation application problems
Lesson Introduction
In Module 2, you learned how to add, subtract, multiply, divide, and simplify
rational expressions. In this lesson, you will learn how to solve rational
equations. Solving rational equations is different than performing operations
or simplifying rational expressions. Therefore, in this lesson, you will learn
new techniques in order to solve rational equations. In order to not confuse
rational expressions with rational equations, examples throughout this lesson
outline their differences.
Rational Equations
An equation involving rational expressions is a rational equation. The

algebraic method of solution is based on the least common multiple. The
least common multiple (LCM) of two or more polynomials is the smallest
polynomial that is a multiple of each of the original polynomials.
The following steps display how to solve rational equations. These are not
the same steps you used to simplify rational expressions. Therefore, make
sure you copy these steps down on your resource sheet. To solve rational
equations, follow these steps:
1. Factor all denominators and numerators. Reduce each rational expression,
if possible.
2. Find the LCM of the denominators. Call it the LCD (lowest common
denominator).

3. Remove the denominators of the rational expressions by multiplying each
rational expression in the equation by the least common denominator.
Make sure you cancel to reduce the fractions.
4. Solve the resulting equation.
5. Check your solution(s) that none of these numbers are non-permissible
values of the original denominators.
Note: Be careful not to confuse a rational expression and a rational equation.
Expression Equation
Simplify. Solve for x.
x−2 2 x−2 2 7
+ + =
x−1 x x−1 x 6
LCD = ( x − 1)( x ) LCD = (6 x ) ( x − 1)
x−2 2 x−2 x 2 x−1 x−2 2 7
+ = ⋅ + ⋅ ( 6 x ) ( x − 1) + ( 6 x ) ( x − 1) = ( 6 x ) ( x − 1 )
x−1 x x−1 x x x−1 x−1 x 6
( x − 2 ) x + 2 ( x − 1) ( x − 2 ) 6 x + 12 ( x − 1) = 7 x ( x − 1)
=
( x − 1) x
6 x 2 − 12 x + 12 x − 12 = 7 x 2 − 7 x
2
x − 2x + 2x − 2
= 0 = x 2 − 7 x + 12
( x − 1) x
0 = ( x − 3) ( x − 4 )
x2 − 2
= , x ≠ 0, 1 x − 3 = 0 or x − 4 = 0
( x − 1) x
x = 3 or x = 4 , x ≠ 0 , 1
When simplifying a rational expression, the denominator remains unless it

cancels with a common factor in the numerator. The non-permissible values
are determined from the original expression.
In solving a rational equation, the denominator is cancelled by multiplying
every term in the equation by the least common denominator. This process
clears the rational equation of the denominators and produces an equivalent
equation with restrictions. These non-permissible values are shown beside the
solution.
Include the above explanation on your resource sheet to help you distinguish
between simplifying a rational expression and solving a rational equation.

Example 1
a) Simplify.
3 2
−
x−1 x+1
b) Solve for x.
3 2
− =1
x−1 x+1
Solution
a) LCD = (x – 1)(x + 1)
3 2
−
x−1 x+1
3 x+1 2 x−1
= ⋅ − ⋅
x−1 x+1 x+1 x−1
3 ( x + 1) − 2 ( x − 1)
=
( x − 1) ( x + 1)
3x + 3 − 2 x + 2
=
( x − 1) ( x + 1)
x+5
= , x ≠ 1, − 1
( x − 1) ( x + 1)
Note: The denominator is still present in the answer.

3 2
b) − =1
x−1 x+1
LCD = ( x − 1) ( x + 1)
Each term is
3 2
( x − 1) ( x + 1) − ( x − 1) ( x + 1) = 1 ( x − 1) ( x + 1) multiplied by the
x−1 x+1 LCD.
Reduce each term
3 ( x + 1) − 2 ( x − 1) = ( x − 1) ( x + 1) by cancelling
to clear the
equation of its
denominators.
3x + 3 − 2 x + 2 = x 2 + x − x − 1
x + 5 = x2 − 1
0 = x2 − x − 6
0 = ( x − 3) ( x + 2 )
x − 3 = 0 or x + 2 = 0
x = 3 or x = −2
Both of these answers are acceptable since the restrictions are x ¹ 1 and
x ¹ -1.

Example 2
Solve for x.
2 1
a) 2
−1=
x −1 x−1
1 2 3
b) + =
x x + 1 2x
Solution
2 1
a) 2
−1=
x −1 x−1
2 1
−1= Factor denominator.
( x − 1) ( x + 1) x−1
LCD = ( x − 1) ( x + 1)
2
( x − 1) ( x + 1) − 1 ( x − 1) ( x + 1) Multiply by LCD.
( x − 1) ( x + 1)
1
= ( x − 1) ( x + 1)
x−1
2 − 1 ( x − 1) ( x + 1) = 1 ( x + 1) Cancel to remove the
denominators.
2 − ( x 2 − 1) = x + 1
Simplify.
2
2−x +1= x+1
0 = x2 + x − 2
0 = ( x + 2 ) ( x − 1)
x + 2 = 0 or x − 1 = 0
x = −2 or x = 1
From the original equation, the non-permissible values are x = -1 and

x = 1. Therefore, x = 1 is an extraneous solution and x = -2 is the only
solution.

1 2 3
b) + =
x x + 1 2x
LCD = ( 2 x ) ( x + 1)
1 2 3
( 2 x ) ( x + 1) + ( 2 x ) ( x + 1) = ( 2 x ) ( x + 1)
x x+1 2x
( 2 ) ( x + 1) + ( 2 )( 2 x ) = 3 ( x + 1)
2 x + 2 + 4 x = 3x + 3
3x = 1
1
x=
3
From the original equation, the restrictions are x ¹ 0, x ¹ -1.
1
Therefore, there are no extraneous roots and x  is the only solution.
3
Example 3
2 1 3
Solve: + =
x 2 x
Solution
Method 1: Algebraic
2 1 3
+ =
x 2 x
LCD = 2 x
2 1 3
(2x) + (2x) = (2x)
x 2 x
4+x =6
x = 2, x ≠ 0

Method 2: Graphing Calculator
You can also use your graphing calculator to solve for x. First, rearrange the
equation to equal zero as:
2 1 3 1 1
+ − = 0 or − = 0
x 2 x 2 x
1 1
Now graph y = − and find the zeros.
2 x
The x-intercepts of the graph are the solutions to the equation when it is set
equal to zero.
The only zero is at x = 2.

Notice also that the graph of the equation approaches but does not cross the
y-axis, where x = 0. This is because the non-permissible value for this function
is x = 0.
Applications of Rational Equations

It is possible to solve motion problems by solving rational equations. Consider
the following example.
Example 4
Sophie can canoe 5 km in the same time as it takes Skyler to cover 30 km in
his motor boat. If Skyler’s boat travels 40 km/h faster than Sophie’s canoe,
how fast is Sophie canoeing? Round to the nearest tenth.
Solution
Use the formula d = rt, where d = distance, t = time, and r = rate or speed
Let s = Sophie’s speed and let Skyler’s speed = s + 40
d
Rearrange the distance formula to get t  . The time is the constant in this
r
equation. Therefore, you can set up equations for Sophie’s time and Skyler’s
time and then equate them.

d 5
Sophie:   t
r s
d 30
Skyler: = =t
r s + 40
5 30
=
s s + 40
LCD = (s)(s + 40)
5 30
(s ) (s + 40 ) = (s ) (s + 40 )
s s + 40
5 (s + 40 ) = 30s
5s + 200 = 30s
200 = 25s
s = 8 , s ≠ 0 , s ≠ − 40
Therefore, Sophie is canoeing at 8 km/h.

It is also possible to solve application problems using a table to set up the
information. Consider the following example.
Example 5
Mark can ride his bicycle 2 km/h faster than Tamara. They begin at the same
spot and at the same time, travelling in opposite directions. After travelling
for the same length of time, they stop and realize that Mark has travelled
27 km and Tamara has travelled 21 km. How fast was Mark travelling?
Solution
To get the entries for the “Time” column, fill in the rate and distance columns
first and then find the ratio of distance to rate.
Rate Time Distance

distance 27
Mark r+2 = 27
rate r+2
distance 21
Tamara r  21
rate r

Mark’s time of travel = Tamara’s time of travel.
27 21
=
r+2 r
LCD = r(r + 2)
27 21
r (r + 2 ) = r (r + 2 )
(r + 2 ) r
27 r = 21 (r + 2 )
27 r = 21r + 42
6r = 42
r = 7 , r ≠ 0, −2
Mark’s rate of travel was r + 2 = 7 + 2 = 9 km/h.
This is the last learning activity in this module. Learning activities are
designed to help prepare you for the assignments and exams. Make sure you
complete this learning activity, as there is an assignment directly following it
that contains similar questions. Also, you will be preparing for your midterm
examination at the end of this module. All the learning activities you have
completed will help prepare you for this examination.
Part A: BrainPower
1. Multiply: (3x2)(4xy4)
2. Your dog can run at a speed of 10 m/s. If you are standing half a kilometre
away from your dog, how long will it take for your dog to run to you?
3. What are the x-intercepts of the function y = x2 + 3x + 2?
continued

4. At a restaurant, Megan orders a meal advertised as containing
500 calories. She also orders a chocolate milkshake, which contains
490 calories. If Megan only eats 75% of her meal but drinks her entire
milkshake, how many calories did Megan consume?
1 5 2
5. Calculate: + +
5 6 15
6. Multiply: (x - y)(3x2 - 7x + 2)
7. State the independent and dependent variables for the following situation:
When the temperature changes, the height of the mercury in a
thermometer either rises or falls.
3
8. Express as an entire radical: 4 x 2
Part B: Solving Rational Equations
4x
a) If x ¹ 2, then ( x − 2 ) is equivalent to 4x.
x−2
 6 x
b) If x ¹ 3, then 2 ( x − 3) +  is equivalent to 6 + x.
x − 3 2
1
c) If x ¹ 0, then the equations x − = 0 and x2 - 1 = 0 are equivalent.
x
x−1 x−2
d) If x ¹ -3 and x ¹ -4, then = is equivalent to
x+3 x+4
(x - 1)(x + 4) = (x + 3)(x - 2).
continued

2. Solve each of the following rational equations. Make sure you state the
non-permissible values and check for extraneous roots.
−2
a) x =
x−3
2x − 9 x 5
b) + =
x−7 2 x−7
−1
c) x − 4 =
x
3x 2 2x + 1
d) −2 =
3x + 1 3x + 1
2x 1 3x + 9
e) + + 2 =0
x − 3 2 x + 3 2 x − 3x − 9
x 2 + 12 7x
f) =
x−3 x−3
3. The distance from Winnipeg to Minneapolis is about 600 km. You drove
from Winnipeg to Minneapolis 10 km/h faster than from Minneapolis to
Winnipeg. If the total driving time for the round trip was 22 hours, how
fast did you drive from Winnipeg to Minneapolis?
4. House painters, Gwen and Megan, want to know how long it will take
them if they work together to paint a house. Gwen, working alone, can
paint a house in 13 hours. Megan, working alone, can paint a house
in 11 hours. How long will it take them to paint a house if they work
together? Round your answer to the nearest hundredth.
5. Jeff is trying to fill his above-ground pool with water. He knows that one
of his hoses can fill the pool in 32 hours and another in 26 hours. If Jeff
uses both hoses to fill the pool, how long will it take to fill the pool with
water? Round your answer to the nearest tenth.

Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned how to solve rational equations. You also learned
how to solve application problems involving rational equations. Make sure
you complete Assignment 4.3, which is the last assignment in this module
and the last assignment before your midterm examination.

Assignment 4.3
The Discriminant and Solving Rational Equations
Total: 47 marks
1. If the discriminant of a quadratic equation is the given value, state the nature of the
roots. (1 mark each, for a total of 4 marks)
a) 25
b) -4
c) 27
d) 0
2. Determine the nature of the roots of the following equations. (2 marks each, for a total
of 10 marks)
x2
a) + 4x + 4 = 0
2
continued

(continued)
x−1
b) − x2 − 3 = 0
2
c) 2(x2 - 3) = 4x
d) 6x2 - x + 2 = 0
e) 4x2 - 12x + 9 = 0
continued

(continued)
3. For what values of k will the equation 2x2 + 4x + (2 - k - k2) have exactly one root?
(4 marks)
4. Given the graph of y = ax2 + bx + c, state whether the discriminant is zero, positive,
or negative. (1 mark each, for a total of 3 marks)
a) y
5 x
5
continued

(continued)
b) y
5 5 x
c) y

5 x
5
continued

(continued)
5. Solve for x. State the non-permissible values of each equation. (3 marks each, for a total
of 15 marks)
x 2 1
a) − =
x−1 x x−1
1 x
b) =
x−2 10 − 5x
continued

(continued)
x 2
c) =−
x − 14 x+1
x + 1 2x + 1 −6 x − 39
d) − = 2
x+3 x−4 x − x − 12
continued

(continued)
x 2x + 3 x
e) 2
= +
x + x − 42 x +7 x−6
continued

(continued)
6. You and your family are going on a road trip to visit your recently married cousin
in British Columbia. The total round trip distance is 2100 km. On the way to B.C.,
you encounter no setbacks and you are able to drive on average at a constant speed.
On the way home from B.C., you encounter a snowstorm and your mom has to
slow down to avoid getting into an accident. Thus, your average speed decreases by
10 km/h. If the total driving time was 42 hours, what was your average speed on the
way to B.C.? Recall: Distance = speed ´ time. Round to the nearest tenth. (6 marks)
continued

(continued)
7. To increase her endurance, a speed skater decides to include running as part of her
workout. During her workout, she will run for 10 kilometres at a constant speed.
After running, she will speed skate for 5 kilometres at 12 km/h faster than she can
run. If her entire workout lasts for 1 hour, how fast can this athlete run? Round to
the nearest hundredth. (5 marks)

Notes

Module 4 Summary
Congratulations! You are halfway done this course! In this module, you
extended your knowledge of quadratic functions to learn how to solve
quadratic equations using different methods. It is possible to solve quadratic
equations by graphing, taking square roots, factoring, using the quadratic
formula, and completing the square. These methods are useful in different
situations, which you summarized in the organizational chart in Learning
Activity 4.4. You also extended your knowledge from Module 2 on rational
expressions to learn how to solve rational equations. Then, you learned how to
solve applications problems involving motion by analyzing rational equations.
Before you continue on to Module 5, it is time to take your midterm exam.
The following information will tell you how to apply and prepare for your
midterm examination. It is also a good idea to complete the midterm practice
examination, as it will let you know what areas you are struggling with, and
perhaps need to study further.
In Module 5, you are going to be studying radicals. You had a brief look at
radicals in Grade 10 Introduction to Applied and Pre-Calculus Mathematics. You
also reviewed some of your knowledge on radicals in Lesson 2 in this module.
In Module 5, you will learn how to perform operations on radicals and also
solve radical equations.
q Assignment 4.1: Solving Quadratic Equations by Graphing and Taking
Square Roots
q Assignment 4.2: Solving Quadratic Equations
q Assignment 4.3: The Discriminant and Solving Rational Equations

Midterm Examination
Congratulations, you have finished Module 4 in the course. The midterm

examination is out of 100 marks and worth 20% of your final mark. In order to
do well on this examination, you should review all of your learning activities
and assignments from Modules 1 to 4.
You will complete this examination while being supervised by a proctor.
You should already have made arrangements to have the examination sent
to the proctor from the Distance Learning Unit. If you have not yet made
arrangements to write it, then do so now. The instructions for doing so are
provided in the Introduction to this module.
You will need to bring the following items to the examination: pens/pencils
(2 or 3 of each), blank paper, a ruler, a scientific or graphing calculator, and
your Examination Resource Sheet. A maximum of 2.5 hours is available
to complete your midterm examination. When you have completed it, the
proctor will then forward it for assessment. Good luck!
At this point you will also have to combine your resource sheets from
Modules 1 to 4 onto one 8½” ´ 11” paper (you may use both sides). Be sure
you have all the formulas, definitions, and strategies that you think you will
need. This paper can be brought into the examination with you. We suggest
that you divide your paper into two quadrants on each side so that each
quadrant contains information from one module.
Examination Review
You are now ready to begin preparing for your midterm examination. Please
review the content, learning activities, and assignments from Modules 1 to 4.
The midterm practice examination is also an excellent study aid for reviewing
Modules 1 to 4.
You will learn what types of questions will appear on the examination
and what material will be assessed. Remember, your mark on the midterm
examination determines 20% of your final mark in this course and you will
have 2.5 hours to complete the examination.

Midterm Practice Examination and Answer Key
To help you succeed in your examination, a practice examination can be
found in the learning management system (LMS). The midterm practice
examination is very similar to the actual examination that you will be
writing. The answer key is also included so that, when you have finished
writing the practice examination, you can check your answers. This will give
you the confidence that you need to do well on your examination. If you do
not have access to the Internet, contact the Distance Learning Unit at
1-800-465-9915 to get a copy of the practice examination and the answer key.
To get the most out of your midterm practice examination, follow these steps:
1. Study for the midterm practice examination as if it were an actual
examination.
2. Review those learning activities and assignments from Modules 1 to 4 that
you found the most challenging. Reread those lessons carefully and learn
the concepts.
3. Contact your learning partner and your tutor/marker if you need help.
4. Review your lessons from Modules 1 to 4, including all of your notes,
learning activities, and assignments.
5. Use your module resource sheets to make a draft of your Midterm
Examination Resource Sheet. You can use both sides of an 8½” by 11”
piece of paper.
6. Bring the following to the midterm practice examination: pens/pencils
your Midterm Examination Resource Sheet.
7. Write your midterm practice examination as if it were an actual
examination. In other words, write the entire examination in one sitting,
and don’t check your answers until you have completed the entire
examination. Remember that the time allowed for writing the midterm
examination is 2.5 hours.
8. Once you have completed the entire practice examination, check your
answers against the answer key. Review the questions that you got wrong.
For each of those questions, you will need to go back into the course and
learn the things that you have missed.
9. Go over your resource sheet. Was anything missing or is there anything
that you didn’t need to have on it? Make adjustments to your Midterm
Examination Resource Sheet. Once you are happy with it, make a
photocopy that you can keep.

Notes

Module 4

M o d u l e 4:
Part A: BrainPower
4. Solve for x: 6x + 5 = 7
6.2
6.9
3.1


Answers:
1. 3300 (55 ´ 60; There are 60 minutes in an hour, therefore, Brooklyn’s essay
contains 3300 words.)
2. 3x2y3
 8 
3. (2, 7)  x = − = 2 ; y = −2 ( 4 ) + 8 ( 2 ) − 1 = −8 + 16 − 1 = 7 
 −4 
1 2 1
4.  6 x = 2 , x = or 
3 6 3
5. 100 000 cm in 1 km (There are 100 cm in 1 m and 1000 m in 1 km.

Therefore, 100 ´ 1000 = 100 000 cm in 1 km.)
3.1
6.
6.9
6.2
7.
6.9
3.1
8.
6.2
a) −2 x 2 + 10 = −6
b) 3x ( x + 2 ) = 8
c) 5x 2 − 7 + 3x = 7
2
d) ( x + 3) = −4
2
e) ( x + 3) − 4 = 5
x2 − 4
f) =x
3
g) ( 2 x − 3) ( x + 2 ) = 0

Answers:
a) −2 x 2 + 10 = −6
−2 x 2 + 16 = 0 Add 6 to each side.

2 x 2 − 16 = 0 Multiply by (-1).
b) 3x ( x + 2 ) = 8
3x 2 + 6 x = 8 Distribute 3x into the bracket.
3x 2 + 6 x − 8 = 0 Subtract 8 from each side.
c) 5x 2 − 7 + 3x = 7
5x 2 + 3x − 14 = 0 Subtract 7 from each side and rearrange.
d) ( x + 3)2 = −4
x 2 + 6 x + 9 = −4 Expand (x + 3)2.
x 2 + 6 x + 13 = 0 Add +4 to each side.
e) ( x + 3)2 − 4 = 5
x 2 + 6x + 9 − 4 = 5 Expand (x + 3)2.
x 2 + 6x + 5 = 5 Simplify.
x 2 + 6 x = 0 Subtract 5 from each side.
x2 − 4
f) =x
3
x 2 − 4 = 3x Multiply each side by 3.
x 2 − 3x − 4 = 0 Subtract 3x from each side.
g) ( 2 x − 3) ( x + 2 ) = 0
2 x 2 + 4 x − 3x − 6 = 0 Multiply.
2x2 + x − 6 = 0 Simplify.

a) 0 = (x - 2)2 - 4
b) 0 = x2 - 6x + 5
c) x2 + 6x + 1 = -7
Answers:
Method 1: Using Graph Paper
a) 0 = (x - 2)2 - 4 y
6
Graph the function:
5
y = (x - 2)2 - 4
4
Vertex at (2, -4), opens up, 3
standard size 2
The zeros are 4 and 0. The 1
solutions of the equation are 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x

4 and 0. 1
2
3
4
5
6
b) 0 = x2 - 6x + 5
The function is y = x2 - 6x + 5.
First, complete the square to find the vertex and then graph the
parabola.
y = x2 - 6x + 5 y
6
y= (x2 - 6x + 9) + 5 - 9
5
y = (x - 3)2 - 4 4
\ Vertex is (3, -4); the curve 3
opens up and is standard 2
size. 1
The zeros are 1 and 5 and the 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x

solutions are 1 and 5. 1
2
3
4
5
6

c) x2 + 6x + 1 = 7 y
6
x2 + 6x + 8 = 0
5
The function is 4
y = x2 + 6x + 8. 3
Upon completing the square, 2
you get y = (x + 3)2 - 1. 1
The vertex is (-3, -1); the 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x

curve opens up and is 1
normal size. 2
3
The zeros are -4 and -2.
4
The solutions are -4 and -2.
5
6
Method 2: Using a graphing calculator

a) ENTER Y1 = (x - 2)2 - 4
Set Window to standard size: XMIN -10 XMAX +10
YMIN -10 YMAX +10
Use TRACE and the arrow keys to approximate the x-values of the
points where the graph crosses the x-axis.
Answers: x = 0 and 4

b) Press Y=
ENTER Y1 = x2 - 6x + 5
YMIN -10 YMAX +10
Use TRACE to approximate the x-values of the point where the
parabola intersects the x-axis.
Answers: x = 1 and x = 5
Using 2nd (CALC) ZERO will give a more accurate answer.
Set left and right bounds and guess. Press ENTER after each.
c) Press Y=
ENTER Y1 = x2 + 6x + 8
Use TRACE to approximate the zeros.
Answers: x = -2 or x = -4


Answers:
a) y = x2 - 2x - 8
y + 8 = x2 - 2x
y + 8 + 1 = x2 - 2x + 1
y + 9 = (x - 1)2
y = (x - 1)2 - 9
V(1, -9)

b) Check your answer using a graphing calculator, finding the zeros of
the function to be -2 and 4.
c) y = x2 - 2x + 8
The points can be read from the graph.
The graph intersects the x-axis at the points (-2, 0) and (4, 0).
d) The zeros are 4, -2.
e) The roots of the equation are 4, -2 since they are the same as the zeros
of the function.

f) Check by substituting into x2 - 2x - 8 = 0.
For x = 4 For x = -2
LHS = x2 - 2x - 8 LHS = x2 - 2x - 8
= 42 - 2(4) - 8 = (-2)2 - 2(-2) - 8
= 16 - 8 - 8 =4+4-8
= 0 =0
RHS = 0 RHS = 0
LHS = RHS LHS = RHS
Thus, both roots are verified.

a) x2 + 2x - 8 = 0
b) x2 + 4x + 3 = 0
c) x2 + 8x = -15
d) 9 - x2 = 0
e) 2x2 - 12x + 10 = 0
Answers:
a) x2 + 2x - 8 = 0
Let y = x2 + 2x - 8
y = (x2 + 2x )-8
y = (x2 + 2x + 1) - 8 - 1
y = (x + 1)2 - 9
V(-1, -9)
The solutions are x = -4, 2.

b) x2 + 4x + 3 = 0
Let y = x2 + 4x + 3
y = (x2 + 4x )+3
y = (x2 + 4x + 4) + 3 - 4
y = (x + 2)2 - 1
V(-2, -1)
y
 3
 
3 1 x
 1
The solutions are x = -3, -1.
c) x2 + 8x = -15
x2 + 8x + 15 = 0
Let y = x2 + 8x + 15
y = (x2 + 8x ) + 15
y = (x2 + 8x + 16) + 15 - 16
y = (x + 4)2 - 1
V(-4, -1)
y
 
10 8 6 4 2 x

2
4

d) 9 - x2 = 0
Let y = -x2 + 9
V(0, 9)
y
10

 
4 2 2 4 x
2
4
The solutions are x = ±3.
e) 2x2 - 12x + 10 = 0
Let y = 2x2 - 12x + 10
y = 2(x2 - 6x ) + 10
y = 2(x2 - 6x + 9) + 10 - 9(2)
y = 2(x - 3)2 - 8
V(3, -8)
y
10
 
2 2 4 6 8 x
2
4
6
8 
10
The solutions are x = 1, 5.

y = −x 2 + 5x − 4
y + 4 = −( x 2 − 5x )
25  25 
y+4− = − x 2 − 5x + 
4  4
2
16 25  5
y+ − = − x − 
4 4  2
2
 5 9
y = − x −  +
 2 4
y
1
64  
 
1
34  
1
24 
1 1
22 x
2


Answer:
Kalia graphed the quadratic function incorrectly. Because there is a
negative sign before the x2 term, this parabola should open down. The
correct graph is shown below.
y
1
24 
 
1 1 4 x
22
3
1
4
4  
From this graph, the x-intercepts are 1 and 4. Therefore, the solutions to
the quadratic equation -x2 + 5x - 4 = 0 are 1 and 4.

Part A: BrainPower
3. Factor: 14m - 28
Answers:
1. 264 000 cm3 (110 ´ 40 ´ 60 = 110 ´ 2400 = 264 000 cm3)
 $76.36 
2. $42.18  + $4 = $38.18 + $4 = $42.18
 2 
3. 14(m - 2)
4. Up
5. N, T (The pattern is letters made from only straight lines.)
 13   9 + 4 −24 + 12   13 12   13 
6.  , −6   M = , = , − = , −6 
2   2 2  2 2 2 
1
7. x > (12 x > 2 )
6
8 3y 8 2 8 2
8.  3 y = 8x + 2 ; = x+ ; y= x+ 
3 3 3 3 3 3

Recall: Finding the roots of an equation is identical to solving an equation.
a) x2 = 16 b) 3x2 - 18 = 0
Answer: Answer:
x = ± 16 3x 2 = 18
x = ±4 x2 = 6
x =± 6

c) x2 - 6 = -5 d) 6x2 + 3 = 2x2 + 7
Answer: Answer:
x 2 = −5 + 6 4x 2 = 4
x2 = 1 x2 = 1
x =± 1 x =± 1
x = ±1 x = ±1

e) x2 = 6x2 - 1 f) 4x2 - 9 = -3
Answer: Answer:
1 = 5x 2 4x 2 = 6
1 3
x2 = x2 =
5 2
1 3
x =± x =±
5 2
1 3
x =± or x =± or
5 2
5 6
x =± x =±
5 2

Note: For (e), you can rationalize the
denominator or not. Either method of 1 5 5 5
⋅ = =
answering is acceptable. Remember, to 5 5 25 5
rationalize a monomial radical denominator,
multiply top and bottom of the fraction by the radical:

g) x2 - 20 = 0 h) 24 - 2x2 = 0
Answer: Answer:
x 2 = 20 2 x 2 = 24
x = ± 20 x 2 = 12
x =± 4 5 x = ± 12
x = ±2 5 x =± 4 3
x = ±2 3

i) (x - 2)2 = 5
Answer:

Note: This question does not exactly fit the pattern. You have a
binomial squared. However, you can still easily take the square root of
both sides to eliminate the square and then add 2 to both sides.
( x − 2 )2 = ± 5
x−2 =± 5
x=2± 5
Therefore, x = 2 − 5 or x = 2 + 5 .
2 2
j) x + 6 = 18
3
Answer:
2 
3 x 2 + 6 = 3 (18) Multiply both sides of the equation by 3.
3 
2 x 2 + 18 = 54 Simplify.
x 2 + 9 = 27 Divide both sides of the equation by 2.

x 2 = 18
x = ± 18
x =± 9 2
x = ±3 2

approximate.
Answer:
Because ABCD is a square, ÐA is 90°
and the diagonal of the square will
pass through the centre of the circle.
A 6 cm B BD 2 = AD 2 + AB 2
BD 2 = 6 2 + 6 2
BD = 36 + 36
6 cm
BD = 36 ⋅ 2
BD = 6 2
1
D C Radius =
2
(6 2 )
=3 2
Area of circle = π r 2
2
= π (3 2 )
= 18 π cm 2

x 2 − 40 = 0
x 2 = 40
x = ± 40
x = ±4 10

Answer:
Jordon’s work is complete up until the last step. However, 40 should be
simplified as follows:
40 can be written as the product of 4 and 10.
40 = ( 4 )( 10 ) = 2 10
Therefore, x = ±2 10 is the correct answer.

Part A: BrainPower
2 4
3 3
8. The x-intercepts of a parabola are -5 and 2 and the y-intercept is 10. Write
Answers:
 500 
1. 4 days  = 4
 125 
3 15 
2. No  = = 15%
 20 100 
3. x2 + 10x + 25 [(x + 5)2 = (x + 5)(x + 5) = x2 + 5x + 5x + 25]
4. y = 1(x + 1)(x + 5) = x2 + 6x + 5
5. 144 (16 ´ 9)
1
6. 15 2
 2 3 6 4
7. These fractions are not equivalent.  ⋅ = , not 

 3 3 3 3 

8. y = -(x + 5)(x - 2) (The factored form is y = a(x + 5)(x - 2). Since the
y-intercept is 10, 10 = a(0 + 5)(0 - 2) and the value of a is -1.)

a) x2 - x - 12 = 0
Answer:
x 2 − x − 12 = 0
( x − 4 ) ( x + 3) = 0
x−4=0 or x+3=0
x=4 or x = −3
b) x2 - x - 20 = 0
Answer:
x 2 − x − 20 = 0
( x − 5) ( x + 4 ) = 0
x−5=0 or x+4=0
x=5 or x = −4
c) -x2 - 2x + 3 = 0
Answer:
−x 2 − 2 x + 3 = 0
x2 + 2x − 3 = 0 Multiply each side by (−1) .
( x + 3 ) ( x − 1) = 0
x+3=0 or x−1= 0
x = −3 or x=1

d) x2 + 9x + 18 = 0
Answer:
x 2 + 9 x + 18 = 0
( x + 6 ) ( x + 3) = 0
x+6 = 0 or x+3=0
x = −6 or x = −3
e) 2x2 + 3x - 2 = 0
Answer:
2 x 2 + 3x − 2 = 0
( 2 x − 1) ( x + 2 ) = 0
2x − 1 = 0 or x+2 =0
1
x= or x = −2
2

possible.
a) 10x2 = 7x + 12
Answer:
10 x 2 − 7 x − 12 = 0
( 5x + 4 ) ( 2 x − 3 ) = 0
5x + 4 = 0 or 2x − 3 = 0
4 3
x =− or x=
5 2
b) 5x2 + 21x = 54
Answer:
5x 2 + 21x − 54 = 0
( 5x − 9 ) ( x + 6 ) = 0
5x − 9 = 0 or x+6 = 0
9
x= or x = −6
5

c) 3x(x - 2) - x(x + 1) + 5 = 0
Answer:
3 x ( x − 2 ) − x ( x + 1) + 5 = 0
3x 2 − 6 x − x 2 − x + 5 = 0
2x2 − 7 x + 5 = 0
( 2 x − 5 ) ( x − 1) = 0
2x − 5 = 0 or x−1= 0
5
x= or x=1
2
2 9 1
d) x + x−2 =0
2 2
Answer:
9 1
x2 + x−2 =0
2 2
9 5
x2 + x− =0
2 2
2 x 2 + 9x − 5 = 0 Multiply by 2.
( 2 x − 1) ( x + 5 ) = 0
2x − 1 = 0 or x+5=0
1
x= or x = −5
2
e) x2 + 9 = 0
Answer:
x2 + 9 = 0
Does not factor .
Solve by using inverse operations.
x 2 = −9
x = ± −9
x = no real answer

f) 16x2 - 64 = 0
Answer:
16 x 2 − 64 = 0
16 ( x 2 − 4 ) = 0
16 (x − 2 ) (x + 2 ) = 0
(x − 2 ) (x + 2 ) = 0 Divide by 16.
x−2 =0 or x+2 =0
x=2 or x = −2
g) x2 + 12x - 28 = 0
Answer:
x 2 + 12 x − 28 = 0
(x + 14)(x − 2 ) = 0
x + 14 = 0 or x−2 =0
x = −14 or x=2
Answer:
A Let x = shorter leg of the right triangle
x + 7 = larger leg of the right triangle
Because the triangle has a right angle,
a2 + b 2 = c 2
2
x+7 17 x 2 + ( x + 7 ) = 17 2
x 2 + x 2 + 14 x + 49 = 289
2 x 2 + 14x − 240 = 0
C x B 2 ( x 2 + 7 x − 120 ) = 0
x 2 + 7 x − 120 = 0
( x + 15) ( x − 8) = 0

x + 15 = 0 or x - 8 = 0
x = -15 or x = 8
x = -15 is not possible as a length
\ x = 8 m is the shorter side
x + 7 = 15 m is the longer side
Note: When solving word problems, writing a statement at the beginning
of your solution that identifies what the variables represent is a necessary
part of your solution.
each checkerboard.
Answer:
x + 10
x
x x + 10
Let x = length of side of smaller square

Let x + 10 = length of side of larger square
Sum of areas = 1300 cm2
( x ⋅ x ) + ( x + 10 ) ( x + 10 ) = 1300
x 2 + x 2 + 20 x + 100 = 1300
2 x 2 + 20 x − 1200 = 0
2 ( x 2 + 10 x − 600 ) = 0
x 2 + 10 x − 600 = 0
( x − 20 ) ( x + 30 ) = 0
x = 20 or x = −30
Since x represents a length, the negative value of -30 must be ignored.

The only solution can be x = 20 and x + 10 = 30.
Thus, the length of each side of the smaller checkerboard is 20 cm and of
the bigger checkerboard 30 cm.

the third is 63.
Answer:
Let x = first odd integer
x + 2 = second odd integer
x + 4 = third odd integer
( x + 2 ) ( x + 4 ) = 63
x 2 + 6 x + 8 = 63
x 2 + 6 x − 55 = 0
( x + 11) ( x − 5) = 0
x = -11 or x = 5
If x = -11 is first integer If x = 5 is first integer
x + 2 = -9 is second integer x + 2 = 7 is second integer
x + 4 = -7 is third integer x + 4 = 9 is third integer

Answer:
x+5 Let x = width of rectangle
3 3 x + 5 = length of rectangle
3 3
3 = height of box = side of square
fold line
removed from each corner
x6
x + 5 - 6 or
x
x - 1 = length of box
3 3
x - 6 = width of box
3 3
x1

450 = ( x − 1) ( x − 6 )( 3) Formula for volume.
150 = ( x − 1) ( x − 6 ) Divide by 3.
150 = x 2 − 7 x + 6
0 = x 2 − 7 x − 144
0 = ( x − 16 ) ( x + 9 )
x = 16 or x = −9
Since the width cannot be negative, our solution is x = 16.

The dimensions of the original piece of cardboard are 16 cm wide and
21 cm long.

shown below.
x2 - 10x + 24 = 0
(x - 6)(x - 4) = 0
Answer:
Farrah did not equate each factor of the quadratic equation to zero.
Instead, she just took the terms inside the brackets as solutions. The
correct solutions are:
x-6=0 or x-4=0
x = 6 x=4
Answer:
For y = -4(x - 3)(x + 1), the x-intercepts are x = 3 and x = -1. The
3 + (−1)
x-coordinate of the vertex is = 1. The y-coordinate of the vertex
2
is x = -4(1 - 3)(1 + 1) = -4(-2)(2) = 16. The leading coefficient, a, is -4.
The function in vertex form is y = -4(x - 1)2 + 16.

Part A: BrainPower
1. Evaluate: 115 + 27 + 76 + 25
3
8
1 2 121
4. Factor: x -
3 3
6
2
circle?
Answers:

1. 11  115 + 27 + 76 + 25 ; 115 + 27 + 76 + 5 ; 115 + 27 + 81 ;

115 + 27 + 9 ; 115 + 36 ; 115 + 6 ; 121 ; = 11 )

1 3 9
2. 1 cups of butter  × 3 = 
8 8 8
3. Yes ($400 - ($66 + $40 + $120) = $400 - $226 = $174)

1 1 121 1 2 1 
4. ( x − 11) ( x + 11) x 2 − = ( x − 121) = ( x − 11) ( x + 11)
3 3 3 3 3 

 6 6 2

5 (-1, -8)  x = − = − = −1; y = 3 (−1) + 6 (−1) − 5 = 3 − 6 − 5 = −8
 2 ( 3) 6 
 6 2 6 2 
6. 3 2 
 ⋅ = = 3 2 

 2 2 2 
3  7 4
7.  3 y = −7 x + 4 ; y = − x + 
7  3 3
(Recall: Perpendicular lines have slopes that are negative reciprocals.)
8. 46 cm (C = 2 π r ; C = 92 π ; ∴ 2 π r = 92 π ;
92 π 92 
r= ;r= = 46 cm 
2π 2 

a) x2 - 2x - 5 = 0
b) 3x2 - 2x + 5 = 0
c) 5x2 - 3x = 8
d) 2(x2 - 2x) - 1 = 0
e) 5x2 = 9x
f) 4 - 2x2 = 9x
Answers:
a) x2 - 2x - 5 = 0 b) 3x2 - 2x + 5 = 0
a = 1, b = -2, c = -5 a = 3, b = -2, c = 5
c) 5x2 - 3x - 8 = 0 d) 2(x2 - 2x) - 1 = 0
a = 5, b = -3, c = -8 2x2 - 4x - 1 = 0
a = 2, b = -4, c = -1
e) 5x2 = 9x f) 4 - 2x2 = 9x
2 2
5x - 9x = 0 -2x - 9x + 4 = 0
a = 5, b = -9, c = 0 2x2 + 9x - 4 = 0
a = 2, b = 9, c = -4

you memorize it
x2 15
a) +x− =0
2 2
b) 2w2 - 3w + 1 = 0
c) 7w2 - 3w = 0
d) 1 = 25x2
e) x2 – 0.1x - 0.06 = 0
f) -x2 - 7x - 1 = 0
Answers:
x2 15 b) 2 w2 − 3w + 1 = 0
a) +x− =0
2 2 ( 2 w − 1) ( w − 1) = 0
1 2
2
( x + 2 x − 15) = 0 2 w − 1 = 0 or w − 1 = 0
1 1
( x + 5) ( x − 3) = 0 w= or w = 1
2 2
x + 5 = 0 or x − 3 = 0
x = −5 or x = 3
c) 7 w2 − 3w = 0 d) 1 = 25x 2
w (7 w − 3 ) = 0 0 = 25x 2 − 1
w = 0 or 7 w − 3 = 0 0 = ( 5 x − 1) ( 5 x + 1)
3 5x − 1 = 0 or 5x + 1 = 0
w = 0 or w =
7
1 1
x= or x = −
5 5

e) x 2 − 0.1x − 0.06 = 0 f) −x 2 − 7 x − 1 = 0
( x − 0.3) ( x + 0.2 ) = 0 x2 + 7x + 1 = 0
x − 0.3 = 0 or x + 0.2 = 0 a = 1, b = 7 , c = 1
x = 0.3 or x = −0.2
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac
x=
2a
−7 ± 49 − 4
x=
2
−7 ± 45
x=
2
−7 ± 3 5
x=
2

below.
a) 3x2 - 6x - 15 = 0
b) 2x2 - 4x - 1 = 0
c) 9x2 - 18x - 7 = 0
d) x2 - x - 3 = 0

Answers:
a) 3x 2 − 6 x − 15 = 0 b) 2 x 2 − 4x − 1 = 0
3 (x2 − 2x ) = 15 2 (x2 − 2x )=1

3 ( x 2 − 2 x + 1) = 15 + 3 (1) 2 ( x 2 − 2 x + 1) = 1 + 2 ( 1)
2 2
3 ( x − 1) = 18 2 ( x − 1) = 3
( x − 1)2 = 6 3
( x − 1)2 =
2
x−1 =± 6
3
x−1 =±
x = 1± 6 2
3
x =1±
2
6
x=1±
2
2± 6
x=
2
c) 9 x 2 − 18x − 7 = 0 d) x 2 − x − 3 = 0
9 (x2 − 2x )=7 1 1
x2 − x + = 3+
4 4
9 ( x 2 − 2 x + 1) = 7 + 9 ( 1) 2
 1 13
2 x −  =
9 ( x − 1) = 16  2 4
16 1 13
( x − 1)2 = x− =±
9 2 4
4 1 13
x−1 =± x= ±
3 2 2
4 1 ± 13
x = 1±
3 x=
2
4 4
x =1+ , 1−
3 3
7 1
x= ,−
3 3

a) f(x) = 5x2 - x - 3
b) y = 2x2 + 6x - 1
Answers:
a) f(x) = 5x2 - x - 3 b) y = 2x2 + 6x - 1
0 = 5x2 - x - 3 0 = 2x2 + 6x - 1
a = 5, b = -1, c = -3 a = 2, b = 6, c = -1
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac −b ± b 2 − 4 ac
x= x=
2a 2a
2 2
+1 ± (−1) − 4 ( 5) (−3) −6 ± (6 ) − 4 ( 2 ) (−1)
x= x=
2 ( 5) 2 (2)
1 ± 1 + 60 −6 ± 36 + 8
x= x=
10 4
1 ± 61 −6 ± 44
x= x=
10 4
1 + 61 1 − 61 −6 ± 2 11
x= or x=
10 10 4
2 (−3 ± 11 )
x=
2 (2)
−3 ± 11
x=
2
−3 + 11 −3 − 11
x= or
2 2

b) by factoring
Answers:
a) 6 x 2 + 5x − 6 = 0
a = 6 , b = 5 , c = −6
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac
x=
2a
2
−5 ± ( 5) − 4 (6 ) (−6 )
x=
2 (6)
−5 ± 169
x=
12
−5 ± 13 −5 + 13 −5 − 13 8 18
x= = , = ,−
12 12 12 12 12
2 3
x= or −
3 2
b) 6 x 2 + 5x − 6 = 0
( 2 x + 3) ( 3x − 2 ) = 0
2x + 3 = 0 3x − 2 = 0
2 x = −3 3x = 2
−3 2
x= x=
2 3
You may prefer either method. Perhaps you find factoring easier than
plugging values into a formula. Or, you may like the certainty of using a
formula. Both methods are important for future mathematics courses so you
should practise both.

a) factoring
c) graphing
Answers:
a) 0 = x2 + 8x + 15
0 = (x + 3)(x + 5)
x = -3, -5
b) a = 1, b = 8, c = 15
−8 ± 64 − 60
x=
2
−8 ± 4
x=
2
−8 ± 2 −8 + 2 −8 − 2
x= = ,
2 2 2
x = −3 or − 5
c) y = x2 + 8x + 15 y
y = (x2 + 8x + 16) + 15 - 16
y = (x + 4)2 - 1 4
Vertex: (-4, -1), opens up, 3

standard size 2
Zeros: x = -3, -5
1
8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 x
1
2
3
4

d) 0 = x 2 + 8x + 15
0 = ( x 2 + 8x + 16 ) + 15 − 16
2
0 = (x + 4) − 1
2
1 = (x + 4)
x + 4 = ±1
x = ±1 − 4
x = 1 − 4 , −1 − 4
x = −3 , − 5
You may prefer any of the above methods for a variety of reasons. It is a
good idea to practise them all—check your answers if you try more than
one method. Some questions may be easier to solve using one method
while others are easier to solve using a different method.

Answer:
See the Solving Quadratic Equations chart at the end of the answers for
Learning Activity 4.4 for possible descriptions. Discuss your answers with
your learning partner or your tutor/marker if you are unsure.

c) no real roots
Answers:
Answers will vary—possible answers are given. Check your answers with
your learning partner or tutor/marker.
a) If you pick the roots to be x = 1 and x = 5, then (x - 1) and (x - 5)
are factors of the corresponding quadratic equation. Thus, the
corresponding quadratic equation could be (x - 1)(x - 5) = 0 or
x2 - 6x + 5 = 0.

b) If you pick the two equal roots to be x = 1 and x = 1, then (x - 1) and
(x - 1) are factors of the corresponding quadratic equation. Thus, the
quadratic equation is (x - 1)(x - 1) = 0 or x2 - 2x + 1 = 0.
c) A quadratic equation that has no real roots has a corresponding
quadratic function that does not intersect the x-axis. For example,
y = (x - 2)2 + 1 has its vertex at (2, 1) and opens up. In general form,
the equation is
0 = (x - 2)2 + 1
0 = x2 - 4x + 4 + 1
0 = x2 - 4x + 5
Also, when you use the quadratic formula, you get the following result:
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac
x=
2a
2
+4 ± (−4 ) − 4 (1)( 5)
x=
2 ( 1)
4 ± −4
x=
2
x = not a real number. Thus, there are no roots.
Answer:
No. In Question 6, the quadratic equation could easily be solved by
factoring. Therefore, the quadratic formula could sometimes make an
easy question unnecessarily hard.

the horizontal distance is represented by d, and both are measured in
Answer:
When the rocket lands, its height is zero. Therefore, the quadratic equation
is -0.02d2 + 0.4d + 1 = 0. To find the distance at this time, you need to
solve for the roots of this quadratic equation. The completing-the-square
method is shown below.
−0.02 d 2 + 0.4 d + 1 = 0
d 2 − 20 d − 50 = 0 Dividing by -0.02.
d 2 − 20 d = 50 Add 50.
d 2 − 20 d + 100 = 50 + 100 Completing the square.
( d − 10 )2 = 150 Factoring and simplifying.
d − 10 = ± 150 Taking square roots.
d = 10 ± 5 6
Two possible answers are:

d = 10 + 5 6 ≈ 22.247
d = 10 − 5 6 ≈ −2.247
d = 10 − 5 6 is a root of the equation but not a solution to the problem.

The rocket cannot travel a negative distance. Thus, 10 - 5 6 is an
extraneous root. The only solution is d = 10 + 5 6. Therefore, the rocket
has travelled (10 + 5 6 ) m.

10x2 + 2x + 1 = 0
a = 10, b = 2, c = 1
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac
x=
2a
−2 ± 2 2 − 4 (10 )
x=
2 (10 )
−2 ± 4 − 40
x=
20
−2 ± −36
x=
20
−2 ± 6
x=
20
−2 + 6 4 1
x= = =
20 20 5
−2 − 6 −8 −2
x= = =
20 20 5
Answer:
David took the square root of a negative number (-36). It is not possible
to find a real number answer for the square root of a negative number.
Therefore, there is no solution to this quadratic equation in real numbers
like David thought there was.

(x2 - 5)2 + 3(x2 - 5) + 2 = 0
Answer:
Notice that there is a quadratic pattern in the equation. Temporarily, let
a = x2 – 5 and substitute into the original equation.
\ a2 + 3a + 2 = 0
(a + 2)(a + 1) = 0
a = -2 or a = -1
Now solve for x after replacing a with x2 - 5.
x 2 − 5 = −2 or x 2 − 5 = −1
x2 = 3 x2 − 4 = 0
x =± 3 (x − 2)(x + 2) = 0
x = 2 or x = −2
Solutions:
{
x = −2 , − 3 , 3 , 2 }

Graphing
Use when:
The quadratic equation is in vertex form with integer values for a, p, and q that can
easily fit on a graph.
Square Roots
Use when:
There is no x-term, when b = 0 in the general form of the quadratic equation, or when
the equation is presented as a binomial squared.
Factoring
Use when:
The equation, in general form, can be factored easily.
Use when:
The x2 term has a coefficient of 1, and the coefficient of the x-term is even.
Quadratic Formula
Use when:
The equation cannot be factored easily or at all, or when completing the square would
involve fractions.

Part A: BrainPower
lowest terms)?
(2 3 )
4. Evaluate: 2
3
Answers:
1. No [Janique will still need to practice for 0.25 hours, or 15 minutes.
(45 minutes = 0.75 hours; Total time = 0.75 ´ 5 + 1.25 + 1.75 =
3.75 + 1.25 + 1.75 = 6.75 hours)]
5 15 5
2.  24 − 9 = 15 ; = 
8 24 8 
3. 4 [5(3) - 2(9) + 7 = 15 - 18 + 7 = 4]
( 3
4. 256 2 2 = 2 8 = 256 )

 1 1 
5. 16 cm 2 Area = × base × height = × 4 × 8 = 16 cm 2 
 2 2 
6. (6x - 1)(6x + 1)
7. 16°
(Method 1: The sum of the angles in a triangle must be 180°. Therefore, the
missing angle is 180° - 16° - 148° = 16°.
Method 2: An isosceles triangle will have two angles that are the same
and all three angles add up to 180°. Therefore, the third angle must
measure 16°, since you cannot have two angles of 148° in a triangle.)
3
8. 83 or ( 8 )
−6 + 32 −3 + 8 2
d) =
10 5
Answers:
a) False. The discriminant of 2x2 + 5x + 6 = 0 is b2 - 4ac = 52 - 4(2)(6) =
25 - 48 = -23.
b) True
c) True
−6 + 32 −6 + 4 2 −3 + 2 2
d) False. = =
10 10 5
e) False. The equation x2 + 2x + 1 = 0 has one real root since
b2 - 4ac = 22 - 4(1)(1) = 0.

Answer:
Discriminant Nature of Roots:
a) -15 no real roots
b) 25 2 real, rational roots
c) -9 no real roots
d) 0 1 real root
e) 50 2 real, irrational roots

discriminant is
a) negative?
Answer: Never
b) zero?
Answer: Once
c) positive?
Answer: Twice
equation.
a) x2 - 8x + 16 = 0
Answer:
x2 - 8x + 16 = 0
a = 1, b = -8, c = 16
b2 - 4ac = (-8)2 - 4(1)(16)
= 64 - 64
=0
Because b2 - 4ac = 0, there is one real root.

b) x2 + 2x + 7 = 0
Answer:
x2 + 2x + 7 = 0
a = 1, b = 2, c = 7
b2 - 4ac = (2)2 - 4(1)(7)
= 4 - 28
= -24
Because b2 - 4ac < 0, there are no real roots.
c) p2 - 16 = 0
Answer:
p2 - 16 = 0
a = 1, b = 0, c = -16
b2 - 4ac = (0)2 - 4(1)(-16)
= 64
Because b2 - 4ac > 0 and equal to a perfect square, there are two real,
rational roots.
d) 2x2 + x = 5
Answer:
2x2 + x = 5
2x2 + x - 5 = 0
a = 2, b = 1, c = -5
b2 - 4ac = (1)2 - 4(2)(-5)
= 1 + 40
= 41
Because b2 - 4ac > 0 and not equal to a perfect square, there are two
real, irrational roots.

a) kx2 - 6x + 2 = 0
Answer:
kx2 - 6x + 2 = 0
If the roots are equal, b2 - 4ac = 0.
a = k, b = -6, c = 2
(−6 )2 − 4 ( k )( 2 ) = 0
36 − 8 k = 0
−8 k = −36
−36
k=
−8
9
k=
2
b) x2 + (k - 8)x + 9 = 0
Answer:
x2 + (k - 8)x + 9 = 0
a = 1, b = k - 8, c = 9
Method 1:
( k − 8)2 − 4 (1)(9 ) = 0
k 2 − 16 k + 64 − 36 = 0
k 2 − 16 k + 28 = 0
( k − 2 ) ( k − 14 ) = 0
k = 2 or k = 14
Method 2:
( k − 8)2 − 4 (1)(9 ) = 0
( k − 8)2 − 36 = 0
( k − 8)2 = 36
k − 8 = ±6
k = 8 − 6 or k = 8 + 6
k = 2 or k = 14

Answer:
The graph must intersect the x-axis twice because a positive discriminant
tells us that the quadratic function has two real roots. It must open down.

Answer:
3x2 - 2x + k = 0
If the equation has two real roots, b2 - 4ac > 0.
a = 3, b = -2, c = k
b 2 − 4 ac > 0
(−2 )2 − 4 ( 3) k > 0
4 − 12 k > 0
−12 k > −4
−12 k −4
<
−12 −12
1
k<
3
Remember that when dividing an inequality by a negative number, the
inequality sign reverses direction.

Answer:
x2 + kx + 3k = 0
If the equation has a double root, then b2 - 4ac must be 0.
b2 - 4ac = 0
(k)2 - 4(1)(3k) = 0
k2 - 12k = 0
k(k - 12) = 0
k = 0, k = 12

Answer:
kx2 + 8x = 4
kx2 + 8x - 4 = 0
If the equation has no real roots, then b2 - 4ac < 0.
a = k, b = 8, c = -4
b2 - 4ac < 0
82 - 4(k)(-4) < 0
64 + 16k < 0
16k < -64
k < -4

a) 12x2 - 19x - 21 = 0
Answer:
12x2 - 19x - 21 = 0
a = 12, b = -19, c = -21
b2 - 4ac = (-19)2 - 4(12)(-21)
= 1369
= 372
The discriminant is a perfect square. The equation can be factored.
12 x 2 − 19 x − 21 = 0
12 x 2 − 28x + 9x − 21 = 0
4 x ( 3x − 7 ) + 3 ( 3x − 7 ) = 0
( 4 x + 3 ) ( 3x − 7 ) = 0
3 7
x =− and x =
4 3
b) 18x2 - 35x + 12 = 0
Answer:
18x2 - 35x + 12 = 0
a = 18, b = -35, c = 12
b2 - 4ac = (-35)2 - 4(18)(12)
= 361
= 192
18x 2 − 35x + 12 = 0
18x 2 − 27 x − 8x + 12 = 0
9 x ( 2 x − 3) − 4 ( 2 x − 3) = 0
( 9 x − 4 ) ( 2 x − 3) = 0
4 3
x= ,
9 2

c) 60x2 - 59x - 20 = 0
Answer:
60x2 - 59x - 20 = 0
a = 60, b = -59, c = -20
b2 - 4ac = (-59)2 - 4(60)(-20)
= 8281
= 912
60 x 2 − 59 x − 20 = 0
60 x 2 + 16 x − 75x − 20 = 0
4 x (15x + 4 ) − 5 (15x + 4 ) = 0
( 4x − 5) (15x + 4 ) = 0
5 4
x= and x = −
4 15


50
Quadratic Equation Puzzle Key

Equation Function
2
 1 Real and −1 + 5 −1 − 5
9x2 + 6x - 4 = 0 y = 9 x +  − 5 180 2 ,
 3 Irrational 3 3
2
 4 121 Real and 7
y = 3 x +  − 484 2 -5 ,
3x2 + 8x - 35 = 0  3 3 Rational 3
Grade 11 Pr e- C alculus Mathematic s

2
 1 5 No Real
2x2 - 2x + 3 = 0 y = 2 x −  + -20 0 None
 2 2 Roots
Real and
x2 - 4x + 4 = 0 y = (x - 2)2 0 1 2
Equal
2
 1 Real and 1
25x2 - 10x + 1 = 0 y = 25 x −  0 1
 5 Equal 5
Part A: BrainPower
1 5 2
5. Calculate: + +
5 6 15
6. Multiply: (x - y)(3x2 - 7x + 2)
3
8. Express as an entire radical: 4x 2
Answers:
1. 12x3y4
500 
2. 50 seconds (half a kilometre = 500 metres; = 50 
10 
3. -2 and -1 (Factoring: (x + 2)(x + 1))

4. 865 (75% of 500 = 375; 490 + 375 = 865 calories)
76 25 4 35 7 
5.  + + = = 
6  30 30 30 30 6 

6. 3x3 - 7x2 + 2x - 3x2y + 7xy - 2y
7. Independent Variable: The temperature
Dependent Variable: The height of the mercury in the thermometer
 3 
3 2 = 4 x 3 = 4 2 x 3 = 16 x 3 
8. 16 x 
 4 x 
 
4x
x−2
 6 x
x − 3 2
1
x
x−1 x−2
x+3 x+4
(x - 1)(x + 4) = (x + 3)(x - 2).
Answers:
a) True
 6 x
b) False. If x ¹ 3, then 2 ( x − 3) +  is equivalent to 12 + x2 - 3x.
x − 3 2
c) True
d) True

2
a) x = −
x−3
Answer:
LCD = x - 3 and x ¹ 3
−2
x ( x − 3) = ( x − 3)
x−3
x 2 − 3x = −2
x 2 − 3x + 2 = 0
( x − 2 ) ( x − 1) = 0
x = 2, 1
Check:
Are any of the solutions the non-permissible value? No.
\ The solutions are x = 2 or x = 1, x ¹ 3.
2x − 9 x 5
b) + =
x−7 2 x−7
Answer:
LCD = 2(x - 7) and x ¹ 7.
2x − 9 x 5
(2)(x − 7 ) + (2)(x − 7 ) = (2)(x − 7 )
x−7 2 x−7
2 (2x − 9) + x (x − 7 ) = 5 (2 )
4 x − 18 + x 2 − 7 x = 10
x 2 − 3x − 18 − 10 = 0
x 2 − 3x − 28 = 0
(x − 7 ) (x + 4) = 0
x = 7 , −4
Check:
It is not possible for x to be 7.
\ x = -4 is the only solution and x ¹ 7.

1
c) x − 4 = −
x
Answer:
LCD = x, x ¹ 0
−1 
x ( x − 4 ) = x 
 x 
x 2 − 4 x = −1
x 2 − 4x + 1 = 0 Not factorable
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac
x=
2a
2
4 ± (−4 ) − 4 (1)(1)
x=
2 ( 1)
4 ± 16 − 4
=
2
4 ± 12
=
2
4± 4 3
=
2
4±2 3
=
2
2 (2 ± 3 )
=
2
=2± 3
Check:
Non-permissible values are okay.
\ Solutions are x = 2 ± 3 and x ≠ 0.

3x 2 2x + 1
d) −2 =
3x + 1 3x + 1
Answer:
1
LCD = 3x + 1, x ≠ −
3
3x 2 2x + 1
−2 =
3x + 1 3x + 1
 3x 2  ( 2 x + 1)
 ( 3x + 1) − 2 ( 3x + 1) = ( 3 x + 1)
 3x + 1  ( 3 x + 1)
3x 2 − 6 x − 2 = 2 x + 1
3x 2 − 8x − 3 = 0
( 3 x + 1) ( x − 3 ) = 0
3x + 1 = 0 x−3=0
1
x =− x=3
3
Check:
1
It is not permissible for x to be - .
3
1
\ x = 3 is the only solution and x ≠ − .
3
2x 1 3x + 9
e) + + 2 =0
x − 3 2 x + 3 2 x − 3x − 9
Answer:
2x 1 3x + 9
+ + =0
x − 3 2 x + 3 ( 2 x + 3) ( x − 3)
3
∴ LCD = ( 2 x + 3) ( x − 3) and x ≠ 3 , −
2
2x 1
( x − 3) ( 2 x + 3) + ( 2 x + 3) ( x − 3) +
( x − 3) ( 2 x + 3)
( 3x + 9 )
( 2 x + 3) ( x − 3) = 0 ( 2 x + 3) ( x − 3)
( 2 x + 3) ( x − 3)

2 x ( 2 x + 3 ) + ( x − 3 ) + ( 3x + 9 ) = 0
4 x 2 + 6 x + x − 3 + 3x + 9 = 0
4 x 2 + 10 x + 6 = 0
2 x 2 + 5x + 3 = 0
( 2 x + 3 ) ( x + 1) = 0
2x + 3 = 0 x+1=0
−3
x= x = −1
2
Check:
-3
It is not permissible for x to be .
2
3
\ The only solution is x = −1 and x ≠ 3 , − .
2
x 2 + 12 7x
f) =
x−3 x−3
Answer:
LCD = x - 3, x ¹ 3
x 2 + 12 7x
( x − 3) = ( x − 3)
x−3 x−3
x 2 + 12 = 7 x
x 2 − 7 x + 12 = 0
( x − 4 ) ( x − 3) = 0
x = 4, 3
Check:
It is not permissible for x to be 3.
\ The only solution is x = 4 and x ¹ 3.

Answer:
distance
Fill in the rate and distance, and then find the ratio for time =
rate
for each.
Rate ´ Time = Distance
Winnipeg to 600
r + 10 600
Minneapolis r + 10
Minneapolis to 600
r 600
Winnipeg r
Driving from Winnipeg to Minneapolis + Driving from Minneapolis to

Winnipeg = 22 hours.
600 600
+ = 22
r + 10 r
LCD = r(r + 10)
600 600
r (r + 10 ) + r (r + 10 ) = 22r (r + 10 )
r + 10 r
600r + 600 (r + 10 ) = 22 r (r + 10 )
600r + 600r + 6000 = 22 r 2 + 220r

0 = 22 r 2 − 980r − 6000
0 = 11r 2 − 490r − 3000
0 = 11r 2 − 550r + 60r − 3000
0 = 11r (r − 50 ) + 60 (r − 50 )
0 = (11r + 60 ) (r − 50 )
11r + 60 = 0 or r − 50 = 0
60
r =− or r = 50
11
The only acceptable answer is r = 50, since rate cannot be negative.
Therefore, you drove r + 10 = 50 + 10 = 60 km/h from Winnipeg to
Minneapolis. Note that this answer is not very reasonable unless you were
stopping often for coffee and the lineup at the border was long.

Answer:
Consider what portion of the house each person paints in one hour.
1
Gwen paints a house in 13 hours. Her rate is house per hour.
13
1
Megan’s rate is house per hour.
11
Let t = time, in hours, for Megan and Gwen to paint the house.
1 1
t+ t=1
13 11
The equation is equal to one because that represents the painting of one
house.
Now solve the equation.
LCD = (11)(13) = 143
t t
+ =1
13 11
t t Multiply by the LCD to clear
(11)(13) + (11)(13) = 1 (11)(13)
13 11 denominators.
11t + 13t = 143
24t = 143
143
t=
24
t = 5.96
Thus, Gwen and Megan working together can paint a house in 5.96 hours.

Answer:
1
Hose 1: rate per hour is of the pool per hour
32
1
26
Let t = the number of hours to fill the pool when both hoses are used.
Let 1 represent the pool filled completely.
1 1
t+ t=1
32 26
To solve the equation, first find the LCD.
32 = 25
26 = 2 ´ 13
LCD = 25 ´ 13 = 32 ´ 13 = 416
Now, multiply each term by the LCD and solve for t.
t t
+ =1
32 26
t t
( 416 ) + ( 416 ) = 1 ( 416 )
32 26
13t + 16t = 416
29t = 416
416
t=
29
t = 14.3
Both hoses working together can fill the pool in 14.3 hours.

Notes

Module 4

M o d u l e 4:
Part A: BrainPower
4. Solve for x: 6x + 5 = 7
6.2
6.9
3.1


Answers:
1. 3300 (55 ´ 60; There are 60 minutes in an hour, therefore, Brooklyn’s essay
contains 3300 words.)
2. 3x2y3
 8 
3. (2, 7)  x = − = 2 ; y = −2 ( 4 ) + 8 ( 2 ) − 1 = −8 + 16 − 1 = 7 
 −4 
1 2 1
4.  6 x = 2 , x = or 
3 6 3
5. 100 000 cm in 1 km (There are 100 cm in 1 m and 1000 m in 1 km.

Therefore, 100 ´ 1000 = 100 000 cm in 1 km.)
3.1
6.
6.9
6.2
7.
6.9
3.1
8.
6.2
a) −2 x 2 + 10 = −6
b) 3x ( x + 2 ) = 8
c) 5x 2 − 7 + 3x = 7
2
d) ( x + 3) = −4
2
e) ( x + 3) − 4 = 5
x2 − 4
f) =x
3
g) ( 2 x − 3) ( x + 2 ) = 0

Answers:
a) −2 x 2 + 10 = −6
−2 x 2 + 16 = 0 Add 6 to each side.

2 x 2 − 16 = 0 Multiply by (-1).
b) 3x ( x + 2 ) = 8
3x 2 + 6 x = 8 Distribute 3x into the bracket.
3x 2 + 6 x − 8 = 0 Subtract 8 from each side.
c) 5x 2 − 7 + 3x = 7
5x 2 + 3x − 14 = 0 Subtract 7 from each side and rearrange.
d) ( x + 3)2 = −4
x 2 + 6 x + 9 = −4 Expand (x + 3)2.
x 2 + 6 x + 13 = 0 Add +4 to each side.
e) ( x + 3)2 − 4 = 5
x 2 + 6x + 9 − 4 = 5 Expand (x + 3)2.
x 2 + 6x + 5 = 5 Simplify.
x 2 + 6 x = 0 Subtract 5 from each side.
x2 − 4
f) =x
3
x 2 − 4 = 3x Multiply each side by 3.
x 2 − 3x − 4 = 0 Subtract 3x from each side.
g) ( 2 x − 3) ( x + 2 ) = 0
2 x 2 + 4 x − 3x − 6 = 0 Multiply.
2x2 + x − 6 = 0 Simplify.

a) 0 = (x - 2)2 - 4
b) 0 = x2 - 6x + 5
c) x2 + 6x + 1 = -7
Answers:
Method 1: Using Graph Paper
a) 0 = (x - 2)2 - 4 y
6
Graph the function:
5
y = (x - 2)2 - 4
4
Vertex at (2, -4), opens up, 3
standard size 2
The zeros are 4 and 0. The 1
solutions of the equation are 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x

4 and 0. 1
2
3
4
5
6
b) 0 = x2 - 6x + 5
The function is y = x2 - 6x + 5.
First, complete the square to find the vertex and then graph the
parabola.
y = x2 - 6x + 5 y
6
y= (x2 - 6x + 9) + 5 - 9
5
y = (x - 3)2 - 4 4
\ Vertex is (3, -4); the curve 3
opens up and is standard 2
size. 1
The zeros are 1 and 5 and the 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x

solutions are 1 and 5. 1
2
3
4
5
6

c) x2 + 6x + 1 = 7 y
6
x2 + 6x + 8 = 0
5
The function is 4
y = x2 + 6x + 8. 3
Upon completing the square, 2
you get y = (x + 3)2 - 1. 1
The vertex is (-3, -1); the 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x

curve opens up and is 1
normal size. 2
3
The zeros are -4 and -2.
4
The solutions are -4 and -2.
5
6
Method 2: Using a graphing calculator

a) ENTER Y1 = (x - 2)2 - 4
YMIN -10 YMAX +10
Use TRACE and the arrow keys to approximate the x-values of the
points where the graph crosses the x-axis.
Answers: x = 0 and 4

b) Press Y=
ENTER Y1 = x2 - 6x + 5
YMIN -10 YMAX +10
Use TRACE to approximate the x-values of the point where the
parabola intersects the x-axis.
Answers: x = 1 and x = 5
Using 2nd (CALC) ZERO will give a more accurate answer.
Set left and right bounds and guess. Press ENTER after each.
c) Press Y=
ENTER Y1 = x2 + 6x + 8
Use TRACE to approximate the zeros.
Answers: x = -2 or x = -4


Answers:
a) y = x2 - 2x - 8
y + 8 = x2 - 2x
y + 8 + 1 = x2 - 2x + 1
y + 9 = (x - 1)2
y = (x - 1)2 - 9
V(1, -9)

b) Check your answer using a graphing calculator, finding the zeros of
the function to be -2 and 4.
c) y = x2 - 2x + 8
The points can be read from the graph.
The graph intersects the x-axis at the points (-2, 0) and (4, 0).
d) The zeros are 4, -2.
e) The roots of the equation are 4, -2 since they are the same as the zeros
of the function.

f) Check by substituting into x2 - 2x - 8 = 0.
For x = 4 For x = -2
LHS = x2 - 2x - 8 LHS = x2 - 2x - 8
= 42 - 2(4) - 8 = (-2)2 - 2(-2) - 8
= 16 - 8 - 8 =4+4-8
= 0 =0
RHS = 0 RHS = 0
LHS = RHS LHS = RHS
Thus, both roots are verified.

a) x2 + 2x - 8 = 0
b) x2 + 4x + 3 = 0
c) x2 + 8x = -15
d) 9 - x2 = 0
e) 2x2 - 12x + 10 = 0
Answers:
a) x2 + 2x - 8 = 0
Let y = x2 + 2x - 8
y = (x2 + 2x )-8
y = (x2 + 2x + 1) - 8 - 1
y = (x + 1)2 - 9
V(-1, -9)
The solutions are x = -4, 2.

b) x2 + 4x + 3 = 0
Let y = x2 + 4x + 3
y = (x2 + 4x )+3
y = (x2 + 4x + 4) + 3 - 4
y = (x + 2)2 - 1
V(-2, -1)
y
 3
 
3 1 x
 1
c) x2 + 8x = -15
x2 + 8x + 15 = 0
Let y = x2 + 8x + 15
y = (x2 + 8x ) + 15
y = (x2 + 8x + 16) + 15 - 16
y = (x + 4)2 - 1
V(-4, -1)
y
 
10 8 6 4 2 x

2
4

d) 9 - x2 = 0
Let y = -x2 + 9
V(0, 9)
y
10

 
4 2 2 4 x
2
4
The solutions are x = ±3.
e) 2x2 - 12x + 10 = 0
Let y = 2x2 - 12x + 10
y = 2(x2 - 6x ) + 10
y = 2(x2 - 6x + 9) + 10 - 9(2)
y = 2(x - 3)2 - 8
V(3, -8)
y
10
 
2 2 4 6 8 x
2
4
6
8 
10
The solutions are x = 1, 5.

y = −x 2 + 5x − 4
y + 4 = −( x 2 − 5x )
25  25 
y+4− = − x 2 − 5x + 
4  4
2
16 25  5
y+ − = − x − 
4 4  2
2
 5 9
y = − x −  +
 2 4
y
1
64  
 
1
34  
1
24 
1 1
22 x
2


Answer:
Kalia graphed the quadratic function incorrectly. Because there is a
negative sign before the x2 term, this parabola should open down. The
correct graph is shown below.
y
1
24 
 
1 1 4 x
22
3
1
4
4  
From this graph, the x-intercepts are 1 and 4. Therefore, the solutions to
the quadratic equation -x2 + 5x - 4 = 0 are 1 and 4.

Part A: BrainPower
3. Factor: 14m - 28
Answers:
1. 264 000 cm3 (110 ´ 40 ´ 60 = 110 ´ 2400 = 264 000 cm3)
 $76.36 
2. $42.18  + $4 = $38.18 + $4 = $42.18
 2 
3. 14(m - 2)
4. Up
5. N, T (The pattern is letters made from only straight lines.)
 13   9 + 4 −24 + 12   13 12   13 
6.  , −6   M = , = , − = , −6 
2   2 2  2 2 2 
1
7. x > (12 x > 2 )
6
8 3y 8 2 8 2
8.  3 y = 8x + 2 ; = x+ ; y= x+ 
3 3 3 3 3 3

Recall: Finding the roots of an equation is identical to solving an equation.
a) x2 = 16 b) 3x2 - 18 = 0
Answer: Answer:
x = ± 16 3x 2 = 18
x = ±4 x2 = 6
x =± 6

c) x2 - 6 = -5 d) 6x2 + 3 = 2x2 + 7
Answer: Answer:
x 2 = −5 + 6 4x 2 = 4
x2 = 1 x2 = 1
x =± 1 x =± 1
x = ±1 x = ±1

e) x2 = 6x2 - 1 f) 4x2 - 9 = -3
Answer: Answer:
1 = 5x 2 4x 2 = 6
1 3
x2 = x2 =
5 2
1 3
x =± x =±
5 2
1 3
x =± or x =± or
5 2
5 6
x =± x =±
5 2

Note: For (e), you can rationalize the
denominator or not. Either method of 1 5 5 5
⋅ = =
answering is acceptable. Remember, to 5 5 25 5
rationalize a monomial radical denominator,
multiply top and bottom of the fraction by the radical:

g) x2 - 20 = 0 h) 24 - 2x2 = 0
Answer: Answer:
x 2 = 20 2 x 2 = 24
x = ± 20 x 2 = 12
x =± 4 5 x = ± 12
x = ±2 5 x =± 4 3
x = ±2 3

i) (x - 2)2 = 5
Answer:

Note: This question does not exactly fit the pattern. You have a
binomial squared. However, you can still easily take the square root of
both sides to eliminate the square and then add 2 to both sides.
( x − 2 )2 = ± 5
x−2 =± 5
x=2± 5
Therefore, x = 2 − 5 or x = 2 + 5 .
2 2
j) x + 6 = 18
3
Answer:
2 
3 x 2 + 6 = 3 (18) Multiply both sides of the equation by 3.
3 
2 x 2 + 18 = 54 Simplify.
x 2 + 9 = 27 Divide both sides of the equation by 2.

x 2 = 18
x = ± 18
x =± 9 2
x = ±3 2

approximate.
Answer:
Because ABCD is a square, ÐA is 90°
and the diagonal of the square will
pass through the centre of the circle.
A 6 cm B BD 2 = AD 2 + AB 2
BD 2 = 6 2 + 6 2
BD = 36 + 36
6 cm
BD = 36 ⋅ 2
BD = 6 2
1
D C Radius =
2
(6 2 )
=3 2
Area of circle = π r 2
2
= π (3 2 )
= 18 π cm 2

x 2 − 40 = 0
x 2 = 40
x = ± 40
x = ±4 10

Answer:
Jordon’s work is complete up until the last step. However, 40 should be
simplified as follows:
40 can be written as the product of 4 and 10.
40 = ( 4 )( 10 ) = 2 10
Therefore, x = ±2 10 is the correct answer.

Part A: BrainPower
2 4
3 3
8. The x-intercepts of a parabola are -5 and 2 and the y-intercept is 10. Write
Answers:
 500 
1. 4 days  = 4
 125 
3 15 
2. No  = = 15%
 20 100 
3. x2 + 10x + 25 [(x + 5)2 = (x + 5)(x + 5) = x2 + 5x + 5x + 25]
4. y = 1(x + 1)(x + 5) = x2 + 6x + 5
5. 144 (16 ´ 9)
1
6. 15 2
 2 3 6 4
7. These fractions are not equivalent.  ⋅ = , not 

 3 3 3 3 

8. y = -(x + 5)(x - 2) (The factored form is y = a(x + 5)(x - 2). Since the
y-intercept is 10, 10 = a(0 + 5)(0 - 2) and the value of a is -1.)

a) x2 - x - 12 = 0
Answer:
x 2 − x − 12 = 0
( x − 4 ) ( x + 3) = 0
x−4=0 or x+3=0
x=4 or x = −3
b) x2 - x - 20 = 0
Answer:
x 2 − x − 20 = 0
( x − 5) ( x + 4 ) = 0
x−5=0 or x+4=0
x=5 or x = −4
c) -x2 - 2x + 3 = 0
Answer:
−x 2 − 2 x + 3 = 0
x2 + 2x − 3 = 0 Multiply each side by (−1) .
( x + 3 ) ( x − 1) = 0
x+3=0 or x−1= 0
x = −3 or x=1

d) x2 + 9x + 18 = 0
Answer:
x 2 + 9 x + 18 = 0
( x + 6 ) ( x + 3) = 0
x+6 = 0 or x+3=0
x = −6 or x = −3
e) 2x2 + 3x - 2 = 0
Answer:
2 x 2 + 3x − 2 = 0
( 2 x − 1) ( x + 2 ) = 0
2x − 1 = 0 or x+2 =0
1
x= or x = −2
2

possible.
a) 10x2 = 7x + 12
Answer:
10 x 2 − 7 x − 12 = 0
( 5x + 4 ) ( 2 x − 3 ) = 0
5x + 4 = 0 or 2x − 3 = 0
4 3
x =− or x=
5 2
b) 5x2 + 21x = 54
Answer:
5x 2 + 21x − 54 = 0
( 5x − 9 ) ( x + 6 ) = 0
5x − 9 = 0 or x+6 = 0
9
x= or x = −6
5

c) 3x(x - 2) - x(x + 1) + 5 = 0
Answer:
3 x ( x − 2 ) − x ( x + 1) + 5 = 0
3x 2 − 6 x − x 2 − x + 5 = 0
2x2 − 7 x + 5 = 0
( 2 x − 5 ) ( x − 1) = 0
2x − 5 = 0 or x−1= 0
5
x= or x=1
2
2 9 1
d) x + x−2 =0
2 2
Answer:
9 1
x2 + x−2 =0
2 2
9 5
x2 + x− =0
2 2
2 x 2 + 9x − 5 = 0 Multiply by 2.
( 2 x − 1) ( x + 5 ) = 0
2x − 1 = 0 or x+5=0
1
x= or x = −5
2
e) x2 + 9 = 0
Answer:
x2 + 9 = 0
Does not factor .
Solve by using inverse operations.
x 2 = −9
x = ± −9
x = no real answer

f) 16x2 - 64 = 0
Answer:
16 x 2 − 64 = 0
16 ( x 2 − 4 ) = 0
16 (x − 2 ) (x + 2 ) = 0
(x − 2 ) (x + 2 ) = 0 Divide by 16.
x−2 =0 or x+2 =0
x=2 or x = −2
g) x2 + 12x - 28 = 0
Answer:
x 2 + 12 x − 28 = 0
(x + 14)(x − 2 ) = 0
x + 14 = 0 or x−2 =0
x = −14 or x=2
Answer:
A Let x = shorter leg of the right triangle
x + 7 = larger leg of the right triangle
Because the triangle has a right angle,
a2 + b 2 = c 2
2
x+7 17 x 2 + ( x + 7 ) = 17 2
x 2 + x 2 + 14 x + 49 = 289
2 x 2 + 14x − 240 = 0
C x B 2 ( x 2 + 7 x − 120 ) = 0
x 2 + 7 x − 120 = 0
( x + 15) ( x − 8) = 0

x + 15 = 0 or x - 8 = 0
x = -15 or x = 8
x = -15 is not possible as a length
\ x = 8 m is the shorter side
x + 7 = 15 m is the longer side
Note: When solving word problems, writing a statement at the beginning
of your solution that identifies what the variables represent is a necessary
part of your solution.
each checkerboard.
Answer:
x + 10
x
x x + 10
Let x = length of side of smaller square

Let x + 10 = length of side of larger square
Sum of areas = 1300 cm2
( x ⋅ x ) + ( x + 10 ) ( x + 10 ) = 1300
x 2 + x 2 + 20 x + 100 = 1300
2 x 2 + 20 x − 1200 = 0
2 ( x 2 + 10 x − 600 ) = 0
x 2 + 10 x − 600 = 0
( x − 20 ) ( x + 30 ) = 0
x = 20 or x = −30
Since x represents a length, the negative value of -30 must be ignored.

The only solution can be x = 20 and x + 10 = 30.
Thus, the length of each side of the smaller checkerboard is 20 cm and of
the bigger checkerboard 30 cm.

the third is 63.
Answer:
Let x = first odd integer
x + 2 = second odd integer
x + 4 = third odd integer
( x + 2 ) ( x + 4 ) = 63
x 2 + 6 x + 8 = 63
x 2 + 6 x − 55 = 0
( x + 11) ( x − 5) = 0
x = -11 or x = 5
If x = -11 is first integer If x = 5 is first integer
x + 2 = -9 is second integer x + 2 = 7 is second integer
x + 4 = -7 is third integer x + 4 = 9 is third integer

Answer:
x+5 Let x = width of rectangle
3 3 x + 5 = length of rectangle
3 3
3 = height of box = side of square
fold line
removed from each corner
x6
x + 5 - 6 or
x
x - 1 = length of box
3 3
x - 6 = width of box
3 3
x1

450 = ( x − 1) ( x − 6 )( 3) Formula for volume.
150 = ( x − 1) ( x − 6 ) Divide by 3.
150 = x 2 − 7 x + 6
0 = x 2 − 7 x − 144
0 = ( x − 16 ) ( x + 9 )
x = 16 or x = −9
Since the width cannot be negative, our solution is x = 16.

The dimensions of the original piece of cardboard are 16 cm wide and
21 cm long.

shown below.
x2 - 10x + 24 = 0
(x - 6)(x - 4) = 0
Answer:
Farrah did not equate each factor of the quadratic equation to zero.
Instead, she just took the terms inside the brackets as solutions. The
correct solutions are:
x-6=0 or x-4=0
x = 6 x=4
Answer:
For y = -4(x - 3)(x + 1), the x-intercepts are x = 3 and x = -1. The
3 + (−1)
x-coordinate of the vertex is = 1. The y-coordinate of the vertex
2
is x = -4(1 - 3)(1 + 1) = -4(-2)(2) = 16. The leading coefficient, a, is -4.
The function in vertex form is y = -4(x - 1)2 + 16.

Part A: BrainPower
1. Evaluate: 115 + 27 + 76 + 25
3
8
1 2 121
4. Factor: x -
3 3
6
2
circle?
Answers:

1. 11  115 + 27 + 76 + 25 ; 115 + 27 + 76 + 5 ; 115 + 27 + 81 ;

115 + 27 + 9 ; 115 + 36 ; 115 + 6 ; 121 ; = 11 )

1 3 9
2. 1 cups of butter  × 3 = 
8 8 8
3. Yes ($400 - ($66 + $40 + $120) = $400 - $226 = $174)

1 1 121 1 2 1 
4. ( x − 11) ( x + 11) x 2 − = ( x − 121) = ( x − 11) ( x + 11)
3 3 3 3 3 

 6 6 2

5 (-1, -8)  x = − = − = −1; y = 3 (−1) + 6 (−1) − 5 = 3 − 6 − 5 = −8
 2 ( 3) 6 
 6 2 6 2 
6. 3 2 
 ⋅ = = 3 2 

 2 2 2 
3  7 4
7.  3 y = −7 x + 4 ; y = − x + 
7  3 3
(Recall: Perpendicular lines have slopes that are negative reciprocals.)
8. 46 cm (C = 2 π r ; C = 92 π ; ∴ 2 π r = 92 π ;
92 π 92 
r= ;r= = 46 cm 
2π 2 

a) x2 - 2x - 5 = 0
b) 3x2 - 2x + 5 = 0
c) 5x2 - 3x = 8
d) 2(x2 - 2x) - 1 = 0
e) 5x2 = 9x
f) 4 - 2x2 = 9x
Answers:
a) x2 - 2x - 5 = 0 b) 3x2 - 2x + 5 = 0
a = 1, b = -2, c = -5 a = 3, b = -2, c = 5
c) 5x2 - 3x - 8 = 0 d) 2(x2 - 2x) - 1 = 0
a = 5, b = -3, c = -8 2x2 - 4x - 1 = 0
a = 2, b = -4, c = -1
e) 5x2 = 9x f) 4 - 2x2 = 9x
2 2
5x - 9x = 0 -2x - 9x + 4 = 0
a = 5, b = -9, c = 0 2x2 + 9x - 4 = 0
a = 2, b = 9, c = -4

you memorize it
x2 15
a) +x− =0
2 2
b) 2w2 - 3w + 1 = 0
c) 7w2 - 3w = 0
d) 1 = 25x2
e) x2 – 0.1x - 0.06 = 0
f) -x2 - 7x - 1 = 0
Answers:
x2 15 b) 2 w2 − 3w + 1 = 0
a) +x− =0
2 2 ( 2 w − 1) ( w − 1) = 0
1 2
2
( x + 2 x − 15) = 0 2 w − 1 = 0 or w − 1 = 0
1 1
( x + 5) ( x − 3) = 0 w= or w = 1
2 2
x + 5 = 0 or x − 3 = 0
x = −5 or x = 3
c) 7 w2 − 3w = 0 d) 1 = 25x 2
w (7 w − 3 ) = 0 0 = 25x 2 − 1
w = 0 or 7 w − 3 = 0 0 = ( 5 x − 1) ( 5 x + 1)
3 5x − 1 = 0 or 5x + 1 = 0
w = 0 or w =
7
1 1
x= or x = −
5 5

e) x 2 − 0.1x − 0.06 = 0 f) −x 2 − 7 x − 1 = 0
( x − 0.3) ( x + 0.2 ) = 0 x2 + 7x + 1 = 0
x − 0.3 = 0 or x + 0.2 = 0 a = 1, b = 7 , c = 1
x = 0.3 or x = −0.2
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac
x=
2a
−7 ± 49 − 4
x=
2
−7 ± 45
x=
2
−7 ± 3 5
x=
2

below.
a) 3x2 - 6x - 15 = 0
b) 2x2 - 4x - 1 = 0
c) 9x2 - 18x - 7 = 0
d) x2 - x - 3 = 0

Answers:
a) 3x 2 − 6 x − 15 = 0 b) 2 x 2 − 4x − 1 = 0
3 (x2 − 2x ) = 15 2 (x2 − 2x )=1

3 ( x 2 − 2 x + 1) = 15 + 3 (1) 2 ( x 2 − 2 x + 1) = 1 + 2 ( 1)
2 2
3 ( x − 1) = 18 2 ( x − 1) = 3
( x − 1)2 = 6 3
( x − 1)2 =
2
x−1 =± 6
3
x−1 =±
x = 1± 6 2
3
x =1±
2
6
x=1±
2
2± 6
x=
2
c) 9 x 2 − 18x − 7 = 0 d) x 2 − x − 3 = 0
9 (x2 − 2x )=7 1 1
x2 − x + = 3+
4 4
9 ( x 2 − 2 x + 1) = 7 + 9 ( 1) 2
 1 13
2 x −  =
9 ( x − 1) = 16  2 4
16 1 13
( x − 1)2 = x− =±
9 2 4
4 1 13
x−1 =± x= ±
3 2 2
4 1 ± 13
x = 1±
3 x=
2
4 4
x =1+ , 1−
3 3
7 1
x= ,−
3 3

a) f(x) = 5x2 - x - 3
b) y = 2x2 + 6x - 1
Answers:
a) f(x) = 5x2 - x - 3 b) y = 2x2 + 6x - 1
0 = 5x2 - x - 3 0 = 2x2 + 6x - 1
a = 5, b = -1, c = -3 a = 2, b = 6, c = -1
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac −b ± b 2 − 4 ac
x= x=
2a 2a
2 2
+1 ± (−1) − 4 ( 5) (−3) −6 ± (6 ) − 4 ( 2 ) (−1)
x= x=
2 ( 5) 2 (2)
1 ± 1 + 60 −6 ± 36 + 8
x= x=
10 4
1 ± 61 −6 ± 44
x= x=
10 4
1 + 61 1 − 61 −6 ± 2 11
x= or x=
10 10 4
2 (−3 ± 11 )
x=
2 (2)
−3 ± 11
x=
2
−3 + 11 −3 − 11
x= or
2 2

b) by factoring
Answers:
a) 6 x 2 + 5x − 6 = 0
a = 6 , b = 5 , c = −6
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac
x=
2a
2
−5 ± ( 5) − 4 (6 ) (−6 )
x=
2 (6)
−5 ± 169
x=
12
−5 ± 13 −5 + 13 −5 − 13 8 18
x= = , = ,−
12 12 12 12 12
2 3
x= or −
3 2
b) 6 x 2 + 5x − 6 = 0
( 2 x + 3) ( 3x − 2 ) = 0
2x + 3 = 0 3x − 2 = 0
2 x = −3 3x = 2
−3 2
x= x=
2 3
You may prefer either method. Perhaps you find factoring easier than
plugging values into a formula. Or, you may like the certainty of using a
formula. Both methods are important for future mathematics courses so you
should practise both.

a) factoring
c) graphing
Answers:
a) 0 = x2 + 8x + 15
0 = (x + 3)(x + 5)
x = -3, -5
b) a = 1, b = 8, c = 15
−8 ± 64 − 60
x=
2
−8 ± 4
x=
2
−8 ± 2 −8 + 2 −8 − 2
x= = ,
2 2 2
x = −3 or − 5
c) y = x2 + 8x + 15 y
y = (x2 + 8x + 16) + 15 - 16
y = (x + 4)2 - 1 4
Vertex: (-4, -1), opens up, 3

standard size 2
Zeros: x = -3, -5
1
8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 x
1
2
3
4

d) 0 = x 2 + 8x + 15
0 = ( x 2 + 8x + 16 ) + 15 − 16
2
0 = (x + 4) − 1
2
1 = (x + 4)
x + 4 = ±1
x = ±1 − 4
x = 1 − 4 , −1 − 4
x = −3 , − 5
You may prefer any of the above methods for a variety of reasons. It is a
good idea to practise them all—check your answers if you try more than
one method. Some questions may be easier to solve using one method
while others are easier to solve using a different method.

Answer:
See the Solving Quadratic Equations chart at the end of the answers for
Learning Activity 4.4 for possible descriptions. Discuss your answers with
your learning partner or your tutor/marker if you are unsure.

c) no real roots
Answers:
Answers will vary—possible answers are given. Check your answers with
your learning partner or tutor/marker.
a) If you pick the roots to be x = 1 and x = 5, then (x - 1) and (x - 5)
are factors of the corresponding quadratic equation. Thus, the
corresponding quadratic equation could be (x - 1)(x - 5) = 0 or
x2 - 6x + 5 = 0.

b) If you pick the two equal roots to be x = 1 and x = 1, then (x - 1) and
(x - 1) are factors of the corresponding quadratic equation. Thus, the
quadratic equation is (x - 1)(x - 1) = 0 or x2 - 2x + 1 = 0.
c) A quadratic equation that has no real roots has a corresponding
quadratic function that does not intersect the x-axis. For example,
y = (x - 2)2 + 1 has its vertex at (2, 1) and opens up. In general form,
the equation is
0 = (x - 2)2 + 1
0 = x2 - 4x + 4 + 1
0 = x2 - 4x + 5
Also, when you use the quadratic formula, you get the following result:
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac
x=
2a
2
+4 ± (−4 ) − 4 (1)( 5)
x=
2 ( 1)
4 ± −4
x=
2
x = not a real number. Thus, there are no roots.
Answer:
No. In Question 6, the quadratic equation could easily be solved by
factoring. Therefore, the quadratic formula could sometimes make an
easy question unnecessarily hard.

the horizontal distance is represented by d, and both are measured in
Answer:
When the rocket lands, its height is zero. Therefore, the quadratic equation
is -0.02d2 + 0.4d + 1 = 0. To find the distance at this time, you need to
solve for the roots of this quadratic equation. The completing-the-square
method is shown below.
−0.02 d 2 + 0.4 d + 1 = 0
d 2 − 20 d − 50 = 0 Dividing by -0.02.
d 2 − 20 d = 50 Add 50.
d 2 − 20 d + 100 = 50 + 100 Completing the square.
( d − 10 )2 = 150 Factoring and simplifying.
d − 10 = ± 150 Taking square roots.
d = 10 ± 5 6
Two possible answers are:

d = 10 + 5 6 ≈ 22.247
d = 10 − 5 6 ≈ −2.247
d = 10 − 5 6 is a root of the equation but not a solution to the problem.

The rocket cannot travel a negative distance. Thus, 10 - 5 6 is an
extraneous root. The only solution is d = 10 + 5 6. Therefore, the rocket
has travelled (10 + 5 6 ) m.

10x2 + 2x + 1 = 0
a = 10, b = 2, c = 1
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac
x=
2a
−2 ± 2 2 − 4 (10 )
x=
2 (10 )
−2 ± 4 − 40
x=
20
−2 ± −36
x=
20
−2 ± 6
x=
20
−2 + 6 4 1
x= = =
20 20 5
−2 − 6 −8 −2
x= = =
20 20 5
Answer:
David took the square root of a negative number (-36). It is not possible
to find a real number answer for the square root of a negative number.
Therefore, there is no solution to this quadratic equation in real numbers
like David thought there was.

(x2 - 5)2 + 3(x2 - 5) + 2 = 0
Answer:
Notice that there is a quadratic pattern in the equation. Temporarily, let
a = x2 – 5 and substitute into the original equation.
\ a2 + 3a + 2 = 0
(a + 2)(a + 1) = 0
a = -2 or a = -1
Now solve for x after replacing a with x2 - 5.
x 2 − 5 = −2 or x 2 − 5 = −1
x2 = 3 x2 − 4 = 0
x =± 3 (x − 2)(x + 2) = 0
x = 2 or x = −2
Solutions:
{
x = −2 , − 3 , 3 , 2 }

Graphing
Use when:
The quadratic equation is in vertex form with integer values for a, p, and q that can
easily fit on a graph.
Square Roots
Use when:
There is no x-term, when b = 0 in the general form of the quadratic equation, or when
the equation is presented as a binomial squared.
Factoring
Use when:
The equation, in general form, can be factored easily.
Use when:
The x2 term has a coefficient of 1, and the coefficient of the x-term is even.
Quadratic Formula
Use when:
The equation cannot be factored easily or at all, or when completing the square would
involve fractions.

Part A: BrainPower
lowest terms)?
(2 3 )
4. Evaluate: 2
3
Answers:
1. No [Janique will still need to practice for 0.25 hours, or 15 minutes.
(45 minutes = 0.75 hours; Total time = 0.75 ´ 5 + 1.25 + 1.75 =
3.75 + 1.25 + 1.75 = 6.75 hours)]
5 15 5
2.  24 − 9 = 15 ; = 
8 24 8 
3. 4 [5(3) - 2(9) + 7 = 15 - 18 + 7 = 4]
( 3
4. 256 2 2 = 2 8 = 256 )

 1 1 
5. 16 cm 2 Area = × base × height = × 4 × 8 = 16 cm 2 
 2 2 
6. (6x - 1)(6x + 1)
7. 16°
missing angle is 180° - 16° - 148° = 16°.
Method 2: An isosceles triangle will have two angles that are the same
and all three angles add up to 180°. Therefore, the third angle must
measure 16°, since you cannot have two angles of 148° in a triangle.)
3
8. 83 or ( 8 )
−6 + 32 −3 + 8 2
d) =
10 5
Answers:
a) False. The discriminant of 2x2 + 5x + 6 = 0 is b2 - 4ac = 52 - 4(2)(6) =
25 - 48 = -23.
b) True
c) True
−6 + 32 −6 + 4 2 −3 + 2 2
d) False. = =
10 10 5
e) False. The equation x2 + 2x + 1 = 0 has one real root since
b2 - 4ac = 22 - 4(1)(1) = 0.

Answer:
Discriminant Nature of Roots:
a) -15 no real roots
b) 25 2 real, rational roots
c) -9 no real roots
d) 0 1 real root
e) 50 2 real, irrational roots

discriminant is
a) negative?
Answer: Never
b) zero?
Answer: Once
c) positive?
Answer: Twice
equation.
a) x2 - 8x + 16 = 0
Answer:
x2 - 8x + 16 = 0
a = 1, b = -8, c = 16
b2 - 4ac = (-8)2 - 4(1)(16)
= 64 - 64
=0
Because b2 - 4ac = 0, there is one real root.

b) x2 + 2x + 7 = 0
Answer:
x2 + 2x + 7 = 0
a = 1, b = 2, c = 7
b2 - 4ac = (2)2 - 4(1)(7)
= 4 - 28
= -24
Because b2 - 4ac < 0, there are no real roots.
c) p2 - 16 = 0
Answer:
p2 - 16 = 0
a = 1, b = 0, c = -16
b2 - 4ac = (0)2 - 4(1)(-16)
= 64
Because b2 - 4ac > 0 and equal to a perfect square, there are two real,
rational roots.
d) 2x2 + x = 5
Answer:
2x2 + x = 5
2x2 + x - 5 = 0
a = 2, b = 1, c = -5
b2 - 4ac = (1)2 - 4(2)(-5)
= 1 + 40
= 41
Because b2 - 4ac > 0 and not equal to a perfect square, there are two
real, irrational roots.

a) kx2 - 6x + 2 = 0
Answer:
kx2 - 6x + 2 = 0
a = k, b = -6, c = 2
(−6 )2 − 4 ( k )( 2 ) = 0
36 − 8 k = 0
−8 k = −36
−36
k=
−8
9
k=
2
b) x2 + (k - 8)x + 9 = 0
Answer:
x2 + (k - 8)x + 9 = 0
a = 1, b = k - 8, c = 9
Method 1:
( k − 8)2 − 4 (1)(9 ) = 0
k 2 − 16 k + 64 − 36 = 0
k 2 − 16 k + 28 = 0
( k − 2 ) ( k − 14 ) = 0
k = 2 or k = 14
Method 2:
( k − 8)2 − 4 (1)(9 ) = 0
( k − 8)2 − 36 = 0
( k − 8)2 = 36
k − 8 = ±6
k = 8 − 6 or k = 8 + 6
k = 2 or k = 14

Answer:
The graph must intersect the x-axis twice because a positive discriminant
tells us that the quadratic function has two real roots. It must open down.

Answer:
3x2 - 2x + k = 0
If the equation has two real roots, b2 - 4ac > 0.
a = 3, b = -2, c = k
b 2 − 4 ac > 0
(−2 )2 − 4 ( 3) k > 0
4 − 12 k > 0
−12 k > −4
−12 k −4
<
−12 −12
1
k<
3
Remember that when dividing an inequality by a negative number, the
inequality sign reverses direction.

Answer:
x2 + kx + 3k = 0
If the equation has a double root, then b2 - 4ac must be 0.
b2 - 4ac = 0
(k)2 - 4(1)(3k) = 0
k2 - 12k = 0
k(k - 12) = 0
k = 0, k = 12

Answer:
kx2 + 8x = 4
kx2 + 8x - 4 = 0
If the equation has no real roots, then b2 - 4ac < 0.
a = k, b = 8, c = -4
b2 - 4ac < 0
82 - 4(k)(-4) < 0
64 + 16k < 0
16k < -64
k < -4

a) 12x2 - 19x - 21 = 0
Answer:
12x2 - 19x - 21 = 0
a = 12, b = -19, c = -21
b2 - 4ac = (-19)2 - 4(12)(-21)
= 1369
= 372
12 x 2 − 19 x − 21 = 0
12 x 2 − 28x + 9x − 21 = 0
4 x ( 3x − 7 ) + 3 ( 3x − 7 ) = 0
( 4 x + 3 ) ( 3x − 7 ) = 0
3 7
x =− and x =
4 3
b) 18x2 - 35x + 12 = 0
Answer:
18x2 - 35x + 12 = 0
a = 18, b = -35, c = 12
b2 - 4ac = (-35)2 - 4(18)(12)
= 361
= 192
18x 2 − 35x + 12 = 0
18x 2 − 27 x − 8x + 12 = 0
9 x ( 2 x − 3) − 4 ( 2 x − 3) = 0
( 9 x − 4 ) ( 2 x − 3) = 0
4 3
x= ,
9 2

c) 60x2 - 59x - 20 = 0
Answer:
60x2 - 59x - 20 = 0
a = 60, b = -59, c = -20
b2 - 4ac = (-59)2 - 4(60)(-20)
= 8281
= 912
60 x 2 − 59 x − 20 = 0
60 x 2 + 16 x − 75x − 20 = 0
4 x (15x + 4 ) − 5 (15x + 4 ) = 0
( 4x − 5) (15x + 4 ) = 0
5 4
x= and x = −
4 15


50
Quadratic Equation Puzzle Key

Equation Function
2
 1 Real and −1 + 5 −1 − 5
9x2 + 6x - 4 = 0 y = 9 x +  − 5 180 2 ,
 3 Irrational 3 3
2
 4 121 Real and 7
y = 3 x +  − 484 2 -5 ,
3x2 + 8x - 35 = 0  3 3 Rational 3
Grade 11 Pr e- C alculus Mathematic s

2
 1 5 No Real
2x2 - 2x + 3 = 0 y = 2 x −  + -20 0 None
 2 2 Roots
Real and
x2 - 4x + 4 = 0 y = (x - 2)2 0 1 2
Equal
2
 1 Real and 1
25x2 - 10x + 1 = 0 y = 25 x −  0 1
 5 Equal 5
Part A: BrainPower
1 5 2
5. Calculate: + +
5 6 15
6. Multiply: (x - y)(3x2 - 7x + 2)
3
8. Express as an entire radical: 4x 2
Answers:
1. 12x3y4
500 
2. 50 seconds (half a kilometre = 500 metres; = 50 
10 
3. -2 and -1 (Factoring: (x + 2)(x + 1))

4. 865 (75% of 500 = 375; 490 + 375 = 865 calories)
76 25 4 35 7 
5.  + + = = 
6  30 30 30 30 6 

6. 3x3 - 7x2 + 2x - 3x2y + 7xy - 2y
7. Independent Variable: The temperature
Dependent Variable: The height of the mercury in the thermometer
 3 
3 2 = 4 x 3 = 4 2 x 3 = 16 x 3 
8. 16 x 
 4 x 
 
4x
x−2
 6 x
x − 3 2
1
x
x−1 x−2
x+3 x+4
(x - 1)(x + 4) = (x + 3)(x - 2).
Answers:
a) True
 6 x
b) False. If x ¹ 3, then 2 ( x − 3) +  is equivalent to 12 + x2 - 3x.
x − 3 2
c) True
d) True

2
a) x = −
x−3
Answer:
LCD = x - 3 and x ¹ 3
−2
x ( x − 3) = ( x − 3)
x−3
x 2 − 3x = −2
x 2 − 3x + 2 = 0
( x − 2 ) ( x − 1) = 0
x = 2, 1
Check:
Are any of the solutions the non-permissible value? No.
\ The solutions are x = 2 or x = 1, x ¹ 3.
2x − 9 x 5
b) + =
x−7 2 x−7
Answer:
LCD = 2(x - 7) and x ¹ 7.
2x − 9 x 5
(2)(x − 7 ) + (2)(x − 7 ) = (2)(x − 7 )
x−7 2 x−7
2 (2x − 9) + x (x − 7 ) = 5 (2 )
4 x − 18 + x 2 − 7 x = 10
x 2 − 3x − 18 − 10 = 0
x 2 − 3x − 28 = 0
(x − 7 ) (x + 4) = 0
x = 7 , −4
Check:
It is not possible for x to be 7.
\ x = -4 is the only solution and x ¹ 7.

1
c) x − 4 = −
x
Answer:
LCD = x, x ¹ 0
−1 
x ( x − 4 ) = x 
 x 
x 2 − 4 x = −1
x 2 − 4x + 1 = 0 Not factorable
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac
x=
2a
2
4 ± (−4 ) − 4 (1)(1)
x=
2 ( 1)
4 ± 16 − 4
=
2
4 ± 12
=
2
4± 4 3
=
2
4±2 3
=
2
2 (2 ± 3 )
=
2
=2± 3
Check:
Non-permissible values are okay.
\ Solutions are x = 2 ± 3 and x ≠ 0.

3x 2 2x + 1
d) −2 =
3x + 1 3x + 1
Answer:
1
LCD = 3x + 1, x ≠ −
3
3x 2 2x + 1
−2 =
3x + 1 3x + 1
 3x 2  ( 2 x + 1)
 ( 3x + 1) − 2 ( 3x + 1) = ( 3 x + 1)
 3x + 1  ( 3 x + 1)
3x 2 − 6 x − 2 = 2 x + 1
3x 2 − 8x − 3 = 0
( 3 x + 1) ( x − 3 ) = 0
3x + 1 = 0 x−3=0
1
x =− x=3
3
Check:
1
It is not permissible for x to be - .
3
1
\ x = 3 is the only solution and x ≠ − .
3
2x 1 3x + 9
e) + + 2 =0
x − 3 2 x + 3 2 x − 3x − 9
Answer:
2x 1 3x + 9
+ + =0
x − 3 2 x + 3 ( 2 x + 3) ( x − 3)
3
∴ LCD = ( 2 x + 3) ( x − 3) and x ≠ 3 , −
2
2x 1
( x − 3) ( 2 x + 3) + ( 2 x + 3) ( x − 3) +
( x − 3) ( 2 x + 3)
( 3x + 9 )
( 2 x + 3) ( x − 3) = 0 ( 2 x + 3) ( x − 3)
( 2 x + 3) ( x − 3)

2 x ( 2 x + 3 ) + ( x − 3 ) + ( 3x + 9 ) = 0
4 x 2 + 6 x + x − 3 + 3x + 9 = 0
4 x 2 + 10 x + 6 = 0
2 x 2 + 5x + 3 = 0
( 2 x + 3 ) ( x + 1) = 0
2x + 3 = 0 x+1=0
−3
x= x = −1
2
Check:
-3
It is not permissible for x to be .
2
3
\ The only solution is x = −1 and x ≠ 3 , − .
2
x 2 + 12 7x
f) =
x−3 x−3
Answer:
LCD = x - 3, x ¹ 3
x 2 + 12 7x
( x − 3) = ( x − 3)
x−3 x−3
x 2 + 12 = 7 x
x 2 − 7 x + 12 = 0
( x − 4 ) ( x − 3) = 0
x = 4, 3
Check:
It is not permissible for x to be 3.
\ The only solution is x = 4 and x ¹ 3.

Answer:
distance
Fill in the rate and distance, and then find the ratio for time =
rate
for each.
Winnipeg to 600
r + 10 600
Minneapolis r + 10
Minneapolis to 600
r 600
Winnipeg r
Driving from Winnipeg to Minneapolis + Driving from Minneapolis to

Winnipeg = 22 hours.
600 600
+ = 22
r + 10 r
LCD = r(r + 10)
600 600
r (r + 10 ) + r (r + 10 ) = 22r (r + 10 )
r + 10 r
600r + 600 (r + 10 ) = 22 r (r + 10 )
600r + 600r + 6000 = 22 r 2 + 220r

0 = 22 r 2 − 980r − 6000
0 = 11r 2 − 490r − 3000
0 = 11r 2 − 550r + 60r − 3000
0 = 11r (r − 50 ) + 60 (r − 50 )
0 = (11r + 60 ) (r − 50 )
11r + 60 = 0 or r − 50 = 0
60
r =− or r = 50
11
The only acceptable answer is r = 50, since rate cannot be negative.
Therefore, you drove r + 10 = 50 + 10 = 60 km/h from Winnipeg to
Minneapolis. Note that this answer is not very reasonable unless you were
stopping often for coffee and the lineup at the border was long.

Answer:
Consider what portion of the house each person paints in one hour.
1
Gwen paints a house in 13 hours. Her rate is house per hour.
13
1
Megan’s rate is house per hour.
11
Let t = time, in hours, for Megan and Gwen to paint the house.
1 1
t+ t=1
13 11
The equation is equal to one because that represents the painting of one
house.
Now solve the equation.
LCD = (11)(13) = 143
t t
+ =1
13 11
t t Multiply by the LCD to clear
(11)(13) + (11)(13) = 1 (11)(13)
13 11 denominators.
11t + 13t = 143
24t = 143
143
t=
24
t = 5.96
Thus, Gwen and Megan working together can paint a house in 5.96 hours.

Answer:
1
32
1
26
Let t = the number of hours to fill the pool when both hoses are used.
Let 1 represent the pool filled completely.
1 1
t+ t=1
32 26
To solve the equation, first find the LCD.
32 = 25
26 = 2 ´ 13
LCD = 25 ´ 13 = 32 ´ 13 = 416
Now, multiply each term by the LCD and solve for t.
t t
+ =1
32 26
t t
( 416 ) + ( 416 ) = 1 ( 416 )
32 26
13t + 16t = 416
29t = 416
416
t=
29
t = 14.3
Both hoses working together can fill the pool in 14.3 hours.

Notes

Module 5
Radicals
M o d u l e 5:
R adicals
Introduction
In Module 4, you learned how to solve quadratic equations by taking square

roots. You also reviewed your knowledge of simplifying square roots from
Grade 10 Introduction to Applied and Pre-Calculus Mathematics. Another name
for the math notation for square roots is radicals. In this module, you will
build on your knowledge of simplifying radical expressions. You will also
learn how to add, subtract, multiply, and divide radical expressions.
Radical expressions have applications in trigonometry, electricity, and
driving. They also appear in formulas designed to find the volume or surface
area of 3-D objects. It is possible to solve these types of applications problems
by solving radical equations. Once you learn how to perform operations on
radical expressions, you will learn how to solve radical equations.
2 Assignment 5.1 Simplifying Radical Expressions
4 Assignment 5.2 Multiplying and Dividing Radical Expressions
5 Assignment 5.3 Solving Radical Equations
Final Examination Information
The breakdown of the final examination will be 20% for the first half of the
course and 80% for the second half.
Module 5: R adic als 3

Resource Sheet
When you write your final examination, you are encouraged to take a Final
Examination Resource Sheet with you into the examination. This sheet will
be one letter-sized page, 8½ ‘’ by 11”, with both sides in your handwriting or
typewritten. You will submit it with your examination, but you do not receive
any marks for it.
You may use the list of instructions that follows to help you with preparing
your resource sheet for the material in Module 5. On this sheet, you should
record math terms and definitions, formulas, sample questions, or a list of
places where you often make mistakes. You should also identify special areas
that require extra attention or review by writing the page numbers.
the sheets from Modules 1 to 8 to prepare your Final Examination Resource
Sheet. The final examination for this course is based on Modules 1 to 8.

formula is used.
solutions onto your resource sheet, and later write them onto your Final
Examination Resource Sheet.

L e s s o n 1: S i m p l i f y i n g R a dic a l
Expressions
Lesson Focus

q learn how to express an entire radical as a mixed radical
q learn how to express a mixed radical as an entire radical
q learn how to compare and order a set of radical expressions
q learn how to use the rules and conventions of square roots
q learn how to identify the values of a variable for which a radical
expression is defined
Lesson Introduction
In Module 4, you learned how to simplify radical expressions involving

numerical radicands. In this lesson, you will expand on that knowledge and
learn how to simplify radical expressions involving variable and numerical
radicands. This is a crucial step to learn as it will be helpful to know when
you are performing operations on radical expressions in later lessons.
Simplifying Radical Expressions
Before you learn how to simplify radical expressions, you should become
familiar with the parts of a radical. Consider the following diagram. This
diagram will allow you to see the difference between the index and the
radicand of a radical. Radical: Any expression written using the
n symbol
Radical
Radicand: Everything under the radical
symbol.
Radical Symbol:
n
Index
x Index: A natural number ³ 2, used to
indicate the type of root, square root, cube
root, etc.
Radicand

Expressing Entire Radicals as a Mixed Radical
In Module 4, you reviewed how to simplify radical expressions. To do this,
you used the following properties of radicals with n = 2—in other words,
using a square root.
The generalized form of the rules are given for n of any value. Also note
that in these rules, the radicand is assumed to be positive or zero. Negative
radicands are discussed later in this lesson.
First Property of Radicals (Inverse Operations Property)
n
an  a where a ³ 0
n is a positive integer ³ 2

When the power and the index are the same, the answer is the base. Note, if
a < 0 and n is even, then the rule can be written more generally as,
a2  a . See Example 10.
Product Property of Radicals

n
ab = n a ⋅ n b where a ³ 0
b³0


The root of a product is the product of the roots.
Quotient Property of Radicals

n
a
n
a
n
b b where a ³ 0
b>0 (Note: b ¹ 0 since it is the denominator.)

The root of a quotient is the quotient of the roots.
Example 1
Simplify the following radical expressions.
a) 50 c) 1800
81 3
b) d) 16
36

Solution
a) You need to look for perfect square factors of the radicand. For example,
25 is a perfect square factor of 50. Using the Product Property of Radicals,
50 can be written as 25  2 .
50 = 25 ⋅ 2
Using the First Property of Radicals, 25 can be written as ( 5)2 , which
simplifies to 5 because ( 5)2 = 2 52 = 5. The explanation is given this

way to prepare you for roots of variables.
( )2
25 ⋅ 2 = 5 ⋅ 2 = 5 2
Thus, 5 2 is called a mixed radical because it is the product of a rational
number and a radical.
81 81
b) Using the Quotient Property of Radicals, can be written as .
36 36
Using the First Property of Radicals, 81 can be written as 9 2 , which

simplifies to 9. Also, 36 can be written as 6 2 , which simplifies to 6.
81 92 9 3
  
36 62 6 2

c) Simplify in several steps, especially if the number is large.
or
1800 = 100 18 1800  900 2
= 10 18  30 2
= 10 9 2
= 10 ( 3) 2
= 30 2
Notice that an entire square root can be simplified to a mixed radical if the
original radicand has a perfect square as one of its factors.
d) 3
16  3 8 3 2
 23 2

Example 2
Simplify, given x ³ 0 and y ³ 0.
a) x2 e) 25x 6 y 2
b) x6 f) 50 x 3 y 10
3
c) x7 y 4 g) 128x 14
d) 8x 2 y 4
Solution
2
a) Using the First Property of Radicals, x 2 can be written as x2 .
2
x2
 x2
 x , as long as x ³ 0.
b) x6
You can write the radicand, x6, as (x3)2, using the following rule of
exponents:
Power of a Power Law: When a power is raised to a power, multiply
the exponents.
(x3)2 = (x)(3)(2) = x6
2
The radical becomes (x3 ) .
2
x6 = 2 (x3 )
2
Using the first rule of radicals, 2
(x3 ) = x 3 , x ≥ 0.
2
∴ x6 = (x3 ) = x3

c) x7 y 4
Using the Product Property of Radicals, x 7 y 4 can be written as x7 y 4 .
Consider x7 .
x7 can be written as (x3)2(x).
2
The radical then becomes (x3 ) ( x ).
Consider y4 .
y4 can be written as (y2)2.

2
The radical then becomes. (y2 ) .

Note: You want to group exponents into powers with an exponent of 2
(perfect squares). This is because the index of the radical is “2.”
2 2
Therefore, x7 y 4 = x7 y 4 = (x3 ) (x) (y2 ) .
Using the product property again:

2 2 2 2
(x3 ) (x) (y2 ) = (x3 ) x (y2 )
2 2
Using the First Property of Radicals, (x3 ) = x 3 and (y2 ) = y2 .
2 2
(x3 ) x (y2 ) = x 3 xy 2
When writing radical expressions, the variables that are not part of the
radicand are written before the radical symbol to avoid confusion.
x 3 xy 2  x 3 y 2 x
The simplified form of x 7 y 4 is x 3 y 2 x .
If you were to redo this example without the lines of explanation, you
might write the following steps to show your work.
x7 y 4 = x 6 ⋅ x ⋅ y 4
2 2
= (x3 ) x (y2 )
= x3y2 x

d) 8x 2 y 4
Look for perfect square factors of the radicand. Using the Product
2
Property of Radicals, 8x 2 y 4 can be written as 4 2 x2 (y2 ) .
2
Using the First Property of Radicals, 4 = 2 , x 2 = x , and (y2 ) = y2 .

4 2 x2 (y2 ) = 2 2 xy 2 = 2 xy 2 2
The simplified form of 8x 2 y 4 is 2 xy 2 2 .
e) 25x 6 y 2
Using the Product Property of Radicals, 25x 6 y 2 can be written as

2
25 (x3 ) y2 .
2
Using the First Property of Radicals, 25 = 5 , (x3 ) = x 3 , and y 2 = y.

25 (x3 ) y 2 = 5x 3 y
The simplified form of 25x 6 y 2 is 5x 3 y.
f) 50 x 3 y 10
Using the Product Property of Radicals, 50 x 3 y 10 can be written as

2
25 2 x 2 x (y5 ) .
2
Using the First Property of Radicals, 25 = 5 , x 2 = x , and (y5 ) = y5.

25 2 x 2 x (y5 ) = 5 2 x xy 5 = 5xy 5 2 x
Using the Product Property of Radicals in reverse, 2 x can be written

as 2x.
5
5xy 2 x  5xy 5 2 x
The simplified form of 50 x 3 y 10 is 5xy 5 2 x .

Note: As you can see, for the variables, when the index is 2, the exponent
of the answer is one-half of the exponent of the question. If there is a
remainder when dividing the exponent by the index, the variable with the
remainder exponent remains inside the radical sign.
g) Look for perfect cube factors of the radicand. For example, 64 is a perfect
cube factor of 128 and x12 is a perfect cube factor of x14.
3 3 3
128x 14 = 3 64 3 2 x 12 x2
= ( 4) ( 3 2 ) (x 4 ) (x)
3 2
= 4x 4 3 2 x 2
Example 3
Simplify x 6 and x 7 , x ³ 0.
Solution
6 2
x 6 = x 3 , since
2
= 3 or x6 = (x3 ) = x3 .
7
While x 7 = x 3 x , since = 3 , with remaainder 1.
2
2
Or, x 7 = (x3 ) x = x3 x .
Note: Students find it helpful to memorize the perfect squares, perfect cubes,
perfect quads, etc., up to 100. For example, the perfect squares are 1, 4, 9, 16,
25, 36, 49, 64, 81, 100, and the perfect cubes are 1, 8, 27, 64.
There are other ways to simplify radicals using prime factorization or rational
exponents.
Example 4
Simplify the following expressions. Assume that x ³ 0 and y ³ 0.
a) x3y2
3
b) x4

Solution
a) It is possible to simplify this expression by using the First Property of
Radicals. However, it is also possible to simplify this expression using the
method of prime factorization. To use this method, you need to factor the
radicand completely.
x3y2 = (x)(x)(x)(y)(y)
Thus, x 3 y 2 becomes ( x )( x )( x ) ( y )( y ).
Because the index is 2, you need to combine pairs (groups of 2) of identical

factors to make perfect squares.
( x )( x )( x ) ( y )( y ) = ( x 2 ) ( x ) ( y 2 ) = xy x
b) It is possible to simplify this expression by using the First Property of

Radicals or prime factorization. However, a third method is to simplify
this expression by using rational exponents.
m
n m
Recall: x  xn
4
3
Thus, x4  x 3
Now, you need to change the exponent of x from an improper fraction into
a mixed number.
Recall: An improper fraction is a fraction that is larger than one. In other
words, the numerator is greater than the denominator.
4 3 1 1
x3
 x
3x3 xx 3
Once the exponent is fully simplified, determine if there are any fractional
exponents. If there are fractional exponents, convert that part of the
expression back into a radical.
1
1
In this example, is a fractional exponent. Therefore, x 3 needs to be
3
converted into a radical.
1
xx 3  x 3 x
You have now learned three different methods of simplifying radical

expressions. You can choose to use any method you like to simplify radical
expressions. If you feel it would be helpful, you can also include steps on how
to simplify radical expressions on your resource sheet.

Note: A radical is in simplest form when after prime factorization of the
radicand all exponents in the radicand are less than the index. Thus, if the
index is 2, no perfect square factors should be in the radicand.
Expressing Mixed Radicals as Entire Radicals

If you are given a mixed radical, it is possible to rewrite it as an entire radical.
This is the reverse process of expressing an entire radical as a mixed radical.
Example 5
Express the following mixed radicals as entire radicals, given x ³ 0 and y ³ 0.
a) 4 3 c) x 2 y xy
b) x x d) x 3 x 2
Solution
a) Expressing mixed radicals as entire radicals is essentially the reverse
process of expressing entire radicals as mixed radicals. Therefore, you
need to express the values outside the radical as radicals themselves.
4 can also be written as 4 2  16
Thus,
4 3 42 3
 16 3 .
Reversing the Product Property of Radicals:
16 3 = (16 )( 3) = 48
b) x can be written as x2 .
x x = x2 x = (x2 )(x) = x3
c) x2 can be written as x 4 and y can be written as y2 .
x 2 y xy = x 4 y 2 xy = (x 4 )( y 2 ) (x ) (y ) = x5y 3
3
d) This time, the index is 3 and x can also be written as x3 .
x 3 x2 = 3 x3 3 x2 = 3 (x 3 )(x 2 ) = 3 x 5

Comparing and Ordering Radical Expressions
Now that you are able to simplify radical expressions and also express
simplified radical expression as entire radicals, you will be able to compare
and order radical expressions. Consider the following example.
Example 6
Order the following radical expressions from least to greatest, given x ³ 0.
a) 2 3 , 8 , 36
b) 3 x , x , 5 x
3
c) 2 , 5 , 4 15
Solution
a) If each radical has the same index, or can be represented as having the
same index, the radical expressions can be ordered as follows.
2 3 = ( 4 )( 3) = 12
8 = 64
36 = 36
Since 12 < 36 < 64 , the answer is 2 3 < 36 < 8.
b) If each radical expression is a multiple of some radical, you can simply

compare the coefficients.
All of the radical expressions are a multiple of x.
Since 1 < 3 < 5, the answer is x  3 x  5 x.
c) If it is not possible to express each radical expression as having the same

index and the radical expressions are not multiples of some radical, unless
you use fractional exponents, you will need to use estimation or your
calculator to order the radical expressions.
3
2 ≈ 1.2599 or estimate that it is less than 2.
5 ≈ 2.2361 or estiimate that it is more than 2.

4
15 ≈ 1.9680 or estimate that it is close to 4 16 , which equals 2.
Thus, 3 2 < 4 15 < 5 .

Properties of Square Roots
You should now be familiar with square roots and simplifying radical
expressions. However, there are some rules that need to be understood to
reduce the confusion when dealing with square roots.
From previous math courses, you know that (-x)2 = (-x)(–x) = x2. Consider
the following table:
(-x)2 x2
x = -2 (-(-2))2 = (2)2 = 4 (-2)2 = 4
x = -1 (-(-1))2 = (1)2 = 1 (-1)2 = 1
x=0 (-0)2 = 0 02 = 0
x=1 (-1)2 = 1 (1)2 = 1
x=2 (-2)2 = 4 (2)2 = 4
x=3 (-3)2 = 9 (3)2 = 9
As you can see, both the (-x)2 and x2 columns are the same. This is because of
the fact that when you multiply two negative numbers together, the answer is
positive. Thus, (-x)2 = (-x)(–x) = x2.
When you are solving for x in an equation like x2 = 100, you need to consider
both the negative and positive square roots of 100. It is possible for x to equal
both positive 10 and negative 10.
(10)2 = 100 and (-10)2 = 100
Therefore, when you have an equation in the form x2 = a, where a > 0, you
perform the operation of taking the square root on both sides and you have
two solutions. Like the questions in Module 4 involving solving quadratic
equations by taking square roots, you need to consider the positive and
negative square roots. Thus:
x2 = a
x2 = ± a Take the square root of both sides.

x =± a Simplify.

Example 7
Solve for x when a = 25 in the equation x2 = a.
Solution
x2 = a
a = 25
x 2 = 25
x 2 = ± 25
x = ±5
When you introduce the radical symbol ( ) as part of your solution, there
are two answers, 5 and (-5).
The general rule is that if x2 = a, then x = ± a .
Instead, if you are given an equation in the form x  a 2 , then you have only
the principal square root. The principal square root is the positive square
root. The general rule is a2 | a |. In other words, the square root of a2 is
always a positive number. When the radical symbol is given as part of the
question, there is only one solution depending on the sign of the radical given
to you.
Example 8
Simplify.
a) - 25
b) - 16
Solution
a) When you are given an expression in the form - x and asked to simplify,
this expression is not asking for the principal square root. The principal
square root is the positive square root. Therefore, 25  5. However,
there is a negative sign in front of the square root. Thus, − 25 = −5.
b) − 16 = −( 16 ) = −( 4 ) = −4

Example 9
Simplify.
a) 36 c) ± 36
b) − 36 d) −36
Solution
a) When you are asked to simplify an expression in the form x , you are
being asked for the principal square root (the positive square root).
36  6
b) In this expression, you are asked for the negative square root of 36.
− 36 = −6
c) In this expression, you are asked for both the positive and negative square
roots of 36.
± 36 = ±6
d) It is not possible to simplify this expression any further, as there is no

solution to the square root of a negative number in the real number
system.
Example 10
Simplify.
a) (−2 )2
b) 32
Solution
a) (−2 )2 = 4 = 2. Compare with x 2  x . In this example, x = -2.
Therefore, (−2 )2 = − 2 = 2.
2
b) 3 9
 3. Compare with x 2  x . In this example, x = 3.
2
Therefore, 3 3 3.
If the negative square root is written, the notation would be in the form
x = − a 2 and the answer could be simplified to x = -|a|.

Summary of Rules for Dealing with Square Roots:
2
1. (−x ) = x 2 for x ∈ ℜ
2. If a is any number where a > 0, and x2 = a, then x = ± a . There are two

answers.
3. If a is any number where a = 0, and x2 = 0, then 

x 0
 0.
4. If a is any number where a < 0, and x2 = a, then x = ± negative number

and x has no real number answer.
5. If you are given a radical equation, x  a , then you have the principal
square root of x and the value of “a” must be positive or zero. There is only
one answer.
6. If you are given a radical equation, − x = a, then you do not have the
principal square root and the value of “a” must be negative. There is only
one answer.
7. If you are given a ³ 0, then a2  a.
8. If you are given a < 0, then a2 = −a. Be careful here. For example,
(−6 )2 = −(−6 ) = 6. The answer is a positive number.
9. Rules 7 and 8 can be summarized by writing a2 = a for a ∈ ℜ. Notice

this rule refers to the principal square root because the sign in front of it is
positive.
This notation may seem confusing at first; however, these rules were put in
place to avoid confusion and to ensure the same answer is found by anyone
solving these types of problems. You may remember these rules by knowing
the following pattern. If you introduce the square root in your solution, then
use ±. If you are given the radical in the question, then use the sign that is
given. You may find it helpful to add these rules to your resource sheet.

Identifying the Values of a Variable for Which a Radical Expression is
Defined
It is not possible to take the square root of a negative number in the real
number system. However, it is possible to find the cube root of a negative
number. Consider the following table.
Is the Radical Expression Is the Radical Expression

Defined for Positive Values? Defined for Negative Values?
Radical Example: Example:

Expression x=2 x = –2
x 2 ≈ 1.41 Yes −2 = undefined No
3
x 3
2 ≈ 1.26 Yes 3
−2 ≈ −1.26 Yes
4
x 4
2 ≈ 1.19 Yes 4
−2 = undefined No
5
x 5
2 ≈ 1.15 Yes 5
−2 ≈ −1.15 Yes
6
x 6
2 ≈ 1.12 Yes 6
−2 = undefined No
From this table, you can see that radicals are always defined when the
radicand is greater than zero. However, when the radicand is less than zero,
the radical is only defined if the index is odd.
Example 11
Identify the values of the variable for which the radical is defined in the set of
real numbers.
3
a) 5-x d) z
6
b) x2 e) x5
c) y5

Solution
a) As a square root is not defined when the radicand is negative, this
expression is defined when 5 - x ³ 0, or 5 ³ x, or x £ 5.
b) x 2 is defined for all values of x in the real numbers. This is because any
value squared will become positive or zero. Also, the square root of any
positive number or zero is defined. Therefore, this expression is defined
for x Î Â.
c) y 5 has an index of 2. Therefore, as the index is even, this radical

expression is only defined when y5 ³ 0 and when y ³ 0.
3
d) z has an index of 3. Therefore, as the index is odd, this radical expression
is defined for all values of z Î Â.
6
e) x 5 has index of 6. Therefore, as the index is even, this radical expression
is only defined when x5 ³ 0 and x ³ 0.
The following learning activity will allow you to practice the mathematical
skills that you have just learned. Make sure you complete this learning
activity because similar questions will appear on your next assignment and
the final examination.
Part A: BrainPower
1. Jenelle’s doctor told her to eat an average of 2000 calories a day. If Jenelle
ate 520 calories for breakfast, 630 calories for lunch, and had two snacks
with 125 calories each, how many calories does Jenelle have left for
supper?
2. Multiply: (x + 3)(x + 4)
3. Evaluate: 256
continued

4. Solve for x: (2x + 4)(x - 2) = 0
5. Patrick sleeps for 8 hours a day, attends school for 6 hours a day, and plays
sports for 2 hours a day. What fraction of the day (in lowest terms) does
Patrick have for free time?
2 9 1
-
3
6. Order these values from lowest to highest: 8, 24 , 23 , 2 2
1 2
7. Are these fractions equivalent? and
2 2
8. Find the slope of the line perpendicular to the line, 3y - 2x + 7 = 0.
Part B: Simplifying Radical Expressions
assignments and final examination. So, if you were able to answer
them correctly, you are likely to do well on your assignments and final
examination. If you did not answer them correctly, you need to go back to the
lesson and learn them.
1. Simplify each radical.
a) 80 f) 288
b) 18 g) 512
c) 200 h) - 8
d) 250 i) - 800
e) 1224
2. Simplify each radical, given x ³ 0, y ³ 0, and z ³ 0.
a) 4x 4 y 6 d) x 4 yz2
b) 8x 10 y 12 e) 5x 3 y 7
c) 75x 8 y 5
continued

3. Write each mixed radical as an entire radical.
a) 3 15
b) 3x 5x
c) 5x 2 y 3xy
4. Identify the greater number. (Do not use a calculator.)
a) 125 or 3 20 ?
b) 16 2 or 768 ?
5. Order the following radical expressions from least to greatest. (Do not use
a calculator.)
a) 5 3 , 49 , 6 5
b) 3 2 , 6 2 , 32
6. Solve for x.
a) x2 = 25 d) x2 = 0
b) x2 = 16 e) x2 = -9
c) x2 = 48
7. By coverting the radical to a rational exponent, prove the First Property of
Radicals:
n n
a = a when n is a positive integer greater than 1.
8. Identify the values of the variable(s) for which the radical represents a real
number.
4
a) 8 - 2x d) x7
b) x3 e) 64 a3 b 6
c) 5
z f) -432 xy 2

Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you expanded on your knowledge of simplifying radicals with

numerical radicands. You learned how to simplify radicals with variable
radicands, and how to identify the values of a variable for which a radical
expression is defined. As well, conventions regarding square roots were
discussed. In the next lesson, you will learn how to add and subtract radical
expressions.

Notes

L e s son 2: A dding a nd Sub t r ac t ing
R adical Expressions
Lesson Focus

q learn how to add and subtract radical expressions
Lesson Introduction
In Lesson 1, you learned how to simplify radical expressions. This technique

will prove to be extremely useful in this lesson. In previous courses, you
learned how to add and subtract fractions and polynomial expressions. In
this lesson, you will learn how to add and subtract radical expressions using
similar techniques to the ones you would use to add and subtract fractions or
polynomials.
Adding and Subtracting Radical Expressions
Until now, you have been working with expressions consisting of

polynomials. Some of the concepts applied to fractions or polynomials can be
used when combining radicals.
Comparing the Combining of Polynomials and Radicals

To add or subtract radicals, you add or subtract the coefficients of like
radicals, just as you add or subtract the coefficients of like terms with
polynomials and add or subtract fractions with common denominators. Like
radicals are radicals with the same radicand and the same index.
Polynomial
2x + 3y + 5x + y
= (2x + 5x) + (3y + y) Combine like terms.
= 7x + 4y

Fraction
1 2
+
3 5
5 6
= + Combine fractions with “like” denominators.
15 15
11
=
15
Radical
2 5 +3 2 +5 5 + 2
= (2 5 + 5 5 ) + (3 2 + 2 ) Combine like radicals.
=7 5+4 2
Example 1
Simplify each of the following:
a) 3 5 + 4 7 − 5 + 6 7
b) 3 2 + 7 + 3 2 + 3
c) (3 2 + 3 − 1) − ( 3 3 − 2 2 − 1)
Solution
a) 3 5 + 4 7 − 5 + 6 7
= 2 5 + 10 7
b) 3 2 + 7 + 3 2 + 3
= 6 2 + 10
c) (3 2 + 3 − 1)− ( 3 3 − 2 2 − 1)
= 3 2 + 3 −1−3 3 +2 2 +1
= 5 2 −2 3

Example 2
Simplify 5 3 + 12 − 3 completely.
Solution
Your first answer to this question may be 4 3 + 12 . That answer is not
completely simplified. There is a simpler form. As with fractions, when you
write an equivalent fraction with a common denominator, sometimes you can
write an equivalent mixed radical with a common radicand. The term, 12 ,
is equal to 4 3 , which can be written as 2 3 , so
5 3 + 12 − 3
= 4 3 + 12
= 4 3 +2 3
=6 3
Example 3
Simplify.
a) 12 + 3 3 + 75
b) 50 + 75 + 300
c) 20 + 150 − 125
Solutions
a) 12 + 3 3 + 75
= 4 3 + 3 3 + 25 3 Factor radicands.
= 2 3 +3 3 +5 3 Write square root of the perfect squares.
= 10 3 Combine like terms.
b) 50 + 75 + 300
= 25 2 + 25 3 + 100 3
= 5 2 + 5 3 + 10 3
= 5 2 + 15 3

Note: Unlike fractions, you cannot always make the terms have a common
radical.

c) 20 + 150 − 125
= 4 5 + 25 6 − 25 5
= 2 5 +5 6 −5 5
= −3 5 + 5 6
Adding and Subtracting Radical Expressions with Variable Radicands

Just as it is possible to add and subtract radical expressions with numerical
radicands (such as in examples 1 through 3), it is also possible to add and
subtract radical expression with variable radicands. Consider the following
example.
Example 4
Simplify, given x ³ 0.
a) 6 x − 4 x + 5 x
3
b) 27 x 2 − 3 8x 2 + 3 64 x 2
c) 5x 24 x 3 − 7 54 x 5 + x 2 6 x − x 2 96 x
Solution
a) Each of these terms has x in common. Therefore, they are all like terms
and you can simply add and subtract the coefficients as indicated.
6 x −4 x +5 x
=7 x
b) Before you can combine like terms, you need to simplify each radical
completely.
3
27 x 2 − 3 8x 2 + 3 64 x 2
= 3 3 x2 − 2 3 x2 + 4 3 x2
= 5 3 x2

c) Again, before you can combine like terms, you need to simplify each
radical.
5x 24 x 3 − 7 54 x 5 + x 2 6 x − x 3 96 x
= 5x ( 4 )(6 ) ( x 2 ) ( x ) − 7 ( 9 )( 6 ) ( x 4 ) ( x ) + x 2 6x − x 3 (16 )(6 )( x )
= 5x ( 2 )( x ) 6 x − 7 ( 3) ( x 2 ) 6x + x 2 6x − x 3 ( 4 ) 6x
= 10x 2 6x − 21x 2 6 x + x 2 6 x − 4 x 3 6 x
= −10 x 2 6 x − 4 x 3 6 x

Note: The terms are “like terms” only if all variable factors are the same.
Example 5
A square with an area of 27 units2 is placed next to a square with an area of
60 units2. Determine the exact value of the perimeter of the combined figure
in simplest form.
60 units2
27 units2
Solution
The area of a square = length ´ width.
However, the length and the width are the same in a square.
Therefore, the area of a square = length ´ length = (length)2.
Let the length of the smaller square equal x.
x 2 = 27
x = ± 27 = ±3 3
Since length is never negative, x can only be 3 3.
Let the length of the larger square equal y.
y 2 = 60
y = ± 60 = ±2 15
Since y > 0, y  2 15.

Since you are asked for the exact value, you must leave the numbers written
as radicals rather than as approximate values using a calculator.
When you are solving for a variable, you need to consider both the positive
and negative square roots and also the restrictions on its value.
215
( 215  33 )
33
60 units2 215
33 27 units2
33 215
Now, to determine the perimeter of the larger shape, you have to sum all of
the side lengths.
Perimeter:
3 3 + 3 3 + 3 3 + 2 15 + 2 15 + 2 15 + ( 2 15 − 3 3 )
= 9 3 + 6 15 + 2 15 − 3 3
= (6 3 + 8 15 ) units

Part A: BrainPower
1. Alyssa is twice as old as her brother today. When she is 25 years old, her
brother will be 20 years old. How many years old is Alyssa today?
2. How much would a sweater cost if it were 25% off the original price of $60
and you had to pay an additional 12% sales tax on the discounted price?
0
3. Simplify: ( 3 2 x + 10 )
4. Simplify: 2x(3x - 5) - 4(x + 2)
5. Write 625 as a power with a base of 5.
7. The equation of a parabola is, y = 3x2 - 5x + 8. What is the y-intercept?
8. Find the slope of the line that contains the points (7, -1) and (-8, 15).
Part B: Adding and Subtracting Radical Expressions
1. Simplify each radical expression as much as possible. Given: x ³ 0.
a) 2 3 + 4 3 − 3 e) 5 x − 3 x + 6 x
b) 96 − 54 − 24 f) 6 5 + 3 2 − 4 5 + 2
c) 3 75 − 2 48 + 12 g) x 5 + 3x 2 x − 7 x 4 x 3
d) 98 − 50 + 72 h) 2 x 3 8x 4 − 4 x 2 3 x + 3 125x 7
continued

2. Find the values of the missing numerical coefficients A and B.
a) 3 2 + 2 3 + A 12 − B 8 = 75 − 32
b) 24 + A 2 + B 150 = 3 2
3. Find the width of a rectangle if the length is 5 3 cm and the perimeter is

(16 3 − 4 2 ) cm.
4. Given the lengths of two sides of the right triangle, find the length of the
third side.
a c
a) a = 3 b=4
b) a = 3 b=5
c) a = 15 c = 17
5. Why is it important to simplify radical expressions before adding or
subtracting? Provide an example to support your explanation.
6. The perimeter of a square is 8 2x units. The area of a square is 56 units2.

Determine the value of x, if x > 0.

Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned how to add and subtract radical expressions.
Sometimes, it was necessary to simplify a radical expression before you
were able to add or subtract it. The skills you learned in Lesson 1 dealing
with simplifying radical expressions were used throughout this lesson.
Simplifying radical expressions also comes in handy when you multiply
radical expressions, which is the focus of Lesson 3.
Before you continue on to the next lesson, complete the following assignment.
Assignment 5.1 contains questions similar to those found in Learning
Activity 5.1 and Learning Activity 5.2. If you completed most of those
questions correctly, you should do well on Assignment 5.1.

Notes

Assignment 5.1
Simplifying Radical Expressions
Total: 42 marks
1. Simplify each radical. Given: x ³ 0 and y ³ 0.
a) 75 (1 mark)
b) - 400 (1 mark)
c) 4800 (2 marks)
d) - 648 (2 marks)
continued

Assignment 5.1: Simplifying Radical Expressions (continued)
e) x 3 y 2 (1 mark)
f) - x 6 y 7 (2 marks)
g) 4 x 10 y 17 (2 marks)
h) - 8x 7 y 3 (2 marks)
continued

2. Write each mixed radical as an entire radical. Given: x ³ 0. (3 marks)
a) 4 7
b) x 3x
c) 3x 2 y 3 2 xy
3. Order the following radical expressions from least to greatest. Given: x ³ 1. Do not
use a calculator. (4 marks)
a) 5 2 , 6 3 , 2 5
b) 3 2 x 3 , x 8x , 32 x 3
continued

4. Identify the values of the variables for which each radical expression is defined.
(7 marks)
a) 6 - 3x (1 mark)
b) x 5 (1 mark)
3
c) x 2 (1 mark)
4
d) 48r 6 s 3 (2 marks)
e) 3 128x 2 y 5 (2 marks)
continued

5. Simplify each radical expression as much as possible. Given: x ³ 0. (2 marks each, for a
total of 8 marks)
a) 4 5 + 6 5 − 2 125
b) 48 - 2 80 - 4 192
c) 2 x x + 3 x 3 − 16 x 3
d) x 5 − x 4x 3 + 6x 2 x
continued

6. Find the width of a rectangle if the length is 2 and the perimeter is 4 3 - 2 2 .
(3 marks)
continued

7. Given the lengths of two sides of the right triangle, find the length of the third side.
Recall: a2 + b2 = c2. (2 marks each, for a total of 4 marks)
a c
a)
 a 2, b
 3
b)
 a 5, c
 10

Notes

L e s s o n 3: M u lt i p ly i n g R a dic a l
Expressions
Lesson Focus

q learn how to multiply radical expressions
Lesson Introduction
You have now learned how to simplify radical expressions, as well as how to
add and subtract radical expressions. Both of these techniques will be useful
as you learn how to multiply radical expressions in this lesson. Multiplying
radical expressions is similar to multiplying polynomial expressions
or multiplying fractions. As you are already familiar with multiplying
polynomial expressions and fractions, the technique for multiplying radical
expressions should be an easy extension of your skills.
Multiplying Radical Expressions
Radical multiplication can be compared to multiplication you already know.

Compare the following expressions.
Polynomial Fraction Radical
 2  5  10
(3x)(2y) = 6xy   =
 3  7  21
(3 5 )(2 7 ) = 6 35
To multiply polynomials: The coefficients are multiplied together and the

variables are multiplied together.
To multiply fractions: The numerators are multiplied together and the
denominators are multiplied together.
To multiply radicals: The numbers outside each radical sign are multiplied
together and the numbers inside each radical sign are multiplied together.
Include these instructions on how to multiply radical expressions on your
resource sheet.

Use the Distributive Law to simplify these expressions:
Polynomial Radical
a) 2 x (3x + 4 y ) 2 2 (3 2 + 4 5 )
= 6 x 2 + 8xy = 6 4 + 8 10
= 12 + 8 10
b) ( 2 x + 1) ( 3x + 2 ) (2 3 + 1) ( 3 3 + 2 )
= 2 x ( 3x + 2 ) + 1 ( 3x + 2 ) = 2 3 (3 3 + 2) + 1 (3 3 + 2)
2
= 6 x + 4 x + 3x + 2
=6 9 +4 3 +3 3 +2
2
= 6x + 7 x + 2
= 6 ( 3) + 7 3 + 2
= 18 + 7 3 + 2
= 20 + 7 3
Example 1
Simplify these radical expressions. Given: x ³ 0.
a) ( 5 )( 10 ) f) 2 3 ( 4 3 − 3 7 )
b) (7 3 )( 5 2 ) g) 9 2 x ( 2x5 + 2 x )
c) (2 3 )(3 3 ) h) ( 2 + 3 ) ( 2 − 3 )
d) ( 5 )( 5 ) i) ( x + 5 )(3 x − 2 5 )
e) 2 ( 3 − 10 )
Solutions
a) ( 5 )( 10 )
= 50
= 25 2
=5 2
b) (7 3 )( 5 2 ) = 35 6

c) (2 3 )(3 3 ) = 6 9
= 6 ( 3)
= 18
d) ( 5 )( 5 ) = 25
=5
e) 2 ( 3 − 10 ) = 6 − 20
= 6− 4 5
= 6 −2 5
f) 2 3 ( 4 3 − 3 7 ) = 8 9 − 6 21
= 8 ( 3) − 6 21
= 24 − 6 21
g) 9 2 x ( )
2 x 5 + 2 x = 9 4x 6 + 18 2 x 2
= 9 ⋅ 2 ⋅ x 3 + 18 ⋅ x 2
= 18x 3 + 18x 2
Note: When multiplying
h) ( 2 + 3 ) ( 2 − 3 ) = 2 ( 2 − 3 ) + 3 ( 2 − 3 )
two radicals, the answer
= 4−2 3 +2 3 − 9 may be a rational number!
The answer contains no
= 4− 9 radical term because the
polynomials are the factors
= 4−3
for a difference of squares
=1 called conjugates.
(a + b)(a - b) = a2 - b2
i) ( x + 5 )(3 x − 2 5 ) = x (3 x − 2 5 ) + 5 (3 x − 2 5 )
= 3 x 2 − 2 5x + 3 5x − 2 25
= 3x + 5x − 2 ( 5)
= 3x + 5x − 10

Example 2
Simplify the following radical expression. Given: x ³ 0 and y ³ 0.
2
( xy − 3 y ) ( x + 5 xy ) − ( 2 y − x )
Solution
2
( xy − 3 y ) ( x + 5 xy ) − ( 2 y − x )
= ( xy − 3 y ) ( x + 5 xy ) − ( 2 y − x ) ( 2 y − x )
= xy ( x + 5 xy ) − 3 y ( x + 5 xy ) −
 2 y ( 2 y − x ) − x ( 2 y − x )

= x 2 y + 5 x 2 y 2 − 3 xy − 15 xy 2 − 2 2
 4 y − 2 xy − 2 xy + x 
= x y + 5xy − 3 xy − 15 y x − 4 y + 2 xy + 2 xy − x
= x y + 5xy + xy − 15 y x − 4 y − x
As you can see, simplifying radical expressions can become quite

complicated. The following learning activity will allow you to practice
multiplying radical expressions. Make sure you complete this learning
activity and check your answers in the Module 5 Answer Key to ensure you
are completing questions correctly. Similar questions to those found in the
following learning activity will appear in your next assignment.

Part A: BrainPower
1. School starts at 8:45 a.m. Hunter spends twenty minutes eating breakfast,
fifteen minutes taking a shower, thirty-five minutes watching TV, and ten
minutes biking to school. If Hunter arrives just on time for school, what
time did he wake up?
2
2. Simplify: ( x + 3 )
3. Express 0.72 as a fraction in lowest terms.

4. Find the x-intercepts of the following parabola: y = x2 + 9x + 14
5. If three angles in a parallelogram measure 286° in total, what is the
measure of the fourth angle in the parallelogram?
(4, 12)
4
continued

Part B: Multiplying Radical Expressions
1. Simplify each radical expression. Given: x ³ 0, y ³ 0.
a) ( 5 )( 3 ) i) 6 (3 2 + 5 8 )
b) ( 8 )( 2 ) j) (2 5 + 3) ( 2 5 − 3)
c) ( 4 10 )(3 5 ) k) (6 5 − 3 10 ) ( 4 5 + 10 )
2
d) ( 2 5 ) (−3 5 ) l) ( 2 − 3)
2
e) (−3 3 ) (−4 6 ) m) ( 4 7 + 3 2 )
f) (2 x )(3 xy 2 ) n) ( x + y3 )( xy )
g) 3 ( 2 − 5) o) ( 2 x − y ) ( x − 3 y )
h) − 2 ( 3 2 + 3 5 )
2. Find the exact values of the area of a square if its perimeter is

(4 2 + 8) cm.
3. Identify the greater number:

a) 2 80 or ( 5 8 )( 2 3 ) ?
b) ( 3 2 )( 75 ) or ( 5 2 )( 3 2 ) ?
4. Every hour, a spider climbs up a distance in metres of ( 2 3 + 5 2 ) and
then is pushed down a distance of ( 3 − 2 ) . If the spider begins to

climb at 12 noon, what is his distance above his starting point at 4:00 p.m.
sharp?
continued

5. Find the area of the figure drawn below.
5 + 42
65 + 2
5 + 52
85 + 32
6. Determine whether 3 - 2 is a root of the equation x2 - 6x + 7 = 0.
7. The operation is defined as follows: a b = a2 + ab.

Evaluate each of the following:
a) (2 3 ) (3 + 3 )
b) (2 + 3 ) (2 − 3 )
c) ( 2 − 5) ( 3 5 )
8. Use playing cards to create four unique radical expression multiplication
problems and simplify. Take out all the face cards from your deck of cards
before creating your radical expression problems. Deal out at least four
cards to create each problem. Black suits (spades and clubs) represent
natural numbers, while red suits (diamonds and hearts) represent
radicands. If you deal out a 3 of diamonds, a 2 of clubs, a 6 of clubs, and an
8 of hearts, you will have the following expression:
3 of diamonds = 3
2 of clubs = 2
6 of clubs = 6
6 of hearts = 6
Expression: 3 26 6
continued

Simplifying the Expression: 3 ⋅2⋅6⋅ 6
= 12 18
= 12 (9 )( 2 )
= 12 ( 3) 2
= 36 2
You can try a variety of random cards and then test yourself using the
following examples. Check your work against the solutions given in the
answer key.
a) 5C, 10S, 3H, 5D
b) 4S, 3S, 2H, 5D
c) 8H, 3C, AceD, 10S
d) 7D, 2H, 8D, 2C
Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned how to multiply radical expressions. Having

learned this technique, you will be able to learn how to divide radical
expressions in the next lesson. Both of these skills will be useful when you are
asked to solve radical equations in Lesson 5.

L e s s o n 4: D i v idin g R a dic a l E x p r e s s io n s
Lesson Focus

q learn how to divide radical expressions
q learn how to identify the conjugate of a binomial expression
q learn how to rationalize the denominator of a radical expression
Lesson Introduction
You have now learned how to simplify radical expressions, as well as how to
add, subtract, and multiply radical expressions. Dividing radical expressions
is an extension of these skills. Dividing radial expressions is similar to
dividing polynomials when you have a monomial divisor and it is similar to
simplifying fractions. Radical expressions need to be rationalized in order to
eliminate the radical from the denominator. This allows for rational division
rather than using an irrational number as a divisor.
Dividing Radical Expressions
Monomial division is still a model for some radical division. Compare these
expressions:
Polynomial Radical
6x 2 y 6 35
 2 xy 2 5
3x 3 7
As in multiplication of radicals, the factors outside the radical sign are divided
separately from the division of the factors inside the radical sign.
To divide radical expressions, use the following Quotient Property of
Radicals.
Note: This was also discussed in Lesson 1.

Quotient Property of Radicals
n
a a
n
n
b b
where a ³ 0
b>0
When n = 2, the property becomes:
a a

b b
where a ³ 0 and b > 0
Note that the property can be used both ways:
n n
a a a a
 or n
n
n
b b b n
b
Note that b must be other than zero, since b is a divisor.

The following examples take advantage of this property to simplify the
expressions.
Example 1
Simplify each quotient using the Quotient Property of Radicals. Given: x > 0
and y > 0.
8 100
a) e)
18 2
10 xy
b) f)
5 y
225 8x 3 y 5
c) g)
3 2 xy 3
24 + 2 60 − 3
d)
3

Solution
8 8 4 4 2
a) = = = =
18 18 9 9 3
10 10
b) = = 2
5 5
225 225
c) = = 75 = 25 3 = 5 3
3 3
24 + 2 60 − 3 24 2 60 3
d) = + −
3 3 3 3
24 60 3
= +2 −
3 3 3
= 8 + 2 20 − 1
= 4 2 +2 4 5 −1
= 2 2 +4 5 −1
100 10
e) = =5
2 2
xy xy
f) = = x
y y
8x 3 y 5 8x 3 y 5
g) = 3
= 4 x 2 y 2 = 2 xy
2 xy 3 2 xy
Question: If you were not allowed to use a calculator, which of the following
quotients would be easier to write as a decimal numeral, rounded to four
decimal places?
1 1.4142
or
1.4142 2
Answer
The latter can be simplified very quickly using long division (or “short”
division since the digits can be divided by 2):
1.4142 ¸ 2 = 0.7071

Performing the long division, 1.4142 )1 , takes a bit more time.
1.4142 )1.00000000 is equivalent to 14142 )10000.00000
Now do the long division:

0.70711
14142 )10000.00000
9899 4
100600
98994
16060
14142
19180
14142
5038
1
Answer:  0.7071
1.4142
Both questions produce the same result to four decimal places.
The reason these answers are close to the same value is that 1.4142 ≈ 2 and
you were asked to choose between two equivalent fractions:
1 2
and
2 2
Verify that these are equivalent fractions:
1 1
LHS = = ( 1)
2 2
1  2
= 
 

2 2 
2
=
4
2
=
2
= RHS 1 1.4142 1.4142
Thus, ≈ , but is much
1 2 1.4142 2 2
∴ =
2 2 easier to calculate.

Rationalizing the Denominator of a Radical Expression
Before the existence of calculators, mathematicians found the approximation
2 1 1 2
for easier to perform than . Changing into is called
2 2 2 2
rationalizing the denominator.
A rationalized denominator has no radicals (which are irrational numbers) in
the denominator. Even now, a radical denominator is often rationalized due to
convention and because it provides an easier form to compare answers.
To rationalize the denominator of a radical expression when the denominator
is a monomial, use the fact that x ⋅ x = x 2 = x , provided x ³ 0. Then,
multiply both the numerator and the denominator by the radical value found
in the denominator. Consider the following example.
Example 2
Rationalize the denominator of each fraction.
2 3 5
a) c)
3 2 3
2 5 -4 6
b) d)
3 3 2
Solution
a) 3 is the radical value found in the denominator. Therefore, you need
to multiply both the numerator and the denominator of the radical
3
expression by 3 to rationalize the denominator. The expression is
3
equivalent to 1. You are not changing the value of the original expression
when you multiply it by 1.
2 2 3
= ⋅
3 3 3
2 3
=
9
2 3
=
3

2 5 2 5 3 2 15 2 15
b) = ⋅ = =
3 3 3 9 3
3 5 3 5 3 3 15 3 15 15
c) = ⋅ = = =
2 3 2 3 3 2 ( 3) 6 2
−4 6 −4 6 2 −4 12 −4 4 3 −4 ( 2 ) 3 −8 3 −4 3
d) = ⋅ = = = = =
3 2 3 2 2 3 (2) 6 6 6 3
Now that you have seen a few examples on how to rationalize a monomial
denominator, include steps for rationalizing the denominator on your
resource sheet.
Example 3
Rationalize each denominator. State the values for which the radical
expression is defined.
2 3
a)
x
3 y
b)
2 xy
Solution
2 3 2 3  x  2 3x 2 3x
a) = 
 
= =
x x  x x2 x
Since the radicand must be positive, this radical expression is only defined
when x > 0. Since the denominator of a radical expression cannot equal
zero, x cannot be zero.
3 y 3 y xy 3 xy 2 3y x 3 x
b) = ⋅ = = =
2 xy 2 xy xy 2 x2 y 2 2 xy 2x
This radical expression is defined only when x > 0 and y > 0, as both of
these variables appear in the denominator and cannot equal zero.

Conjugate of a Binomial
If the denominator of a radical expression is a binomial, a different process is
2
required to rationalize the denominator. If you try to rationalize by
3+ 2
2
multiplying by , the method fails.
2
For example,
2 2 2 2 2 2
× = =
3+ 2 2 3 2+ 4 3 2 +2
You still have a radical in the denominator. However, what does work is to
multiply by the conjugate of 3 + 2 .
The conjugate of a + b is a – b and the conjugate of a - b is a + b. Therefore

the conjugate of 3 + 2 is 3 − 2 . The conjugate of any binomial involves
changing the sign between the two terms. There is only one sign change.
Include the above definition on your resource sheet.
Example 4
Find the conjugates of the following radical expressions.
a) 3 − 5
b) 3 −1
c) 2 + 2
d) − 5 − 7
Solution
a) To find the conjugate of a radical expression, you simply change the sign
between the two terms in the expression. Thus, the conjugate of
3 − 5 is 3 + 5 .
b) The conjugate of 3 − 1 is 3 + 1.
c) The conjugate of 2 + 2 is 2 − 2 .
d) The conjugate of − 5 − 7 is − 5 + 7 .

To rationalize the denominator of a radical expression when the denominator
is a binomial, you simply multiply both the numerator and the denominator
by the conjugate of the denominator. Include this explanation on your
resource sheet. Again, you are multiplying the original radical expression by
one and its value does not change.
For example,
2 3 − 2  2 (3 − 2 )

 
 =
3 + 2  3 − 2  (3 + 2 )(3 − 2 )
6−2 2
=
3 ( 3) − 3 2 + 3 2 − 4
6−2 2
=
9−2
6−2 2
=
7
Notice how multiplying the denominator by its conjugate eliminates the

radical in the denominator. This is because you are creating a situation
involving a difference of squares. When you multiply two binomials that
are conjugates, the result is to square each term and subtract. Thus, this
eliminates all square roots.
Example 5
Rationalize the denominator.
2 3+ 2
a) c)
5− 2 2− 2
5 3 2− 5
b) d)
2 +1 2 2+ 5

Solutions
2 2 5+ 2 3+ 2 3+ 2 2+ 2
a) = × c) = ⋅
5− 2 5− 2 5+ 2 2− 2 2− 2 2+ 2
10 + 2 2 6+3 2 +2 2 + 4
= =
25 + 5 2 − 5 2 − 4 4+2 2 −2 2 − 4
10 + 2 2 6+3 2 +2 2 + 4
= =
25 − 4 4− 4
10 + 2 2 6+5 2 +2
= =
25 − 2 4−2
10 + 2 2 8+5 2
= =
23 2
5 5 2 −1 3 2− 5
b) = ⋅ d)
2 +1 2 +1 2 −1 2 2+ 5
5 2 −5 3 2− 5 2 2− 5
= = ⋅
4 − 2 + 2 −1 2 2+ 5 2 2− 5
5 2 −5 6 4 − 3 10 − 2 10 + 25
= =
4 −1 4 4 − 2 10 + 2 10 − 25
5 2 −5 6 4 − 3 10 − 2 10 + 25
= =
2−1 4 4 −5
= 5 2 −5 6 ( 2 ) − 5 10 + 5
=
4 (2) − 5
12 − 5 10 + 5
=
8−5
17 − 5 10
=
3

Example 6
Simplify. State the values for which the radical expression is defined.
3− x
a)
2+ x
3− y
b)
2 y+ 5
Solution
a) To simplify radical expressions means to rationalize the denominator.
3− x 3− x 2− x
= ×
2+ x 2+ x 2− x
6 − 3 x − 2 x + x2
=
4 − 2 x + 2 x − x2
This radical expression is only
6−3 x −2 x + x 2 defined when x ³ 0 (you cannot
= take the square root of a negative
4−x
number) and when x ¹ 4 (an
6+x−5 x expression is not defined when its
=
4−x denominator equals zero).
3− y 3− y 2 y− 5
b) = ×
2 y+ 5 2 y+ 5 2 y− 5
2 3 y − 15 − 2 y 2 + 5 y
=
4 y 2 − 2 5 y + 2 5 y − 25
2 3 y − 15 − 2 y 2 + 5 y
=
4 y 2 − 25
2 3 y − 15 − 2 y + 5 y
=
4y − 5
Since you cannot take the square root of a negative number, this radical
5
expression is only defined when y ³ 0. When y  , the denominator
4
equals zero. Thus, the radical expression is defined when y ³ 0 and
5
y¹ .
4

Part A: BrainPower
1. Marissa loves to eat cookie dough so she bought a tub of cookie dough that
was supposed to make 270 cookies. If Marissa and her brother each eat a
scoop of cookie dough that is equivalent to three cookies every day, how
long will it take them to eat the entire tub of cookie dough?
3. Bill went on a biking trip where he biked at 20 km/h for two hours and
then 30 km/h for three hours. How far did Bill bike?
4. Factor: 2x(x2 + 1) - 3(x2 + 1)
1
5. Simplify: 16 2
6. Simplify: -32m12 ¸ 8m4
20
3 +1
8. Determine the length of the hypotenuse of a right-angled triangle when
the other two sides measure 7 cm and 9 cm respectively.
continued

Part B: Dividing Radical Expressions
1. Simplify. Present your answer with no radicals in the denominators. If the
expression contains variables, state for which values of the variables the
radical expression is defined.
15 7− 3
a) h)
3 7+ 3
2 4−3 3
b) i)
2 3 6+ 2
10 2 2 3− 2
c) j)
5 2 3+ 2
2 +5 x
d) k)
3 x −y
8 10 − 7 5 x +1
e) l)
2 5 x
7 x2 y7
f) m)
3− 2 8y 6
5 3− x
g) n)
9 3−4 2x − 3
2. The area of a rectangle is ( 4 + 3 3 ) m 2 . If the length is ( 3 + 2 ) m,
find the
a) width
b) perimeter
c) length of its diagonal
continued

3. Observing that both these numbers are positive, is it possible that they are
equal?
2+ 3 2+ 6
;
2 4
(Hint: Square both numbers and compare the results.)
4. Find the length of the altitude from A, if the length of the altitude from C
is 2 3.
A
x
43
3+
23
B C
53  1

5. Find the area of the shaded region if two identical circles are cut out of
rectangle ABCD, as illustrated below. The length of AB = ( 4 + 8 2 ) m.
Leave your answer as an exact value in terms of p.
(4 + 82) m
A B
D C

2+ 3
6. What is the value of A if = 5− 3?
A
2 2
7. Simplify: + (2 + 3 )(5 − 3 ) − (2 + 3 )
3 −1
8. Write these numbers in descending order.
3
2, , and 3
5

Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned how to divide radical expressions. You also learned
how to find the conjugate of a binomial, as well as how to rationalize the
denominator of a fraction. These skills will be useful when you learn how to
solve radical equations in the next lesson.

Assignment 5.2
Multiplying and Dividing Radical Expressions
Total: 50 marks
1. Simplify each of the following. All answers must have rationalized denominators.
Assume all variables are positive. (29 marks)
a) (3 2 )( 18 ) (1 mark)
2
b) (−2 3 ) (1 mark)
c) 5 6 ( 2 − 4 12 ) (2 marks)
2
d) ( 2 5 − 3 6 ) (2 marks)
continued

(continued)
e) (2 6 − 5 2 ) ( 2 6 + 5 2 ) (2 marks)
f) ( x 2 y + 4x )( xy ) (2 marks)
g) ( 32 xy + y 3 )( )
16 x 3 − y (3 marks)
14 75
h) (2 marks)
7 3
continued

(continued)
3 2 +4 3
i) (4 marks)
6
45xy
j) (2 marks)
5xy
4+ 3
k) (3 marks)
7− 3
2+ x
l) (2 marks)
y
continued

(continued)
2 x + 3xy
m) (3 marks)
x− y
2. Find the area of the following shape. (4 marks)
63
56
23
205
continued

(continued)
3. Determine whether 3 + 5 is a root of the equation x2 - 6x + 4 = 0. (3 marks)
4. Simplify the following expressions. All answers must have rationalized

denominators. Determine the values of the variables for which the radical
expressions are defined. (7 marks)
2- y
a) (3 marks)
3 x
y +1
b) (4 marks)
5− x
continued

(continued)
5. For this question, leave your answers in terms of p. A square is inscribed within a
circle. If the area of the square is 80 cm2, what is the exact value of the area of
a) the circle? (Hint: You may want to draw a diagonal in the diagram.) (5 marks)
b) the shaded region? (2 marks)

L e s s o n 5: S o lv in g R a dic a l E q uat io n s
Lesson Focus

q learn how to solve radical equations
q learn how to determine if the roots of a radical equation are
extraneous
q learn how to find the restrictions on the variable(s) in a radical
equation
q learn how to apply solving radical equations to a word problem
Lesson Introduction
You have learned how to simplify, add, subtract, multiply, and divide radical
expressions. These are all necessary skills that you can use to solve radical
equations. Radical equations are equations that contain radicals or rational
exponents. In this lesson, not only will you learn how to solve these types of
equations, you will learn how to apply these equations and their solutions to
real-life situations.
Solving Radical Equations
To solve radical equations, you try to eliminate the radicals by writing an

equivalent linear or quadratic equation. You already have experience solving
those.
The following property plays a key role in the simplification process.
If a = b, then an = bn.
It means that both sides of an equation can be raised to the same power and
the resulting expressions will still be equal.

Example 1
Solve: x4
Solution
x=4
2
( x) = 42 Square each side to remove the square root sign.
x = 16
Check:
LHS = x = 16 = 4
RHS = 4
∴ LHS = RHS
Thus, x = 16 is the solution.
Notice that you are given the radical and it is the principal square root of x
only. Notice that it is equal to a positive number. Thus, 16 is a valid solution.
Extraneous Roots of a Radical Equation

Solving a radical equation is the same thing as finding the roots of a radical
equation, just as solving a quadratic equation is the same thing as finding
the roots of a quadratic equation. When you are solving radical equations,
you must always check your solution not only for errors, but also for
extraneous roots. Whenever you use the method “Square Both Sides,” you
may be introducing a root into your solution that does not satisfy the original
equation. These roots are called extraneous roots. Consider the following
example.
Example 2
3
Solve: x 2 = −8
Solution
3
x 2 can be rewritten as x3
Thus, you need to solve a radical equation.

x 3 = −8
2
( )
x3 = (−8)
2
Square both sides.
x 3 = 64 Simplify.
3
x 3 = 3 64 Cube root both sides.
x=4 Simplify.
Check by substituting into the original equation.
3
x 2 = −8
3
LHS = 4 2
3
= ( 4)
= 23
=8
RHS = −8
LHS ≠ RHS
Thus, x = 4 is an extraneous solution and there is no other solution. So, there
is no solution to this equation.
Raising both sides of an equation to the nth power may introduce extraneous
or false solutions if n is even. So when you use the procedure, it is critical
that you check each solution in the original equation. For instance, squaring
both sides of the equation, x = -1 produces x = 1. However, the root is
extraneous because when you check the solution and substitute x = 1 into
the original equation, this value does not work. The original equation has no
real number solution. You would also know this is a false equation because
x means the principal square root, which is positive and cannot equal a
negative number.

Example 3
3
Solve: x −4=0
Solution
Before raising both sides of an equation to the nth power, you must isolate the
radical expression on one side of the equation to make solving easier.
3
x=4 Isolate the radical.
3
(3 x) = 43 Cube each side. The inverse operation of cube
rooting is cubing.
x = 64
3
Check by substituting x = 64 into the original equation, x − 4 = 0.
LHS = 3 64 − 4
= 4−4
=0
RHS = 0
∴ LHS = RHS
Note that cubing each side of the equation does not introduce extraneous
roots into the solution. Thus, the checking process is only for errors in your
work.
The solution is x = 64.
Restrictions on Variables in a Radical Equation

Just as there are restrictions on variables in radical expressions, there are also
restrictions on variables in radical equations. These restrictions appear when
you have the possibility of a negative radicand when the index is even. Since
in the real number system, it is not possible to find a square root of a negative
number, negative radicand values are not allowed.

Example 4
Solve: x + 2 x − 3 = 6. Determine the restrictions on the variable in this
radical equation.
Solution
In order for this radical equation to have a solution, x – 3 has to be greater
than or equal to zero.
x-3³0
x ³ 3
Thus, the restrictions on the variable in this radical equation are that x is any
real number greater than or equal to three.
x+2 x−3 =6
2 x−3 =6−x Isolate the radical.

2
(2 x − 3 ) = (6 − x )
2 Square both sides.
4 ( x − 3) = 36 − 12 x + x 2 Be sure you square the binomial

correctly.
4 x − 12 = 36 − 12 x + x 2
0 = x 2 − 16 x + 48 Rearrange.
0 = ( x − 4 ) ( x − 12 ) Factor.
x = 4 or x = 12
As both x = 4 and x = 12 are greater than 3, they are possible solutions to this
radical equation. However, it is still necessary to check for extraneous roots of
the original equation.
Check by substituting into the original equation x + 2 x − 3 = 6.

if x = 4 if x = 12
LHS = 4 + 2 4 − 3 LHS = 12 + 2 12 − 3
= 4 + ( 2 )(1)
= 12 + 2 ( 9 )
=6
= 12 + 2 ( 3)
RHS = 6
= 12 + 6
LHS = RHS
= 18
RHS = 6
LHS ≠ RHS

Thus, x = 12 is an extraneous root. The only solution is x = 4.
2
When you squared both sides of the equation ( 2 x − 3 ) = (6 − x ) , you
2
introduced the possibility of a second equation, 2 x − 3 = −(6 − x ) , into

the solution. As a result of squaring, extraneous roots may be introduced. A
check of the roots is always necessary when you are solving radical equations.
Notice that the restrictions on the variable are usually found before solving.
If a radical equation has more than one term with a variable in the radicand,
you may have to isolate and square more than once, as shown in the following
example.
Example 5
Solve: 2 x + 3 − x + 1 = 1. Determine the restrictions on the variable x.
Solution
In order for this radical equation to have a solution, 2x + 3 and x + 1 both
have to be greater than or equal to zero.
2x + 3 ≥ 0 x+1≥ 0
2 x ≥ −3 x ≥ −1
3
x ≥−
2
In order for this entire radical equation to be defined, x has to be greater than
3 3
or equal to both - and -1. Since - is smaller than -1, this is the same
2 2
as saying x has to be greater than or equal to -1. Thus, the restrictions on the
variable x in this radical equation are that x has to be greater than or equal to
negative one.

2x + 3 − x + 1 = 1
2x + = 1 + x + 1 Rearrange to isolate one of the

2 2
radicals.
( 2 x + 3 ) = (1 + x + 1 ) Square each side.
2 x + 3 = 1 + 2 x + 1 + ( x + 1) Simplify.
2x + 3 − 1 − x − 1 = 2 x + 1 Isolate the remaining radical.

x+1= 2 x+1 Simplify.
2
( x + 1)2 = ( 2 x + 1 ) Square each side again.
x 2 + 2 x + 1 = 4 ( x + 1)
x 2 + 2 x + 1 = 4x + 4
x2 − 2x − 3 = 0
( x − 3 ) ( x + 1) = 0
x = 3 or x = -1
Both solutions satisfy the restriction x ³ -1.
Check for extraneous roots by substituting into the original equation
2 x + 3 − x + 1 = 1.
if x = 3 if x = -1
LHS = 2 ( 3) + 3 − 3 + 1 LHS = 2 (−1) + 3 − −1 + 1
= 9− 4 = 1− 0
= 3−2 = 1−0
=1 =1
RHS = 1 RHS = 1
LHS = RHS LHS = RHS
\ Both solutions are valid.

Answer: x = 3 or x = -1

Example 6
Solve: 2 x 6
Solution
The restriction on the variable is x ³ 0.
In order to solve this problem, you need to square both sides twice.
2
( 2 x ) = 62 Squaring both sides once.
2 x = 36 Simplifying.
x = 18 Divide by 2.
2
( x) = 182 Square both sides.
x = 324 Simplify.
Check by substituting into the original equation 2 x  6.
LHS = 2 324
= 2 ⋅ 18
= 36
=6
RHS = 6
LHS = RHS The solution is x = 324.
Applying Solving Radical Equations to a Word Problem

Example 7
V
The radius, r, of a cylinder is defined by the equation r = , where V
πh
represents the volume of the cylinder and h represents the height of the
cylinder. If the radius of a cylinder is 5 cm and the volume of a cylinder is
400 cm3, what is the height of the cylinder? Leave your answer in terms of p.

Solution
You have the following information and formula:
r = 5 cm
V = 400 cm 3
V
r=
πh
By substituting the information into the given formula, you can solve for the
height h.
V
r=
πh
400
5=
πh
 400 2
2
5 =
 πh  Square both sides.
 
400
25 = Simplify.
πh
25 π h = 400 Multiply.
400
h= Solve for h.
25 π
16
h=
π
16
The formula for r has the restrictions V ³ 0 and h > 0. Checking h = for
π
being extraneous, you get
V 400 400
RHS = = = = 25 = 5
πh 16 16
π⋅
π
LHS = r = 5
∴ LHS = RHS
16
Thus, the height of the cylinder is cm.
p

Make sure you complete the following learning activity and check your
answers in the Module 5 Answer Key. Completing this learning activity
will help prepare you for the following assignment. If you get most of the
questions right in Learning Activity 5.5, you are likely to do well in the final
assignment in this module, Assignment 5.3.
Part A: BrainPower
1. Maddox has 130 quarters, 72 dimes, and 26 nickels. How much money
does he have in total?
3 10
2. Evaluate: ´
5 7
3. If today is Friday and your math exam is in 17 days, what day of the week
is your math exam on?
4. Evaluate: 52 - (-3 - 4(-26 - (-28))).
3x 5 y 2 z8
5. Simplify:
9x7 y 3 z2
6. Estimate: 140
7. Trey and Tanisha are discussing their solutions to the linear inequality
-3x > 6. Trey believes the answer is x > -2, while Tanisha believes the
answer is x < -2. Who is right?
8. Simplify: (x - 2)3
continued

Part B: Solving Radical Equations
a) For each real number x, x is a real number only when x ³ 0.
b) For each real number x, x - 3 is a real number only when x ³ 0.
c) For each real number x, x 2  x.
d) The real number solution set of x 2 = −3 is { }

3, − 3 .
2
e) The equation ( x − 1) = ( 2 x − 1 ) is equivalent to the sentence
2
( x − 1) = 2 x − 1 or ( x − 1) = − 2 x − 1.
f) For each real number x, if x2 = 16, then x  16.
g) Squaring both sides of x + 2 = 3x yields x + 4 = 9x2.
2. Simplify each of the following expressions.

2
a) ( 2x − 1 )
2
b) ( 5 + x )
2
c) (2 + x − 5)
3. Find the solutions for each of the following equations. Check your
solutions for extraneous roots.
a) x + 2 = 2 x + 7 e) x = 3x − 2 + 2
b) x = 2 − 2 x − 5 f) x 2 + 6x = 2
c) 2x + 3 − x + 1 = 1 g) 3x + 2 = 3 x − 2
d) x2 − 3 + 1 = 0 h) 1−x + x = x +1
continued

4. Solve each of the following equations.
5
a) x4
3
b) x  0.5
2
c) x3  81
d) 2 x 0.25  3
5. Solve each of the following equations. Determine any restrictions on the

variables.
a) x−3 = x +3
b) x+2 = 4− x+2
6. Consider a cylindrical drink can. The radius of the can is 3 cm.

The height of the can is 12 cm.
V
a) Find the volume of the pop can. Given: r = . Round your
πh
answer to two decimal places. Check your answer for
extraneous roots.
b) If the volume of a typical pop can is 355 mL, how does your answer
compare to that value?
1
7. Kinetic energy is calculated using the formula Ek  mv 2 , where Ek
2
represents the kinetic energy of an object measured in joules, m represents
the mass of an object measured in kilograms and v represents the positive
speed of an object. Speed is measured in metres per second. Using the
formula, calculate the speed of a baseball that has a mass of 0.145 kg and
32.1 J (joules) of kinetic energy. Round your answer to two decimal places.

Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you compiled your knowledge of radical expressions to learn

how to solve radical equations. Just as solving quadratic equations was the
same as finding the roots of a quadratic equation, you discovered how solving
radical equations is the same as finding the roots of a radical equation.
Sometimes the method of “squaring both sides” introduces roots that are
extraneous. In this lesson, you learned how to identify both the extraneous
roots of a radical equation and the restrictions on the variable(s) in a radical
equation.
Make sure you complete Assignment 5.3, which is the last assignment in this
module.

Notes

Assignment 5.3
Solving Radical Equations
Total: 53 marks
1. Find the solutions for each of the following equations. (27 marks)
a) 3 + x − 5 = −2 (3 marks)
b) 2 x − 1 + 2 = 5 (3 marks)
continued

Assignment 5.3: Solving Radical Equations (continued)
c) x = 2 2 x − 3 (4 marks)
d) 3x + 7 = x + 3 (4 marks)
continued

x+1
e) + 5x = 3x − 1 (5 marks)
3
continued

f) 2 x + 4 = 4 (4 marks)
g) x+9 = 3 + x (4 marks)
continued

2. Solve each of the following equations. Determine any restrictions on the variable(s).
(15 marks)
a) 4  3 8x (3 marks)
b) 21 − x = 2 (4 marks)
continued

c) 2 x + 8 = 3 3x + 1 (4 marks)
3
d) x 2  27 (4 marks)
continued

3. The formula relating current (I) in amperes, power (p) in watts, and resistance (r) in
p
ohms is I  . If the current of a toaster is 8 amperes and the power is 1500 watts,
r
what is the resistance of the toaster measured in ohms? Leave your answer as a
fraction in lowest terms. Check your answer for extraneous roots. (5 marks)
continued

4. The lateral surface area of a right circular cone is given by the formula
A = π r r 2 + h 2 , where A represents the surface area, r represents the radius of the
cone, and h represents the height of the cone. Find the height of a right circular cone
if the lateral surface area is 60 cm2 and the radius of the cone is 4 cm. Round your
answer to two decimal places. (6 marks)

Module 5 Summary
In this module, you built upon the knowledge of radicals you had from
Grade 10 Introduction to Applied and Pre-Calculus Mathematics. In Grade 10,
you learned how to simplify radical expressions containing numerical
radicands. In this module, you learned how to simplify, add, subtract,
multiply, and divide radical expressions containing a mix of numerical and
variable radicands. You learned these skills in order to be able to solve radical
equations.
As you saw, radical equations can appear in many different situations that
involve the use of formulas, such as area and volume, current and resistance,
and kinetic energy. If you plan to take either chemistry or physics, equations
like these will appear fairly often. Now that you know how to solve these
types of equations, they will be familiar when you encounter them again.
q Assignment 5.1: Simplifying Radical Expressions
q Assignment 5.2: Multiplying and Dividing Radical Expressions
q Assignment 5.3: Solving Radical Equations

Notes

Module 5
Radicals

M o d u l e 5:
R adicals
Part A: BrainPower
supper?
2. Multiply: (x + 3)(x + 4)
3. Evaluate: 256
4. Solve for x: (2x + 4)(x - 2) = 0
2 9 1
-
3
1 2
2 2
Answers:
1. 600 (2000 - (520 + 630 + 125 + 125) = 2000 - 1400 = 600)
2. x2 + 7x + 12 (x2 + 4x + 3x + 12)
3. 16 ( 2 × 128 = 2 × 2 × 64 = 4 × 64 = 2 × 8)
4. -2 and 2
1 8 1
5.  24 − (8 + 6 + 2 ) = 24 − 16 = 8 ; = 
3 24 3 

1 2 9
1 −
6. < 2 < 2 < 8 or 2 2 < 2 4 < 3 8 < 2 3
2
 2 1 9 1 
3 3 − 1 1 
 8 = 2 ; 2 = 2 = 2 ; 2 = 2 = 8; 2 = 1 =
4 2 3 2
 2

 22 
 1 2 2
7. Yes 
 = = 
2 
 2 2 2 
3
8. The slope of the perpendicular line is - .
2
 2 7 2
 3 y = 2 x − 7 ; y = x − ; the slope of this line is 
 3 3 3
a) 80 f) 288
b) 18 g) 512
c) 200 h) - 8
d) 250 i) - 800
e) 1224
Answers:
a) 16 5 = 4 5 b) 9 2 =3 2
c) 100 2 = 10 2 d) 25 10 = 5 10
e) 36 34 = 6 34 f) 144 2 = 12 2
g) 256 2 = 16 2 h) − 4 2 = −2 2
i) − 400 2 = −20 2

a) 4x 4 y 6 d) x 4 yz2
b) 8x 10 y 12 e) 5x 3 y 7
c) 75x 8 y 5
Answers:
a) 4 x 4 y6  2x2 y 3
b) 4 2 x 10 y 12  2 x 5 y 6 2
c) 25 3 x 8 y 4 y  5x 4 y 2 3 y
d) x 4 y z2  x 2 z y
e) 5 x 2 x y 6 y  xy 3 5xy

Answers:
a) 3 15 a) 9 15  135
b) 3x 5x b) 9 x 2 5x  45x 3
c) 5x 2 y 3xy c) 25 x 4 y 2 3xy  75x 5 y 3

a) 125 or 3 20 ?
Answer :
125 = 25 5 = 5 5
3 20 = 3 4 5 = 3 ( 2 ) 5 = 6 5
As 6 5 > 5 5 , then 3 20 > 125 .
b) 16 2 or 768 ?
Answer :
768 = 256 3 = 16 3
As 3 > 2 , then 16 3 > 16 2 and 768 > 16 2 .

a calculator.)
a) 5 3 , 49 , 6 5
Answer :
5 3 = 25 3 = 75
49 = 49
6 5 = 36 5 = 180
Thus, 49 < 75 < 180 and 49 < 5 3 < 6 5 .
b) 3 2 , 6 2 , 32
Answer :
32 = 16 2 = 4 2
Thus, 3 2 < 4 2 < 6 2 and 3 2 < 32 < 6 2 .
6. Solve for x.
a) x2 = 25 Answers: a) x = ±5
b) x2 = 16 b) x = ±4
c) x2 = 48
c) x = ± 48 = ± 16 3 = ±4 3
d) x2 = 0
e) x2 = -9 d) x = 0 = 0
e) x = ± −9 = no real number answer
7. By converting the radical to a rational exponent, prove the First Property

of Radicals:
n n
Answer:
n
n n
a can be written using a rational exponent as an .
n
Since n is a positive integer greater than one, and a n a1 a,
n
thus, an  a when n > 1.

number.
a) 8 - 2x
Answer:
A square root is only defined when the radicand is greater than or
equal to zero. You will need to solve a simple inequality.
8 - 2x ³ 0
8 ³ 2x
4³x
Thus, this radical expression is defined when x £ 4.
b) x3
Answer:
x 3 has an index of 2. Therefore, as the index is even, this radical
expression is only defined when x3 ³ 0 and, thus, x ³ 0.
5
c) z
Answer:
5
z has an index of 5. Therefore, as the index is odd, this radical
expression is defined for z Î Â.
4
d) x7
Answer:
4
e) 64 a3 b 6
Answer:
64 a3 b 6 has an index of 2. Therefore, as the index is even, this radical
expression is only defined when 64a3b6 ³ 0. Since the exponent on a is
odd, then a must be 0 or positive. However, b can be any value, b Î Â,
as b has an even exponent. Thus, this expression is defined when a ³ 0
and b Î Â.

f) -432 xy 2
Answer:
To answer this question, you have to consider the radicand to be
positive. Since the coefficient, -432, is negative, then one of the
variables has to be negative. Since y2 will never be negative, x has to be
negative. Also, x or y could be zero. Thus, x £ 0 and y Î Â.

Part A: BrainPower
0
3. Simplify: ( 3 2 x + 10 )
4. Simplify: 2x(3x - 5) - 4(x + 2)
Answers:
1. Alyssa is 10. (Since Alyssa is 5 years older, she is twice as old when her
brother is 5 and she is 10.)
2. $50.40 in total ($60 ´ 25% = $15; the sweater costs $60 - $15 = $45 without
tax; 10% of $45 = $4.50; 1% of $45 = $0.45; 12% of $45 = $4.50 + $0.45 +
$0.45 = $5.40; $45 + $5.40 = $50.40)
3. 1 (any number to the power of zero is 1)
4. 6x2 - 10x - 4x - 8 = 6x2 - 14x - 8
5. 54 (625 = 25 ´ 35 = 52 ´ 52)
6. 1, 2, 4, 17, 34, 68 (since 68 = 2 ´ 2 ´ 17)
7. 8 (let x = 0)
16  15 − (−1) 16 16 
8. − m = = =− 
15  −8 − 7 −15 15 

a) 2 3 + 4 3 − 3 e) 5 x − 3 x + 6 x
b) 96 − 54 − 24 f) 6 5 + 3 2 − 4 5 + 2
c) 3 75 − 2 48 + 12 g) x 5 + 3x 2 x − 7 x 4 x 3
d) 98 − 50 + 72 h) 2 x 3 8x 4 − 4 x 2 3 x + 3 125x 7
Answers:
a) 5 3
b) 16 6 − 9 6 − 4 6 = 4 6 − 3 6 − 2 6 = − 6
c) 3 25 3 − 2 16 3 + 4 3
= 3 ( 5) 3 − 2 ( 4 ) 3 + 2 3
= 15 3 − 8 3 + 2 3
=9 3
d) 49 2 − 25 2 + 36 2
=7 2 −5 2 +6 2
=8 2
e) 8 x
f) 2 5 + 4 2

g) x 5 + 3x 2 x − 7 x 4 x 3
= x 4 x + 3x 2 x − 7 x 4 x 2 x
= x 2 x + 3x 2 x − 7 x ( 2 )( x ) x
= x 2 x + 3x 2 x − 14 x 2 x
= −10 x 2 x
h) 2 x 3 8x 4 − 4 x 2 3 x + 3 125x 7
= 2 x 3 8x 3 x − 4 x 2 3 x + 3 125x 6 x
= 2 x ( 2 )( x ) 3 x − 4 x 2 3 x + 5x 2 3 x
= 4 x 2 3 x − 4 x 2 3 x + 5x 2 3 x
= 5x 2 3 x

a) 3 2 + 2 3 + A 12 − B 8 = 75 − 32
Answer:
3 2 + 2 3 + A 4 3 − B 4 2 = 25 3 − 16 2
3 2 + 2 3 + 2 A 3 − 2B 2 = 5 3 − 4 2
2 A 3 − 2B 2 = 5 3 − 4 2 − 3 2 − 2 3
2 A 3 − 2B 2 = 3 3 − 7 2
∴ 2 A = 3 and − 2 B = −7 Equate coefficients of like radicaals.
3 7
∴A= and B =
2 2

b) 24 + A 2 + B 150 = 3 2
Answer:
4 6 + A 2 + B 25 6 = 3 2
2 6 + A 2 + 5B 6 = 3 2
A 2 + 5B 6 = 3 2 − 2 6
∴ A = 3 and 5B = −2 Equate coeffficients of like radicals.
2
B =−
5

(16 3 − 4 2 ) cm.
Answer:
Let w = the width of the rectangle.
Given: length = 5 3 cm
perimeter = (16 3 − 4 2 ) cm
53
w w
53
Perimeter = 2 l + 2 w
16 3 − 4 2 = 2 ( 5 3 ) + 2 w
16 3 − 4 2 = 10 3 + 2 w
16 3 − 10 3 − 4 2 = 2 w
6 3 − 4 2 = 2w
6 3 4 2
− =w
2 2
3 3−2 2 = w
The width is ( 3 3 − 2 2 ) cm.

third side.
a c
a) a = 3 b=4
b) a = 3 b=5
c) a = 15 c = 17
Answers:
a) a 2 + b 2 = c 2 (Pythagorean theorem)
32 + 4 2 = c 2
25 = c 2
5=c (any length is assumed to be positive )
b) a 2 + b 2 = c 2
32 + 52 = c 2
9 + 25 = c 2
34 = c 2
34 = c
c) a2 + b 2 = c 2
152 + b 2 = 17 2
225 + b 2 = 289
b 2 = 64
b=8

Answer:
Radical expressions may appear to not be like terms until they are
simplified. It is therefore necessary to simplify radical expressions before
adding or subtracting them to ensure you arrive at the answer in simplest
form.
Consider the following expression.
96 - 54
These radical expressions are not like terms; therefore, it appears that
they cannot be combined, as you cannot subtract radicals that are not like
terms. However, if you simplify each radical, the resulting radicals become
like terms.
96 − 54
= (16 )(6 ) − (9 )(6 )
= 4 6 −3 6
It is only after simplifying that it is clear that the radical expressions are
like terms that can be subtracted.
4 6 −3 6
= 6

Answer:
s P  8 2 x units
s  length of side
A = 56 units2 s A  s2
56  s 2
56  s
4 14  s
2 14  s
If the area of the square is 56 units2, then the length of one side is
2 14 units.
Therefore, the perimeter = ( 4 ) ( 2 14 ) = 8 14 .
Thus, 8 14 has to equal 8 2x.
8 14 = 8 2 x
14 = 2 x Divide by 8.
2 2
( 14 ) = ( 2 x )
14 = 2 x
7=x

Part A: BrainPower
2

6. Determine the distance between the following two points, (9, 24) and
(4, 12)
4
8. Write this percent as a decimal: 3.2%.
Answers:
1. 7:25 a.m. (8:45 - (20 + 15 + 35 + 10) = 8:45 - 80 minutes = 8:45 - 1 hour
and 20 minutes = 7:25)
2
2. x + 2 x 3 + 3 ((x + 3 ) (x + 3 ) = x 2
+x 3 +x 3 + 9 )
18  72 36 18 
3.  = = 
25  100 50 25 
4. -7 and -2 ((x + 7)(x + 2) = 0)

5. 74° (360° - 286°)
( 2 2
6. 13 d = (−5) + (−12 ) = 25 + 144 = 169 = 13 )
8
4 8
7. 5 5
4 52
8. 0.032

a) ( 5 )( 3 ) i) 6 (3 2 + 5 8 )
b) ( 8 )( 2 ) j) (2 5 + 3) ( 2 5 − 3)
c) ( 4 10 )(3 5 ) k) (6 5 − 3 10 ) ( 4 5 + 10 )
2
d) ( 2 5 ) (−3 5 ) l) ( 2 − 3)
2
e) (−3 3 ) (−4 6 ) m) ( 4 7 + 3 2 )
f) (2 x )(3 xy 2 ) n) ( x + y3 )( xy )
g) 3 ( 2 − 5) o) ( 2 x − y ) ( x − 3 y )
h) − 2 ( 3 2 + 3 5 )
Answers:
a) ( 5 )( 3 ) = 15 e) (−3 3 ) (−4 6 ) = 12 18
b) 8
2 16
 4 = 12 9 2
= 12 ( 3) 2
c) (4 10 )( 3 5 ) = 12 50
= 36 2
= 12 25 2
= 12 ( 5) 2
f) (2 x )(3 )
xy 2 = 6 x 2 y 2
= 6 xy
= 60 2
d) (2 5 ) (−3 5 ) = −6 25 g) 3 ( 2 − 5 ) = 6 − 15
= −6 ( 5)
= −30

h) − 2 ( 3 2 + 3 5 ) = −3 4 − 3 10
= −3 ( 2 ) − 3 10
= −6 − 3 10
i) 6 ( 3 2 + 5 8 ) = 3 12 + 5 48
= 3 4 3 + 5 16 3
= 3 (2 ) 3 + 5 ( 4) 3
= 6 3 + 20 3
= 26 3
j) (2 5 + 3) ( 2 5 − 3) = 2 5 ( 2 5 − 3) + 3 ( 2 5 − 3)
= 4 25 − 6 5 + 6 5 − 9
= 4 ( 5) − 9
= 20 − 9
= 11
k) (6 5 − 3 10 ) ( 4 5 + 10 ) = 6 5 ( 4 5 + 10 ) − 3 10 ( 4 5 + 10 )
= 24 25 + 6 50 − 12 50 − 3 100
= 24 ( 5) − 6 50 − 3 (10 )
= 120 − 6 25 2 − 30
= 120 − 6 ( 5) 2 − 30
= 90 − 30 2
2
l) ( 2 − 3 ) = ( 2 − 3 )( 2 − 3 )
= 2 ( 2 − 3) − 3 ( 2 − 3)
= 4− 6− 6+ 9
= 2−2 6 +3
= 5−2 6

2
m) ( 4 7 + 3 2 ) = ( 4 7 + 3 2 ) ( 4 7 + 3 2 )
= 4 7 (4 7 + 3 2 ) + 3 2 (4 7 + 3 2 )
= 16 49 + 12 14 + 12 14 + 9 4
= 16 (7 ) + 24 14 + 9 ( 2 )
= 112 + 24 14 + 18
= 130 + 24 14
n) ( x + y3 )( xy ) = x 2 y + xy 4
= x y + y2 x
o) ( 2 x − y ) ( x − 3 y ) = 2 x ( x − 3 y ) − y ( x − 3 y )
= 2 x 2 − 6 xy − xy + 3 y 2
= 2 x − 7 xy + 3 y
2. Find the exact value of the area of a square if its perimeter is

(4 2 + 8) cm.
Answer:
Let s = length of side of square.
P = 4s Area = A = s 2
s cm
P = ( 4 2 + 8) cm 2
A = ( 2 + 2)
∴ 4s = ( 4 2 + 8)
A = ( 2 + 2)( 2 + 2)
s cm
4s 4 2 8
= + = 2 ( 2 + 2) + 2 ( 2 + 2)
4 4 4
s= 2 +2 = 4 +2 2 +2 2 +4
=2+4 2 +4
=6+4 2
The exact value of the area of the square is (6 + 4 2 ) cm 2 .

Note: The exact value cannot be found using a calculator.

a) 2 80 or 5 8 ( 2 3 ) ?
Answer:
(5 8 )(2 3 ) = 10 24
= 10 2 24
= (100 )( 24 )
= 2400
2 80 = 2 2 80
= ( 4 )(80 )
= 320
∴ ( 5 8 ) ( 2 3 ) is greater.
b) ( 3 2 )( 75 ) or ( 5 2 )( 3 2 ) ?
Answer:
(3 2 )( 75 ) = 3 150
= 32 150
= 9 × 150
= 1350
(5 2 )(3 2 ) = 15 4
= 152 4
= 225 × 4
= 900
∴ ( 3 2 )( 75 ) is greater.


sharp?
Answer:
Time Distance Above Starting Point

12 noon 0
1 p.m. 2 3 +5 2
just past 1 p.m. (2 3 + 5 2)−( 3 − 2) = 3 + 6 2
2 p.m. ( 3 + 6 2 ) + ( 2 3 + 5 2 ) = 3 3 + 11 2
just past 2 p.m. (3 3 + 11 2 ) − ( 3 − 2 ) = 2 3 + 12 2
3 p.m. (2 3 + 12 2 ) + ( 2 3 + 5 2 ) = 4 3 + 17 2
just past p.m. (4 3 + 17 2 ) − ( 3 − 2 ) = 3 3 + 18 2
4 p.m. (3 3 + 18 2 ) + ( 2 3 + 5 2 ) = 5 3 + 23 2
A more efficient method:

From 12 noon to 4 p.m., the spider climbs up 4 ( 2 3 + 5 2 ) = 8 3 + 20 2 .
The spider is pushed down 3 times = 3 ( 3 − 2 ) = 3 3 − 3 2 .
\ at 4 p.m., the spider is (8 3 + 20 2 ) − ( 3 3 − 3 2 ) = 5 3 + 23 2 .
\ the spider is ( 5 3 + 23 2 ) m above his starting point.

5 + 42
65 + 2
5 + 52
85 + 32
Answer:
Subdivide the figure into two rectangles.
A
B

Area of a rectangle = lw
 ( 5 + 5 2 ) + ( 5 + 4 2 ) (8 5 + 3 2 ) − (6 5 + 2 )
Area of A =  
= (2 5 + 9 2 )(2 5 + 2 2 )
= 2 5 (2 5 + 2 2 ) + 9 2 (2 5 + 2 2 )
= 4 25 + 4 10 + 18 10 + 18 4
= 4 ( 5) + 22 10 + 18 ( 2 )
= 20 + 22 10 + 36
= 56 + 22 10

Area of B = (6 5 + 2 ) ( 5 + 5 2 )
= 6 5( 5 + 5 2)+ 2 ( 5 + 5 2)
= 6 25 + 30 10 + 10 + 5 4
= 6 ( 5) + 31 10 + 5 ( 2 )
= 30 + 31 10 + 10
= 40 + 31 10
Total area = area of A + Area of B
= ( 56 + 22 10 ) + ( 40 + 31 10 ) = 96 + 53 10
Alternatively, you could complete the large rectangle:

Required area = area of large rectangle - area of C.
= (8 5 + 3 2 ) ( 2 5 + 9 2 ) − (6 5 + 2 ) ( 5 + 4 2 ) = 96 + 53 10

Answer:
Substitute 3 − 2 for x in the equation.
2
(3 − 2 ) − 6 ( 3 − 2 ) + 7 = ( 3 − 2 ) ( 3 − 2 ) − 18 + 6 2 + 7
= 3 ( 3 − 2 ) − 2 ( 3 − 2 ) − 18 + 6 2 + 7
= 9 − 3 2 − 3 2 + 4 − 18 + 6 2 + 7
= 9 − 6 2 + 2 − 18 + 6 2 + 7
=0
\ 3 - 2 is a root of the equation x2 - 6x + 7 = 0, since 3 - 2 satisfies
the equation.

a) (2 3 ) (3 + 3 )
Answer:
2
(2 3 ) (3 + 3 ) = (2 3 ) + 2 3 (3 + 3 )
= ( 2 3 )( 2 3 ) + 2 3 ( 3 + 3 )
= 4 9 +6 3 +2 9
= 4 ( 3) + 6 3 + 2 ( 3)
= 12 + 6 3 + 6
= 18 + 6 3
b) (2 + 3 ) (2 − 3 )
Answer:
2
(2 + 3 ) (2 − 3 ) = (2 + 3 ) + (2 + 3 )(2 − 3 )
= (2 + 3 )(2 + 3 ) + (2 + 3 )(2 − 3 )
= 4+2 3 +2 3 + 9 +4−2 3 +2 3 − 9
= 4+2 3 +2 3 +3+4−2 3 +2 3 −3
= 8+4 3
c) ( 2 − 5) (3 5 )
Answer:
2
( 2 − 5) (3 5 ) = ( 2 − 5) + ( 2 − 5)( 3 5 )
=( 2 − 5) ( 2 − 5) + ( 3 5 ) ( 2 − 5)
= 4 − 5 2 − 5 2 + 25 + 3 10 − 15 5
= 2 − 5 2 − 5 2 + 25 + 3 10 − 15 5
= 27 − 10 2 + 3 10 − 15 5

3 of diamonds = 3
2 of clubs = 2
6 of clubs = 6
6 of hearts = 6
Simplifying the expression: 3 ⋅2⋅6⋅ 6
= 12 18
= 12 (9 )( 2 )
= 12 ( 3) 2
= 36 2
answer key.
a) 5C, 10S, 3H, 5D
b) 4S, 3S, 2H, 5D
d) 7D, 2H, 8D, 2C

Answers:
Answers will vary. Four possible radical expression multiplication
problems are shown below.
a) 5C, 10S, 3H, 5D c) 8H, 3C, 1D, 10S
= 5 ⋅ 10 ⋅ 3 ⋅ 5 = 8 ⋅ 3 ⋅ 1 ⋅ 10
= 50 15 = 30 ( 4 )( 2 )
= 30 ( 2 ) 2
= 60 2

b) 4S, 3S, 2H, 5D d) 7D, 2H, 8D, 2C
= 4⋅3⋅ 2 ⋅ 5 = 7 ⋅ 2 ⋅ 8 ⋅2
= 12 10 = 2 112
= 2 16 (7 )
= 2⋅4 7
=8 7


Part A: BrainPower
4. Factor: 2x(x2 + 1) - 3(x2 + 1)
1
5. Simplify: 16 2
6. Simplify: –32m12 ¸ 8m4

20
3 +1
Answers:
 270 270 
1. 45  = = 45
 ( 3 + 3) 6 
2. 25
3. 130 km (20 km/h for 2 hours = 40 km; 30 km/h for 3 hours = 90 km;
90 + 40 = 130 km)
4. (2x - 3)(x2 + 1)
 1 
5. 4 
 16 2 = 16 = 4 

 
−32 m12 
6. −4m8  4
= −4 m 8

 8m 

 20 ( 3 − 1) 
 20 3 − 20 20 3 − 20 
7. 10 3 − 10 = =
 ( 3 + 1) ( 3 − 1) 9 − 1 2 
 
8. 130 cm ( 7 2 + 9 2 = 49 + 81 = 130 cm )
15 7− 3
a) h)
3 7+ 3
2 4−3 3
b) i)
2 3 6+ 2
10 2 2 3− 2
c) j)
5 2 3+ 2
2 +5 x
d) k)
3 x −y
8 10 − 7 5 x +1
e) l)
2 5 x
7 x2 y7
f) m)
3− 2 8y 6
5 3− x
g) n)
9 3−4 2x − 3
Answers:
15 2 3 6 6
a)  5 b) ⋅ = =
3 2 3 3 2 ( 3) 6

10 2 5 10 10 2 +5 3 6 +5 3
c) ⋅ = = 2 10 d) ⋅ =
5 5 5 3 3 3
8 10 − 7 5 5 8 50 − 7 25 7 3+ 2 21 + 7 2
e) ⋅ = f) ⋅ =
2 5 5 2 25 3− 2 3+ 2 9+3 2 −3 2 − 4
8 25 2 − 7 ( 5) 21 + 7 2
= =
2 ( 5) 9−2
8 ( 5) 2 − 35 21 + 7 2
= =
10 7
40 2 − 35 7 (3 + 2 )
= =
10 7
5 (8 2 − 7 ) = 3+ 2
=
5 (2)
8 2 −7
=
2
5 9 3+4 9 15 + 4 5
g) ⋅ =
9 3 − 4 9 3 + 4 81 9 + 36 3 − 36 3 − 16
9 15 + 4 5
=
81 ( 3) − 16
9 15 + 4 5
=
227
7− 3 7− 3 49 − 21 − 21 + 9
h) ⋅ =
7+ 3 7− 3 49 − 21 + 21 − 9
7 − 2 21 + 3
=
7−3
10 − 2 21
=
4
2 ( 5 − 21 )
=
4
5 − 21
=
2

4−3 3 6− 2 24 − 4 2 − 18 3 + 3 6
i) ⋅ =
6+ 2 6− 2 36 − 6 2 + 6 2 − 4
24 − 4 2 − 18 3 + 3 6
=
36 − 2
24 − 4 2 − 18 3 + 3 6
=
34
2 3− 2 2 3− 2 4 9 −2 6 −2 6 + 4
j) ⋅ =
2 3+ 2 2 3− 2 4 9 −2 6 +2 6 − 4
4 ( 3) − 4 6 + 2
=
4 ( 3) − 2
14 − 4 6
=
10
2 (7 − 2 6 )
=
10
7−2 6
=
5
x x +y x2 + y x
k) ⋅ =
x −y x +y x2 + y x − y x − y2
x+y x
=
x − y2
This expression is only defined for x ³ 0. You cannot take the square
root of a negative number. Also, y ¹ x because the denominator
cannot equal zero.
x +1 x x+ x
l) ⋅ =
x x x
This expression is only defined for x > 0. You cannot take the square
root of a negative number and the denominator cannot equal zero.
Thus, x has to be greater than zero.

x2 y7 x2 y7
m) =
8y 6 8y 6
x2 y
=
8
x2 y
=
( 4 )( 2 )
x y
=
2 2
x y 2
= ⋅
2 2 2
x 2y x 2y
= =
2( 4) ( 2 )( 2 )
x 2y
=
4
This expression is defined for y > 0 and x Î Â. You cannot take the
square root of a negative number nor have a zero in the denominator.
3− x 3− x 2x + 3
n) = ⋅
2x − 3 2x − 3 2x + 3
3 2 x + 3 3 − 2 x 2 − 3x
=
4x 2 + 6x − 6x − 9
3 2 x + 3 3 − x 2 − 3x
=
2x − 3
This expression is only defined for x ³ 0 because you cannot take
3
the square root of a negative number. Also, x ¹ because the
2
denominator cannot equal zero. Thus, the expression is defined for
3
x ³ 0 and x ¹ .
2

find the
a) width
b) perimeter
Answers:
a) Given: A = ( 4 + 3 3 ) m 2
l = ( 3 + 2) m
Let w = width
A = lw (3 + 2) m
4 + 3 3 = ( 3 + 2) w
4+3 3 w A = (4 + 33) m2 w
w=
3 +2
4+3 3 3−2
w= ⋅ (3 + 2) m
3 +2 3−2
4 3 −8+3 9 −6 3
=
9 −2 3 +2 3−4
−2 3 − 8 + 3 ( 3)
=
3−4
−2 3 + 1
=
−1
−2 3 + 1 (−1)
= ⋅
−1 (−1)
= 2 3 −1
The width is ( 2 3 − 1) m.

b) Perimeter = 2 l + 2 w
=2 ( 3 + 2 ) + 2 ( 2 3 − 1)
= 2 3 +4+4 3−2
=6 3 +2
∴ perimeter = (6 3 + 2 ) m
c) Let x = length of the diagonal. 3 + 2
x 23  
By the Pythagorean Theorem:

2 2
x 2 = ( 3 + 2 ) + ( 2 3 − 1)
x 2 = ( 3 + 2 ) ( 3 + 2 ) + ( 2 3 − 1) ( 2 3 − 1)
x2 = 9 + 2 3 + 2 3 + 4 + 4 9 − 2 3 − 2 3 + 1
x 2 = 3 + 2 3 + 2 3 + 4 + 12 − 2 3 − 2 3 + 1
x 2 = 20
x = ± 20 but − 20 cannot be thee length of a diagonal
x = 20 = 4 5 = 2 5
The diagonal is 2 5 m long.

equal?
2+ 3 2+ 6
;
2 4
Answer:
2+ 3 2+ 6
Let x = and y =
2 4
2+ 3 2+ 3 2+ 6 2+ 6
x2 = ⋅ y2 = ⋅
2 2 4 4
2 4 + 12 + 12 + 36
2
(2 + 3 ) =
x = 16
4
2 + 2 12 + 6
2 2+ 3 =
x = 16
4
8+2 4 3
=
16
8+4 3
=
16
4 (2 + 3 )
=
16
2+ 3
=
4
Hence, x2 = y2.
Furthermore, since x and y are positive, it follows that x = y—that is,
2+ 3 2+ 6
= .
2 4
Although some radicals do not look the same, they may still be equal.
In the above question, it is important that x and y are both positive.
Otherwise, it is possible that x = -y, since the squares of the positive and
the negative numbers are equal (e.g., (5)2 = 25 and (-5)2 = 25. However,
5 ¹ -5.) Hence, x and y must both be positive numbers when you are
comparing their squares.

is 2 3.
Answer:
The altitude of a triangle is the height of the triangle. The formula for the
1
area of a triangle is A  bh.
2
Let x = height from A to BC.
A
1
Area = bh can be found using BC
2
as
the base or using AB as the base.
x
43
1
∴ Area = ( 5 3 − 1) x or
3+
23
2
1
Area =
2
(3 + 4 3 )(2 3 ) . B
53  1
C
The two areas must be equal.

1 1
2
( 5 3 − 1) x = ( 3 + 4 3 )( 2 3 )
2
1
(5 3 − 1) x = ( 3 + 4 3 )( 2 3 ) Divide both sides by
2
.
(5 3 − 1) x = 6 3 + 8 9 Multiply.
6 3 + 8 ( 3) Divide both sides by 5 3 - 1.

x=
5 3 −1
6 3 + 24 5 3 + 1 Rationalize the denominator.
x= ⋅
5 3 −1 5 3 +1
30 9 + 6 3 + 120 3 + 24
x=
25 9 + 5 3 − 5 3 − 1
30 ( 3) + 126 3 + 24
x=
25 ( 3) − 1
114 + 126 3
x=
74
2 ( 57 + 63 3 )
x=
2 ( 37 )
57 + 63 3
x=
37

57 + 63 3
The length of the altitude from A = .
37
(4 + 82) m
A B
r
 
D C

Answer:
Since AB = 4 + 8 2 and the circles are identical, the diameter of
4+8 2
each circle is = 2 + 4 2 and the radius of each circle is
2
2+4 2
= 1 + 2 2.
2
The width of the rectangle is 2 + 4 2 , which is the diameter of the circle.
Shaded area = area of rectangle - areas of the two circles.
Area = lw – 2(pr2)
2
A = ( 4 + 8 2 ) ( 2 + 4 2 ) − 2 π (1 + 2 2 )
A = ( 4 + 8 2 ) ( 2 + 4 2 ) − 2 π (1 + 2 2 ) (1 + 2 2 )
A = 8 + 16 2 + 16 2 + 32 4 − 2 π 
1 + 2 2 + 2 2 + 4 4 

A = 8 + 32 2 + 32 ( 2 ) − 2 π 
 1 + 4 2 + 4 ( 2 )

A = 72 + 32 2 − 2 π (9 + 4 2 )
A = 72 + 32 2 − 18 π − 8 π 2 (The answer is acceptable in this form.)
A = 72 − 18 π + 32 2 − 8 π 2
A = (72 − 18 π ) + ( 32 − 8 π ) 2
2
The area of the shaded region is 
 (72 − 18 π ) + ( 32 − 8 π ) 2 
m .

2+ 3
A
Answer:
2 + 3 = (5 − 3 ) A
2+ 3
A=
5− 3
2+ 3 5+ 3
A= ⋅
5− 3 5+ 3
10 + 2 3 + 5 3 + 9
A=
25 + 5 3 − 5 3 − 9
10 + 7 3 + 3
A=
25 − 3
13 + 7 3
A=
22
2 2
7. Simplify: + (2 + 3 )(5 − 3 ) − (2 + 3 )
3 −1
Answer:
Perhaps the easiest way to simplify such a complicated expression is to
break it into parts. The first part needs its denominator rationalized; the
other two parts require multiplication.
2
=
2
⋅
3 +1 (2 + 3 ) (5 − 3 ) = 10 − 2 3 +5 3−3
3 −1 3 −1 3 +1
=7+3 3
2 3 +2
=
9 + 3 − 3 −1
2
2 3 +2 (2 + 3 ) = (2 + 3 )(2 + 3 )
=
2 = 4+2 3 +2 3 +3
= 3 +1
=7+4 3

Now combine the parts.
2 2
+ (2 + 3 )(5 − 3 ) + (2 + 3 )
3 −1
= ( 3 + 1) + ( 7 + 3 3 ) − ( 7 + 4 3 )
= 3 +1+7 +3 3 −7 −4 3
=1

3
2, , and 3
5
Answer:
These numbers are all positive. Compare their squares.
 3 2 9 4 2
2 = 4;   = = 1 ; ( 3 ) = 3
2
 5 5 5
4
he positive numbers
Since 4 > 3 > 1 , it follows that th
5
4 3
4> 3> 1 − that is , 2 > 3 > .
5 5

Part A: BrainPower
3 10
2. Evaluate: ´
5 7
4. Evaluate: 52 - (-3 - 4(-26 - (-28))).
3x 5 y 2 z8
5. Simplify:
9x7 y 3 z2
6. Estimate: 140
Answers:
1. $41 ($32.50 + $7.20 + $1.30 = $41; 130 quarters = $32.50; 72 dimes = $7.20;
26 nickels = $1.30)
6  3 10 2 
2.  
7 8 , 7 
 1 
3. Monday (in 14 days it will be Friday again; three days past Friday is
Monday)
4. 63 ( 52 − (−3 − 4 (−26 − (−28))) ; 52 − (−3 − 4 (−26 + 28)) ;
52 − (−3 − 4 ( 2 )) ; 52 − (−3 − 8) ; 52 − (−11) ; 52 + 11 = 63)
z6
5.
3x 2 y
6. 11.8 (140 is between perfect squares 121 and 144; therefore, 140 is
between 11 and 12 and is closer to 12)

7. Tanisha is right.
(-3x > 6
x < -2
When you divide by a negative in an inequality, you need to switch the
sign of the inequality.
To show this is true, substitute a value of x less than -2 into the original
inequality.
Let x = -4
LS = -3x
= -3(-4)
= 12
RS = 6
LS > RS
True.)
8. x3 - 6x2 + 12x - 8 [(x - 2)3 = (x - 2)(x - 2)(x - 2)= (x2 - 4x + 4)(x - 2)
= x3 - 2x2 - 4x2 + 8x + 4x - 8]

3, − 3 .
2
2
( x − 1) = 2 x − 1 or ( x − 1) = − 2 x − 1.

Answers:
a) True.
b) False. For each real number x, x - 3 is a real number when x ³ 3.
c) False. For each real number x, x 2  x because x 2 is the principal

square root and is a positive number or zero. It is never negative. For
example, if x = -3, then (−3)2 = − 3 = 3.
d) False. The real number solution set of x 2 = −3 is the empty set.

Saying the solution set is the empty set is the same as saying there is
no solution to the problem. The principal square root is positive or
zero, never negative.
e) True.
f) False. For each real number x, if x2 = 16, then x = 16 or x = − 16 .
g) False. Squaring both sides of x + 2 = 3x yields x + 4 x + 4 = 9 x 2 .

The left side of the equation is a binomial. Its square is the product:
( x + 2)( x + 2).

2
a) ( 2x − 1 )
2
b) ( 5 + x )
2
c) (2 + x − 5)
Answers:
2
a) ( 2x − 1 ) = 2x − 1
2
b) ( 5 + x ) = 25 + 10 x + x
2
c) (2 + x − 5 ) = (2 + x − 5 )(2 + x − 5 )
= 4+4 x−5 +x−5
= 4 x−5 +x−1

a) x + 2 = 2 x + 7 e) x = 3x − 2 + 2
b) x = 2 − 2 x − 5 f) x 2 + 6x = 2
c) 2x + 3 − x + 1 = 1 g) 3x + 2 = 3 x − 2
d) x2 − 3 + 1 = 0 h) 1−x + x = x +1
Answers:
a) x + 2 = 2 x + 7
Solution:
2
( x + 2 )2 = ( 2 x + 7 )
x 2 + 4x + 4 = 2 x + 7
x2 + 2x − 3 = 0
( x + 3 ) ( x − 1) = 0
x = −3 , 1
Check: x + 2 = 2 x + 7
x = −3 x=1
LHS = x + 2 LHS = x + 2
= −3 + 2 = 1+2
= −1 =3
RHS = 2 x + 7 RHS = 2 x + 7
= 2 (−3) + 7 = 2 ( 1) + 7
= 1 = 9
=1 =3
LHS ≠ RHS LHS = RHS
x = -3 is not a solution. The only solution is x = 1.

b) x = 2 − 2 x − 5
Solution:
2
( x − 2 )2 = (− 2 x − 5 )
x 2 − 4x + 4 = 2 x − 5
x 2 − 6x + 9 = 0
( x − 3)2 = 0
x=3
Check: x = 2 − 2 x − 5
x=3
LHS = x
=3
RHS = 2 − 2 x − 5
= 2 − 2 ( 3) − 5
=2− 1
= 2−1
=1
LHS ≠ RHS
There is no solution.

c) 2x + 3 − x + 1 = 1
Solution:
2 2
( 2 x + 3 ) = ( x + 1 + 1)
2x + 3 = x + 1 + 2 x + 1 + 1
2x + 3 = x + 2 + 2 x + 1
x+1= 2 x+1
2
( x + 1)2 = ( 2 x + 1 )
( x + 1)2 = 4 ( x + 1)
x 2 + 2 x + 1 = 4x + 4
x2 − 2x − 3 = 0
( x − 3 ) ( x + 1) = 0
x = 3 or −1
Check: 2x + 3 − x + 1 = 1
x=3 x = −1
LHS = 2 x + 3 − x + 1 LHS = 2 x + 3 − x + 1
= 2 ( 3) + 3 − 3 + 1 = 2 (−1) + 3 − −1 + 1
= 9− 4 = 1− 0
= 3−2 =1
=1 RHS = 1
RHS = 1 LHS = RHS
LHS = RHS
There are two solutions, x = 3 or x = -1.

d) x2 − 3 + 1 = 0
Solution:
2
( x2 − 3 ) 2
= (−1)
x2 − 3 = 1
x2 = 4
x = ±2
Check: x2 − 3 + 1 = 0
x=2 x = −2
LHS = x 2 − 3 + 1 2
LHS = (−2 ) − 3 + 1
= 22 − 3 + 1 = 4−3 +1
= 1 +1 =2
=2 RHS = 0
RHS = 0 LHS ≠ RHS
LHS ≠ RHS
Note: On the LHS of the initial question, the principal root of x2 - 3,

which is positive, is added to positive one. The result will never equal
the RHS, which is zero. So the answer of no solution makes good
sense.

e) x = 3x − 2 + 2
Solution:
2
( x − 2 )2 = ( 3x − 2 )
x 2 − 4 x + 4 = 3x − 2
x2 − 7x + 6 = 0
( x − 6 ) ( x − 1) = 0
x = 6 or 1
Check: x = 3x − 2 + 2
x=6 x=1
LHS = x LHS = x
=6 =1
RHS = 3x − 2 + 2 RHS = 3x − 2 + 2
= 3 (6) − 2 + 2 = 3 (2) − 2 + 2
= 16 + 2 = 1+2
= 4+2 =3
=6 LHS ≠ RHS
LHS = RHS
The only solution is x = 6.

f) x 2 + 6x = 2
Solution:
 2 2 2
 x + 6x  = ( 2 )
 
x 2 + 6x = 4
2
( x 2 + 6x ) = ( 4)
2
x 2 + 6 x = 16
x 2 + 6 x − 16 = 0
( x + 8) ( x − 2 ) = 0
x = −8 or x = 2
Check: x 2 + 6x = 2
x = −8 x=2
LHS = x 2 + 6x LHS = x 2 + 6x
= (−8)2 + 6 (−8) = 22 + 6 (2)
= 64 − 48 = 4 + 12
= 16 = 16
= 4 = 4
=2 =2
RHS = 2 RHS = 2
LHS = RHS LHS = RHS
There are two solutions: x = -8 or x = 2.

g) 3x + 2 = 3 x − 2
Solution:
2 2
( 3x + 2 ) = ( 3 x − 2 )
3x + 2 = 9 x − 6 2 x + 2
3x − 9 x + 2 − 2 = −6 2 x
−6 x −6 2 x
=
−6 −6
x = 2x
2
( x )2 = ( 2 x )
x2 = 2x
x2 − 2x = 0
x (x − 2) = 0
x = 0 or x − 2 = 0
x=2
Check: 3x + 2 = 3 x − 2
x=0 x=2
LHS = 3x + 2 LHS = 3x + 2
= 3 (0) + 2 = 3 (2) + 2
= 2 = 8
RHS = 3 x − 2 =2 2
=3 0− 2 RHS = 3 x − 2
=− 2 =3 2− 2
LHS ≠ RHS =2 2
LHS = RHS

h) 1−x + x = x +1
Solution:
2 2
( 1 − x + x ) = ( x + 1)
(1 − x ) + 2 x 1 − x + x = x + 1
1 − x + 2 x − x2 + x = x + 1
2 x − x2 = x
2
(2 x − x2 ) = (x)
2
4 (x − x2 ) = x2
4x − 4x 2 = x 2
4 x − 5x 2 = 0
x ( 4 − 5x ) = 0
x = 0 or 4 − 5x = 0
4
x=
5
Check: 1−x + x = x +1
x=0 4 RHS = x + 1
x=
5
LHS = 1 − x + x 4
4 4 = +1
= 1−0 + 0 LHS = 1 − + 5
5 5
4 5
= 1 +0 1 4 = +
= + 5 5
=1 5 5
9
RHS = x + 1 1 4 =
= + 5
5 5
= 0+1 3
1 2 =
=1 = + 5
5 5
LHS = RHS
LHS = RHS 3
=
5
4
There are two solutions: x = 0 or x  .
5

5
a) x4
3
b) x  0.5
2
c) x 3  81
d) 2 x 0.25  3
Answers:
5
a) x=4
5
(5 x) = ( 4)
5
x = 1024
Check for extraneous roots is not necessary; you are raising both sides
to the fifth power, an odd number.
3
b) x = 0.5
3
(3 x) = (0.5)
3
x = 0.125
Check for extraneous roots is not necessary; you are cubing both sides
(an odd power).
c) Method 1: Using Radicals
2
x3 = 81
3
x 2 = 81
3
(x) 3 2
= (81)
3
x 2 = 531 441
x 2 = ± 531 441
x = ±729
There are two solutions: x = 729 or x = -729.
A check for extraneous roots is not necessary since you are cubing
both sides (an odd power).

Method 2: Using Rational Exponents
2
x 3 = 81
3
 2 2 3
 x
 
3  = ( 81) 2
 
 2  3 
3
x
  
 3  2 
= (± 81 ) Take square root of both sides (don’t forget the ±).
3
x 1 = (9 ) or x1 = (-9)3
x = 729 or x = -729
Notice that with this method you need to be very careful since you are
1
introducing the square root operation with the power of . In line 3,
2
you must consider ± 81 inside the brackets, not just 81. Then you
will get both answers.
d) 2 x 0.25 = 3
1
2x 4 3
=
2 2
1
3
x4 =
2
4 3
x=
2
4  3 4
(4 x) =  Raise each side to the fourth power.
2
81
x=
16
A check for extraneous roots is necessary since part of the solution was
to raise each side to an even power.

Check in the original equation 2x0.25 = 3.
81
x=
16
LHS = 2 x 0.25
1
 81 4
= 2 
 16 
81
= 24
16
3
= ( 2 ) 
2
=3
RHS = 3
LHS = RHS
81
The only solution is x  .
16

variables.
a) x−3 = x +3
b) x+2 = 4− x+2
Answers:
a) x− 3 = x + 3
This radical equation is only defined when x - 3 and x are greater

x - 3 ³ 0
x ³ 3 and x ³ 0
Thus, x has to be greater than or equal to both 3 and 0 in order for this
equation to be defined. For both inequalities to be true, this is the same
as saying x ³ 3 in order for this equation to be defined.

x−3 = x +3
2 2
( x − 3 ) = ( x + 3)
x−3= x+6 x +9
x−3−x−9 = 6 x
−12 = 6 x
−2 = x
2
(−2 )2 = ( x )
4=x
Since 4 is greater than or equal to 3, then x = 4 satisfies the restriction,
x ³ 3.
Check x = 4 in the original equation x − 3 = x + 3.
LHS = x − 3 RHS = x + 3
= 4−3 = 4 +3
=1 = 2+3
=5
LHS ≠ RHS
Thus, there are no real solutions for this equation.

b) x+2 = 4− x+2
This radical equation is only defined when x + 2 is greater than or

equal to zero.
x + 2 ³ 0
x ³ -2
Thus, this radical equation is only defined when x ³ -2.
x+2 = 4− x+2
2 x+2 = 4
2
(2 x + 2 ) = 42
4 ( x + 2 ) = 16
4 x + 8 = 16
4x = 8
x=2
x = 2 is greater than or equal to -2; thus, this is a possible solution.
Check x = 2 in x+2 = 4− x+2
LHS = x + 2
= 2+2
= 4
=2
RHS = 4 − x + 2
= 4− 2+2
= 4− 4
= 4−2
=2
LHS = RHS
Thus, the solution to this radical equation is x = 2.

V
πh
extraneous roots.
Answer:
r = 3 cm
h = 12 cm
V
r=
πh
and the restrictions V ³ 0, h > 0.
V
r=
πh
V
3=
12 π
 V 2
2
3 =
 12 π 

 
V
9=
12 π
108 π = V
Check:
V
r=
πh
108 π
RHS =
12 π
= 9
=3
LHS = 3
LHS = RHS
Thus, the volume of this pop can is 108p = 339.29 cm3.

Answer:
The volume of the pop can is 108p cm3, which is approximately
339.29 cm3. As one cm3 is equivalent to one mL, the volume of the pop
can is a bit smaller than the typical value of a pop can (355 mL).
1
2
the mass of an object measured in kilograms, and v represents the positive
Answer:
m = 0.145 kg
Ek = 32.1 J
Substitute those values into the equation.
1
Ek = mv 2
2
1
32.1 = (0.145) v 2
2
32.1 = 0.0725 v 2
32.1
= v2
0.0725
v 2 = 442.7586207
v 2 = ± 442.7586207
v = ±21.04
Since v is positive, use only the principal square root value. Thus, the
speed of the baseball is 21.04 m/s.

Module 5
Radicals

M o d u l e 5:
R adicals
Part A: BrainPower
supper?
2. Multiply: (x + 3)(x + 4)
3. Evaluate: 256
4. Solve for x: (2x + 4)(x - 2) = 0
2 9 1
-
3
1 2
2 2
Answers:
1. 600 (2000 - (520 + 630 + 125 + 125) = 2000 - 1400 = 600)
2. x2 + 7x + 12 (x2 + 4x + 3x + 12)
3. 16 ( 2 × 128 = 2 × 2 × 64 = 4 × 64 = 2 × 8)
4. -2 and 2
1 8 1
5.  24 − (8 + 6 + 2 ) = 24 − 16 = 8 ; = 
3 24 3 

1 2 9
1 −
6. < 2 < 2 < 8 or 2 2 < 2 4 < 3 8 < 2 3
2
 2 1 9 1 
3 3 − 1 1 
 8 = 2 ; 2 = 2 = 2 ; 2 = 2 = 8; 2 = 1 =
4 2 3 2
 2

 22 
 1 2 2
7. Yes 
 = = 
2 
 2 2 2 
3
8. The slope of the perpendicular line is - .
2
 2 7 2
 3 y = 2 x − 7 ; y = x − ; the slope of this line is 
 3 3 3
a) 80 f) 288
b) 18 g) 512
c) 200 h) - 8
d) 250 i) - 800
e) 1224
Answers:
a) 16 5 = 4 5 b) 9 2 =3 2
c) 100 2 = 10 2 d) 25 10 = 5 10
e) 36 34 = 6 34 f) 144 2 = 12 2
g) 256 2 = 16 2 h) − 4 2 = −2 2
i) − 400 2 = −20 2

a) 4x 4 y 6 d) x 4 yz2
b) 8x 10 y 12 e) 5x 3 y 7
c) 75x 8 y 5
Answers:
a) 4 x 4 y6  2x2 y 3
b) 4 2 x 10 y 12  2 x 5 y 6 2
c) 25 3 x 8 y 4 y  5x 4 y 2 3 y
d) x 4 y z2  x 2 z y
e) 5 x 2 x y 6 y  xy 3 5xy

Answers:
a) 3 15 a) 9 15  135
b) 3x 5x b) 9 x 2 5x  45x 3
c) 5x 2 y 3xy c) 25 x 4 y 2 3xy  75x 5 y 3

a) 125 or 3 20 ?
Answer :
125 = 25 5 = 5 5
3 20 = 3 4 5 = 3 ( 2 ) 5 = 6 5
As 6 5 > 5 5 , then 3 20 > 125 .
b) 16 2 or 768 ?
Answer :
768 = 256 3 = 16 3
As 3 > 2 , then 16 3 > 16 2 and 768 > 16 2 .

a calculator.)
a) 5 3 , 49 , 6 5
Answer :
5 3 = 25 3 = 75
49 = 49
6 5 = 36 5 = 180
Thus, 49 < 75 < 180 and 49 < 5 3 < 6 5 .
b) 3 2 , 6 2 , 32
Answer :
32 = 16 2 = 4 2
Thus, 3 2 < 4 2 < 6 2 and 3 2 < 32 < 6 2 .
6. Solve for x.
a) x2 = 25 Answers: a) x = ±5
b) x2 = 16 b) x = ±4
c) x2 = 48
c) x = ± 48 = ± 16 3 = ±4 3
d) x2 = 0
e) x2 = -9 d) x = 0 = 0
e) x = ± −9 = no real number answer
7. By converting the radical to a rational exponent, prove the First Property

of Radicals:
n n
Answer:
n
n n
a can be written using a rational exponent as an .
n
Since n is a positive integer greater than one, and a n a1 a,
n
thus, an  a when n > 1.

number.
a) 8 - 2x
Answer:
A square root is only defined when the radicand is greater than or
equal to zero. You will need to solve a simple inequality.
8 - 2x ³ 0
8 ³ 2x
4³x
Thus, this radical expression is defined when x £ 4.
b) x3
Answer:
5
c) z
Answer:
5
z has an index of 5. Therefore, as the index is odd, this radical
expression is defined for z Î Â.
4
d) x7
Answer:
4
e) 64 a3 b 6
Answer:
64 a3 b 6 has an index of 2. Therefore, as the index is even, this radical
expression is only defined when 64a3b6 ³ 0. Since the exponent on a is
odd, then a must be 0 or positive. However, b can be any value, b Î Â,
as b has an even exponent. Thus, this expression is defined when a ³ 0
and b Î Â.

f) -432 xy 2
Answer:
To answer this question, you have to consider the radicand to be
positive. Since the coefficient, -432, is negative, then one of the
variables has to be negative. Since y2 will never be negative, x has to be
negative. Also, x or y could be zero. Thus, x £ 0 and y Î Â.

Part A: BrainPower
0
3. Simplify: ( 3 2 x + 10 )
4. Simplify: 2x(3x - 5) - 4(x + 2)
Answers:
1. Alyssa is 10. (Since Alyssa is 5 years older, she is twice as old when her
brother is 5 and she is 10.)
2. $50.40 in total ($60 ´ 25% = $15; the sweater costs $60 - $15 = $45 without
tax; 10% of $45 = $4.50; 1% of $45 = $0.45; 12% of $45 = $4.50 + $0.45 +
$0.45 = $5.40; $45 + $5.40 = $50.40)
4. 6x2 - 10x - 4x - 8 = 6x2 - 14x - 8
5. 54 (625 = 25 ´ 35 = 52 ´ 52)
6. 1, 2, 4, 17, 34, 68 (since 68 = 2 ´ 2 ´ 17)
7. 8 (let x = 0)
16  15 − (−1) 16 16 
8. − m = = =− 
15  −8 − 7 −15 15 

a) 2 3 + 4 3 − 3 e) 5 x − 3 x + 6 x
b) 96 − 54 − 24 f) 6 5 + 3 2 − 4 5 + 2
c) 3 75 − 2 48 + 12 g) x 5 + 3x 2 x − 7 x 4 x 3
d) 98 − 50 + 72 h) 2 x 3 8x 4 − 4 x 2 3 x + 3 125x 7
Answers:
a) 5 3
b) 16 6 − 9 6 − 4 6 = 4 6 − 3 6 − 2 6 = − 6
c) 3 25 3 − 2 16 3 + 4 3
= 3 ( 5) 3 − 2 ( 4 ) 3 + 2 3
= 15 3 − 8 3 + 2 3
=9 3
d) 49 2 − 25 2 + 36 2
=7 2 −5 2 +6 2
=8 2
e) 8 x
f) 2 5 + 4 2

g) x 5 + 3x 2 x − 7 x 4 x 3
= x 4 x + 3x 2 x − 7 x 4 x 2 x
= x 2 x + 3x 2 x − 7 x ( 2 )( x ) x
= x 2 x + 3x 2 x − 14 x 2 x
= −10 x 2 x
h) 2 x 3 8x 4 − 4 x 2 3 x + 3 125x 7
= 2 x 3 8x 3 x − 4 x 2 3 x + 3 125x 6 x
= 2 x ( 2 )( x ) 3 x − 4 x 2 3 x + 5x 2 3 x
= 4 x 2 3 x − 4 x 2 3 x + 5x 2 3 x
= 5x 2 3 x

a) 3 2 + 2 3 + A 12 − B 8 = 75 − 32
Answer:
3 2 + 2 3 + A 4 3 − B 4 2 = 25 3 − 16 2
3 2 + 2 3 + 2 A 3 − 2B 2 = 5 3 − 4 2
2 A 3 − 2B 2 = 5 3 − 4 2 − 3 2 − 2 3
2 A 3 − 2B 2 = 3 3 − 7 2
∴ 2 A = 3 and − 2 B = −7 Equate coefficients of like radicaals.
3 7
∴A= and B =
2 2

b) 24 + A 2 + B 150 = 3 2
Answer:
4 6 + A 2 + B 25 6 = 3 2
2 6 + A 2 + 5B 6 = 3 2
A 2 + 5B 6 = 3 2 − 2 6
∴ A = 3 and 5B = −2 Equate coeffficients of like radicals.
2
B =−
5

(16 3 − 4 2 ) cm.
Answer:
Let w = the width of the rectangle.
Given: length = 5 3 cm
perimeter = (16 3 − 4 2 ) cm
53
w w
53
Perimeter = 2 l + 2 w
16 3 − 4 2 = 2 ( 5 3 ) + 2 w
16 3 − 4 2 = 10 3 + 2 w
16 3 − 10 3 − 4 2 = 2 w
6 3 − 4 2 = 2w
6 3 4 2
− =w
2 2
3 3−2 2 = w
The width is ( 3 3 − 2 2 ) cm.

third side.
a c
a) a = 3 b=4
b) a = 3 b=5
c) a = 15 c = 17
Answers:
a) a 2 + b 2 = c 2 (Pythagorean theorem)
32 + 4 2 = c 2
25 = c 2
5=c (any length is assumed to be positive )
b) a 2 + b 2 = c 2
32 + 52 = c 2
9 + 25 = c 2
34 = c 2
34 = c
c) a2 + b 2 = c 2
152 + b 2 = 17 2
225 + b 2 = 289
b 2 = 64
b=8

Answer:
Radical expressions may appear to not be like terms until they are
simplified. It is therefore necessary to simplify radical expressions before
adding or subtracting them to ensure you arrive at the answer in simplest
form.
Consider the following expression.
96 - 54
These radical expressions are not like terms; therefore, it appears that
they cannot be combined, as you cannot subtract radicals that are not like
terms. However, if you simplify each radical, the resulting radicals become
like terms.
96 − 54
= (16 )(6 ) − (9 )(6 )
= 4 6 −3 6
It is only after simplifying that it is clear that the radical expressions are
like terms that can be subtracted.
4 6 −3 6
= 6

Answer:
s P  8 2 x units
s  length of side
A = 56 units2 s A  s2
56  s 2
56  s
4 14  s
2 14  s
If the area of the square is 56 units2, then the length of one side is
2 14 units.
Therefore, the perimeter = ( 4 ) ( 2 14 ) = 8 14 .
Thus, 8 14 has to equal 8 2x.
8 14 = 8 2 x
14 = 2 x Divide by 8.
2 2
( 14 ) = ( 2 x )
14 = 2 x
7=x

Part A: BrainPower
2

6. Determine the distance between the following two points, (9, 24) and
(4, 12)
4
8. Write this percent as a decimal: 3.2%.
Answers:
1. 7:25 a.m. (8:45 - (20 + 15 + 35 + 10) = 8:45 - 80 minutes = 8:45 - 1 hour
and 20 minutes = 7:25)
2
2. x + 2 x 3 + 3 ((x + 3 ) (x + 3 ) = x 2
+x 3 +x 3 + 9 )
18  72 36 18 
3.  = = 
25  100 50 25 
4. -7 and -2 ((x + 7)(x + 2) = 0)

5. 74° (360° - 286°)
( 2 2
6. 13 d = (−5) + (−12 ) = 25 + 144 = 169 = 13 )
8
4 8
7. 5 5
4 52
8. 0.032

a) ( 5 )( 3 ) i) 6 (3 2 + 5 8 )
b) ( 8 )( 2 ) j) (2 5 + 3) ( 2 5 − 3)
c) ( 4 10 )(3 5 ) k) (6 5 − 3 10 ) ( 4 5 + 10 )
2
d) ( 2 5 ) (−3 5 ) l) ( 2 − 3)
2
e) (−3 3 ) (−4 6 ) m) ( 4 7 + 3 2 )
f) (2 x )(3 xy 2 ) n) ( x + y3 )( xy )
g) 3 ( 2 − 5) o) ( 2 x − y ) ( x − 3 y )
h) − 2 ( 3 2 + 3 5 )
Answers:
a) ( 5 )( 3 ) = 15 e) (−3 3 ) (−4 6 ) = 12 18
b) 8
2 16
 4 = 12 9 2
= 12 ( 3) 2
c) (4 10 )( 3 5 ) = 12 50
= 36 2
= 12 25 2
= 12 ( 5) 2
f) (2 x )(3 )
xy 2 = 6 x 2 y 2
= 6 xy
= 60 2
d) (2 5 ) (−3 5 ) = −6 25 g) 3 ( 2 − 5 ) = 6 − 15
= −6 ( 5)
= −30

h) − 2 ( 3 2 + 3 5 ) = −3 4 − 3 10
= −3 ( 2 ) − 3 10
= −6 − 3 10
i) 6 ( 3 2 + 5 8 ) = 3 12 + 5 48
= 3 4 3 + 5 16 3
= 3 (2 ) 3 + 5 ( 4) 3
= 6 3 + 20 3
= 26 3
j) (2 5 + 3) ( 2 5 − 3) = 2 5 ( 2 5 − 3) + 3 ( 2 5 − 3)
= 4 25 − 6 5 + 6 5 − 9
= 4 ( 5) − 9
= 20 − 9
= 11
k) (6 5 − 3 10 ) ( 4 5 + 10 ) = 6 5 ( 4 5 + 10 ) − 3 10 ( 4 5 + 10 )
= 24 25 + 6 50 − 12 50 − 3 100
= 24 ( 5) − 6 50 − 3 (10 )
= 120 − 6 25 2 − 30
= 120 − 6 ( 5) 2 − 30
= 90 − 30 2
2
l) ( 2 − 3 ) = ( 2 − 3 )( 2 − 3 )
= 2 ( 2 − 3) − 3 ( 2 − 3)
= 4− 6− 6+ 9
= 2−2 6 +3
= 5−2 6

2
m) ( 4 7 + 3 2 ) = ( 4 7 + 3 2 ) ( 4 7 + 3 2 )
= 4 7 (4 7 + 3 2 ) + 3 2 (4 7 + 3 2 )
= 16 49 + 12 14 + 12 14 + 9 4
= 16 (7 ) + 24 14 + 9 ( 2 )
= 112 + 24 14 + 18
= 130 + 24 14
n) ( x + y3 )( xy ) = x 2 y + xy 4
= x y + y2 x
o) ( 2 x − y ) ( x − 3 y ) = 2 x ( x − 3 y ) − y ( x − 3 y )
= 2 x 2 − 6 xy − xy + 3 y 2
= 2 x − 7 xy + 3 y
2. Find the exact value of the area of a square if its perimeter is

(4 2 + 8) cm.
Answer:
Let s = length of side of square.
P = 4s Area = A = s 2
s cm
P = ( 4 2 + 8) cm 2
A = ( 2 + 2)
∴ 4s = ( 4 2 + 8)
A = ( 2 + 2)( 2 + 2)
s cm
4s 4 2 8
= + = 2 ( 2 + 2) + 2 ( 2 + 2)
4 4 4
s= 2 +2 = 4 +2 2 +2 2 +4
=2+4 2 +4
=6+4 2
The exact value of the area of the square is (6 + 4 2 ) cm 2 .

Note: The exact value cannot be found using a calculator.

a) 2 80 or 5 8 ( 2 3 ) ?
Answer:
(5 8 )(2 3 ) = 10 24
= 10 2 24
= (100 )( 24 )
= 2400
2 80 = 2 2 80
= ( 4 )(80 )
= 320
∴ ( 5 8 ) ( 2 3 ) is greater.
b) ( 3 2 )( 75 ) or ( 5 2 )( 3 2 ) ?
Answer:
(3 2 )( 75 ) = 3 150
= 32 150
= 9 × 150
= 1350
(5 2 )(3 2 ) = 15 4
= 152 4
= 225 × 4
= 900
∴ ( 3 2 )( 75 ) is greater.


sharp?
Answer:
Time Distance Above Starting Point

12 noon 0
1 p.m. 2 3 +5 2
just past 1 p.m. (2 3 + 5 2)−( 3 − 2) = 3 + 6 2
2 p.m. ( 3 + 6 2 ) + ( 2 3 + 5 2 ) = 3 3 + 11 2
just past 2 p.m. (3 3 + 11 2 ) − ( 3 − 2 ) = 2 3 + 12 2
3 p.m. (2 3 + 12 2 ) + ( 2 3 + 5 2 ) = 4 3 + 17 2
just past p.m. (4 3 + 17 2 ) − ( 3 − 2 ) = 3 3 + 18 2
4 p.m. (3 3 + 18 2 ) + ( 2 3 + 5 2 ) = 5 3 + 23 2
A more efficient method:

From 12 noon to 4 p.m., the spider climbs up 4 ( 2 3 + 5 2 ) = 8 3 + 20 2 .
The spider is pushed down 3 times = 3 ( 3 − 2 ) = 3 3 − 3 2 .
\ at 4 p.m., the spider is (8 3 + 20 2 ) − ( 3 3 − 3 2 ) = 5 3 + 23 2 .
\ the spider is ( 5 3 + 23 2 ) m above his starting point.

5 + 42
65 + 2
5 + 52
85 + 32
Answer:
Subdivide the figure into two rectangles.
A
B

Area of a rectangle = lw
 ( 5 + 5 2 ) + ( 5 + 4 2 ) (8 5 + 3 2 ) − (6 5 + 2 )
Area of A =  
= (2 5 + 9 2 )(2 5 + 2 2 )
= 2 5 (2 5 + 2 2 ) + 9 2 (2 5 + 2 2 )
= 4 25 + 4 10 + 18 10 + 18 4
= 4 ( 5) + 22 10 + 18 ( 2 )
= 20 + 22 10 + 36
= 56 + 22 10

Area of B = (6 5 + 2 ) ( 5 + 5 2 )
= 6 5( 5 + 5 2)+ 2 ( 5 + 5 2)
= 6 25 + 30 10 + 10 + 5 4
= 6 ( 5) + 31 10 + 5 ( 2 )
= 30 + 31 10 + 10
= 40 + 31 10
Total area = area of A + Area of B
= ( 56 + 22 10 ) + ( 40 + 31 10 ) = 96 + 53 10
Alternatively, you could complete the large rectangle:

Required area = area of large rectangle - area of C.
= (8 5 + 3 2 ) ( 2 5 + 9 2 ) − (6 5 + 2 ) ( 5 + 4 2 ) = 96 + 53 10

Answer:
Substitute 3 − 2 for x in the equation.
2
(3 − 2 ) − 6 ( 3 − 2 ) + 7 = ( 3 − 2 ) ( 3 − 2 ) − 18 + 6 2 + 7
= 3 ( 3 − 2 ) − 2 ( 3 − 2 ) − 18 + 6 2 + 7
= 9 − 3 2 − 3 2 + 4 − 18 + 6 2 + 7
= 9 − 6 2 + 2 − 18 + 6 2 + 7
=0
\ 3 - 2 is a root of the equation x2 - 6x + 7 = 0, since 3 - 2 satisfies
the equation.

a) (2 3 ) (3 + 3 )
Answer:
2
(2 3 ) (3 + 3 ) = (2 3 ) + 2 3 (3 + 3 )
= ( 2 3 )( 2 3 ) + 2 3 ( 3 + 3 )
= 4 9 +6 3 +2 9
= 4 ( 3) + 6 3 + 2 ( 3)
= 12 + 6 3 + 6
= 18 + 6 3
b) (2 + 3 ) (2 − 3 )
Answer:
2
(2 + 3 ) (2 − 3 ) = (2 + 3 ) + (2 + 3 )(2 − 3 )
= (2 + 3 )(2 + 3 ) + (2 + 3 )(2 − 3 )
= 4+2 3 +2 3 + 9 +4−2 3 +2 3 − 9
= 4+2 3 +2 3 +3+4−2 3 +2 3 −3
= 8+4 3
c) ( 2 − 5) (3 5 )
Answer:
2
( 2 − 5) (3 5 ) = ( 2 − 5) + ( 2 − 5)( 3 5 )
=( 2 − 5) ( 2 − 5) + ( 3 5 ) ( 2 − 5)
= 4 − 5 2 − 5 2 + 25 + 3 10 − 15 5
= 2 − 5 2 − 5 2 + 25 + 3 10 − 15 5
= 27 − 10 2 + 3 10 − 15 5

3 of diamonds = 3
2 of clubs = 2
6 of clubs = 6
6 of hearts = 6
Simplifying the expression: 3 ⋅2⋅6⋅ 6
= 12 18
= 12 (9 )( 2 )
= 12 ( 3) 2
= 36 2
answer key.
a) 5C, 10S, 3H, 5D
b) 4S, 3S, 2H, 5D
d) 7D, 2H, 8D, 2C

Answers:
Answers will vary. Four possible radical expression multiplication
problems are shown below.
a) 5C, 10S, 3H, 5D c) 8H, 3C, 1D, 10S
= 5 ⋅ 10 ⋅ 3 ⋅ 5 = 8 ⋅ 3 ⋅ 1 ⋅ 10
= 50 15 = 30 ( 4 )( 2 )
= 30 ( 2 ) 2
= 60 2

b) 4S, 3S, 2H, 5D d) 7D, 2H, 8D, 2C
= 4⋅3⋅ 2 ⋅ 5 = 7 ⋅ 2 ⋅ 8 ⋅2
= 12 10 = 2 112
= 2 16 (7 )
= 2⋅4 7
=8 7


Part A: BrainPower
4. Factor: 2x(x2 + 1) - 3(x2 + 1)
1
5. Simplify: 16 2
6. Simplify: –32m12 ¸ 8m4

20
3 +1
Answers:
 270 270 
1. 45  = = 45
 ( 3 + 3) 6 
2. 25
3. 130 km (20 km/h for 2 hours = 40 km; 30 km/h for 3 hours = 90 km;
90 + 40 = 130 km)
4. (2x - 3)(x2 + 1)
 1 
5. 4 
 16 2 = 16 = 4 

 
−32 m12 
6. −4m8  4
= −4 m 8

 8m 

 20 ( 3 − 1) 
 20 3 − 20 20 3 − 20 
7. 10 3 − 10 = =
 ( 3 + 1) ( 3 − 1) 9 − 1 2 
 
8. 130 cm ( 7 2 + 9 2 = 49 + 81 = 130 cm )
15 7− 3
a) h)
3 7+ 3
2 4−3 3
b) i)
2 3 6+ 2
10 2 2 3− 2
c) j)
5 2 3+ 2
2 +5 x
d) k)
3 x −y
8 10 − 7 5 x +1
e) l)
2 5 x
7 x2 y7
f) m)
3− 2 8y 6
5 3− x
g) n)
9 3−4 2x − 3
Answers:
15 2 3 6 6
a)  5 b) ⋅ = =
3 2 3 3 2 ( 3) 6

10 2 5 10 10 2 +5 3 6 +5 3
c) ⋅ = = 2 10 d) ⋅ =
5 5 5 3 3 3
8 10 − 7 5 5 8 50 − 7 25 7 3+ 2 21 + 7 2
e) ⋅ = f) ⋅ =
2 5 5 2 25 3− 2 3+ 2 9+3 2 −3 2 − 4
8 25 2 − 7 ( 5) 21 + 7 2
= =
2 ( 5) 9−2
8 ( 5) 2 − 35 21 + 7 2
= =
10 7
40 2 − 35 7 (3 + 2 )
= =
10 7
5 (8 2 − 7 ) = 3+ 2
=
5 (2)
8 2 −7
=
2
5 9 3+4 9 15 + 4 5
g) ⋅ =
9 3 − 4 9 3 + 4 81 9 + 36 3 − 36 3 − 16
9 15 + 4 5
=
81 ( 3) − 16
9 15 + 4 5
=
227
7− 3 7− 3 49 − 21 − 21 + 9
h) ⋅ =
7+ 3 7− 3 49 − 21 + 21 − 9
7 − 2 21 + 3
=
7−3
10 − 2 21
=
4
2 ( 5 − 21 )
=
4
5 − 21
=
2

4−3 3 6− 2 24 − 4 2 − 18 3 + 3 6
i) ⋅ =
6+ 2 6− 2 36 − 6 2 + 6 2 − 4
24 − 4 2 − 18 3 + 3 6
=
36 − 2
24 − 4 2 − 18 3 + 3 6
=
34
2 3− 2 2 3− 2 4 9 −2 6 −2 6 + 4
j) ⋅ =
2 3+ 2 2 3− 2 4 9 −2 6 +2 6 − 4
4 ( 3) − 4 6 + 2
=
4 ( 3) − 2
14 − 4 6
=
10
2 (7 − 2 6 )
=
10
7−2 6
=
5
x x +y x2 + y x
k) ⋅ =
x −y x +y x2 + y x − y x − y2
x+y x
=
x − y2
This expression is only defined for x ³ 0. You cannot take the square
root of a negative number. Also, y ¹ x because the denominator
cannot equal zero.
x +1 x x+ x
l) ⋅ =
x x x
This expression is only defined for x > 0. You cannot take the square
root of a negative number and the denominator cannot equal zero.
Thus, x has to be greater than zero.

x2 y7 x2 y7
m) =
8y 6 8y 6
x2 y
=
8
x2 y
=
( 4 )( 2 )
x y
=
2 2
x y 2
= ⋅
2 2 2
x 2y x 2y
= =
2( 4) ( 2 )( 2 )
x 2y
=
4
This expression is defined for y > 0 and x Î Â. You cannot take the
square root of a negative number nor have a zero in the denominator.
3− x 3− x 2x + 3
n) = ⋅
2x − 3 2x − 3 2x + 3
3 2 x + 3 3 − 2 x 2 − 3x
=
4x 2 + 6x − 6x − 9
3 2 x + 3 3 − x 2 − 3x
=
2x − 3
This expression is only defined for x ³ 0 because you cannot take
3
the square root of a negative number. Also, x ¹ because the
2
denominator cannot equal zero. Thus, the expression is defined for
3
x ³ 0 and x ¹ .
2

find the
a) width
b) perimeter
Answers:
a) Given: A = ( 4 + 3 3 ) m 2
l = ( 3 + 2) m
Let w = width
A = lw (3 + 2) m
4 + 3 3 = ( 3 + 2) w
4+3 3 w A = (4 + 33) m2 w
w=
3 +2
4+3 3 3−2
w= ⋅ (3 + 2) m
3 +2 3−2
4 3 −8+3 9 −6 3
=
9 −2 3 +2 3−4
−2 3 − 8 + 3 ( 3)
=
3−4
−2 3 + 1
=
−1
−2 3 + 1 (−1)
= ⋅
−1 (−1)
= 2 3 −1
The width is ( 2 3 − 1) m.

b) Perimeter = 2 l + 2 w
=2 ( 3 + 2 ) + 2 ( 2 3 − 1)
= 2 3 +4+4 3−2
=6 3 +2
∴ perimeter = (6 3 + 2 ) m
c) Let x = length of the diagonal. 3 + 2
x 23  
By the Pythagorean Theorem:

2 2
x 2 = ( 3 + 2 ) + ( 2 3 − 1)
x 2 = ( 3 + 2 ) ( 3 + 2 ) + ( 2 3 − 1) ( 2 3 − 1)
x2 = 9 + 2 3 + 2 3 + 4 + 4 9 − 2 3 − 2 3 + 1
x 2 = 3 + 2 3 + 2 3 + 4 + 12 − 2 3 − 2 3 + 1
x 2 = 20
x = ± 20 but − 20 cannot be thee length of a diagonal
x = 20 = 4 5 = 2 5
The diagonal is 2 5 m long.

equal?
2+ 3 2+ 6
;
2 4
Answer:
2+ 3 2+ 6
Let x = and y =
2 4
2+ 3 2+ 3 2+ 6 2+ 6
x2 = ⋅ y2 = ⋅
2 2 4 4
2 4 + 12 + 12 + 36
2
(2 + 3 ) =
x = 16
4
2 + 2 12 + 6
2 2+ 3 =
x = 16
4
8+2 4 3
=
16
8+4 3
=
16
4 (2 + 3 )
=
16
2+ 3
=
4
Hence, x2 = y2.
Furthermore, since x and y are positive, it follows that x = y—that is,
2+ 3 2+ 6
= .
2 4
Although some radicals do not look the same, they may still be equal.
In the above question, it is important that x and y are both positive.
Otherwise, it is possible that x = -y, since the squares of the positive and
the negative numbers are equal (e.g., (5)2 = 25 and (-5)2 = 25. However,
5 ¹ -5.) Hence, x and y must both be positive numbers when you are
comparing their squares.

is 2 3.
Answer:
The altitude of a triangle is the height of the triangle. The formula for the
1
area of a triangle is A  bh.
2
Let x = height from A to BC.
A
1
Area = bh can be found using BC
2
as
the base or using AB as the base.
x
43
1
∴ Area = ( 5 3 − 1) x or
3+
23
2
1
Area =
2
(3 + 4 3 )(2 3 ) . B
53  1
C
The two areas must be equal.

1 1
2
( 5 3 − 1) x = ( 3 + 4 3 )( 2 3 )
2
1
(5 3 − 1) x = ( 3 + 4 3 )( 2 3 ) Divide both sides by
2
.
(5 3 − 1) x = 6 3 + 8 9 Multiply.
6 3 + 8 ( 3) Divide both sides by 5 3 - 1.

x=
5 3 −1
6 3 + 24 5 3 + 1 Rationalize the denominator.
x= ⋅
5 3 −1 5 3 +1
30 9 + 6 3 + 120 3 + 24
x=
25 9 + 5 3 − 5 3 − 1
30 ( 3) + 126 3 + 24
x=
25 ( 3) − 1
114 + 126 3
x=
74
2 ( 57 + 63 3 )
x=
2 ( 37 )
57 + 63 3
x=
37

57 + 63 3
The length of the altitude from A = .
37
(4 + 82) m
A B
r
 
D C

Answer:
Since AB = 4 + 8 2 and the circles are identical, the diameter of
4+8 2
each circle is = 2 + 4 2 and the radius of each circle is
2
2+4 2
= 1 + 2 2.
2
The width of the rectangle is 2 + 4 2 , which is the diameter of the circle.
Shaded area = area of rectangle - areas of the two circles.
Area = lw – 2(pr2)
2
A = ( 4 + 8 2 ) ( 2 + 4 2 ) − 2 π (1 + 2 2 )
A = ( 4 + 8 2 ) ( 2 + 4 2 ) − 2 π (1 + 2 2 ) (1 + 2 2 )
A = 8 + 16 2 + 16 2 + 32 4 − 2 π 
1 + 2 2 + 2 2 + 4 4 

A = 8 + 32 2 + 32 ( 2 ) − 2 π 
 1 + 4 2 + 4 ( 2 )

A = 72 + 32 2 − 2 π (9 + 4 2 )
A = 72 + 32 2 − 18 π − 8 π 2 (The answer is acceptable in this form.)
A = 72 − 18 π + 32 2 − 8 π 2
A = (72 − 18 π ) + ( 32 − 8 π ) 2
2
The area of the shaded region is 
 (72 − 18 π ) + ( 32 − 8 π ) 2 
m .

2+ 3
A
Answer:
2 + 3 = (5 − 3 ) A
2+ 3
A=
5− 3
2+ 3 5+ 3
A= ⋅
5− 3 5+ 3
10 + 2 3 + 5 3 + 9
A=
25 + 5 3 − 5 3 − 9
10 + 7 3 + 3
A=
25 − 3
13 + 7 3
A=
22
2 2
7. Simplify: + (2 + 3 )(5 − 3 ) − (2 + 3 )
3 −1
Answer:
Perhaps the easiest way to simplify such a complicated expression is to
break it into parts. The first part needs its denominator rationalized; the
other two parts require multiplication.
2
=
2
⋅
3 +1 (2 + 3 ) (5 − 3 ) = 10 − 2 3 +5 3−3
3 −1 3 −1 3 +1
=7+3 3
2 3 +2
=
9 + 3 − 3 −1
2
2 3 +2 (2 + 3 ) = (2 + 3 )(2 + 3 )
=
2 = 4+2 3 +2 3 +3
= 3 +1
=7+4 3

Now combine the parts.
2 2
+ (2 + 3 )(5 − 3 ) + (2 + 3 )
3 −1
= ( 3 + 1) + ( 7 + 3 3 ) − ( 7 + 4 3 )
= 3 +1+7 +3 3 −7 −4 3
=1

3
2, , and 3
5
Answer:
These numbers are all positive. Compare their squares.
 3 2 9 4 2
2 = 4;   = = 1 ; ( 3 ) = 3
2
 5 5 5
4
he positive numbers
Since 4 > 3 > 1 , it follows that th
5
4 3
4> 3> 1 − that is , 2 > 3 > .
5 5

Part A: BrainPower
3 10
2. Evaluate: ´
5 7
4. Evaluate: 52 - (-3 - 4(-26 - (-28))).
3x 5 y 2 z8
5. Simplify:
9x7 y 3 z2
6. Estimate: 140
Answers:
1. $41 ($32.50 + $7.20 + $1.30 = $41; 130 quarters = $32.50; 72 dimes = $7.20;
26 nickels = $1.30)
6  3 10 2 
2.  
7 8 , 7 
 1 
3. Monday (in 14 days it will be Friday again; three days past Friday is
Monday)
4. 63 ( 52 − (−3 − 4 (−26 − (−28))) ; 52 − (−3 − 4 (−26 + 28)) ;
52 − (−3 − 4 ( 2 )) ; 52 − (−3 − 8) ; 52 − (−11) ; 52 + 11 = 63)
z6
5.
3x 2 y
6. 11.8 (140 is between perfect squares 121 and 144; therefore, 140 is
between 11 and 12 and is closer to 12)

7. Tanisha is right.
(-3x > 6
x < -2
When you divide by a negative in an inequality, you need to switch the
sign of the inequality.
To show this is true, substitute a value of x less than -2 into the original
inequality.
Let x = -4
LS = -3x
= -3(-4)
= 12
RS = 6
LS > RS
True.)
8. x3 - 6x2 + 12x - 8 [(x - 2)3 = (x - 2)(x - 2)(x - 2)= (x2 - 4x + 4)(x - 2)
= x3 - 2x2 - 4x2 + 8x + 4x - 8]

3, − 3 .
2
2
( x − 1) = 2 x − 1 or ( x − 1) = − 2 x − 1.

Answers:
a) True.
b) False. For each real number x, x - 3 is a real number when x ³ 3.
c) False. For each real number x, x 2  x because x 2 is the principal

square root and is a positive number or zero. It is never negative. For
example, if x = -3, then (−3)2 = − 3 = 3.
d) False. The real number solution set of x 2 = −3 is the empty set.

Saying the solution set is the empty set is the same as saying there is
no solution to the problem. The principal square root is positive or
zero, never negative.
e) True.
f) False. For each real number x, if x2 = 16, then x = 16 or x = − 16 .
g) False. Squaring both sides of x + 2 = 3x yields x + 4 x + 4 = 9 x 2 .

The left side of the equation is a binomial. Its square is the product:
( x + 2)( x + 2).

2
a) ( 2x − 1 )
2
b) ( 5 + x )
2
c) (2 + x − 5)
Answers:
2
a) ( 2x − 1 ) = 2x − 1
2
b) ( 5 + x ) = 25 + 10 x + x
2
c) (2 + x − 5 ) = (2 + x − 5 )(2 + x − 5 )
= 4+4 x−5 +x−5
= 4 x−5 +x−1

a) x + 2 = 2 x + 7 e) x = 3x − 2 + 2
b) x = 2 − 2 x − 5 f) x 2 + 6x = 2
c) 2x + 3 − x + 1 = 1 g) 3x + 2 = 3 x − 2
d) x2 − 3 + 1 = 0 h) 1−x + x = x +1
Answers:
a) x + 2 = 2 x + 7
Solution:
2
( x + 2 )2 = ( 2 x + 7 )
x 2 + 4x + 4 = 2 x + 7
x2 + 2x − 3 = 0
( x + 3 ) ( x − 1) = 0
x = −3 , 1
Check: x + 2 = 2 x + 7
x = −3 x=1
LHS = x + 2 LHS = x + 2
= −3 + 2 = 1+2
= −1 =3
RHS = 2 x + 7 RHS = 2 x + 7
= 2 (−3) + 7 = 2 ( 1) + 7
= 1 = 9
=1 =3
LHS ≠ RHS LHS = RHS
x = -3 is not a solution. The only solution is x = 1.

b) x = 2 − 2 x − 5
Solution:
2
( x − 2 )2 = (− 2 x − 5 )
x 2 − 4x + 4 = 2 x − 5
x 2 − 6x + 9 = 0
( x − 3)2 = 0
x=3
Check: x = 2 − 2 x − 5
x=3
LHS = x
=3
RHS = 2 − 2 x − 5
= 2 − 2 ( 3) − 5
=2− 1
= 2−1
=1
LHS ≠ RHS

c) 2x + 3 − x + 1 = 1
Solution:
2 2
( 2 x + 3 ) = ( x + 1 + 1)
2x + 3 = x + 1 + 2 x + 1 + 1
2x + 3 = x + 2 + 2 x + 1
x+1= 2 x+1
2
( x + 1)2 = ( 2 x + 1 )
( x + 1)2 = 4 ( x + 1)
x 2 + 2 x + 1 = 4x + 4
x2 − 2x − 3 = 0
( x − 3 ) ( x + 1) = 0
x = 3 or −1
Check: 2x + 3 − x + 1 = 1
x=3 x = −1
LHS = 2 x + 3 − x + 1 LHS = 2 x + 3 − x + 1
= 2 ( 3) + 3 − 3 + 1 = 2 (−1) + 3 − −1 + 1
= 9− 4 = 1− 0
= 3−2 =1
=1 RHS = 1
RHS = 1 LHS = RHS
LHS = RHS
There are two solutions, x = 3 or x = -1.

d) x2 − 3 + 1 = 0
Solution:
2
( x2 − 3 ) 2
= (−1)
x2 − 3 = 1
x2 = 4
x = ±2
Check: x2 − 3 + 1 = 0
x=2 x = −2
LHS = x 2 − 3 + 1 2
LHS = (−2 ) − 3 + 1
= 22 − 3 + 1 = 4−3 +1
= 1 +1 =2
=2 RHS = 0
RHS = 0 LHS ≠ RHS
LHS ≠ RHS
Note: On the LHS of the initial question, the principal root of x2 - 3,

which is positive, is added to positive one. The result will never equal
the RHS, which is zero. So the answer of no solution makes good
sense.

e) x = 3x − 2 + 2
Solution:
2
( x − 2 )2 = ( 3x − 2 )
x 2 − 4 x + 4 = 3x − 2
x2 − 7x + 6 = 0
( x − 6 ) ( x − 1) = 0
x = 6 or 1
Check: x = 3x − 2 + 2
x=6 x=1
LHS = x LHS = x
=6 =1
RHS = 3x − 2 + 2 RHS = 3x − 2 + 2
= 3 (6) − 2 + 2 = 3 (2) − 2 + 2
= 16 + 2 = 1+2
= 4+2 =3
=6 LHS ≠ RHS
LHS = RHS

f) x 2 + 6x = 2
Solution:
 2 2 2
 x + 6x  = ( 2 )
 
x 2 + 6x = 4
2
( x 2 + 6x ) = ( 4)
2
x 2 + 6 x = 16
x 2 + 6 x − 16 = 0
( x + 8) ( x − 2 ) = 0
x = −8 or x = 2
Check: x 2 + 6x = 2
x = −8 x=2
LHS = x 2 + 6x LHS = x 2 + 6x
= (−8)2 + 6 (−8) = 22 + 6 (2)
= 64 − 48 = 4 + 12
= 16 = 16
= 4 = 4
=2 =2
RHS = 2 RHS = 2
LHS = RHS LHS = RHS
There are two solutions: x = -8 or x = 2.

g) 3x + 2 = 3 x − 2
Solution:
2 2
( 3x + 2 ) = ( 3 x − 2 )
3x + 2 = 9 x − 6 2 x + 2
3x − 9 x + 2 − 2 = −6 2 x
−6 x −6 2 x
=
−6 −6
x = 2x
2
( x )2 = ( 2 x )
x2 = 2x
x2 − 2x = 0
x (x − 2) = 0
x = 0 or x − 2 = 0
x=2
Check: 3x + 2 = 3 x − 2
x=0 x=2
LHS = 3x + 2 LHS = 3x + 2
= 3 (0) + 2 = 3 (2) + 2
= 2 = 8
RHS = 3 x − 2 =2 2
=3 0− 2 RHS = 3 x − 2
=− 2 =3 2− 2
LHS ≠ RHS =2 2
LHS = RHS

h) 1−x + x = x +1
Solution:
2 2
( 1 − x + x ) = ( x + 1)
(1 − x ) + 2 x 1 − x + x = x + 1
1 − x + 2 x − x2 + x = x + 1
2 x − x2 = x
2
(2 x − x2 ) = (x)
2
4 (x − x2 ) = x2
4x − 4x 2 = x 2
4 x − 5x 2 = 0
x ( 4 − 5x ) = 0
x = 0 or 4 − 5x = 0
4
x=
5
Check: 1−x + x = x +1
x=0 4 RHS = x + 1
x=
5
LHS = 1 − x + x 4
4 4 = +1
= 1−0 + 0 LHS = 1 − + 5
5 5
4 5
= 1 +0 1 4 = +
= + 5 5
=1 5 5
9
RHS = x + 1 1 4 =
= + 5
5 5
= 0+1 3
1 2 =
=1 = + 5
5 5
LHS = RHS
LHS = RHS 3
=
5
4
There are two solutions: x = 0 or x  .
5

5
a) x4
3
b) x  0.5
2
c) x 3  81
d) 2 x 0.25  3
Answers:
5
a) x=4
5
(5 x) = ( 4)
5
x = 1024
Check for extraneous roots is not necessary; you are raising both sides
to the fifth power, an odd number.
3
b) x = 0.5
3
(3 x) = (0.5)
3
x = 0.125
Check for extraneous roots is not necessary; you are cubing both sides
(an odd power).
c) Method 1: Using Radicals
2
x3 = 81
3
x 2 = 81
3
(x) 3 2
= (81)
3
x 2 = 531 441
x 2 = ± 531 441
x = ±729
There are two solutions: x = 729 or x = -729.
A check for extraneous roots is not necessary since you are cubing
both sides (an odd power).

Method 2: Using Rational Exponents
2
x 3 = 81
3
 2 2 3
 x
 
3  = ( 81) 2
 
 2  3 
3
x
  
 3  2 
= (± 81 ) Take square root of both sides (don’t forget the ±).
3
x 1 = (9 ) or x1 = (-9)3
x = 729 or x = -729
Notice that with this method you need to be very careful since you are
1
introducing the square root operation with the power of . In line 3,
2
you must consider ± 81 inside the brackets, not just 81. Then you
will get both answers.
d) 2 x 0.25 = 3
1
2x 4 3
=
2 2
1
3
x4 =
2
4 3
x=
2
4  3 4
(4 x) =  Raise each side to the fourth power.
2
81
x=
16
A check for extraneous roots is necessary since part of the solution was
to raise each side to an even power.

Check in the original equation 2x0.25 = 3.
81
x=
16
LHS = 2 x 0.25
1
 81 4
= 2 
 16 
81
= 24
16
3
= ( 2 ) 
2
=3
RHS = 3
LHS = RHS
81
The only solution is x  .
16

variables.
a) x−3 = x +3
b) x+2 = 4− x+2
Answers:
a) x− 3 = x + 3
This radical equation is only defined when x - 3 and x are greater

x - 3 ³ 0
x ³ 3 and x ³ 0
Thus, x has to be greater than or equal to both 3 and 0 in order for this
equation to be defined. For both inequalities to be true, this is the same
as saying x ³ 3 in order for this equation to be defined.

x−3 = x +3
2 2
( x − 3 ) = ( x + 3)
x−3= x+6 x +9
x−3−x−9 = 6 x
−12 = 6 x
−2 = x
2
(−2 )2 = ( x )
4=x
Since 4 is greater than or equal to 3, then x = 4 satisfies the restriction,
x ³ 3.
Check x = 4 in the original equation x − 3 = x + 3.
LHS = x − 3 RHS = x + 3
= 4−3 = 4 +3
=1 = 2+3
=5
LHS ≠ RHS
Thus, there are no real solutions for this equation.

b) x+2 = 4− x+2
This radical equation is only defined when x + 2 is greater than or

equal to zero.
x + 2 ³ 0
x ³ -2
Thus, this radical equation is only defined when x ³ -2.
x+2 = 4− x+2
2 x+2 = 4
2
(2 x + 2 ) = 42
4 ( x + 2 ) = 16
4 x + 8 = 16
4x = 8
x=2
x = 2 is greater than or equal to -2; thus, this is a possible solution.
Check x = 2 in x+2 = 4− x+2
LHS = x + 2
= 2+2
= 4
=2
RHS = 4 − x + 2
= 4− 2+2
= 4− 4
= 4−2
=2
LHS = RHS
Thus, the solution to this radical equation is x = 2.

V
πh
extraneous roots.
Answer:
r = 3 cm
h = 12 cm
V
r=
πh
and the restrictions V ³ 0, h > 0.
V
r=
πh
V
3=
12 π
 V 2
2
3 =
 12 π 

 
V
9=
12 π
108 π = V
Check:
V
r=
πh
108 π
RHS =
12 π
= 9
=3
LHS = 3
LHS = RHS
Thus, the volume of this pop can is 108p = 339.29 cm3.

Answer:
The volume of the pop can is 108p cm3, which is approximately
339.29 cm3. As one cm3 is equivalent to one mL, the volume of the pop
can is a bit smaller than the typical value of a pop can (355 mL).
1
2
the mass of an object measured in kilograms, and v represents the positive
Answer:
m = 0.145 kg
Ek = 32.1 J
Substitute those values into the equation.
1
Ek = mv 2
2
1
32.1 = (0.145) v 2
2
32.1 = 0.0725 v 2
32.1
= v2
0.0725
v 2 = 442.7586207
v 2 = ± 442.7586207
v = ±21.04
Since v is positive, use only the principal square root value. Thus, the
speed of the baseball is 21.04 m/s.

Module 6
Systems of Equations and Inequalities
Module 6:
Sys t em s of E quat ion s a nd Inequa l i t ie s
Introduction
Welcome to Module 6! In this module, you will learn how to solve systems of
equations as well as inequalities. When you solve systems of equations, you
need to be familiar with how to solve linear as well as quadratic equations.
Therefore, some questions in this module allow you to practice skills you
learned in earlier modules, such as solving quadratic equations by factoring
and by using the quadratic formula. As you will see, these systems of
equations appear in situations involving linear and quadratic motion. Some
examples include throwing a baseball or a football, jumping off a diving
board, or just travelling in a straight line.
You may not be familiar with inequalities. From previous courses, however,
you are familiar with the symbols for greater than, greater than or equal to, less
than, and less than or equal to. These symbols are very important when you
work with inequalities. Inequalities appear when you want to find which
values are above or below a certain curve in order to solve a problem. These
types of problems often have to do with profit, speed, height, or the weight
that can be supported by a particular object.
2 Assignment 6.1 Solving Systems of Equations
Solving Linear Inequalities in Two Variables

4 Assignment 6.2
and Quadratic Inequalities in One Variable
Solving Quadratic Inequalities in Two

5 Assignment 6.3
Variables

Resource Sheet
any marks for it.

formula is used.

L e s s o n 1: S o lv i n g Q u a d r at ic - L i n e a r
Sys t em s of E quat ion s
Lesson Focus

q learn the meaning of the point of intersection of a system of
linear-quadratic equations
q learn how to solve quadratic-linear systems of equations
algebraically, graphically, and by using technology
q learn how to model a situation using a system of linear-quadratic
equations in two variables
Lesson Introduction

how to solve systems of linear equations algebraically and graphically. You
learned how to solve these systems of equations algebraically using the
elimination method and the substitution method. In this lesson, you will
build on these skills to learn how to solve systems of equations containing
one linear equation and one quadratic equation, using similar methods.
Quadratic–Linear Systems of Equations
Quadratic-linear systems of equations consist of one quadratic equation and

one linear equation. As you know, linear equations can have a positive or
negative slope.
The linear function can be in the form y = mx + b or ax + by + c = 0. In either
case, the slope can be positive or negative. A line with equation y = k has
0 slope. A line with equation x = k has undefined slope.
The forms for writing a quadratic function are y = a(x - p)2 + q or
y = ax2 + bx + c.
In regard to quadratic equations, they can have positive or negative a-values.
When quadratic equations have positive a-values, they open upwards. When
quadratic equations have negative a-values, they open downwards.

When a linear equation intersects a quadratic equation, the point of
intersection is a point on both functions and is called the solution to the
quadratic-linear system of equations. Add this definition to your resource
sheet.
Example 1
Identify the number of solutions in the following systems of equations.
y
0 x

Solution
There are two solutions because there are two points of intersection.
Consider the following possibilities.
y y y

 
x x x
two points of intersection one point of intersection no point of intersection

 two solutions  one solution  no solution
As you can see, there are three different types of solutions with regard to
quadratic-linear systems of equations. There can be no solution (no point of
intersection), one solution (one point of intersection), or two solutions (two
points of intersection). It is possible to find these solutions either graphically
or algebraically.

Real-Life Models of Quadratic–Linear Systems of Equations
Many situations can be modelled by a quadratic-linear system of equations,
such as jumping off a dock into the water or going down a roller coaster that
travels above and below ground level.
Example 2
Consider the two graphs containing systems of equations showing two
different situations below.
h h
Situation A Situation B
Quadratic
Quadratic Function
Function
Height
Height
Linear
Function
Linear
Function
Time t Time t
a) Which graph models a situation involving someone jumping off a dock

into the water?
b) Which graph models a situation involving someone riding a roller coaster
that travels above and below ground level?
Solution
a) Situation A models the height of someone jumping off a dock, as the
height of the dock stays constant while the height of the jumper increases
as he jumps up and then decreases as he heads toward the water.
b) Situation B models the height of someone riding a roller coaster as the
height of the ground stays constant while the height of the roller coaster
decreases until it is below ground and then increases above the ground.

Solving Quadratic–Linear Systems of Equations Graphically
Now that you know two situations where quadratic-linear systems of
equations are useful, it is time to learn how to solve these types of equations.
To solve quadratic-linear systems of equations by graphing, you need to
graph each equation and determine the point of intersection. Consider the
following example.
Example 3
Solve the following systems of equations by graphing part (a) on graph paper
and part (b) using graphing technology, if you have access to it.
a) y = x2 - 4
y = -x - 2
b) y = x - 2
y = x2 - 4x - 2
Solution
In order to solve a system of equations graphically, you can either graph the
equations by hand or use technology to graph the equations. In (a), you will
learn how to solve the system of equations by graphing by hand. In (b), you
will learn how to solve the system of equations by graphing using technology.
a) y = x2 - 4
y = -x - 2
Graph these equations using graph paper.
To graph a linear equation in the y
form y = mx + b, you can find the
y-intercept, b. You can then use
the slope, m, to determine
another point on the graph. Once 2
you have two points on the
1
graph, you can connect them
with a straight line to form your x
2 1 1 2
line.
1
y = -x - 2 y-intercept
2
y-intercept: -2
slope: -1 1
slope = 1 =
1

Then you can graph the parabola y = x2 - 4 on the same graph. It has a
vertex of (0, -4), opens up and is normal shape.
y
 
2 2 x
4

From the graph, you can see that there are two solutions to this system of
equations. The solutions are (-2, 0) and (1, -3).
b) Using technology, such as a graphing calculator (or a computer application
such as Winplot), graph the system of equations to determine the solution.
If you do not have access to technology, omit (b) or graph it by hand.
The solutions to this system of equations are (0, -2) and (5, 3).
Solving Quadratic–Linear Systems of Equations Algebraically

Sometimes, it is not reasonable to solve quadratic-linear systems of
equations graphically, as the points of intersection for the system are not
easy to determine when the solution contains decimal values. It is, however,
possible to determine the solution to a quadratic-linear system of equations
algebraically. This can be done either by using the substitution method or the
elimination method.

The Substitution Method
To use the substitution method to solve quadratic-linear systems of equations,
you substitute the linear equation into the quadratic equation. Consider the
following example.
Example 4
Solve the following system of equations algebraically and check your answer
algebraically and graphically.
y = x2 - 6x + 9
5=x+y
Solution
Solve the linear equation for y.
x+y=5
y = 5 - x
Substitute the expression for y into the first equation.
y = x2 - 6x + 9
5 - x = x2 – 6x + 9 Substitute for y.
0 = x2 - 5x + 4 Solve the resulting quadratic equation.
0 = (x - 4)(x - 1)
x = 4 or x = 1
You are not finished. You must find the corresponding y-values.
To find the corresponding y-values, substitute the x-values into the linear
equation and solve for y. You can substitute into the quadratic equation too if
that is easier.
x = 4 x=1
x+y=5 x+y=5
4+y=5 1+y=5
y = 1 y=4
The solutions are (4, 1) and (1, 4). There are two solutions to this system of
equations. Check your answers algebraically and graphically.
Unlike radical equations where you must check for extraneous roots
introduced by the method of squaring both sides, when solving a system of
linear and quadratic functions, you are only checking to catch mistakes you
may have made. So, checking is optional.

Algebraic Check
Equation (1): y = x2 - 6x + 9
Point (4, 1) Point (1, 4)
LHS = y = 1 LHS = y = 4
RHS = x 2 − 6 x + 9 RHS = x 2 − 6 x + 9
2 2
= ( 4) − 6 ( 4) + 9 = ( 1) − 6 ( 1) + 9
= 16 − 24 + 9 = 1−6 +9
=1 =4
LHS = RHS LHS = RHS
Equation (2): 5 = x + y
Point (4, 1) Point (1, 4)
LHS = 5 LHS = 5
RHS = x + y RHS = x + y
= 4+1 = 1+4
=5 =5
LHS = RHS LHS = RHS
Thus, the points (4, 1) and (1, 4) satisfy both the quadratic equation and the
linear equation.
Graphic Check
y
y = x2  6x + 9
6
(1, 4)
4 
x+y=5
2
(4, 1)

2 2 4 6 x
2
The points of intersection

are (4, 1) and (1, 4).

The Elimination Method
To solve quadratic-linear systems of equations by using the elimination
method, first align the terms with the same variable and degree. Then,
eliminate the y-term. Consider the following example.
Example 5
Solve the following system of equations by using the elimination method.
y = 2x + 4
y = x2 + x - 2
Solution
First, you need to align the terms with the same variable and degree.
y= 2x + 4
y= x2 +x-2
Now, you can multiply the first equation by (-1) and then add the two
equations to eliminate the y-term.
−y = −2 x − 4
+ y = x2 + x − 2
0 = x2 − x − 6
Solve the quadratic equation by factoring.

0 = x2 - x - 6
0 = (x - 3)(x + 2)
x = 3 or x = -2
Now you must find the corresponding y-values.
Substitute these values into the linear equation.
x=3 x = -2
y = 2(3) + 4 y = 2(-2) + 4
y = 10 y=0
The solutions to this system of equations are (3, 10) and (-2, 0).

To check the solutions, substitute each ordered pair into the original
equations.
(3, 10)
y = 2x + 4 y = x2 + x − 2
LHS = y = 10 LHS = y = 10
RHS = 2 x + 4 RHS = 33 + 3 − 2
= 2 ( 3) + 4 = 9+3−2
= 10 = 10
LHS = RHS LHS = RHS
(-2, 0)
y = 2x + 4 y = x2 + x − 2
LHS = y = 0 LHS = y = 0
RHS = 2 x + 4 RHS = x 2 + x − 2
= 2 (−2 ) + 4 2
= (−2 ) + (−2 ) − 2
= −4 + 4
= 4−2−2
=0
=0
LHS = RHS
LHS = RHS
Thus, (3, 10) and (-2, 0) are correct solutions to the system of equations.
Example 6
y = 5x - 10

2y = x2 + x
Solution
First, you need to align the terms with the same variable and degree.
y=
5x - 10
2y = x2 +x

You want to eliminate the y term. However, the coefficients of each y term are
different. In order to make these coefficients the same value with opposite
sign, multiply the first equation by (-2).
-2y = -10x + 20
2y = x2 + x
Now, you can add like terms to eliminate the 2y term.
−2 y = −10 x + 20
+ 2y = x2 +x
0 = x 2 − 9 x + 20
Solve the equation by factoring.

0 = x2 - 9x + 20
0 = (x - 5)(x - 4)
x = 5 or x = 4
Substitute these values into the linear equation to solve for y.
x=5 x=4
y = 5x - 10 y = 5x - 10
y = 5(5) - 10 y = 5(4) - 10
y = 15 y = 10
You can check the solutions if you want to confirm they are correct.
You have now learned how to solve quadratic-linear systems of equations
graphically and algebraically. The following learning activity will give you
the chance to practice these skills.

Part A: BrainPower
1. How much tax would you have to pay on an item that costs $49.99
(approximately) if the PST = 8% and the GST = 5%?
2. Simplify: 98
1
3. Find the equation of a line with a slope of - and a y-intercept of 3.
2
3 3
4. Evaluate: ´
21 15
5. If 10% of 440 is 44, what is 35% of 440?
5 35
7 7
the two sides measure 10 cm and 13 cm.
continued

Part B: Solving Quadratic-Linear Systems of Equations
assignments and final exam. So, if you were able to answer them correctly,
you are likely to do well on your assignments and final exam. If you did not
answer them correctly, you need to go back to the lesson and learn them.
1. Verify that (-1, 0) and (4, 15) are solutions to the following system of
equations.
y = 3x + 3
y = x2 - 1
2. Solve each system both graphically and algebraically.
a) y = 4x2
y = 8x
b) x - 2y = 10
y = x2 + 2x - 15
3. Solve each system by the substitution method.
a) y = 3x + 7
y = x2 - 11
b) y = 2x + 6
y = x2 + 4x + 3
4. Solve each system by the elimination method.
a) 2y = 2x - 2
y = x2 - 4x + 3
b) 2x + y = 5
y = x2 - 6x + 5
continued

5. Consider the graph. Use this graph to answer the following questions.
y
y = x2 6
L1
4
L4
2
6 4 2 0 2 4 6 x
L5
2
4
L2
6
L3
a) State the number of solutions to the system consisting of the parabola

and L1.
b) State the number of solutions to the system consisting of the parabola
and L2.
c) State the number of solutions to the system consisting of the parabola
and L3.
d) State the number of solutions to the system consisting of the parabola
and L4.
e) State the number of solutions to the system consisting of the parabola
and L5.
f) State the solution(s) to the system consisting of the parabola and L2.
g) State the solution(s) to the system consisting of the parabola and L5.
continued

6. The line y = x intersects the parabola y = 4x - x2 at the origin and the
point Q. Let the point P be the vertex of the parabola.
y
P y=x


Q
O

x

a) Find the coordinates of Q.
b) Find the coordinates of P.
7. The perimeter of a rectangle is 26 cm and the area is 12 cm2. Find the
dimensions of the rectangle.
continued

8. Below is Schyler’s work for solving a system of equations.
-2y = -x2 - x
2y = 10x - 20
Schyler’s Solution:
−2 y = −x 2 − x
+ 2y = 10 x − 20
0 = −x 2 + 9 x − 20
0 = x 2 − 9 x + 20
0 = ( x − 4 ) ( x − 5)
x = 4 or x = 5
When x = 4:
2y = 10x - 20
2y = 10(4) - 20
2y = 20
y = 10

Thus, one solution is (4, 10).
When x = 5:
2y = 10x - 20
2y = 10(5) - 20
2y = 30
y = 15

Thus, another solution is (5, 15).
Is his method correct? Explain why or why not.

Lesson Summary
In previous courses, you studied systems of equations resulting from two

linear equations. In this lesson, you learned that there are other types of
systems of equations. You also learned how to solve one of these types of
systems of equations, the quadratic-linear systems of equations. You learned
how to solve these systems of equations graphically and algebraically.
In the next lesson, you will learn how to solve an additional type of system of
equations called a quadratic-quadratic system of equations.

L e s s on 2: S olv ing Q ua dr at ic- Q ua dr at ic
Sys t em s of E quat ion s
Lesson Focus

q learn how to solve quadratic-quadratic systems of equations
algebraically, graphically, and by using technology
q learn how to model a situation using a system of quadratic-
quadratic equations
Lesson Introduction
In Lesson 1, you learned how to solve quadratic-linear systems of equations.

These systems contain one quadratic equation and one linear equation. It is
also possible to solve systems of quadratic-quadratic equations, which contain
two quadratic equations in two variables. When you solve these types of
equations, you need to remember how to graph quadratic functions in vertex
form, and how to use the quadratic formula to solve quadratic equations. For
this reason, this lesson serves as an excellent review of how to solve quadratic
equations.
Quadratic–Quadratic Systems of Equations
Quadratic-quadratic systems of equations consist of two quadratic functions.

The points of intersection where the two quadratic functions (or two
parabolas) have points in common are called the solution to the quadratic-
quadratic system of equations. Add this definition to your resource sheet.

Consider the following diagrams.
y y

x
no intersection one point of intersection

 no solution  one solution

y y
 
x x
two points of intersection The two parabolas are the same

 two solutions and have an infinite number of
points of intersection along the
curve.
 infinite number of solutions

As you can see, there are four different types of solutions with regard to
quadratic-quadratic systems of equations. There can be no solution (no point
of intersection), one solution (one point of intersection), two solutions (two
points of intersection), or an infinite number of solutions. An infinite number
of solutions occurs only when the quadratic equations are identical. It is
possible to find the solution to a system of quadratic-quadratic systems of
equations either graphically or algebraically.

Real-Life Models of Quadratic-Quadratic Systems of Equations
There are a number of situations that can be modelled by a quadratic-
quadratic system of equations. You only have to look at sports, such as high
jump or diving, that involve jumping or sports, such as football, basketball,
and baseball, that involve throwing and jumping to see situations that can be
modelled by a quadratic-quadratic system of equations.
Example 1
Consider the two graphs containing systems of equations showing two
different situations below.
a) Which graph models a situation involving two people jumping into a lake
at the same time from cliffs of different heights?
b) Which graph models a situation involving a football being thrown and a
receiver jumping to catch the ball?
h h
Situation X Situation Y
Height
Height
Time t Time t
Solution
a) Situation Y models a situation where two people jump off cliffs of different
heights into the lake. Each of the parabolas starts at a different height, and
both end at the x-axis. Therefore, this symbolizes one person starting at
a higher height and jumping into the lake while another person starts at
a lower height and jumps into the lake. The jumpers will need to stagger
their timing so they don’t hit each other where the parabolas intersect.
b) Situation X models the situation of a football being thrown and a receiver
jumping to catch the ball. The football is thrown not from ground level but
a little above, as the quarterback is most likely throwing from chest height.
Also, the receiver doesn’t start jumping until the ball is near. Therefore,
the second parabola doesn’t start until the first one is more than halfway
finished. They intersect when the player catches the ball.

Solving Quadratic–Quadratic Systems of Equations Graphically
Just as it was possible to solve quadratic-linear systems of equations both
graphically and algebraically, it is also possible to solve quadratic-quadratic
systems of equations this way. It is possible to solve these types of equations
by graphing using either graph paper or technology such as a graphing
calculator.
Example 2
Solve each system graphically.
a) Use graph paper:
y = x2
y = -(x - 2)2 + 2
b) Use graphing technology:
1
y= ( x + 1)2 − 4
2
−6 x 2 + x + 3 = y
Solution
a) You should be able to solve this system of equations by hand using graph
paper and the properties of transformations of quadratic functions.
y
y = x2
 4 
2 
  

4 2 2 4 x
2 
4
y = (x  2)2 + 2
As you can see, y = x2 and y = -(x - 2)2 + 2 have one point of intersection
at (1, 1). Therefore, (1, 1) is the solution to this system of equations.

1
b) y = ( x + 1)2 − 4
2
−6 x 2 + x + 3 = y
Graph both of the above functions using a graphing calculator or a

graphing applet such as Winplot. The graph created using Winplot is
shown below.
1
3 y=
2
( x + 1 )2 − 4
−4 −3 −2 −1 1 2 3 4
−1
−2
−3
−4
−6 x 2 + x + 3 = y

As you can see, there are two points of intersection. To calculate these points,
click “Two” in the menu bar and then click “Intersections.”
The first intersection occurs at the point (-1, -4).

Click “Next Intersection” to show the next intersection. The next intersection
occurs at the point (1, -2).
The two solutions to this system of equations are the points (-1, -4) and
(1, -2).

Solving Quadratic–Quadratic Systems of Equations Algebraically
It is possible to solve quadratic-quadratic systems of equations algebraically
by using the substitution method and also by using the elimination method.
Consider the following examples.
Example 3: The Substitution Method
Solve the following system of equations by using the substitution method.
Write your answers rounded to two decimal places.
y = 2x2 + 7x - 11 Equation (1)
5x2 - 3x - y = 6 Equation (2)
Solution
Since Equation (1) is already solved for y, you can substitute the expression
from Equation (1) into the y-variable of Equation (2).
5x2 - 3x - y = 6
5x2 - 3x - (2x2 + 7x - 11) = 6
5x2 - 3x - 2x2 - 7x + 11 = 6
3x2 - 10x + 5 = 0
As this quadratic equation is not factorable, you will need to use the quadratic
formula to solve for x, with a = 3, b = -10, and c = 5.
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac
x=
2a
10 ± 100 − 4 ( 3)( 5)
x=
6
10 ± 40
x=
6
10 ± 2 10
x=
6
5 ± 10
x=
3
5 + 10 5 − 10
x= or
3 3
Therefore, x » 2.72 or x » 0.61.

Now you need to substitute the values for x into one of the original quadratic
equations to find the corresponding y-values. To avoid rounding errors, the
answers for y are calculated using all the decimal places for x given by the
calculator.
When x = 2.72.
y = 2x2 + 7x - 11
y = 2(2.72) + 7(2.72) - 11
y = 22.85
When x = 0.61.
y = 2x2 + 7x - 11
y = 2(0.61)2 + 7(0.61) - 11
y = -5.96
Thus, the two approximate solutions are (2.72, 22.85) and (0.61, -5.96).
Remember, when calculating with decimals, round off only in the final
answer.
Example 4: The Elimination Method

6x2 - 3x = 2y - 5
2x2 + x = y - 4
Solution
As you want to eliminate y from both equations, rearrange to isolate for y,
ensure the coefficients of y in each equation are opposites, and then add the
like terms of the two equations.
6 x 2 − 3x = 2 y − 5 Equation (1)
6 x 2 − 3x + 5 = 2 y
or
2 y = 6 x 2 − 3x + 5 Equation (1) rearranged
2x2 + x = y − 4 Equation ( 2 )
or
y = 2x2 + x + 4 Equation ( 2 ) rearranged

Now multiply Equation (2) by -2 and add the equations.
(1) 2y = 6 x 2 − 3x + 5
+ (−2 ) × ( 2 ) − 2 y = −4 x 2 − 2 x − 8
0= 2 x 2 − 5x − 3
0 = ( 2 x + 1) ( x − 3 )
2x + 1 = 0 x−3=0
1
x =− x=3
2
1
When x = − :
2
6 x 2 − 3x = 2 y − 5
 1 2  1
6−  − 3− = 2 y − 5
 2  2
1 3
6 + = 2 y − 5
4 2
3 3
+ = 2y − 5
2 2
3 = 2y − 5
8 = 2y
4=y
 1 
Thus, one solution is − , 4 .
 2 
When x = 3:
6(3)2 - 3(3) = 2y - 5
54 - 9 + 5 = 2y
50 = 2y
25 = y
 1 
The two solutions to this system of equations are − , 4  and (3, 25).
 2 

Example 5
Two projectiles are shot towards each other. The first projectile follows a
path represented by the equation -x2 + 6x - y - 1 = 0, while the second
projectile follows a path represented by the equation y - 11 = -2x2 - 5x,
where x represents the time the projectiles travel, measured in seconds, and
y represents the height the projectiles travel, measured in metres. How much
time will elapse before the two projectiles meet and to what height will they
travel from the ground before they meet?
Solution
To solve this problem, you need to find the solution(s) to the following system
of equations:
-x2 + 6x - y - 1 = 0 (first projectile)
y - 11 = -2x2 - 5x (second projectile)
-y = x2 - 6x + 1

+ y = -2x2 - 5x + 11
0 = -x2 - 11x + 12
0 = x2 + 11x - 12
0 = (x + 12)(x - 1)
x + 12 = 0 x-1=0
x = -12 x=1
The projectiles cannot intersect at a negative time, thus, x = 1 is the only
possible solution for x.
When x = 1:
-x2 + 6x - y - 1 = 0
-(1)2 + 6(1) - y - 1 = 0
-1 + 6 - y - 1 = 0
4-y=0
4=y
The point of intersection of the two equations is (1, 4).
Thus, the two projectiles meet after one second, four metres off the ground.
You should now be prepared to complete the following learning activity.
Once you complete Learning Activity 6.2, check your answers in the learning
activity answer keys found at the end of this module. If you have difficulty
with any of the questions, go back and review those areas in Lesson 2 before
you complete the assignment that follows this learning activity.

Part A: BrainPower
1. Between which two whole numbers is 150 ?
2. Simplify: 3x2 + 4x - 6 - 5x + 4 + 6x2 + 8 - 9x2
3. Pizza Express is offering two medium pizzas for $15.99 while Speedy
Pizza is offering three medium pizzas for $22.49. Which is the better buy?
4. Lisa worked 40 hours in one week and made $520. How much does Lisa
make an hour?
4 2
5. Calculate: -
7 3
8
6. Express as an entire radical: 7 y 3
7. What is the slope of a vertical line?

8. How many centimetres are in 2 kilometres?
Part B: Solving Quadratic-Quadratic Systems of Equations
 10 17 
1. Verify that  ,  and (1, -2) are solutions to the following system of
3 9
equations.
y = 2x2 - 7x + 3
y = -x2 + 6x - 7
continued

2. Solve the following systems of equations, both graphically and
algebraically.
a) y = -2x2
y = 2x2 - 4
b) x2 + y - 3 = 0
x2 - y + 1 = 0
3. Solve the following system of equations graphically, using technology.
Round to three decimal places when necessary. Note: If you do not have
access to technology, you can still do this question by hand and estimate
the solution. You will not have questions on your exam requiring the
use of technology.
y = 2x2 - 5x + 1
y = 2x2 + 6x - 2
4. Solve the following systems of equations by using the substitution
method.
a) y = x2 + 4
y = -x2 + 12
b) y = 2(x + 4)2
y = 2x2 + 16x + 32
5. Solve the following systems of equations by using the elimination method.
a) y = x2 - 2x + 2
3x2 - 4y = 7
b) 5x2 + 3y = -3 - x
2x2 - x = -4 - 2y
6. Solve the following system of equations using any method you prefer.
Explain why you chose that method.
8x2 + 100 = -5y
6x2 - x - 5 = 3y
7. Let x represent time, measured in seconds, and let y represent height,
measured in feet. A football is thrown and its path is represented by the
equation y = -x2 + 4x + 2. A receiver jumps to receive the ball and his
path is represented by the equation y = -(x - 5)2 + 6. Does the receiver
have any chance of catching the football? Explain.

Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned how to solve quadratic-quadratic systems of

equations. You learned how these types of systems of equations are useful
if you are trying to determine when two objects will meet, such as a football
and a receiver, or two projectiles. These types of equations can also be applied
to preventing two objects from colliding, such as two airplanes.
In the next lesson, you will learn about linear inequalities. They are helpful
in situations where there are restrictions, such as finding the values that are
either greater than or less than a certain function.

Notes

Assignment 6.1
Solving Systems of Equations
Total: 40 marks
1. Verify that (-3, 0) and (1, 8) are solutions to the following system of equations.
(3 marks)
y = 2x + 6
x2 + 4x = y - 3
continued

Assignment 6.1: Solving Systems of Equations (continued)
2. Solve the following systems of equations algebraically and graphically.
a) y = x2 + 4x + 6
y = 2x + 6
continued

1
b) y = ( x + 5)2 − 3
4
1 2
y = − ( x − 3) + 4
3
continued

3. Solve the following systems of equations using the substitution method.
a) y = x2 + 4x + 1
y = 5x + 3
b) y = x2 + x - 1
y = -2x2 - 5x + 8
continued

4. Solve the following systems of equations using the elimination method.
8
a) y = −x 2 + x − 7
3
−3 y = 2 x 2 + 6
b) y = x2 + 5x - 3
-3y = 2x2 - 21x + 1
continued

5. The sum of two numbers is 27. Their product is 126. What are the two numbers?
(4 marks)
continued

6. Bezait is playing baseball with her friends. When it is her turn at bat, she hits
1
the baseball and its path is modelled by the equation y = − x 2 + 2 x , where y
4
represents the height of the ball in metres and x represents the horizontal distance
from the batter measured in metres. One of her friends is in the outfield and the ball
is heading straight for her. Her friend decides to jump and try to catch the ball. Her
1 2
path is modelled by the equation y = − ( x − 6 ) + 3.
4
a) Solve the following system of equations algebraically. (4 marks)
1
y = − x2 + 2x
4
1 2
y = − (x − 6) + 3
4
b) If you were to graph the two equations, what would be the meaning of the point
of intersection? What assumption are you making? (1 mark)

Notes

L e s s on 3: S olv ing L ine a r Inequa l i t ie s
i n Tw o Va r i a b l e s
Lesson Focus

q learn how to graphically find the solution of a linear inequality in
two variables
q learn how to determine a linear inequality when given its graph
q learn how to apply linear inequalities to solve a word problem
Lesson Introduction
You have now learned several ways of solving systems of equations. You
will now investigate the idea of a linear inequality because some of the
mathematics that you use in daily life do not come in the form of an equation.
Statements such as, “I want to find a job that pays more than the minimum
wage” or “I have to spend less than $10 this week” are examples of statements
of inequalities.
Linear Inequalities in Two Variables
In order to be able to solve linear inequalities, you first need to review what
the inequality symbols are.
Q £ means less than or equal to
Q < means less than
Q ³ means greater than or equal to
Q > means greater than

Graphing a Linear Inequality
The graph of a line separates the plane into three distinct regions, the line
and the set of all points on either side of the line. The line itself is called the
boundary line.
y
Solution
Region
y > mx + b Boundary
Line
x
Solution
Region
y < mx + b
The solution region is above the boundary line when y > mx + b and is below
the boundary line when y < mx + b.
A linear inequality has a boundary line that can be expressed in the form
y = mx + b. The solution region to a linear inequality is the set of all ordered
pairs that make the inequality true.
When the inequality is £ (read less than or equal to) or ³ (read greater than or
equal to), the solution includes the points on the boundary line and the graph
has a solid boundary line, as shown below.
y y
x x

When the inequality is < (read less than) or > (read greater than) the solution
does not include the points on the boundary line and the graph will have a
dashed boundary line, as shown below.
y y
x x

Example 1
Graph 2x + y < 4.
Solution
The boundary line is 2x + y = 4. You can graph the line by rearranging it
into y = -2x + 4. You can use the slope-intercept method, with b = 4 and the
slope -2, to graph the line.
Use a dashed line to show that the points on the line are not solutions to
2x + y < 4.
y
To determine which region 8
to shade, you must rearrange
the inequality to solve for y. 6
The inequality y < -2x + 4
states that you want all 4
y-values less than those on
the line y = -2x + 4. Thus, 2
the region below the line is
shaded.
8 6 4 2 0 2 4 6 8 x
2
4
6
8

y
8
8 6 4 2 0 2 4 6 8 x
2
4
y = 2x + 4
6
8
To verify which region contains the solution, select a point from each region
and see which ordered pair makes the inequality true. If the inequality is true
for one point in the solution region, it will be true for all points in that region.
An easy test point is the origin, (0, 0), as long as the boundary line does not go
through it. If it does, then choose a different point, such as (1, 0).
On the bottom side of the line, choose (0, 0) as a test point for y < -2x + 4.
LHS RHS
y -2x + 4
0 -2(0) + 4
4
LHS < RHS
\ (0, 0) is in the solution region as expected.
On the top side of the line, choose (4, 0) as a test point for y < -2x + 4.
LHS RHS
y -2x + 4
0 -2(4) + 4
-4
LHS  RHS

\ (4, 0) is not in the solution region as expected.

Example 2
Graph:
a) 2x + y £ 4
b) 2x + y > 4
c) 2x + y ³ 4
Solutions:
a) 2x + y £ 4
becomes y £ -2x + 4
Sketch the boundary line using the related equation, y = -2x + 4.
The boundary line would be solid and the shaded region has y-values less
than the line on the bottom side.
y
8
8 6 4 2 0 2 4 6 8 x
2
4
y = 2x + 4
6
8

b) 2x + y > 4
becomes y > -2x + 4
Sketch the boundary y
8
line using the related
equation y = -2x + 4.
6
The boundary line would
be dashed to show that 4
the points on the line are
not solutions of 2
y > -2x + 4.
The shaded region 8 6 4 2 0 2 4 6 8 x
contains points whose
2
y-values are greater than
those on the line and are
4
above the line.
6
8
c) 2x + y ³ 4
becomes y ³ -2x + 4
Sketch the boundary line y
using the related equation 8
y = -2x + 4.
6
The boundary line is solid
and the shading is the 4
same as in y > -2x + 4.
2
8 6 4 2 0 2 4 6 8 x
2
4
6
8

To summarize:
A linear inequality in x and y is an inequality that can be written in one of the
following forms: y < mx + b, y £ mx + b, y > mx + b, y ³ mx + b.
An ordered pair (s, t) is a solution of a linear inequality in x and y if the
inequality is true when s and t are substituted for x and y, respectively.
For instance (4, 0) is a solution to y > -2x + 4 because upon substituting, 0 is
greater than -2(4) + 4 = –4, or 0 > -4 is a true statement.
To sketch the graph of a linear inequality in two variables, first sketch the line
given by the corresponding equation. Use a solid line for inequalities with
³ or £. Use a dashed line for inequalities with < or >. This boundary line
separates the coordinate plane into two solution regions. In one of the regions
are points that are solutions of the inequality. In the other region, no point is a
solution.
The solution region is determined by the inequality sign < or >. If y < mx + b,
shade where the y-values are less than the y-values on the line y = mx + b.
If y < mx + b, shade where the y-values are greater than the y-values on the
line y = mx + b.
You can verify whether the points in an entire solution region satisfy the
inequality by testing one point in the solution region.

Example 3
Sketch the graph of the inequality y ³ 3.
Solution
Graph the solid horizontal line y = 3 and all points above y = 3.
Next, check the point (0, 0) by substituting it into the inequality:
LHS RHS
y 3
0 3
LHS ³ RHS

The origin is not a solution and it is below the line. This confirms the shaded
region is all points on or above the line y = 3.
y
4
y=3 3
4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 x
1
2
3
4

Example 4
Sketch the graph of the inequality x < 2.
Solution
x<2
This is a little different since it cannot be written in the form “y =.” When the
inequality is written in terms of x, you will shade left for < and right for >,
rather than above or below.
Sketch the dashed vertical line, x = 2 and shade the region on its left side.
Next, choose a test checkpoint (0, 0). Substitute it into the inequality:
x<2
0<2 True
This is a solution that represents all points to the left of x = 2.
x=2
y
4
4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 x
1
2
3
4
Now that you have some experience with graphing linear inequalities, it is
time to add to your resource sheet. Add any definitions or steps that you feel
would help you remember how to graph linear inequalities in two variables.
Note that you could also find the x- and y-intercepts to graph each line.

Determining an Inequality When Given Its Graph
Now that you know how to graph an inequality, you can also do the process
in reverse. In other words, when given the graph of an inequality, you can
determine the corresponding inequality. Consider the following example.
Example 5
Determine the inequality represented by the following graph.
y

6 x

4
Solution
To find the inequality, you first need to find the equation of the boundary
line.
To do this, you can find the slope of the line, and the y-intercept. Then, you
can put those values into the slope-intercept form equation of a line.
1
Slope =
3
y-intercept = -2
slope-intercept equation of a line: y = mx + b
1
Thus, the equation of this line is y = x−2
3
Now, you need to determine whether you have a greater than or less than
symbol.

As you can see, the solution region is above the boundary line. Therefore, the
symbol you need is greater than or >.
You now need to determine if the points on the boundary line are included in
the solution or not.
As the boundary line is solid, the points on the boundary line are included in
the solution to the inequality.
1
Thus, the inequality becomes y ≥ x − 2.
3
To check your inequality, choose a test point and substitute. For example,
1
if you choose (0, 0), it should satisfy the inequality y ≥ x − 2. Upon
3
1
substituting, you get 0 ≥ (0 ) − 2 or 0 ³ -2, which is true.
3
If you need to, copy down steps for how to determine the equation of the
linear inequality when given its graph on your resource sheet.
Applying and Solving a Linear Inequality In a Word Problem

Sometimes, you will not be given a linear inequality to graph. Instead, you
will have to create a linear inequality from the information given in the
question. This is similar to creating a linear equation from given information.
Example 6
A phone company charges 25 cents for daytime minutes and 5 cents for
evening/weekend minutes. Find all combinations of daytime and evening/
weekend minutes you would have in order to be charged more than $5 in a
week.
Solution
Let d = the number of daytime minutes
Let e = the number of evening/weekend minutes
Thus, 25d + 5e has to be greater than some number.
You may be tempted to write 25d + 5e > 5. However, this is not correct, as
your units are different. The 25 and 5 are measured in cents; however, the $5
is measured in dollars. Therefore, you need to convert $5 to cents.

$5 = 500 cents
Thus, the linear inequality becomes 25d + 5e > 500.
To find all the combinations, you first need to solve for a variable and then
graph the solution. Let d, the number of daytime minutes, be graphed on the
x-axis, and e, the number of evening/weekend minutes, be graphed on the
y-axis. You will then need to solve this inequality in terms of e and then graph
the corresponding inequality.
5e > 500 - 25d
e > 100 - 5d

e > -5d + 100

Sketch the dashed line using the related equation e = -5d + 100 by finding
the x- and y-intercepts and shade the region above the line. The e-intercept is
100 and the d-intercept is 20. Next, choose a checkpoint (0, 0). Substitute it into
the inequality.
LHS RHS
e -5d + 100
0 -5(0) + 100
100
LHS  RHS

As expected, the solution region does not contain the origin.
e
100 
80
Evening Minutes
60
40
20

20 40 60 80 100 d
Daytime Minutes

Note: The graph does not contain negative values, as it is not possible to
speak for a negative amount of minutes on the phone.
As you can see, there are many combinations of daytime and evening
minutes that will satisfy this inequality. Some combinations include:
Q 40 daytime minutes and 20 evening/weekend minutes, or the point (40, 20)
Q 25 daytime minutes and 10 evening/weekend minutes, or the point (25, 10)
Example 7
Solve for y in the following linear inequality.
-12x - 3y > 3
Solution
To solve for y, you simply isolate the variable y.
-12x - 3y > 3
-3y > 12x + 3
When you get to this step, you may be tempted to just divide by negative
three and leave the inequality sign the same. However, when you are
multiplying or dividing both sides of the inequality by a negative number,
you need to reverse the inequality sign. For example, if the inequality sign
was originally >, it would become <. If the inequality sign was originally £, it
would become ³.
Add this information to your resource sheet.
Thus, the inequality becomes:
−3 y > 12 x + 3
−3 y 12 x 3
< +
−3 −3 −3
y < −4 x − 1

Part A: BrainPower
1. Jessica sells $545 worth of fundraising tickets. If she makes 5% commission
on her total sales, how much did Jessica make?
2. Simplify: (3x + 1)2
3. Simplify: 54
4. Sam mowed half of the yard on Friday and half of the remaining grass on
Saturday. How much grass still needs to be cut?
5. What is the slope of the line defined by the equation 2y = 4x + 6?
6. Factor completely. 121x2 - 196y2
7. The diameter of a circle is 34 cm. What is the radius of the circle?
Part B: Solving Linear Inequalities in Two Variables
1. Which of the ordered pairs are solutions to the given inequality?
a) 4x - 3y > 2
(-4, 8), (1, 2), (3, -6)
b) -8x + 6y £ 5
(-2, -7), (4, 9), (-1, 8)
continued

2. Sketch the graphs of the following linear inequalities.
1
a) y < x + 2
2
b) y ≥ 0
c) 3x + 2 y ≤ 6
d) −2 y + 8 > 5x
3. Match each linear inequality to its graph.

a) y £ 4
b) y £ -x + 1
c) 2y > x - 2
d) y ³ 4
y y
i) ii)
2

 2
2 2 x

 2
2 2 x

2
iii) y iv) y
 2 2


2 2 x 2 2 x

2  2
continued

4. Write a linear inequality to represent each graph.
a) y

2

2 2 x

2
b) y
2
2 2 x

2
continued

5. Hunter is a high school student and he wants to save enough money to
pay for his first year at university. He is holding down two part-time jobs.
If he wants to save enough money, he needs to make at least $200 a week.
One of his part-time jobs is working at a restaurant and he is paid $10 an
hour. He makes $12 an hour at his second part-time job as a maintenance
worker at his dad’s business.
a) Write an inequality to represent Hunter’s situation.
b) Graph the inequality.
c) List two different ordered pairs that are solutions to this inequality.
d) What do these ordered pairs symbolize?
Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned how to solve linear inequalities in two variables,
x and y, graphically. You learned whether a solid or broken boundary line
should be used when graphing an inequality, and how to test points to
determine the solution region of a linear inequality. You also discovered how
linear inequalities appear in financial situations, such as making a certain
amount of money or paying a certain amount for your phone bill.
In the next two lessons, you will be learning about a different type of
inequality: quadratic inequalities.

Notes

L e s s o n 4: S o lv in g Q ua d r at ic
In equa l i t ie s in O n e Va r i a b l e
Lesson Focus

q learn how to solve quadratic inequalities in one variable by
graphing the corresponding function
q learn how to solve quadratic inequalities in one variable by
making a sign diagram
q learn how to solve quadratic inequalities in one variable by case
analysis using linear inequality diagrams
q learn how to solve quadratic inequalities in one variable by sign
analysis making a factor diagram
Lesson Introduction
In the last lesson, you learned how to solve linear inequalities graphically. The
approach for solving quadratic inequalities in one variable is similar to the
strategy you used to solve linear inequalities. However, instead of solution
regions, you will be looking for intervals of solutions or solution sets, because
there is only one variable, not two.
Quadratic inequalities are useful when you are dealing with situations
involving parabolas, such as in sports, water fountains, or fireworks. In these
situations, you may want to know when the height of the ball, the water,
or the fireworks is above a certain value. If you are able to solve quadratic
inequalities, you will be able to find the information you need. You can
see from the list of what you are learning in this lesson that diagrams are
involved in every method.

Recall, linear inequalities are inequalities in which the highest exponent of x

is one. Quadratic inequalities are inequalities in which the highest exponent
of x is two.
For this course, there are four forms of quadratic inequalities in one variable
depending upon the inequality sign:
ax2 + bx + c < 0
ax2 + bx + c £ 0
ax2 + bx + c > 0
ax2 + bx + c ³ 0
where a, b, and c are rational numbers and a ¹ 0.
When you have an inequality with a greater than or equal to (³) sign or a
greater than (>) sign, you want to find the interval where the expression is
positive. When you have an inequality with a less than or equal to (£) sign
or a less than (<) sign, you want to find the interval where the expression is
negative. The solution set of a quadratic inequality is the interval of points
that makes the inequality true. You can express your answer using either set
notation or interval notation.
A solution to one of these quadratic inequalities can contain no points, one
point, an interval of points, or all real numbers. You will discover when each
of these situations occurs in the following examples.
Solving Quadratic Inequalities by Graphing the Corresponding

Function
It is possible to solve quadratic inequalities by graphing. However, you may
recall from earlier modules that graphing quadratic functions in general
form can sometimes require completing the square. Therefore, this method
is mainly used when quadratic inequalities are given to you in vertex form.
Example 1
Solve the quadratic inequality x2 - 4 £ 0 by graphing.
Solution
Your first instinct may be to write x2 - 4 £ 0 as x2 £ 4 and then take the
square root of both sides. However, it is not as meaningful to take square
roots in an inequality. It is only a good idea to take the square root of
both sides if the equation is an equality, not an inequality. This is because
inequalities are dealing with sets of numbers, not just one or two values.

Therefore, the corresponding function, f(x) = x2 - 4, can be graphed and the
solution set read from the graph.
y
 
f(x) = x2  4
 
2 2 x
 
4 
The original inequality asked for values of the expression that are less than
or equal to. Therefore, you are looking for the x-values at which the graph of
f(x) = x2 - 4 lies on or below the x-axis. As you can see, the parabola crosses
the x-axis at -2 and 2. Therefore, the parabola lies on the x-axis at these
points. Also, the parabola lies below the x-axis between these points. The
graph lies on or below the x-axis when -2 £ x £ 2. Thus, the solution set is
{x|-2 £ x £ 2, x Î Â} or the same thing represented using interval notation is
[-2, 2].
Example 2
Solve the quadratic inequality x2 - 4 > 0 by graphing.
Solution
You solved a similar quadratic inequality in Example 1. As both quadratic
inequalities have the same corresponding function, f(x) = x2 - 4, you can use
the graph from Example 1 to answer this question.
As the inequality asked for values of the expression that are greater than, you
are looking for the x-values at which the graph lies above the x-axis. This
occurs when x is less than -2 and when x is greater than 2. In other words,
the solution set is {x|x < -2 or x > 2, x Î Â}. In interval notation, the solution
is written as (-¥, -2) È (2, ¥).

As x-values change, a function only changes signs from positive to negative
or vice versa, at one of its zeros. The zeros or x-intercepts of a function are the
points where the x-value makes the function-value zero. Between two zeros
or two x-intercepts, a quadratic function must be entirely positive or entirely
negative. Due to the role of the x-intercepts as described here, they are often
called critical points of the inequality.
Solving Quadratic Inequalities by Making a Sign Diagram

When quadratic inequalities appear in general form, they are more difficult
to graph. However, it is possible to solve quadratic inequalities by finding the
roots of the corresponding equation and analyzing test points.
Example 3
Solve the quadratic inequality x2 + 5x + 6 ³ 0 by finding the roots of the
corresponding equation and analyzing test points.
Solution
To find the roots of the quadratic inequality, you need to factor the related
equation, x2 + 5x + 6 = 0 into (x + 2)(x + 3) = 0. Thus, the roots of the
equation are -2 and -3.
Next, you need to plot these points on a number line. Note: The points are
a closed (or solid) dot, because the values -2 and -3 are solutions to the
inequality. A solid dot is used for £ or ³, and an open dot for > and <.
x 3 3  x 2 x  2
 
x
3 2
As you can see, the x-axis is divided into three intervals, x £ -3,
-3 £ x £ -2, and x ³ -2 by the roots of the equation, -2 and -3.
Choose one point to test from each interval to determine whether the
quadratic expression is positive or negative. As the original question asks
for values of the expression that are greater than or equal to, you are looking
for intervals that are positive. To test these points, you can set up a chart as
follows. You can substitute your test points into the general or the factored
form of the inequality.

x2 + 5x + 6 ³ 0
Interval x £ -3 -3 £ x £ -2 x ³ -2
Test Point x = -4 x = -2.5 x=0
Substituting the Test (-4)2 + 5(-4) + 6 (−2.5)2 + 5 (−2.5) + 6 (0)2 + 5(0) + 6
Point into = 16 - 20 + 6 =6
the Inequality =2 25 25
= − +6
4 2
1
=−
4
Sign of the Answer positive negative positive
You now can complete the sign diagram using the results from the chart.
+  +
 
x
3 2
Thus, the intervals that make the inequality positive are x £ -3 and x ³ -2.
As the inequality in the original equation includes “equal to,” the points -3
and -2 need to be included in the solution set.
Thus, the solution set is {x|x ³ -2 or x £ -3, x Î Â}.
Solving Quadratic Inequalities by Case Analysis

Solving quadratic inequalities by case analysis is similar to solving quadratic
inequalities by finding their roots and testing points. In both instances, you
have to factor the corresponding equation first. However, when you are
solving quadratic inequalities using the case analysis method, the steps after
you factor are different. Consider the following example.
Example 4
Solve the quadratic inequality x2 + 2x - 8 ³ 0 by using the method of case
analysis.
Solution
To solve a quadratic inequality using case analysis, first you need to factor the
quadratic.
x2 + 2x - 8 ³ 0
(x + 4)(x - 2) ³ 0
The quadratic inequality asks you to find where the expression is greater than
or equal to zero. This will occur when both factors of the quadratic equation
have the same sign, either both positive or both negative.

Case 1:
Consider when both factors are positive:
x + 4 ³ 0 and x - 2 ³ 0
x ³ -4 and x ³ 2
Now, graph these inequalities on a number line. Any values that satisfy both
of these conditions are part of the solution set. Note that “greater than” is to
the right on a number line.
 
2 x
4
As you can see, the values when x ³ 2 satisfy both of these conditions because
that is where the two sets overlap. Thus, they are part of the solution set,
[2, ¥).
Case 2:
Consider when both factors are negative:
x + 4 £ 0 and x - 2 £ 0
x £ -4 and x £ 2
Any values that satisfy both of these conditions will also be part of the
solution set. Note that “less than” is to the left on a number line.
 
2 x
4
As you can see, the values that satisfy both of the above conditions are when
x £ -4 because that is where the two sets overlap. The solution is
{x|x £ 4, x Î Â}.
Thus, the complete solution set is: {x|x £ -4 or x ³ 2, x Î Â}. In interval
notation, the solution is written (-¥, -4] È [2, ¥).

Example 5
Solve the quadratic inequality x2 - 4x + 3 < 0 using the method of case
analysis.
Solution
Factoring the inequality:
x2 - 4x + 3 < 0
(x - 3)(x - 1) < 0
This time, you want to find values such that the quadratic equation is less
than zero because the inequality symbol in the original inequality is the less
than symbol. This will occur when one of the factors is negative and the other
is positive.
Case 1:
Consider the case when x - 3 is negative and x - 1 is positive:
x - 3 < 0 and x - 1 > 0
x < 3 and x > 1
1 3 x
Note: The points on the line are represented by open circles, which signifies
that those values aren’t included in the solution because the inequality
symbol is strictly less than or strictly greater than (no “or equal to” is included
in either case).
Thus, the solution set contains the points where 1 < x < 3 because this is the
interval where the two lines overlap.
Case 2:
Consider the case when x - 1 is negative and x - 3 is positive:
x - 3 > 0 and x - 1 < 0
x > 3 and x < 1
1 3 x
No points satisfy both conditions indicated by the fact that the lines do not
overlap.
Therefore, the solution set for the original inequality from Case 1 is simply
{x|1 < x < 3, x Î Â}. In interval notation, the solution is written (1, 3).

Solving Quadratic Inequalities by Sign Analysis and Making a Factor
Diagram
The fourth way to solve quadratic inequalities is by sign analysis and factor
diagrams. When the zeros of a function are put in order and marked on
a number line, they divide the number line into intervals. The zeros are
referred to as the critical points of the inequality. The resulting intervals
are the test intervals for the inequality. Using a sign diagram, we can solve
the inequality. The following example will show you how this works. This
method is very much like the first method, only it has as many sign diagrams
as there are factors.
Example 6
Solve the quadratic inequality x2 + x - 2 ³ 4 using the method of sign
analysis and factor diagrams.
Solution
x2 + x - 2 ³ 4
x2 + x - 6 ³ 0 Rearrange
(x + 3)(x - 2) ³ 0 Factor
Because the inequality sign includes equality, the zeros are part of the
solution and are represented by closed dots on the sign diagram.
Now make a sign diagram for each factor and then a summary sign diagram
for the product of the factors and their corresponding signs.
Determine where each factor is zero, positive, and negative by substituting
test points into each factor.
Consider x + 3:
It is zero when x = -3. 
x
3
Test to the left of -3.
Substitute x = -4 into x + 3
x+3
= -4 + 3
= -1 negative
Test to the right of -3:
Substitute x = -2 into x + 3
x+3
= -2 + 3
= 1 positive
It is a good idea to do the tests described mentally so you only need to write
the “+” and the “-” on the following sign diagram.

The sign diagram for x + 3 is:
 +

x
3
Consider the factor x - 2: 

x
2
It is zero when x = 2.
On its left, when x = 1:
x-2
=1-2
= -1 negative
On its right, when x = 3
x-2
=3-2
= 1 positive
The sign diagram for x - 2 is:
 +

x
2
Now make a summary diagram showing the diagram for each factor and
then a third diagram showing the results for the product of the factors. Notice
how vertical dotted lines are used to separate the intervals for each factor and
are extended to intersect all three diagrams. The third diagram represents the
product of the factors.
 + +
x+3 
3 x
  +
x2 
2 x
neg x neg pos x neg pos x pos

+  +
(x + 3)(x  2)  
x
3 2
The solution for the inequality is:

x2 + x - 2 ³ 4
or (x + 3)(x - 2 ³ 0
means where its sign diagram includes all x-values that are positive or zero.
{x|x £ -3 or x ³ 2, x Î Â}
In interval notation, the solution is written (–¥, -3] È [2, ¥).

Before you continue to the following learning activity, it is time to update
your resource sheet. Go back through this lesson and consider each of the
four methods for solving quadratic inequalities and, in your own words,
write down the steps for solving each inequality on your resource sheet. You
may also find it helpful to include an example of how to solve a quadratic
inequality.
Part A: BrainPower
x6 y 3
1. Simplify:
x8 y 2
2. Pizza Express delivers pizza with the following charges: a $10.00 delivery
and tip charge and $7 per pizza. Your sports team wants to order pizza.
Everyone pools their money and they come up with $73.15. What is the
maximum number of pizzas they can order?
3. Patricia ate one-third of the red velvet cake her mom bought her for her
birthday that day. The next day, she ate one-half of the remaining cake.
How much cake is left?
105
5. Reduce the following fraction:
21
 47 ( 32 ) 0
6. Simplify: − 2 

 16
 
7. Find the midpoint between the following two points: (26, -13) and (15, -21)
8. Solve the inequality 3 - 7x ³ 0.
continued

Part B: Solving Quadratic Inequalities in One Variable
1. Determine whether the given value of x is a solution to the given
inequality.
a) x = 2, x2 + 3x - 6 £ 0
b) x = -4, 2x2 + 4x - 9 > 0
c) x = 0, 4x2 - 3x + 4 > 0
2. Draw the graph of the quadratic function y = x2 + 2x + 1. Then, determine
the solution for the following:
a) x2 + 2x + 1 ³ 0
b) x2 + 2x + 1 > 0
c) x2 + 2x + 1 £ 0
d) x2 + 2x + 1 < 0
3. Use the graphing method to solve the following quadratic inequalities.
a) x2 + 4x + 4 ³ 0
b) x2 - 2x > 3
4. Use the roots and test point method to make a sign diagram and solve the
following quadratic inequalities.
a) x2 - 2x + 1 ³ 0
b) -x2 + x + 1 ³ 0. Show your answer rounded to three decimal places.
5. Use the case analysis method to solve the following quadratic inequalities.
a) 3x2 + 16x £ -5
b) x2 + 3x - 180 ³ 0
6. Use the sign analysis method to make factor diagrams to solve the
a) x2 + 4x < 0
b) 2x2 - 5x - 7 > 0
continued

7. A man is standing on a 50-foot cliff. He can only see things that are higher
than or as high as the cliff. Fireworks are being fired from the ground
down below, and their height, measured in feet, at time t, measured in
seconds, is given by the equation h = -4t2 + 28t + 5.
a) Solve the inequality -4t2 + 28t + 5 ³ 50.
b) Interpret the solution to the inequality you solved in (a).
c) Explain how you chose which strategy to use to solve the quadratic
inequality.
Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned how to solve quadratic inequalities in one variable.
You solved these inequalities using four methods including graphing, roots
and test points, case analysis, and sign analysis. In the next lesson, you will
learn how to solve quadratic inequalities in two variables using a graphing
method.

Assignment 6.2
Solving Linear Inequalities in Two Variables and Quadratic

Inequalities in One Variable
Total: 40 marks
1. Which of the ordered pairs are solutions to the given inequality? (6 marks)
3x - 7 < 2y
(1, 2), (3, -4), (-4, -5)
continued

Quadratic Inequalities in One Variable (continued)
2. Determine whether the given value of x is a solution to the given inequality.
(2 marks)
x = 4; 2x2 + 4x - 1 £ 4
3. Write a linear inequality to represent each graph. (2 marks each, for a total of 4 marks)
a) y

6 2 2 x
2 
continued

b) y
3 
3 3 x
 1
4. Sketch the graph of each linear inequality. (3 marks each, for a total of 6 marks)
1 y
a) y > x+3
2
continued

y
b) 4 x − 6 ≥ 2 y
5. Tesa has at most $200 a month to spend on clothes and food. An article of clothing
on average costs her $20, and the average cost for a meal is $10.
a) Write an inequality to represent the number of articles of clothing, c, and the
number of meals, m, that Tesa can afford within her budget each month. (2 marks)
continued

b) Graph the inequality with the number of articles of clothing, c, represented on
the x-axis and the number of meals, m, on the y-axis. (2 marks)
c) List two different ordered pairs that are solutions to this inequality. (1 mark)
d) What do these ordered pairs symbolize? (1 mark)
continued

6. Use the graphing method to solve the following quadratic inequality. (3 marks)
2(x - 2)2 + 3 < 1
y
continued

7. Use the roots and test point method to make a sign diagram and solve the following
quadratic inequality. (3 marks)
x2 + x - 2 ³ 4
continued

8. Use the case analysis method to solve the following quadratic inequality. (3 marks)
3x2 + 24x + 43 ³ 7
continued

9. Use the sign analysis method to solve the following quadratic inequality. Include a
factor diagram. (3 marks)
0 ³ x2 - 6x + 5
continued

10. A hairstyling business’s profit is represented by the equation P = -x2 + 150x - 1500,
where x represents the number of customers and P represents the profit in dollars.
How many customers does this hairstyling business need to have a profit greater
than $2000? Round to the nearest person. (4 marks)

L e s s o n 5: S o lv in g Q ua d r at ic
I n e q u a l i t i e s i n Tw o Va r i a b l e s
Lesson Focus

q learn how to solve quadratic inequalities in two variables by
graphing
Lesson Introduction
In the last lesson, you learned how to solve quadratic inequalities in one
variable. In this lesson, you will learn how to solve quadratic inequalities
in two variables. When a quadratic inequality only has one variable, you
are looking for the x-interval(s) where the corresponding parabola is either
greater than, less than, or equal to zero. When a quadratic inequality has two
variables, you are looking for the solution region either inside or outside the
given parabola. You need to draw a graph to show the solution.
Quadratic Inequalities in Two Variables
The graphs of linear and quadratic inequalities in two variables are closely
related to the graphs of lines and parabolas. If a line has the equation
y = mx + b, any point (x, y) above the line satisfies the inequality y > mx + b.
Any point (x, y) below the line y = mx + b satisfies the inequality y < mx + b.
m>0 m<0
y y
y > mx + b
y > mx + b
+b
mx
y=
y < mx + b
y < mx + b
x y= x
mx
+
b

Graphing Quadratic Inequalities in Two Variables
When a is positive
If the quadratic has the equation y = ax2 + bx + c, and a is greater than zero,
any point, (x, y), above the parabola satisfies the inequality y > ax2 + bx + c.
Any point, (x, y), below the parabola y = ax2 + bx + c satisfies the inequality
y < ax2 + bx + c.
y
y > ax2 + bx + c
(above parabola)
y < ax2 + bx + c
(below parabola)
y = ax2 + bx + c
(boundary line)
x
When a is negative
If the quadratic has the equation y = ax2 + bx + c, and a is less than zero (or
negative), any point, (x, y), below the parabola satisfies the inequality
y < ax2 + bx + c. Any point, (x, y), above the parabola y = ax2 + bx + c satisfies
the inequality y > ax2 + bx + c.
y
y > ax2 + bx + c
(above parabola)
y = ax2 + bx + c
(boundary line)
x y < ax2 + bx + c
(below parabola)

In this lesson, you will investigate four types of quadratic inequalities:
y < ax2 + bx + c y £ ax2 + bx + c
y > ax2 + bx + c y ³ ax2 + bx + c
The steps used to solve a quadratic inequality in two variables are as follows:
1. Sketch the graph of the corresponding parabola y = ax2 + bx + c. Use
a dashed boundary line for inequalities with < or > and a solid line for
inequalities with £ or ³. A dashed line indicates the points on the curve
are not included in the solution to the inequality. A solid line indicates the
points on the curve are included in the solution to the inequality. This is
exactly the same notation used for linear inequalities.
2. Shade “above” the parabola for y > ax2 + bx + c and y ³ ax2 + bx + c.
Otherwise shade “below” the parabola.
3. Check your work by testing one point inside and one point outside the
parabola. Only one of the test points will be a solution.
The reason for the solutions to be what they are has to do with the y-values
in the inequality. If they are greater than the y-values on the equation of the
parabola, the solution region must be “above” the parabola.
Example 1
Sketch the graph of y ³ x2 - 2x - 8.
Solution
y ³ x2 - 2x - 8
Graph y = x2 - 2x - 8.
−b (−2 )
The parabola has its vertex at x = =− = 1.
2a 2 ( 1)
Substitute x = 1 for y = x2 - 2x - 8
y = 12 - 2(1) - 8
y=1-2-8
y = -9
Vertex: (1, -9), opens up, normal shape
Draw the sketch using a solid line for the parabola as the points on the
parabola are included in the solution to the inequality. Shade above the
parabola.

To check your work, choose one point inside the region and one outside the
region and substitute into the original inequality.
One point inside the region: (0, 0) One point outside the region: (5, 0)
y ³ x2 - 2x - 8
Check (0, 0) Check (5, 0)
LHS = y = 0 LHS = y = 0
RHS = 02 - 2(0) - 8 RHS = 52 - 2(5) - 8
= -8 =7
LHS ³ RHS LHS ³ RHS
\ (0, 0) is in the solution region \ (5, 0) is not in the solution region
\ The shading is correct.
Example 2
Sketch the graph of y < x2 + 4x - 12.
Solution
Graph y = x2 + 4x - 12.
b 4
The parabola has its vertex at x = − = − = −2.
2a 2
Substitute x = -2 for y = x2 + 4x - 12.

= (–2)2 + 4(-2) - 12
= 4 - 8 - 12
= -16

Vertex: (-2, -16), opens up, normal shape
Draw the sketch using a broken line for the parabola, as the inequality
symbol is less than and, thus, the points on the parabola are not included in
the solution to the inequality. Shade below the parabola.
y
 
6 2 2 x
4
 
 16
Now check your shading. Choose one point in the solution region and one not
in the solution region, and substitute into the original inequality.
One point outside the
shaded region: (0, 0) One point in the region: (3, 0)
y < x2 + 4x - 12 y < x2 + 4x - 12
LHS = y = 0 LHS = y = 0
RHS = x2 + 4x - 12 RHS = x2 + 4x - 12
= 02 + 4(0) - 12 = 32 + 4(3) - 12
= -12 =9
LHS  RHS LHS < RHS
\ (0, 0) does not satisfy the \ (3, 0) satisfies the inequality and
inequality. It is outside the is in the solution region.
solution region.
\ The shading is correct.

Example 3
Sketch the graph of y £ -x2 + 4x + 21.
Solution
Graph y = -x2 + 4x + 21.
b 4
The parabola has its vertex at x = − =− = 2.
2a 2 (−1)
Substitute x = 2 for y = -x2 + 4x + 21
= -(2)2 + 4(2) + 21
= -4 + 8 + 21
= 25
Vertex: (2, 25), opens down, normal shape
Draw the sketch using a solid line for the parabola and shade below the
parabola where the y-values are less than those on the parabola itself.
y
25 
5
 
3 2 7 x

Checkpoint (0, 0)
y £ -x2 + 4x + 21
LHS = y = 0
RHS = -x2 + 4x + 21
= -02 + 4(0) + 21
= 21
LHS £ RHS
\ (0, 0) is part of the solution region and the shading is correct.
You should now be able to solve quadratic inequalities in two variables.
Use the following learning activity to practice. Make sure you check your
answers in the Module 6 Learning Activities Answer Key to ensure you
are completing the questions correctly before you complete the assignment
following the learning activity.
Part A: BrainPower
1. Cassandra pays for $78.83 worth of groceries with a $100 bill. What is her
change?
2. What is the vertex of the parabola defined by the equation y = 2x2 - 6?
3. The movie you want to see starts playing at 8:30 p.m. It takes you
45 minutes to drive to the theatre and 30 minutes to get ready. If you want
to be at the theatre 30 minutes early, what time should you start getting
ready?
4. Find the common difference in the following pattern: 1, 7, 13, 19, . . .
4
5. Calculate: 3
5
8
continued

7
6. Express in exponential form: y2
7. Simplify: (4x2 + 7x - 3)(-3x + 2)

8. What does the range of a quadratic function depend on?
Part B: Solving Quadratic Inequalities in Two Variables
1. Determine whether the following statements are true or false. If they are
false, explain why they are false and give the correct statement.
a) To determine if the region outside a parabola is a solution to the
inequality, test a point outside the parabola. If that point does not
satisfy the inequality, then that region is a solution to the inequality.
b) If (1, 2) satisfies the inequality y ³ (x + 2)2 - 12, then the following
graph represents the inequality.
y
 4 
6 2 2 x
4
 
 12
continued

c) If (-3, -2) satisfies the inequality y £ 2(x + 1)2 + 2, then the following
y
 4
 2
1 x
d) The quadratic inequality y < 3x2 - 6x + 7 includes a solid boundary

line.
e) The quadratic inequality y > -x2 - 5x + 4 includes a broken or dashed
boundary line.
f) The point (1, 6) is a solution to the inequality y > -x2 + x + 4.
g) The point (-1, 5) is a solution to the inequality y £ 2x2 - x + 1.
2. Match the inequality with its graph.
a) y > -x2 - 6x - 2
b) y ³ 2x2 + 3x - 5
c) y £ -x2 + 3x + 5
d) y > x2 - 2x - 6
i) y ii) y
4
 2 
4 2 2 4 x
 
4 2 2 4 x
2
2
4
4
6
 6
continued

iii) y

iv) y

6 6
4 4
 
2 2
 
4 2 2 4 x 6 4 2 2 x
2  
3. Write an inequality to describe each of the following graphs.

a) y
5 
 
1 
2 x
b) y
 
4 x
 
 
 8
continued

4. Sketch the graph of the inequalities without using the graphing calculator.
a) y ≤ x 2 + 4 x
1 2
b) y > x + 3x + 2
2
c) y < −3x 2 − 6 x
Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned how to solve quadratic inequalities in two

variables by graphing. The shading for the solution region to a quadratic
inequality in two variables is either inside or outside the graph of the
parabola. You learned how to check the solution region by using test points.
Before you complete Assignment 6.3, make sure you have completed Learning
Activity 6.5, as the assignment will have similar questions to the learning
activity. Also, now would be a good time to update your resource sheet if you
haven’t already.

Notes

Assignment 6.3
Solving Quadratic Inequalities in Two Variables
Total: 19 marks
1. Which of the ordered pairs are solutions to the following quadratic inequalities?
(6 marks)
y ³ x2 + 3x - 7
(1, 2), (-3, 4), (-7, -5)
continued

(continued)
2. Write an inequality to describe each of the following graphs. (2 marks each, for a total
of 4 marks)
a) y
4 x
 2
 
  6
b) y
6  
 
2 
3 x
continued

(continued)
3. Sketch the graph of the following inequalities. (3 marks each, for a total of 9 marks)
a) y < x2 - 2x - 24
y
b) y ³ x2 + 4x - 5
y
continued

(continued)
c) y > -2x2 + 4x + 6
y

Module 6 Summary
In this module, you learned about equations and inequalities. You learned
how to solve systems of equations involving one linear equation and one
quadratic equation graphically and algebraically. You also learned how to
solve systems of equations involving two quadratic equations. You then
focused on linear and quadratic inequalities in one or two variables, which
can be solved in many ways, including graphically and algebraically. These
inequalities can be useful in situations involving budgets, finances, and
speed.
In the next module, you will revisit your study of trigonometry. You will
learn about angles in standard position, how to solve trigonometric equations,
and how to solve non-right triangles when you are given various pieces of
information.
q Assignment 6.1: Solving Systems of Equations
q Assignment 6.2: Solving Linear Inequalities in Two Variables and
q Assignment 6.3: Solving Quadratic Inequalities in Two Variables

Notes

Module 6

Module 6:
Part A: BrainPower
2. Simplify: 98
1
2
3 3
4. Evaluate: ´
21 15
5. If 10% of 440 is 44, what is 35% of 440?
5 35
7 7
Answers:
1. Approximately $6.50 (13% of $100 = $13; 13% of $50 = $6.50)
2. 7 2 ( 98 = 49 × 2 )
1
3. y = − x + 3
2
1 1 1 
4.  × 
35  7 5 
5. 154 (10% of 440 = 44; 5% of 440 = 22; 35% of 440 = 44 + 44 + 44 + 22 = 154)

 5 7 35 
6. Yes  ⋅ = 

 7 7 7 
7. 269 ( 10 2 + 132 = 100 + 169 )

8  −21 − (−13) −8 
8. m = = 
11  15 − 26 −11 
equations.
y = 3x + 3
y = x2 - 1
Answer:
(-1, 0)
y = 3x + 3 y = x2 − 1
LHS = y = 0 LHS = y = 0
RHS = 3x + 3
RHS = x 2 − 1
= 3 (−1) + 3 2
= (−1) − 1
= −3 + 3
= 1−1
=0
=0
LHS = RHS
LHS = RHS

(4, 15)
y = 3x + 3 y = x2 − 1
LHS = y = 15 LHS = y = 15
RHS = 3x + 3 RHS = x 2 − 1
= 3 ( 4) + 3 2
= ( 4) − 1
= 12 + 3
= 16 − 1
= 15
= 15
LHS = RHS
LHS = RHS
Thus, (-1, 0) and (4, 15) are solutions to the above system of equations.

a) y = 4x2
y = 8x
Answer:
Graph solution:
The points of intersection are (0, 0) and (2, 16).
y
 (2, 16)
y = 4x2
(1, 4)   (1, 4)
(0, 0)

1 1 x
y = 8x

Algebraic solution:
y = 4x2
y = 8x
Because both equations are equal to y, then:
4x2 = 8x
4x2 - 8x = 0
4x(x - 2) = 0
4x = 0 or x-2=0
x = 0 x=2
Substitute the x-values into the linear equation to solve for y.
y = 8x y = 8x
y = 8 × 0 y=8×2
y = 0 y = 16
The two solutions are (0, 0) and (2, 16), and they are the two points of
intersection in the graph solution.
b) x - 2y = 10
y = x2 + 2x - 15
Answer:
Graph solution:
To graph x - 2y = 10, find the intercepts first.
x-intercept y-intercept
let y = 0 let x = 0
x - 2(0) = 10 0 – 2y = 10
x = 10 y = -5
Point (10, 0) Point (0, -5)
To graph y = x2 + 2x - 15, first complete the square to find the vertex
coordinates:
y = (x2 + 2x ) - 15
y = (x + 2x + 1) - 15 - 1
2
y = (x + 1)2 - 16
Vertex (-1, -16), opens up, normal shape

One point of intersection is (-4, -7). The other point would need to be
estimated near (3, -4).
y
y = x2 + 2x  15

6 4 2 2 4 6 10 x
2

4 5 , 15
5  2 4
6
(4, 7)

8
x  2y = 10
10
12
14
V(1, 16) 
Algebraic solution:
x - 2y = 10 (1)
y = x2 + 2x - 15 (2)
Since Equation (2) is already solved for y, substitute x2 + 2x - 15 for y
in Equation (1).

x − 2 y = 10
x − 2 ( x 2 + 2 x − 15) = 10
x − 2 x 2 − 4 x + 30 = 10
0 = 2 x 2 + 3x − 20
0 = ( 2 x − 5) ( x + 4 )
2x − 5 = 0 x+4=0
5 x = −4
x=
2
Find the corresponding y-values using the linear equation.
5 x = −4
x=
2 x − 2 y = 10
x − 2 y = 10
−4 − 2 y = 10
5
− 2 y = 10 −2 y = 14
2
y = −7
5 − 4 y = 20
−4 y = 15
15
y =−
4
5 15 
The solutions are  , −  and (−4 , −7 ) .
2 4
The algebraic method is preferred for this example because it is

difficult to be precise using the graph.

a) y = 3x + 7
y = x2 - 11
Answer:
Using the substitution method:
3x + 7 = x2 - 11
0 = x2 - 3x - 18
0 = (x - 6)(x + 3)
x = 6 or x = -3

When x = 6:
y = 3x + 7
y = 3(6) + 7
y = 25
When x = -3:
y = 3x + 7
y = 3(- 3) + 7
y = -2
Thus, another solution is (-3, -2).
The solutions to this system are (6, 25) and (-3, -2).
b) y = 2x + 6
y = x2 + 4x + 3
Answer:
Using the substitution method
2x + 6 = x2 + 4x + 3
0 = x2 + 2x - 3
0 = (x + 3)(x - 1)
x = -3 or x = 1
When x = -3:
y = 2x + 6
y = 2(-3) + 6
y=0
Thus, one solution is (-3, 0).
When x = 1:
y = 2x + 6
y = 2(1) + 6
y=8
The solutions to this system are (-3, 0) and (1, 8).

a) 2y = 2x - 2
y = x2 - 4x + 3
Answer:
Using the elimination method:
1
Multiply the first equation by - and then add the like terms.
2

-y = -x + 1
+ y = x - 4x + 3
2
0 = x2 - 5x + 4
0 = (x - 4)(x - 1)
x = 4 or x = 1
When x = 4:
2y = 2x - 2
y=x-1

y=4-1

y=3

Thus, (4, 3) is one solution to this system.
When x = 1:
2y = 2x - 2
2y = 2(1) - 2
2y = 0
y=0

Thus, (1, 0) is another solution to this system.
The solutions to this system are (4, 3) and (1, 0).

b) 2x + y = 5
y = x2 - 6x + 5
Answer:
Using the elimination method, solve the linear equation for y.
y = -2x + 5
Multiply both sides of the linear equation by -1 and then add like
terms.

-y = 2x - 5
+ y = x - 6x + 5
2
0 = x2 - 4x
0 = x(x - 4)
x = 0 or x = 4
When x = 0:
2x + y = 5
2(0) + y = 5
y=5
Thus, one solution to this system is (0, 5).
When x = 4:
2x + y = 5
2(4) + y = 5
8 + y = 5
y = -3
Thus, another solution to this system is (4, -3).
The solutions to this system are (0, 5) and (4, -3).

y
y = x2 6
L1
4
L4
2
6 4 2 0 2 4 6 x
L5
2
4
L2
6
L3

and L1.
and L2.
and L3.
and L4.
and L5.

Answers:
a) There are no solutions to this system.
b) There are two solutions to this system.
c) There is one solution to this system.
d) There are two solutions to this system.
e) There is one solution to this system.
f) The solutions are (-1, 1) and (2, 4).
g) The solution is (1, 1).

point Q. Let the point, P, be the vertex of the parabola.
y
P y=x

d

Q
O

x

Answer:
y = x (1)
y = 4x - x2 (2)
x = 4x - x2 Substitute y with x from Equation (1)
2
x - 3x = 0
x(x - 3) = 0
x = 0 or x = 3

Find the corresponding values of y.
If x = 0, y = 0.
If x = 3, y = 3.
The coordinates of Q are (3, 3).

Answer:
−b
You could use x = to find the x-coordinate of P, the vertex of the
2a
parabola.
y = −x 2 + 4 x
a = −1, b = 4
4 4
x =− = =2
2 (−1) 2
Substitute x = 2 into y = -x2 + 4x to find the y-coordinate of the vertex.

y = -x2 + 4x
= -(2)2 + 4(2)
= -4 + 8
= 4
The coordinates of vertex P are (2, 4).
7. The perimeter of a rectangle is 26 cm and y

the area is 12 cm2. Find the dimensions of
the rectangle.
Answer: x
Let x = width of the rectangle.
y = length of the rectangle.
Perimeter: 2x + 2y = 26 (1)
Area: xy = 12 (2)
Solve equation (1) for y:
2x + 2y = 26
2y = 26 - 2x
y = 13 - x

Substitute y = 13 - x into equation (2):
xy = 12
x(13 - x) = 12
13x - x2 = 12
0 = x2 - 13x + 12
0 = (x - 12)(x - 1)
If x = 12, then y = 13 - x = 12 - 12 = 1.
If x = 1, then y = 13 - x = 13 - 1 = 12.
In both cases, the dimensions of the rectangle are 12 cm ´ 1 cm.

-2y = -x2 - x
2y = 10x - 20
−2 y = −x 2 − x
+ 2y = 10 x − 20
0 = −x 2 + 9 x − 20
0 = x 2 − 9 x + 20
0 = ( x − 4 ) ( x − 5)
x = 4 or x = 5
When x = 4:
2y = 10x - 20
2y = 10(4) - 20
2y = 20
y = 10

When x = 5:
2y = 10x - 20
2y = 10(5) - 20
2y = 30
y = 15


Answer:
Schyler used the elimination method to solve this system of equations.
This is a correct way to solve a system of equations. Therefore, his work
should be correct. To ensure his answers are correct, verify the solutions.
(4, 10)
−2 y = −x 2 − x 2 y = 10 x − 20
LHS = −2 y LHS = 2 y
= −2 (10 ) = 2 (10 )
= −20 = 20
RHS = 10 x − 20
RHS = −x 2 − x
2 = 10 ( 4 ) − 20
= −( 4 ) − 4
= 20
= −16 − 4
LHS = RHS
= −20
LHS = RHS
(5, 15)
−2 y = −x 2 − x 2 y = 10 x − 20
= −2 (15) = 2 (15)
= −30 = 30
RHS = −x 2 − x RHS = 10 x − 20
2
= −( 5) − 5 = 10 ( 5) − 20
= −25 − 5 = 30
= −30 LHS = RHS
LHS = RHS

Thus, (4, 10) and (5, 15) are both solutions to this system of equations, and
Schyler is using a correct method of elimination to solve this system.

Part A: BrainPower
2. Simplify: 3x2 + 4x - 6 - 5x + 4 + 6x2 + 8 - 9x2
make an hour?
4 2
5. Calculate: -
7 3
8
Answers:
1. 12 and 13 (122 = 144 and 132 = 169)
2. -x + 6
 $15.99 $22.49 
3. Speedy Pizza has the better deal.  ≅ $8 and = $7.50 
 2 3 
 520 52 
4. Lisa makes $13 an hour.  = = 13
 40 4 
2  12 14 
5. −  − 
21  21 21 
 8 1 8 1
6. 3 343 y 7 y = 343 y = ( 343 y ) 
8  3 3 3 8 3
 
7. The slope of a vertical line is undefined.

8. 200 000 centimetres (There are 1000 metres in 1 kilometre and
100 centimetres in 1 metre. Therefore, there are 100 ´ 1000 =
100 000 centimetres in 1 kilometre and 200 000 centimetres in 2 kilometres.

 10 17 
1. Verify that  ,  ,and (1, -2) are solutions to the following system of
3 9
equations.
y = 2x2 - 7x + 3
y = -x2 + 6x - 7
Answer:
 10 17 
Verifying:  , :
3 9
17 17
LHS = y = LHS = y =
9 9
RHS = 2 x 2 − 7 x + 3 RHS = −x 2 + 6 x − 7
 10 2  10   10 2  10 
= 2  − 7 + 3 = −  + 6 − 7
3 3 3 3
 100  70 100 180 63
= 2 − +3 =− + −
 9  3 9 9 9
200 210 27 17
= − + =
9 9 9 9
17 LHS = RHS
=
9
LHS = RHS
Verifying (1, -2):
LHS = y = −2 LHS = y = −2
RHS = 2 x 2 − 7 x + 3 RHS = −x 2 + 6 x − 7
2 2
= 2 ( 1) − 7 ( 1) + 3 = −(1) + 6 (1) − 7
= 2−7 +3 = −1 + 6 − 7
= −2 = −2
LHS = RHS LHS = RHS

algebraically.
a) y = -2x2
y = 2x2 - 4
Answer:
Graphically:
y
 4 
y = 2x2  4
2

2 2 x
 
5 y = 2x2
 8 
As you can see from the graph, the solutions to the systems of
equations are (-1, -2) and (1, -2).
Algebraically:
Substitute for y:
-2x2 = 2x2 - 4
0 = 4x2 - 4
0 = 4(x2 - 1)
0 = (x - 1)(x + 1)
Thus, x = 1 or -1.

When x = 1
y = -2x2
y = -2(1)2
y = -2
Thus, one solution is (1, -2)
When x = -1
y = -2x2
y = -2(-1)2
y = -2(1)
y = -2
Thus, one solution is (-1, -2).
The two solutions are (-1, -2) and (1, -2).
As expected, these are the same solutions as determined graphically.
b) x2 + y - 3 = 0
x2 - y + 1 = 0
Answer:
Graphically:
First rearrange each equation to general form to find the vertex.
x2 + y - 3 = 0 Equation (1)
y = -x + 3
2
Vertex (0, 3), opens down, and normal shape.

x2 - y + 1 = 0 Equation (2)
-y = -x - 1
2
y = x2 + 1
Vertex (0, 1), opens up, and normal shape.

Now graph and solve.
y
 5 
x2  y + 1 = 0

 x2 + y  3 = 0
3 3 x
 1 
The solutions to this system
of equations are (-1, 2) and
(1, 2).
Algebraically:
Use the rearranged equations:
y = -x2 + 3 (1)
y = x2 + 1 (2)
Now substitute for y.
-x2 + 3 = x2 + 1
0 = 2x2 - 2
0 = 2(x2 - 1)
0 = (x - 1)(x + 1)
Thus, x = 1 and -1.
When x = 1:
y = x2 + 1
y = (1)2 + 1
y=2
When x = -1:
y = x2 + 1
y = (-1)2 + 1
y=2
Thus, another solution is (-1, 2).
The two solutions are (-1, 2) and (1, 2) and are the same as those found
in the graphing solution.

use of technology.
y = 2x2 - 5x + 1
y = 2x2 + 6x - 2
Answer:
shown below.
y
9
7 y  2 x 2  5x  1
6
5
y  2 x 2  6x  2
4
1
x
−9 −8 −7 −6 −5 −4 −3 −2 −1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
−1
−2
−3
−4
−5
−6
−7
−8
−9
Calculate the intersection by clicking “Two” in the menu bar and then
“Intersections.”
These functions intersect at the point (0.273, -0.215). Since they are the
same shape, they will never cross at a second point.

method.
a) y = x2 + 4
y = -x2 + 12
Answer:
x2 + 4 = -x2 + 12
2x2 - 8 = 0
2(x2 - 4) = 0
2(x - 2)(x + 2) = 0
Thus, x = 2 or -2.
When x = 2:
y = x2 + 4
y = (2)2 + 4
y=8
When x = -2:
y = x2 + 4
y = (-2)2 + 4
y=8
The two solutions are (2, 8) and (-2, 8).
b) y = 2(x + 4)2
y = 2x2 + 16x + 32
Answer:
Substitute for y.
2(x + 4)2 = 2x2 + 16x + 32
2(x2 + 8x + 16) = 2x2 + 16x + 32
2x2 + 16x + 32 = 2x2 + 16x + 32
These functions are identical. Therefore, there are an infinite number
of solutions to this system including all of the points represented by
the function y = 2(x + 4)2. An example is (0, 32).
Thus, the solution is y = 2(x + 4)2 or {(x, y) | y = 2(x + 4)2}.

a) y = x2 - 2x + 2
3x2 - 4y = 7
Answer:
Rearrange and fix the coefficients of y so that they are the same value
with opposite signs. Then add the like terms of the two equations.
(1) y = x2 - 2x + 2
(2) -4y = -3x2 + 7
4 ´ (1) 4y = 4x2 - 8x + 8
+ (2) -4y = -3x2 + 7
0 = x2 - 8x + 15
0 = (x - 5)(x - 3)
Thus, x = 5 or 3.
When x = 5:
y = x2 - 2x + 2
y = 52 - 2(5) + 2
y = 17
When x = 3:
y = x2 - 2x + 2
y = 32 - 2(3) + 2
y=5
Thus, the two solutions to this system of equations are (5, 17) and (3, 5).

b) 5x2 + 3y = -3 - x
2x2 - x = -4 - 2y
Answer:
Rearrange and then fix the coefficients of y so that they are the
same value with opposite signs. Then add the like terms of the two
equations and solve.
(1) 5x2 + 3y = -3 - x
3y = -5x2 - x - 3
(2) 2x2 - x = -4 - 2y
2y = -2x2 + x - 4
2 ´ (1) 6y = -10x2 - 2x - 6
+ -3 ´ (2) -6y = 6x2 - 3x + 12
0 = -4x2 - 5x + 6
0 = 4x2 + 5x - 6
0 = (4x - 3)(x + 2)
4x - 3 = 0 x+2=0
3
x x = -2
4
3
Thus, x = or − 2.
4
3
When x  :
4
2 x 2 − x = −4 − 2 y
 3 2 3
2  − + 4 = −2 y
4 4
18 12 64
− + = −2 y
16 16 16
70
= −2 y
16
35
− =y
16

When x = -2:
2x2 - x = -4 - 2y
2(-2)2 - (-2) + 4 = -2y
8 + 2 + 4 = -2y
14 = -2y
-7 = y
3 35 
Thus, the two solutions to this system of equations are,  , −  and
4 16 
(-2, -7).
8x2 + 100 = -5y
6x2 - x - 5 = 3y
Answer:
Fix coefficients of y so that they are opposites.
3 ´ (1) 24x2 + 300 = -15y
+ 5 ´ (2) 30x2 - 5x - 25 = 15y
54x2 - 5x + 275 = 0
Since the coefficients are so large, use the discriminant (b2 - 4ac) to
determine the number and types of roots.
a = 54, b = –5, c = 275
2
b 2 − 4 ac = (−5) − 4 ( 54 )( 275)
= 25 − 59400
= −59375
As the discriminant is negative, there is no solution to this system of

equations. Therefore, the parabolas never cross each other.
The elimination method was chosen because it is sometimes difficult to
work with fractions, as would be the case if the substitution method were
chosen. The graphing method would not be easy with these equations
unless you have graphing technology.

Answer:
Solving the system of equations by substitution:
y = -x2 + 4x + 2 (football)
y = -(x - 5)2 + 6 (receiver)
2
−x 2 + 4 x + 2 = −( x − 5) + 6
−x 2 + 4 x + 2 = −( x 2 − 10 x + 25) + 6
−x 2 + 4 x + 2 = −x 2 + 10 x − 25 + 6
−x 2 + 4 x + 2 = −x 2 + 10 x − 19
4 x + 2 = 10 x − 19
−6 x = −21
−21 7
x= =
−6 2
7
Thus, this receiver had one chance to catch the ball, after seconds.
2
7
When x  :
2
y = −x 2 + 4 x + 2
49 28
y =− + +2
4 2
49 56 8
y =− + +
4 4 4
15
y=
4
 7 15 
The two equations intersect at the point  , .
2 4 
7 15
After seconds, the receiver and the ball were both feet, or 3.75 feet,
2 4
off the ground and in the same spot. Therefore, this receiver had a chance
to catch the ball.

Part A: BrainPower
3. Simplify: 54
Answers:
1. $27.25 (10% of $545 = $54.50; 5% of $545 = $27.25)
2. 9x2 + 6x + 1
3. 3 6 ( 54 = 9 × 6 )
1 1 1 1 
4.  of  (Sam has mowed 1 + 1 = 3 and she still needs to mow .
4 2 2 2 4 4 4 
5. 2 (y = 2x + 3)
6. (11x - 14y)(11x + 14y) [it is a difference of squares]
7. r = 17 cm (The radius is half the diameter.)
8. 87 is a composite number; it can be divided by 3 and 29.

a) 4x - 3y > 2
(-4, 8), (1, 2), (3, -6)
Answer:
4x - 3y > 2
Check: (-4, 8)
LHS = 4x - 3y
= 4(-4) - 3(8)
= -16 - 24
= -40
RHS = 2
LHS  RHS
Check: (1, 2)
LHS = 4x - 3y
= 4(1) - 3(2)
=4-6
= -2
RHS = 2
LHS  RHS
Check: (3, -6)

LHS = 4x - 3y
= 4(3) - 3(-6)
= 12 + 18
= 30
RHS = 2
LHS > RHS
Thus, (-4, 8) and (1, 2) are not solutions to the inequality, but (3, -6) is
a solution.

b) -8x + 6y £ 5
(-2, -7), (4, 9), (-1, 8)
Answer:
-8x + 6y £ 5
Check: (-2, -7)
LHS = -8x + 6y
= -8(-2) + 6(-7)
= 16 - 42
= -26
RHS = 5
LHS £ RHS
Check: (4, 9)
LHS = -8x + 6y
= -8(4) + 6(9)
= -32 + 54
= 22
RHS = 5
LHS £ RHS
Check: (-1, 8)
LHS = -8x + 6y
= -8(-1) + 6(8)
= 8 + 48
= 56
RHS = 5
LHS £ RHS
Thus, (4, 9) and (-1, 8) are not solutions to the inequality, but (-2, -7) is
a solution.

1
a) y < x + 2
2
b) y ≥ 0
c) 3x + 2 y ≤ 6
d) −2 y + 8 > 5x
Answers:
1
a) y < x+2
2
1
Graphing the dotted line with slope and y-intercept 2, and shading
2
“underneath” the line where the y-values are smaller than those on the
line.
y
y < 1x + 2
2

2

2 2 x
2

b) y ³ 0
This is simply the horizontal line y = 0 and all y-values greater than 0.
y
2 2 x
2
c) 3x + 2y £ 6
Rearrange the inequality into y = mx + b form first, and then graph a
solid line and the shading.
3x + 2 y ≤ 6
2 y ≤ −3x + 6
3
y ≤− x + 3
2
3
Graph the related equation y = − x + 3.
2
The line passes through a y
y-intercept of 3, having a slope 
3
of - . Draw a solid line since
2 3
the £ includes “equal to.” The y 3x + 3
2
shading is “below” the line,
including all y-values that are 
2 2 x
less than the ones on the line.
2

d) -2y + 8 > 5x
Rearrange to slope-intercept form, graph the related equation as a
dotted line.
−2 y + 8 > 5x
−2 y > 5x − 8
5
y <− x + 4 Dividing by a negative number.
2
Shade where y-values are less than those on the line.
y
4
y < 5x + 4
2
2
2 2 x

2

a) y £ 4
b) y £ -x + 1
c) 2y > x - 2
d) y ³ 4
y y
i) ii)
2

 2
2 2 x

 2
2 2 x

2
iii) y iv) y
 2 2


2 2 x 2 2 x

2  2
Answer:
(a) and (iv)
(b) and (iii)
(c) and (i)
(d) and (ii)

a) y

2

2 2 x

2
Answer:
To find the equation of the inequality, you first need to find the
equation of the boundary line.
To do this, you can find the slope of the line and the y-intercept. Then,
you can put those values into the slope-intercept form equation of a
line.
slope = 2
y-intercept = 1
Thus, the equation of this line is y = 2x + 1.
Now, you need to determine whether you have a greater than or less
than symbol.
As you can see, the solution region is above the boundary line.
Therefore, the symbol you need is greater than, or >.
You now need to determine if the points on the boundary line are
included in the solution or not.
As the boundary line is broken or dashed, the points on the boundary
line are not included in the solution to the inequality.
Thus, the inequality becomes y > 2x + 1.

b) y
2
2 2 x

2
Answer:
To do this, you can find the slope of the line, and the y-intercept. Then,
line.
slope = -3
y-intercept = -1
Thus, the equation of this line is y = -3x - 1.
than symbol.
As you can see, the solution region is below the boundary line.
Therefore, the symbol you need is less than, or <.
Thus, the inequality becomes y < -3x - 1.

a) Write an inequality to represent the hours Hunter needs to work.
Answer:
Let R = the hours Hunter works at the restaurant
Let M = the hours Hunter works as a maintenance person
10R + 12M ³ 200
Answer:
Rearrange the inequality. Either variable could be placed on the x-axis.
This solution shows M on the x-axis. Thus, rearrange to solve for R.
10 R + 12 M ≥ 200
10 R ≥ 200 − 12 M
12
R ≥ 20 − M
10
6
R ≥ − M + 20
5
6
slope = -
5
y-intercept = 20
solid line
Shade above the line.

R
20 
18
Restaurant Hours 16
14 
12
10
8 
2 
0
2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 M
Maintenance Hours
Answer:
The ordered pairs for this graph are (M, R). Thus, two solutions could
be (10, 12) and (0, 20). Any ordered pairs on the boundary or in the
shaded region will work.
Answer:
These ordered pairs symbolize how many hours Hunter needs to work
at each job in order to make at least $200 a week. Therefore, Hunter
can work 10 hours doing maintenance and 12 hours at the restaurant
and make at least $200 a week. Also, Hunter can work 20 hours at the
restaurant and 0 hours in maintenance in order to make at least $200 a
week.

Part A: BrainPower
x6 y 3
1. Simplify: 8 2
x y
105
21
 47 ( 32 ) 0

 16
 
Answers:
y
1.
x2
2. They can order a maximum of 9 pizzas. ($73.15 - $10.00 = $63.15;

63.15 
= 9
7 
1 1 2 1 2 12 1 1
3.  1 − = and of =   − = 
3 3 3 2 3 3 3 3 3
4. 26 = 64

 35 5 
5. 5  = 
7 1

 41 34   41 
7. M = , − = , −17 
2 2 2 
3
8. x £
7
(Method 1: Method 2:
3 ≥ 7x −7 x ≥ −3
3 3 −3
≥ x or x ≤ x≤
7 7 −7
3
x≤ 
7
inequality.
a) x = 2, x2 + 3x - 6 £ 0
Answer:
x2 + 3x - 6 £ 0
x=2
LHS = x2 + 3x - 6
= 22 + 3(2) - 6
=4
RHS = 0
LHS £ RHS
Thus, 2 is not a solution to the given inequality.

b) x = -4, 2x2 + 4x - 9 > 0
Answer:
2x2 + 4x - 9 > 0
x = -4
LHS = 2x2 + 4x - 9
= 2(–4)2 + 4(-4) - 9
= 32 - 16 - 9
=7
RHS = 0
LHS > RHS
Thus, x = -4 is a solution.
c) x = 0, 4x2 - 3x + 4 > 0
Answer:
4x2 - 3x + 4 > 0
x=0
LHS = 4x2 - 3x + 4
= 4(0)2 - 3(0) + 4
=4
RHS = 0
LHS > RHS
Thus, x = 0 is a solution.

a) x2 + 2x + 1 ³ 0
b) x2 + 2x + 1 > 0
c) x2 + 2x + 1 £ 0
d) x2 + 2x + 1 < 0
Answer:
y = x2 + 2x + 1
y = (x + 1)2
y
x2 + 2x + 1 = y
 

2 2 x
2
a) x2 + 2x + 1 ³ 0
Answer:
The graph lies on or above the x-axis at every single point. Therefore,
the solution set is {x|x Î Â}.
b) x2 + 2x + 1 > 0
Answer:
The graph lies above the x-axis at every point except when x = -1.
Therefore, the solution set is {x│x Î Â, x ¹ -1}.
c) x2 + 2x + 1 £ 0
Answer:
The graph lies on or below the x-axis only at the point x = -1 where it
touches the x-axis. Therefore, the solution set is {x|x = -1}.

d) x2 + 2x + 1 < 0
Answer:
The graph never lies below the x-axis. Thus, there is no solution to this
inequality.

a) x2 + 4x + 4 ³ 0
Answer:
First write the corresponding quadratic function in vertex form.
x2 + 4x + 4 ³ 0
y = x2 + 4x + 4
y = (x2 + 4x + 4) + 4 - 4
y = (x + 2)2
Vertex (-2, 0), opens up, and normal size.
y
y = x2 + 4x + 4
 
2
 

2 2 x
As you can see, the graph lies on or above the x-axis for all values of x.
Thus, the solution set is {x|x Î Â}.

b) x2 - 2x > 3
Answer:
First, find the corresponding function in vertex form.
x2 - 2x > 3
x2 - 2x - 3 > 0
y = x2 - 2x - 3
y = (x2 - 2x + 1) - 3 - 1
y = (x - 1)2 - 4
Vertex (1, -4), opens up, normal shape.
y
 
y = x2  2x  3
 
3 3 x
4 
As you can see, the graph lies above the x-axis when x is greater than 3
or when x is less than -1.
Thus, the solution set is {x|x > 3 or x < -1, x Î Â}.

a) x2 - 2x + 1 ³ 0
Answer:
Factoring the corresponding quadratic equation:
x2 - 2x + 1 = 0
(x - 1)(x - 1) = 0
The root of this quadratic equation is x = 1. Therefore, the two intervals
are x > 1 and x < 1.

x
1
x2 - 2x + 1 ³ 0
Interval x<1 x>1
Test Value x=0 x=2
Substituting the (0) - 2(0) + 1
2
(2) - 2(2) + 1
2
Test Point into =1 =4-4+1

the Inequality =1
Sign positive positive
+ +

x
1
Thus, as the inequality is asking for all points that are greater than or
equal to zero, the solution set is all real numbers, or {x|x Î Â}.

Answer:
-x2 + x + 1 ³ 0
x2 - x - 1 £ 0 Multiply by (-1)
This quadratic does not factor easily; thus, you need to use the
quadratic formula to find the roots.
a = 1, b = -1, c = -1
First, find the discriminant.
b2 - 4ac = (-1)2 - 4(1)(-1)
=1+4
=5
\ b2 - 4ac > 0 and two unequal irrational roots.
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac
x=
2a
1+ 5
x= = 1.618
2
1− 5
x= = −0.618
2
 
x
0.618 1.618
x2 - x - 1 £ 0
Interval x £ -0.616 –0.616 £ x £ 1.618 x ³ 1.618
Test Value x = -1 x=0 x=2
Substituting the (-1)2 - (-1) - 1 (0)2 - 0 - 1 (2)2 - 2 - 1
Test Point into =1+1-1 = -1 =4-2-1
the Inequality =1 =1
Sign positive negative positive
+  +
 
x
0.618 1.618
The solution consists of all points where the inequality is negative or

zero:
{x|-0.618 £ x £ 1.618, x Î Â}

a) 3x2 + 16x £ -5
Answer:
Factor the quadratic inequality:
3x2 + 16x £ -5
3x2 + 16x + 5 £ 0
(3x + 1)(x + 5) £ 0
In order for the quadratic inequality to be less than or equal to zero,
one of these factors has to be negative or less than or equal to zero, and
the other has to be positive or zero.
Case 1:
Consider when (x + 5) is less than or equal to zero and (3x + 1) is
greater than or equal to zero:
x + 5 ≤ 0 and 3x + 1 ≥ 0
1
x ≤ −5 and x ≥ −
3
 
5 1 x

3
As you can see from the diagram, there are no points that satisfy both
inequalities. There is no solution for this case.
Case 2:
Consider when (3x + 1) is less than or equal to zero and x + 5 ³ 0:
x + 5 ≥ 0 and 3x + 1 ≤ 0
1
x ≥ −5 and x ≤ −
3
 
5 1 x

3
As you can see, the interval that satisfies both inequalities is

1
−5 ≤ x ≤ − .
3
 1 
Thus, the solution set is x |−5 ≤ x ≤ − , x ∈ ℜ.
 3 

b) x2 + 3x - 180 ³ 0
Answer:
Factor the inequality:
x2 + 3x - 180 ³ 0
(x - 12)(x + 15) ³ 0
In order for the quadratic inequality to be greater than or equal to
zero, both of the factors have to be positive or both factors have to be
negative. There are two cases.
Case 1:
Consider both factors are positive:
(x - 12) ³ 0 and (x + 15) ³ 0
x ³ 12 and x ³ -15
 
15 12 x
As you can see, both conditions are satisfied when x ³ 12.

Case 2:
Consider both factors are negative:
(x - 12) £ 0 and (x + 15) £ 0
x £ 12 and x £ -15
 
15 12 x
As you can see, both conditions are satisfied when x £ -15.

Considering both cases, the solution set is {x│x £ -15 or x ³ 12, x Î Â}.

a) x2 + 4x < 0
Answer:
x2 + 4x < 0
x(x + 4) < 0
The critical points are the roots x = 0, -4. By testing x-values on either
side of x = 0 and x = -4, the sign diagram can be made.
Factor Sign Diagram
  +
x x
0
 + +
x+4 x
4
+  +
x(x + 4) x
4 0
The solution occurs when the product of the factors is negative. The
inequality, x(x + 4) < 0, is negative in the interval (-4, 0) or can be
written using set notation as {x|-4 < x < 0}.
b) 2x2 - 5x - 7 > 0
Answer:
2x2 - 5x - 7 > 0
(2x - 7)(x + 1) > 0
7
The critical points are the roots x = and x = −1. By testing values of
2
x on either side of the critical points, the sign diagram can be made.
Factor Sign Diagram
  +
2x  7 x
7
2
 + +
x+1 x
1
+  +
(2x  7)(x + 1) x
1 7
2

The solution occurs where the product of the factors is positive.
 7 
Solution set: x | x < −1 or x > , x ∈ ℜ
 2 
Answer:
The quadratic is -4t2 + 28t + 5 ³ 50 or -4t2 + 28t - 45 ³ 0 or
4t2 - 28t + 45 £ 0.
a = 4, b = -28, c = 45
b2 = 4ac = (-28)2 - 4(4)(45)
= 64
\ two rational roots since the discriminant is a perfect square.
\ factor into (or use the quadratic formula):
( 2t − 9 ) ( 2t − 5 ) ≤ 0
9 5
t= ,
2 2
t = 4.5 , 2.5
 
0 2.5 4.5 t
4t2 - 28t + 45 £ 0
Interval 0 £ t £ 2.5 2.5 £ t £ 4.5 t ³ 4.5
Test Value t=0 t=3 t=5
Substituting the 4(0)2 - 28(0) + 45 4(3)2 - 28(3) + 45 4(5)2 - 28(5) + 45
Test Point into = 45 = -3 =5
the Inequality
+  +
 
0 2.5 4.5 t

The solution is where the result is negative or zero:
{t|2.5 £ t £ 4.5, t Î Â}

Answer:
This signifies the time at which the fireworks are visible to the man on
the cliff. Therefore, the fireworks are visible to the man at 2.5 seconds
and until 4.5 seconds after they are fired.
inequality.
Answer:
Answers may vary.
The roots and test points method was used because it is efficient. The
graphing method would be difficult, as the quadratic equation isn’t in
vertex form and the solutions may not be integer values. However, case
analysis and sign analysis could also be used to solve this inequality.

Part A: BrainPower
change?
ready?
4
5. Calculate: 3
5
8
7
7. Simplify: (4x2 + 7x - 3)(-3x + 2)

Answers:
1. $21.17 ($100 - $78.83)
 b 0 2 
2. Vertex = (0, -6)  x = − = − = 0 ; y = 2 (0 ) − 6 = 0 − 6 = −6 
 2a 4 
3. 6:45 pm (You need to leave 45 + 30 + 30 = 1 hour and 45 minutes before

the movie starts. One hour before 8:30 is 7:30 and 45 minutes before 7:30 is
6:45. Therefore, you need to start getting ready at 6:45 pm.)
4. 6
32  4 8 
5.  × 
15  3 5 

 1
7
 7  7 2 
6. y4  y 2 =
y 
2

  
 
7. -12x3 + 8x2 - 21x2 + 14x + 9x - 6 = -12x3 - 13x2 + 23x - 6

8. The range of a quadratic function depends on the direction of opening of
the parabola and the location of the vertex.
a) To determine if the region outside a parabola is a solution to an
Answer:
False. The correct statement should be “To determine if the region
outside a parabola is a solution to an inequality, test a point outside
the parabola. If that point satisfies the inequality, then that region is a
solution to the inequality.”

y
 4 
6 2 2 x
4
 
 12
Answer:
False. The shaded region should be below the parabola. The graph
shows the inequality y £ (x + 2)2 - 12.
y
 4
 2
1 x
Answer:
True. The point (-3, -2) is in the shaded region below the function
curve.

line.
Answer:
False. The boundary line should be dashed or broken because the
inequality sign is strictly “less than.”
boundary line.
Answer:
True. The inequality does not include “equal to.”
Answer:
y > -x2 + x + 4
Point (1, 6)
LHS = y = 6
RHS = -x2 + x + 4
= –(1)2 + (1) + 4
=4
LHS > RHS
\ The statement is true.
g) The point (–1, 5) is a solution to the inequality y £ 2x2 - x + 1.
Answer:
y £ 2x2 - x + 1
Point (-1, 5)
LHS = y = 5
RHS = 2x2 - x + 1
= 2(-1)2 - (-1) + 1
=4
LHS £ RHS
\ The statement is false.
A true statement would be the point (-1, 5) is a solution to the
inequality y ³ 2x2 - x + 1.

a) y > -x2 - 6x - 2
b) y ³ 2x2 + 3x - 5
c) y £ -x2 + 3x + 5
d) y > x2 - 2x - 6
i) y
ii) y
4
 2 
4 2 2 4 x
 
4 2 2 4 x
2
2
4
4
6
 6
iii) y
 iv) 
y
6 6
4 4
 
2 2
 
4 2 2 4 x 6 4 2 2 x
2  
Answers:
a) y > -x2 - 6x - 2
opens down; shading above parabola, dotted boundary
\ Answer is (iv).
b) y ³ 2x2 + 3x - 5
opens up, shading is above parabola, boundary is solid
\ Answer is (ii).
c) y £ -x2 + 3x + 5
opens down, shading is below the parabola, boundary is solid
\ Answer is (iii)
d) y > x2 - 2x - 6
opens up, shading is above parabola, boundary is dotted.
\ Answer is (i).

a) y
5 
 
1 
2 x
Answer:
The vertex is at (2, 1) and it is the normal shape. So, the equation of the
parabola is y = (x - 2)2 + 1.
The symbol is “less than” as the region shaded is below the parabola
and the boundary line is broken.
Thus, the inequality is y < (x - 2)2 + 1.
b) y
 
4 x
 
 
 8
Answer:
The vertex is at (-4, -8) and it is the normal shape. So, the equation of
the parabola is y = (x + 4)2 - 8.
The symbol is “greater than or equal to” as the region shaded is inside
the parabola and the boundary line is solid.
Thus, the inequality is y ³ (x + 4)2 - 8.

a) y ≤ x 2 + 4 x
1 2
b) y > x + 3x + 2
2
c) y < −3x 2 − 6 x
Answers:
a) For y £ x2 + 4x
Sketch the related equation y = x2 + 4x.
x-coordinate of vertex
−b
x=
2a
−4
x=
2 ( 1)
x = −2
y-coordinate of vertex Zeros: Let y = 0
y = x2 + 4x x2 + 4x = 0
y = (-2)2 + 4(-2) x(x + 4) = 0
y=4-8 x = 0 and x = -4
y = -4
\ Vertex (-2, -4). The curve opens up and is normal shape.
The parabola is represented by a solid line and the region below the
parabola is shaded.
y Checkpoint (1, 0)
LHS = y = 0
RHS = x2 + 4x
= 12 + 4(1)
 
4 x =5
LHS £ RHS
\ (1, 0) is in the solution region.
 4
(2, 4)

1 2
b) For y > x + 3x + 2
2
1 2
Sketch the related equation y = x + 3x + 2.
2
x-coordinate of vertex y-coordinate of vertex
b 1 2
x =− y= x + 3x + 2
2a 2
−3 1
x= y= (−3)2 + 3 (−3) + 2
1 2
2⋅
2 9
y= + (−9 ) + 2
x = −3 2
−5
y=
2
 5
\ Vertex −3 , − 
 2
y-intercept: 2
1 2
The region above y = x + 3x + 2 is shaded and the outline of the
2
border curve is dashed.
y
Checkpoint (-4, 0)
LHS = y = 0
 2 1
RHS = (−4 )2 + 3 (−4 ) + 2
2
3 x = 8 − 12 + 2

= −2
3
3, 
5 LHS > RHS
2
\ (-4, 0) is in the solution region.

c) For y < -3x2 - 6x
Graph the related equation y = -3x2 - 6x and use a broken line curve.
b
x =−
2a
−6
x =−
2 (−3)
x = −1
y-coordinate of vertex Zeros:
y = -3x2 - 6x -3x2 - 6x = 0
y = -3(-1)2 - 6(-1) -3x(x + 2) = 0
y = -3 + 6 x = 0 and x + 2 = 0
y=3 x = 0 and x = -2
Vertex (-1, 3)
\ The shading is below the curve.
y
Checkpoint (-1, 0)
(1, 3) LHS = y = 0
 3
RHS = -3x2 - 6x
= -3(–1)2 - 6(-1)
(2, 0) (0, 0)
  = -3 + 6
2 1 x
=3
LHS < RHS

Module 6

Module 6:
Part A: BrainPower
2. Simplify: 98
1
2
3 3
4. Evaluate: ´
21 15
5. If 10% of 440 is 44, what is 35% of 440?
5 35
7 7
Answers:
1. Approximately $6.50 (13% of $100 = $13; 13% of $50 = $6.50)
2. 7 2 ( 98 = 49 × 2 )
1
3. y = − x + 3
2
1 1 1 
4.  × 
35  7 5 
5. 154 (10% of 440 = 44; 5% of 440 = 22; 35% of 440 = 44 + 44 + 44 + 22 = 154)

 5 7 35 
6. Yes  ⋅ = 

 7 7 7 
7. 269 ( 10 2 + 132 = 100 + 169 )

8  −21 − (−13) −8 
8. m = = 
11  15 − 26 −11 
equations.
y = 3x + 3
y = x2 - 1
Answer:
(-1, 0)
y = 3x + 3 y = x2 − 1
LHS = y = 0 LHS = y = 0
RHS = 3x + 3
RHS = x 2 − 1
= 3 (−1) + 3 2
= (−1) − 1
= −3 + 3
= 1−1
=0
=0
LHS = RHS
LHS = RHS

(4, 15)
y = 3x + 3 y = x2 − 1
LHS = y = 15 LHS = y = 15
RHS = 3x + 3 RHS = x 2 − 1
= 3 ( 4) + 3 2
= ( 4) − 1
= 12 + 3
= 16 − 1
= 15
= 15
LHS = RHS
LHS = RHS
Thus, (-1, 0) and (4, 15) are solutions to the above system of equations.

a) y = 4x2
y = 8x
Answer:
Graph solution:
The points of intersection are (0, 0) and (2, 16).
y
 (2, 16)
y = 4x2
(1, 4)   (1, 4)
(0, 0)

1 1 x
y = 8x

Algebraic solution:
y = 4x2
y = 8x
Because both equations are equal to y, then:
4x2 = 8x
4x2 - 8x = 0
4x(x - 2) = 0
4x = 0 or x-2=0
x = 0 x=2
Substitute the x-values into the linear equation to solve for y.
y = 8x y = 8x
y = 8 × 0 y=8×2
y = 0 y = 16
The two solutions are (0, 0) and (2, 16), and they are the two points of
intersection in the graph solution.
b) x - 2y = 10
y = x2 + 2x - 15
Answer:
Graph solution:
To graph x - 2y = 10, find the intercepts first.
x-intercept y-intercept
let y = 0 let x = 0
x - 2(0) = 10 0 – 2y = 10
x = 10 y = -5
Point (10, 0) Point (0, -5)
To graph y = x2 + 2x - 15, first complete the square to find the vertex
coordinates:
y = (x2 + 2x ) - 15
y = (x + 2x + 1) - 15 - 1
2
y = (x + 1)2 - 16
Vertex (-1, -16), opens up, normal shape

One point of intersection is (-4, -7). The other point would need to be
estimated near (3, -4).
y
y = x2 + 2x  15

6 4 2 2 4 6 10 x
2

4 5 , 15
5  2 4
6
(4, 7)

8
x  2y = 10
10
12
14
V(1, 16) 
Algebraic solution:
x - 2y = 10 (1)
y = x2 + 2x - 15 (2)
Since Equation (2) is already solved for y, substitute x2 + 2x - 15 for y
in Equation (1).

x − 2 y = 10
x − 2 ( x 2 + 2 x − 15) = 10
x − 2 x 2 − 4 x + 30 = 10
0 = 2 x 2 + 3x − 20
0 = ( 2 x − 5) ( x + 4 )
2x − 5 = 0 x+4=0
5 x = −4
x=
2
Find the corresponding y-values using the linear equation.
5 x = −4
x=
2 x − 2 y = 10
x − 2 y = 10
−4 − 2 y = 10
5
− 2 y = 10 −2 y = 14
2
y = −7
5 − 4 y = 20
−4 y = 15
15
y =−
4
5 15 
The solutions are  , −  and (−4 , −7 ) .
2 4
The algebraic method is preferred for this example because it is

difficult to be precise using the graph.

a) y = 3x + 7
y = x2 - 11
Answer:
Using the substitution method:
3x + 7 = x2 - 11
0 = x2 - 3x - 18
0 = (x - 6)(x + 3)
x = 6 or x = -3

When x = 6:
y = 3x + 7
y = 3(6) + 7
y = 25
When x = -3:
y = 3x + 7
y = 3(- 3) + 7
y = -2
Thus, another solution is (-3, -2).
The solutions to this system are (6, 25) and (-3, -2).
b) y = 2x + 6
y = x2 + 4x + 3
Answer:
Using the substitution method
2x + 6 = x2 + 4x + 3
0 = x2 + 2x - 3
0 = (x + 3)(x - 1)
x = -3 or x = 1
When x = -3:
y = 2x + 6
y = 2(-3) + 6
y=0
When x = 1:
y = 2x + 6
y = 2(1) + 6
y=8
The solutions to this system are (-3, 0) and (1, 8).

a) 2y = 2x - 2
y = x2 - 4x + 3
Answer:
Using the elimination method:
1
Multiply the first equation by - and then add the like terms.
2

-y = -x + 1
+ y = x - 4x + 3
2
0 = x2 - 5x + 4
0 = (x - 4)(x - 1)
x = 4 or x = 1
When x = 4:
2y = 2x - 2
y=x-1

y=4-1

y=3

Thus, (4, 3) is one solution to this system.
When x = 1:
2y = 2x - 2
2y = 2(1) - 2
2y = 0
y=0

Thus, (1, 0) is another solution to this system.
The solutions to this system are (4, 3) and (1, 0).

b) 2x + y = 5
y = x2 - 6x + 5
Answer:
Using the elimination method, solve the linear equation for y.
y = -2x + 5
Multiply both sides of the linear equation by -1 and then add like
terms.

-y = 2x - 5
+ y = x - 6x + 5
2
0 = x2 - 4x
0 = x(x - 4)
x = 0 or x = 4
When x = 0:
2x + y = 5
2(0) + y = 5
y=5
Thus, one solution to this system is (0, 5).
When x = 4:
2x + y = 5
2(4) + y = 5
8 + y = 5
y = -3
Thus, another solution to this system is (4, -3).
The solutions to this system are (0, 5) and (4, -3).

y
y = x2 6
L1
4
L4
2
6 4 2 0 2 4 6 x
L5
2
4
L2
6
L3

and L1.
and L2.
and L3.
and L4.
and L5.

Answers:
a) There are no solutions to this system.
b) There are two solutions to this system.
c) There is one solution to this system.
d) There are two solutions to this system.
e) There is one solution to this system.
f) The solutions are (-1, 1) and (2, 4).
g) The solution is (1, 1).

point Q. Let the point, P, be the vertex of the parabola.
y
P y=x

d

Q
O

x

Answer:
y = x (1)
y = 4x - x2 (2)
x = 4x - x2 Substitute y with x from Equation (1)
2
x - 3x = 0
x(x - 3) = 0
x = 0 or x = 3

Find the corresponding values of y.
If x = 0, y = 0.
If x = 3, y = 3.
The coordinates of Q are (3, 3).

Answer:
−b
You could use x = to find the x-coordinate of P, the vertex of the
2a
parabola.
y = −x 2 + 4 x
a = −1, b = 4
4 4
x =− = =2
2 (−1) 2
Substitute x = 2 into y = -x2 + 4x to find the y-coordinate of the vertex.

y = -x2 + 4x
= -(2)2 + 4(2)
= -4 + 8
= 4
The coordinates of vertex P are (2, 4).
7. The perimeter of a rectangle is 26 cm and y

the area is 12 cm2. Find the dimensions of
the rectangle.
Answer: x
Let x = width of the rectangle.
y = length of the rectangle.
Perimeter: 2x + 2y = 26 (1)
Area: xy = 12 (2)
Solve equation (1) for y:
2x + 2y = 26
2y = 26 - 2x
y = 13 - x

Substitute y = 13 - x into equation (2):
xy = 12
x(13 - x) = 12
13x - x2 = 12
0 = x2 - 13x + 12
0 = (x - 12)(x - 1)
If x = 12, then y = 13 - x = 12 - 12 = 1.
If x = 1, then y = 13 - x = 13 - 1 = 12.
In both cases, the dimensions of the rectangle are 12 cm ´ 1 cm.

-2y = -x2 - x
2y = 10x - 20
−2 y = −x 2 − x
+ 2y = 10 x − 20
0 = −x 2 + 9 x − 20
0 = x 2 − 9 x + 20
0 = ( x − 4 ) ( x − 5)
x = 4 or x = 5
When x = 4:
2y = 10x - 20
2y = 10(4) - 20
2y = 20
y = 10

When x = 5:
2y = 10x - 20
2y = 10(5) - 20
2y = 30
y = 15


Answer:
Schyler used the elimination method to solve this system of equations.
This is a correct way to solve a system of equations. Therefore, his work
should be correct. To ensure his answers are correct, verify the solutions.
(4, 10)
−2 y = −x 2 − x 2 y = 10 x − 20
= −2 (10 ) = 2 (10 )
= −20 = 20
RHS = 10 x − 20
RHS = −x 2 − x
2 = 10 ( 4 ) − 20
= −( 4 ) − 4
= 20
= −16 − 4
LHS = RHS
= −20
LHS = RHS
(5, 15)
−2 y = −x 2 − x 2 y = 10 x − 20
= −2 (15) = 2 (15)
= −30 = 30
RHS = −x 2 − x RHS = 10 x − 20
2
= −( 5) − 5 = 10 ( 5) − 20
= −25 − 5 = 30
= −30 LHS = RHS
LHS = RHS

Thus, (4, 10) and (5, 15) are both solutions to this system of equations, and
Schyler is using a correct method of elimination to solve this system.

Part A: BrainPower
2. Simplify: 3x2 + 4x - 6 - 5x + 4 + 6x2 + 8 - 9x2
make an hour?
4 2
5. Calculate: -
7 3
8
Answers:
1. 12 and 13 (122 = 144 and 132 = 169)
2. -x + 6
 $15.99 $22.49 
3. Speedy Pizza has the better deal.  ≅ $8 and = $7.50 
 2 3 
 520 52 
4. Lisa makes $13 an hour.  = = 13
 40 4 
2  12 14 
5. −  − 
21  21 21 
 8 1 8 1
6. 3 343 y 7 y = 343 y = ( 343 y ) 
8  3 3 3 8 3
 
7. The slope of a vertical line is undefined.

8. 200 000 centimetres (There are 1000 metres in 1 kilometre and
100 centimetres in 1 metre. Therefore, there are 100 ´ 1000 =
100 000 centimetres in 1 kilometre and 200 000 centimetres in 2 kilometres.

 10 17 
1. Verify that  ,  ,and (1, -2) are solutions to the following system of
3 9
equations.
y = 2x2 - 7x + 3
y = -x2 + 6x - 7
Answer:
 10 17 
Verifying:  , :
3 9
17 17
LHS = y = LHS = y =
9 9
RHS = 2 x 2 − 7 x + 3 RHS = −x 2 + 6 x − 7
 10 2  10   10 2  10 
= 2  − 7 + 3 = −  + 6 − 7
3 3 3 3
 100  70 100 180 63
= 2 − +3 =− + −
 9  3 9 9 9
200 210 27 17
= − + =
9 9 9 9
17 LHS = RHS
=
9
LHS = RHS
Verifying (1, -2):
LHS = y = −2 LHS = y = −2
RHS = 2 x 2 − 7 x + 3 RHS = −x 2 + 6 x − 7
2 2
= 2 ( 1) − 7 ( 1) + 3 = −(1) + 6 (1) − 7
= 2−7 +3 = −1 + 6 − 7
= −2 = −2
LHS = RHS LHS = RHS

algebraically.
a) y = -2x2
y = 2x2 - 4
Answer:
Graphically:
y
 4 
y = 2x2  4
2

2 2 x
 
5 y = 2x2
 8 
As you can see from the graph, the solutions to the systems of
equations are (-1, -2) and (1, -2).
Algebraically:
Substitute for y:
-2x2 = 2x2 - 4
0 = 4x2 - 4
0 = 4(x2 - 1)
0 = (x - 1)(x + 1)
Thus, x = 1 or -1.

When x = 1
y = -2x2
y = -2(1)2
y = -2
Thus, one solution is (1, -2)
When x = -1
y = -2x2
y = -2(-1)2
y = -2(1)
y = -2
Thus, one solution is (-1, -2).
The two solutions are (-1, -2) and (1, -2).
As expected, these are the same solutions as determined graphically.
b) x2 + y - 3 = 0
x2 - y + 1 = 0
Answer:
Graphically:
First rearrange each equation to general form to find the vertex.
x2 + y - 3 = 0 Equation (1)
y = -x + 3
2
Vertex (0, 3), opens down, and normal shape.

x2 - y + 1 = 0 Equation (2)
-y = -x - 1
2
y = x2 + 1
Vertex (0, 1), opens up, and normal shape.

Now graph and solve.
y
 5 
x2  y + 1 = 0

 x2 + y  3 = 0
3 3 x
 1 
The solutions to this system
of equations are (-1, 2) and
(1, 2).
Algebraically:
Use the rearranged equations:
y = -x2 + 3 (1)
y = x2 + 1 (2)
Now substitute for y.
-x2 + 3 = x2 + 1
0 = 2x2 - 2
0 = 2(x2 - 1)
0 = (x - 1)(x + 1)
Thus, x = 1 and -1.
When x = 1:
y = x2 + 1
y = (1)2 + 1
y=2
When x = -1:
y = x2 + 1
y = (-1)2 + 1
y=2
Thus, another solution is (-1, 2).
The two solutions are (-1, 2) and (1, 2) and are the same as those found
in the graphing solution.

use of technology.
y = 2x2 - 5x + 1
y = 2x2 + 6x - 2
Answer:
shown below.
y
9
7 y  2 x 2  5x  1
6
5
y  2 x 2  6x  2
4
1
x
−9 −8 −7 −6 −5 −4 −3 −2 −1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
−1
−2
−3
−4
−5
−6
−7
−8
−9
Calculate the intersection by clicking “Two” in the menu bar and then
“Intersections.”
These functions intersect at the point (0.273, -0.215). Since they are the
same shape, they will never cross at a second point.

method.
a) y = x2 + 4
y = -x2 + 12
Answer:
x2 + 4 = -x2 + 12
2x2 - 8 = 0
2(x2 - 4) = 0
2(x - 2)(x + 2) = 0
Thus, x = 2 or -2.
When x = 2:
y = x2 + 4
y = (2)2 + 4
y=8
When x = -2:
y = x2 + 4
y = (-2)2 + 4
y=8
The two solutions are (2, 8) and (-2, 8).
b) y = 2(x + 4)2
y = 2x2 + 16x + 32
Answer:
Substitute for y.
2(x + 4)2 = 2x2 + 16x + 32
2(x2 + 8x + 16) = 2x2 + 16x + 32
2x2 + 16x + 32 = 2x2 + 16x + 32
These functions are identical. Therefore, there are an infinite number
of solutions to this system including all of the points represented by
the function y = 2(x + 4)2. An example is (0, 32).
Thus, the solution is y = 2(x + 4)2 or {(x, y) | y = 2(x + 4)2}.

a) y = x2 - 2x + 2
3x2 - 4y = 7
Answer:
Rearrange and fix the coefficients of y so that they are the same value
with opposite signs. Then add the like terms of the two equations.
(1) y = x2 - 2x + 2
(2) -4y = -3x2 + 7
4 ´ (1) 4y = 4x2 - 8x + 8
+ (2) -4y = -3x2 + 7
0 = x2 - 8x + 15
0 = (x - 5)(x - 3)
Thus, x = 5 or 3.
When x = 5:
y = x2 - 2x + 2
y = 52 - 2(5) + 2
y = 17
When x = 3:
y = x2 - 2x + 2
y = 32 - 2(3) + 2
y=5
Thus, the two solutions to this system of equations are (5, 17) and (3, 5).

b) 5x2 + 3y = -3 - x
2x2 - x = -4 - 2y
Answer:
Rearrange and then fix the coefficients of y so that they are the
same value with opposite signs. Then add the like terms of the two
equations and solve.
(1) 5x2 + 3y = -3 - x
3y = -5x2 - x - 3
(2) 2x2 - x = -4 - 2y
2y = -2x2 + x - 4
2 ´ (1) 6y = -10x2 - 2x - 6
+ -3 ´ (2) -6y = 6x2 - 3x + 12
0 = -4x2 - 5x + 6
0 = 4x2 + 5x - 6
0 = (4x - 3)(x + 2)
4x - 3 = 0 x+2=0
3
x x = -2
4
3
Thus, x = or − 2.
4
3
When x  :
4
2 x 2 − x = −4 − 2 y
 3 2 3
2  − + 4 = −2 y
4 4
18 12 64
− + = −2 y
16 16 16
70
= −2 y
16
35
− =y
16

When x = -2:
2x2 - x = -4 - 2y
2(-2)2 - (-2) + 4 = -2y
8 + 2 + 4 = -2y
14 = -2y
-7 = y
3 35 
Thus, the two solutions to this system of equations are,  , −  and
4 16 
(-2, -7).
8x2 + 100 = -5y
6x2 - x - 5 = 3y
Answer:
Fix coefficients of y so that they are opposites.
3 ´ (1) 24x2 + 300 = -15y
+ 5 ´ (2) 30x2 - 5x - 25 = 15y
54x2 - 5x + 275 = 0
Since the coefficients are so large, use the discriminant (b2 - 4ac) to
determine the number and types of roots.
a = 54, b = –5, c = 275
2
b 2 − 4 ac = (−5) − 4 ( 54 )( 275)
= 25 − 59400
= −59375
As the discriminant is negative, there is no solution to this system of

equations. Therefore, the parabolas never cross each other.
The elimination method was chosen because it is sometimes difficult to
work with fractions, as would be the case if the substitution method were
chosen. The graphing method would not be easy with these equations
unless you have graphing technology.

Answer:
Solving the system of equations by substitution:
y = -x2 + 4x + 2 (football)
y = -(x - 5)2 + 6 (receiver)
2
−x 2 + 4 x + 2 = −( x − 5) + 6
−x 2 + 4 x + 2 = −( x 2 − 10 x + 25) + 6
−x 2 + 4 x + 2 = −x 2 + 10 x − 25 + 6
−x 2 + 4 x + 2 = −x 2 + 10 x − 19
4 x + 2 = 10 x − 19
−6 x = −21
−21 7
x= =
−6 2
7
Thus, this receiver had one chance to catch the ball, after seconds.
2
7
When x  :
2
y = −x 2 + 4 x + 2
49 28
y =− + +2
4 2
49 56 8
y =− + +
4 4 4
15
y=
4
 7 15 
The two equations intersect at the point  , .
2 4 
7 15
After seconds, the receiver and the ball were both feet, or 3.75 feet,
2 4
off the ground and in the same spot. Therefore, this receiver had a chance
to catch the ball.

Part A: BrainPower
3. Simplify: 54
Answers:
1. $27.25 (10% of $545 = $54.50; 5% of $545 = $27.25)
2. 9x2 + 6x + 1
3. 3 6 ( 54 = 9 × 6 )
1 1 1 1 
4.  of  (Sam has mowed 1 + 1 = 3 and she still needs to mow .
4 2 2 2 4 4 4 
5. 2 (y = 2x + 3)
6. (11x - 14y)(11x + 14y) [it is a difference of squares]
7. r = 17 cm (The radius is half the diameter.)
8. 87 is a composite number; it can be divided by 3 and 29.

a) 4x - 3y > 2
(-4, 8), (1, 2), (3, -6)
Answer:
4x - 3y > 2
Check: (-4, 8)
LHS = 4x - 3y
= 4(-4) - 3(8)
= -16 - 24
= -40
RHS = 2
LHS  RHS
Check: (1, 2)
LHS = 4x - 3y
= 4(1) - 3(2)
=4-6
= -2
RHS = 2
LHS  RHS
Check: (3, -6)

LHS = 4x - 3y
= 4(3) - 3(-6)
= 12 + 18
= 30
RHS = 2
LHS > RHS
Thus, (-4, 8) and (1, 2) are not solutions to the inequality, but (3, -6) is
a solution.

b) -8x + 6y £ 5
(-2, -7), (4, 9), (-1, 8)
Answer:
-8x + 6y £ 5
Check: (-2, -7)
LHS = -8x + 6y
= -8(-2) + 6(-7)
= 16 - 42
= -26
RHS = 5
LHS £ RHS
Check: (4, 9)
LHS = -8x + 6y
= -8(4) + 6(9)
= -32 + 54
= 22
RHS = 5
LHS £ RHS
Check: (-1, 8)
LHS = -8x + 6y
= -8(-1) + 6(8)
= 8 + 48
= 56
RHS = 5
LHS £ RHS
Thus, (4, 9) and (-1, 8) are not solutions to the inequality, but (-2, -7) is
a solution.

1
a) y < x + 2
2
b) y ≥ 0
c) 3x + 2 y ≤ 6
d) −2 y + 8 > 5x
Answers:
1
a) y < x+2
2
1
Graphing the dotted line with slope and y-intercept 2, and shading
2
“underneath” the line where the y-values are smaller than those on the
line.
y
y < 1x + 2
2

2

2 2 x
2

b) y ³ 0
This is simply the horizontal line y = 0 and all y-values greater than 0.
y
2 2 x
2
c) 3x + 2y £ 6
Rearrange the inequality into y = mx + b form first, and then graph a
solid line and the shading.
3x + 2 y ≤ 6
2 y ≤ −3x + 6
3
y ≤− x + 3
2
3
Graph the related equation y = − x + 3.
2
The line passes through a y
y-intercept of 3, having a slope 
3
of - . Draw a solid line since
2 3
the £ includes “equal to.” The y 3x + 3
2
shading is “below” the line,
including all y-values that are 
2 2 x
less than the ones on the line.
2

d) -2y + 8 > 5x
Rearrange to slope-intercept form, graph the related equation as a
dotted line.
−2 y + 8 > 5x
−2 y > 5x − 8
5
y <− x + 4 Dividing by a negative number.
2
Shade where y-values are less than those on the line.
y
4
y < 5x + 4
2
2
2 2 x

2

a) y £ 4
b) y £ -x + 1
c) 2y > x - 2
d) y ³ 4
y y
i) ii)
2

 2
2 2 x

 2
2 2 x

2
iii) y iv) y
 2 2


2 2 x 2 2 x

2  2
Answer:
(a) and (iv)
(b) and (iii)
(c) and (i)
(d) and (ii)

a) y

2

2 2 x

2
Answer:
To do this, you can find the slope of the line and the y-intercept. Then,
line.
slope = 2
y-intercept = 1
Thus, the equation of this line is y = 2x + 1.
than symbol.
As you can see, the solution region is above the boundary line.
Therefore, the symbol you need is greater than, or >.
Thus, the inequality becomes y > 2x + 1.

b) y
2
2 2 x

2
Answer:
To do this, you can find the slope of the line, and the y-intercept. Then,
line.
slope = -3
y-intercept = -1
Thus, the equation of this line is y = -3x - 1.
than symbol.
As you can see, the solution region is below the boundary line.
Therefore, the symbol you need is less than, or <.
Thus, the inequality becomes y < -3x - 1.

a) Write an inequality to represent the hours Hunter needs to work.
Answer:
Let R = the hours Hunter works at the restaurant
Let M = the hours Hunter works as a maintenance person
10R + 12M ³ 200
Answer:
Rearrange the inequality. Either variable could be placed on the x-axis.
This solution shows M on the x-axis. Thus, rearrange to solve for R.
10 R + 12 M ≥ 200
10 R ≥ 200 − 12 M
12
R ≥ 20 − M
10
6
R ≥ − M + 20
5
6
slope = -
5
y-intercept = 20
solid line
Shade above the line.

R
20 
18
Restaurant Hours 16
14 
12
10
8 
2 
0
2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 M
Maintenance Hours
Answer:
The ordered pairs for this graph are (M, R). Thus, two solutions could
be (10, 12) and (0, 20). Any ordered pairs on the boundary or in the
shaded region will work.
Answer:
These ordered pairs symbolize how many hours Hunter needs to work
at each job in order to make at least $200 a week. Therefore, Hunter
can work 10 hours doing maintenance and 12 hours at the restaurant
and make at least $200 a week. Also, Hunter can work 20 hours at the
restaurant and 0 hours in maintenance in order to make at least $200 a
week.

Part A: BrainPower
x6 y 3
1. Simplify: 8 2
x y
105
21
 47 ( 32 ) 0

 16
 
Answers:
y
1.
x2
2. They can order a maximum of 9 pizzas. ($73.15 - $10.00 = $63.15;

63.15 
= 9
7 
1 1 2 1 2 12 1 1
3.  1 − = and of =   − = 
3 3 3 2 3 3 3 3 3
4. 26 = 64

 35 5 
5. 5  = 
7 1

 41 34   41 
7. M = , − = , −17 
2 2 2 
3
8. x £
7
(Method 1: Method 2:
3 ≥ 7x −7 x ≥ −3
3 3 −3
≥ x or x ≤ x≤
7 7 −7
3
x≤ 
7
inequality.
a) x = 2, x2 + 3x - 6 £ 0
Answer:
x2 + 3x - 6 £ 0
x=2
LHS = x2 + 3x - 6
= 22 + 3(2) - 6
=4
RHS = 0
LHS £ RHS
Thus, 2 is not a solution to the given inequality.

b) x = -4, 2x2 + 4x - 9 > 0
Answer:
2x2 + 4x - 9 > 0
x = -4
LHS = 2x2 + 4x - 9
= 2(–4)2 + 4(-4) - 9
= 32 - 16 - 9
=7
RHS = 0
LHS > RHS
Thus, x = -4 is a solution.
c) x = 0, 4x2 - 3x + 4 > 0
Answer:
4x2 - 3x + 4 > 0
x=0
LHS = 4x2 - 3x + 4
= 4(0)2 - 3(0) + 4
=4
RHS = 0
LHS > RHS
Thus, x = 0 is a solution.

a) x2 + 2x + 1 ³ 0
b) x2 + 2x + 1 > 0
c) x2 + 2x + 1 £ 0
d) x2 + 2x + 1 < 0
Answer:
y = x2 + 2x + 1
y = (x + 1)2
y
x2 + 2x + 1 = y
 

2 2 x
2
a) x2 + 2x + 1 ³ 0
Answer:
The graph lies on or above the x-axis at every single point. Therefore,
the solution set is {x|x Î Â}.
b) x2 + 2x + 1 > 0
Answer:
The graph lies above the x-axis at every point except when x = -1.
Therefore, the solution set is {x│x Î Â, x ¹ -1}.
c) x2 + 2x + 1 £ 0
Answer:
The graph lies on or below the x-axis only at the point x = -1 where it
touches the x-axis. Therefore, the solution set is {x|x = -1}.

d) x2 + 2x + 1 < 0
Answer:
The graph never lies below the x-axis. Thus, there is no solution to this
inequality.

a) x2 + 4x + 4 ³ 0
Answer:
First write the corresponding quadratic function in vertex form.
x2 + 4x + 4 ³ 0
y = x2 + 4x + 4
y = (x2 + 4x + 4) + 4 - 4
y = (x + 2)2
Vertex (-2, 0), opens up, and normal size.
y
y = x2 + 4x + 4
 
2
 

2 2 x
As you can see, the graph lies on or above the x-axis for all values of x.
Thus, the solution set is {x|x Î Â}.

b) x2 - 2x > 3
Answer:
First, find the corresponding function in vertex form.
x2 - 2x > 3
x2 - 2x - 3 > 0
y = x2 - 2x - 3
y = (x2 - 2x + 1) - 3 - 1
y = (x - 1)2 - 4
Vertex (1, -4), opens up, normal shape.
y
 
y = x2  2x  3
 
3 3 x
4 
As you can see, the graph lies above the x-axis when x is greater than 3
or when x is less than -1.
Thus, the solution set is {x|x > 3 or x < -1, x Î Â}.

a) x2 - 2x + 1 ³ 0
Answer:
x2 - 2x + 1 = 0
(x - 1)(x - 1) = 0
The root of this quadratic equation is x = 1. Therefore, the two intervals
are x > 1 and x < 1.

x
1
x2 - 2x + 1 ³ 0
Interval x<1 x>1
Test Value x=0 x=2
Substituting the (0) - 2(0) + 1
2
(2) - 2(2) + 1
2
Test Point into =1 =4-4+1

the Inequality =1
Sign positive positive
+ +

x
1
Thus, as the inequality is asking for all points that are greater than or
equal to zero, the solution set is all real numbers, or {x|x Î Â}.

Answer:
-x2 + x + 1 ³ 0
x2 - x - 1 £ 0 Multiply by (-1)
This quadratic does not factor easily; thus, you need to use the
quadratic formula to find the roots.
a = 1, b = -1, c = -1
b2 - 4ac = (-1)2 - 4(1)(-1)
=1+4
=5
\ b2 - 4ac > 0 and two unequal irrational roots.
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac
x=
2a
1+ 5
x= = 1.618
2
1− 5
x= = −0.618
2
 
x
0.618 1.618
x2 - x - 1 £ 0
Interval x £ -0.616 –0.616 £ x £ 1.618 x ³ 1.618
Test Value x = -1 x=0 x=2
Substituting the (-1)2 - (-1) - 1 (0)2 - 0 - 1 (2)2 - 2 - 1
Test Point into =1+1-1 = -1 =4-2-1
the Inequality =1 =1
+  +
 
x
0.618 1.618
The solution consists of all points where the inequality is negative or

zero:
{x|-0.618 £ x £ 1.618, x Î Â}

a) 3x2 + 16x £ -5
Answer:
Factor the quadratic inequality:
3x2 + 16x £ -5
3x2 + 16x + 5 £ 0
(3x + 1)(x + 5) £ 0
In order for the quadratic inequality to be less than or equal to zero,
one of these factors has to be negative or less than or equal to zero, and
the other has to be positive or zero.
Case 1:
Consider when (x + 5) is less than or equal to zero and (3x + 1) is
greater than or equal to zero:
x + 5 ≤ 0 and 3x + 1 ≥ 0
1
x ≤ −5 and x ≥ −
3
 
5 1 x

3
As you can see from the diagram, there are no points that satisfy both
inequalities. There is no solution for this case.
Case 2:
Consider when (3x + 1) is less than or equal to zero and x + 5 ³ 0:
x + 5 ≥ 0 and 3x + 1 ≤ 0
1
x ≥ −5 and x ≤ −
3
 
5 1 x

3
As you can see, the interval that satisfies both inequalities is

1
−5 ≤ x ≤ − .
3
 1 
Thus, the solution set is x |−5 ≤ x ≤ − , x ∈ ℜ.
 3 

b) x2 + 3x - 180 ³ 0
Answer:
Factor the inequality:
x2 + 3x - 180 ³ 0
(x - 12)(x + 15) ³ 0
In order for the quadratic inequality to be greater than or equal to
zero, both of the factors have to be positive or both factors have to be
negative. There are two cases.
Case 1:
Consider both factors are positive:
(x - 12) ³ 0 and (x + 15) ³ 0
x ³ 12 and x ³ -15
 
15 12 x
As you can see, both conditions are satisfied when x ³ 12.

Case 2:
Consider both factors are negative:
(x - 12) £ 0 and (x + 15) £ 0
x £ 12 and x £ -15
 
15 12 x
As you can see, both conditions are satisfied when x £ -15.

Considering both cases, the solution set is {x│x £ -15 or x ³ 12, x Î Â}.

a) x2 + 4x < 0
Answer:
x2 + 4x < 0
x(x + 4) < 0
The critical points are the roots x = 0, -4. By testing x-values on either
side of x = 0 and x = -4, the sign diagram can be made.
Factor Sign Diagram
  +
x x
0
 + +
x+4 x
4
+  +
x(x + 4) x
4 0
The solution occurs when the product of the factors is negative. The
inequality, x(x + 4) < 0, is negative in the interval (-4, 0) or can be
written using set notation as {x|-4 < x < 0}.
b) 2x2 - 5x - 7 > 0
Answer:
2x2 - 5x - 7 > 0
(2x - 7)(x + 1) > 0
7
The critical points are the roots x = and x = −1. By testing values of
2
x on either side of the critical points, the sign diagram can be made.
Factor Sign Diagram
  +
2x  7 x
7
2
 + +
x+1 x
1
+  +
(2x  7)(x + 1) x
1 7
2

The solution occurs where the product of the factors is positive.
 7 
Solution set: x | x < −1 or x > , x ∈ ℜ
 2 
Answer:
The quadratic is -4t2 + 28t + 5 ³ 50 or -4t2 + 28t - 45 ³ 0 or
4t2 - 28t + 45 £ 0.
a = 4, b = -28, c = 45
b2 = 4ac = (-28)2 - 4(4)(45)
= 64
\ two rational roots since the discriminant is a perfect square.
\ factor into (or use the quadratic formula):
( 2t − 9 ) ( 2t − 5 ) ≤ 0
9 5
t= ,
2 2
t = 4.5 , 2.5
 
0 2.5 4.5 t
4t2 - 28t + 45 £ 0
Interval 0 £ t £ 2.5 2.5 £ t £ 4.5 t ³ 4.5
Test Value t=0 t=3 t=5
Substituting the 4(0)2 - 28(0) + 45 4(3)2 - 28(3) + 45 4(5)2 - 28(5) + 45
Test Point into = 45 = -3 =5
the Inequality
+  +
 
0 2.5 4.5 t

The solution is where the result is negative or zero:
{t|2.5 £ t £ 4.5, t Î Â}

Answer:
This signifies the time at which the fireworks are visible to the man on
the cliff. Therefore, the fireworks are visible to the man at 2.5 seconds
and until 4.5 seconds after they are fired.
inequality.
Answer:
Answers may vary.
The roots and test points method was used because it is efficient. The
graphing method would be difficult, as the quadratic equation isn’t in
vertex form and the solutions may not be integer values. However, case
analysis and sign analysis could also be used to solve this inequality.

Part A: BrainPower
change?
ready?
4
5. Calculate: 3
5
8
7
7. Simplify: (4x2 + 7x - 3)(-3x + 2)

Answers:
1. $21.17 ($100 - $78.83)
 b 0 2 
2. Vertex = (0, -6)  x = − = − = 0 ; y = 2 (0 ) − 6 = 0 − 6 = −6 
 2a 4 
3. 6:45 pm (You need to leave 45 + 30 + 30 = 1 hour and 45 minutes before

the movie starts. One hour before 8:30 is 7:30 and 45 minutes before 7:30 is
6:45. Therefore, you need to start getting ready at 6:45 pm.)
4. 6
32  4 8 
5.  × 
15  3 5 

 1
7
 7  7 2 
6. y4  y 2 =
y 
2

  
 
7. -12x3 + 8x2 - 21x2 + 14x + 9x - 6 = -12x3 - 13x2 + 23x - 6

8. The range of a quadratic function depends on the direction of opening of
the parabola and the location of the vertex.
a) To determine if the region outside a parabola is a solution to an
Answer:
False. The correct statement should be “To determine if the region
outside a parabola is a solution to an inequality, test a point outside
the parabola. If that point satisfies the inequality, then that region is a
solution to the inequality.”

y
 4 
6 2 2 x
4
 
 12
Answer:
False. The shaded region should be below the parabola. The graph
shows the inequality y £ (x + 2)2 - 12.
y
 4
 2
1 x
Answer:
True. The point (-3, -2) is in the shaded region below the function
curve.

line.
Answer:
False. The boundary line should be dashed or broken because the
inequality sign is strictly “less than.”
boundary line.
Answer:
True. The inequality does not include “equal to.”
Answer:
y > -x2 + x + 4
Point (1, 6)
LHS = y = 6
RHS = -x2 + x + 4
= –(1)2 + (1) + 4
=4
LHS > RHS
\ The statement is true.
g) The point (–1, 5) is a solution to the inequality y £ 2x2 - x + 1.
Answer:
y £ 2x2 - x + 1
Point (-1, 5)
LHS = y = 5
RHS = 2x2 - x + 1
= 2(-1)2 - (-1) + 1
=4
LHS £ RHS
\ The statement is false.
A true statement would be the point (-1, 5) is a solution to the
inequality y ³ 2x2 - x + 1.

a) y > -x2 - 6x - 2
b) y ³ 2x2 + 3x - 5
c) y £ -x2 + 3x + 5
d) y > x2 - 2x - 6
i) y
ii) y
4
 2 
4 2 2 4 x
 
4 2 2 4 x
2
2
4
4
6
 6
iii) y
 iv) 
y
6 6
4 4
 
2 2
 
4 2 2 4 x 6 4 2 2 x
2  
Answers:
a) y > -x2 - 6x - 2
opens down; shading above parabola, dotted boundary
\ Answer is (iv).
b) y ³ 2x2 + 3x - 5
opens up, shading is above parabola, boundary is solid
\ Answer is (ii).
c) y £ -x2 + 3x + 5
opens down, shading is below the parabola, boundary is solid
\ Answer is (iii)
d) y > x2 - 2x - 6
opens up, shading is above parabola, boundary is dotted.
\ Answer is (i).

a) y
5 
 
1 
2 x
Answer:
The vertex is at (2, 1) and it is the normal shape. So, the equation of the
parabola is y = (x - 2)2 + 1.
The symbol is “less than” as the region shaded is below the parabola
and the boundary line is broken.
Thus, the inequality is y < (x - 2)2 + 1.
b) y
 
4 x
 
 
 8
Answer:
The vertex is at (-4, -8) and it is the normal shape. So, the equation of
the parabola is y = (x + 4)2 - 8.
The symbol is “greater than or equal to” as the region shaded is inside
the parabola and the boundary line is solid.
Thus, the inequality is y ³ (x + 4)2 - 8.

a) y ≤ x 2 + 4 x
1 2
b) y > x + 3x + 2
2
c) y < −3x 2 − 6 x
Answers:
a) For y £ x2 + 4x
Sketch the related equation y = x2 + 4x.
−b
x=
2a
−4
x=
2 ( 1)
x = −2
y-coordinate of vertex Zeros: Let y = 0
y = x2 + 4x x2 + 4x = 0
y = (-2)2 + 4(-2) x(x + 4) = 0
y=4-8 x = 0 and x = -4
y = -4
\ Vertex (-2, -4). The curve opens up and is normal shape.
The parabola is represented by a solid line and the region below the
parabola is shaded.
y Checkpoint (1, 0)
LHS = y = 0
RHS = x2 + 4x
= 12 + 4(1)
 
4 x =5
LHS £ RHS
\ (1, 0) is in the solution region.
 4
(2, 4)

1 2
b) For y > x + 3x + 2
2
1 2
Sketch the related equation y = x + 3x + 2.
2
x-coordinate of vertex y-coordinate of vertex
b 1 2
x =− y= x + 3x + 2
2a 2
−3 1
x= y= (−3)2 + 3 (−3) + 2
1 2
2⋅
2 9
y= + (−9 ) + 2
x = −3 2
−5
y=
2
 5
\ Vertex −3 , − 
 2
y-intercept: 2
1 2
The region above y = x + 3x + 2 is shaded and the outline of the
2
border curve is dashed.
y
Checkpoint (-4, 0)
LHS = y = 0
 2 1
RHS = (−4 )2 + 3 (−4 ) + 2
2
3 x = 8 − 12 + 2

= −2
3
3, 
5 LHS > RHS
2

c) For y < -3x2 - 6x
Graph the related equation y = -3x2 - 6x and use a broken line curve.
b
x =−
2a
−6
x =−
2 (−3)
x = −1
y-coordinate of vertex Zeros:
y = -3x2 - 6x -3x2 - 6x = 0
y = -3(-1)2 - 6(-1) -3x(x + 2) = 0
y = -3 + 6 x = 0 and x + 2 = 0
y=3 x = 0 and x = -2
Vertex (-1, 3)
\ The shading is below the curve.
y
Checkpoint (-1, 0)
(1, 3) LHS = y = 0
 3
RHS = -3x2 - 6x
= -3(–1)2 - 6(-1)
(2, 0) (0, 0)
  = -3 + 6
2 1 x
=3
LHS < RHS

Module 7
Trigonometry
M o d u l e 7:
Tr ig o n o m e t r y
Introduction
This module incorporates some of your previous knowledge about

trigonometry, including the three primary trigonometric ratios: sine, cosine,
and tangent. Trigonometry, including the Sine Law and the Cosine Law,
allows you to calculate the length of the sides and the measure of the angles
of triangles. Trigonometry has many applications in the real world. Have
you ever noticed how bridges are made up of triangular shapes? Triangles
are used in construction because of their strong shape. The more triangles
included in the construction of a bridge, the stronger the bridge will be.
For this reason, trigonometry is helpful in the design of bridges and other
buildings.
In previous courses, you studied triangles and angles with measures of
less than 180°. In this module, you will extend that knowledge to learn how
trigonometry applies to angles greater than 180°. You will learn where these
angles are located when graphed in standard position on a coordinate plane.
You will also learn that there are families of angles with the same reference
angle that have related trigonometric ratio values.
Trigonometric Ratios, Reference Angles, and

2 Assignment 7.1
Patterns in Trigonometric Ratios and the

4 Assignment 7.2
Sine Law
6 Assignment 7.3 The Cosine Law and the Ambiguous Case
M o d u l e 7: Tr i g o n o m e t r y 3
Resource Sheet
any marks for it.

formula is used.

L e s s o n 1: Th e Tr ig o n o m e t r ic R at io s o f
Angles 0° £ q £ 360°
Lesson Focus

q learn how to draw a given angle in standard position
q learn how to recognize angles in standard position
q learn how to state the sine, cosine, and tangent of the angle in
standard position in terms of the coordinates of a given point on
its terminal side
q learn how to determine the distance from the origin to a point
P(x, y) on the terminal arm of an angle, the radius vector
Lesson Introduction
In your study of trigonometry, you studied angles between 0° and 180°. In this
lesson, you will review this and extend your knowledge of angles up to 360°.
about the three primary trigonometric ratios: sine, cosine, and tangent. You
used these ratios to help solve right-angled triangles for missing angles or
missing side lengths. Right-angled triangles can be drawn in the coordinate
plane. Thus, you can use some of your previous knowledge to find the
missing coordinates or distance to the origin when angles are located in
standard position in the coordinate plane.
Trigonometric Ratios
The first step towards using the trigonometric ratios to find the coordinates
of P(x, y), or the distance from the origin to P(x, y), is to understand what is
meant by the term an angle in standard position.
Angles in Standard Position

An angle is in standard position if:
Q its first arm, called the initial arm, is a ray from the origin along the
positive x-axis
Q its second arm, called the terminal arm, is any ray from the origin
Q the angle is measured from the initial to the terminal arm and has a
positive value if it is rotated in a counter-clockwise direction
Q the angle is measured from the initial to the terminal arm and has a
negative value if it is rotated in a clockwise direction
Quadrant I Quadrant II
y y
m
te
ar
rm
al
in
in
al
rm
ar
te

m

 
initial arm x initial arm x
Angle  is in standard position. Angle  is in standard position.

The measure of  is between 0° and 90°. The measure of  is between 90° and 180°.
Quadrant III Quadrant IV

y y
 
initial arm x initial arm x


te
m
rm
ar
in
al
al
in
ar
rm
m
te
Angle  is in standard position. Angle  is in standard position.

The measure of  is between 180° and 270°. The measure of  is between 270° and 360°.

Add the definition for an angle in standard position to your resource sheet.
You may also find it helpful to include a diagram of an angle in standard
position in each quadrant.
The Trigonometric Ratios

Now that you know what an angle in standard position looks like, you can
define trigonometric ratios in terms of the coordinates of any point P(x, y) on
the terminal arm of an angle in standard position. Compare your knowledge
of trigonometric ratios in a right triangle to those defined by a point P(x, y)
in a coordinate plane. The application of trigonometric ratios in these two
diagrams is identical. The difference is that the (x, y) values in a coordinate
system may sometimes be positive and sometimes negative.
Known Definitions Coordinates Definition
y P(x, y) 
r y r y

 
x x x
opposite side y The line segment, with angle,

sin θ = = q, in standard position, from
hypotenuse r
the origin to P(x, y) is called the
adjacent side x radius vector, r. The length of r is
cos θ = =
hypotenuse r always positive and can be found
using the Pythagorean theorem,
opposite side y
tan θ = = r = x2 + y2 .
adjacent side x
You may remember these formulas using the acronym SOH CAH TOA.
Using these known definitions, if P(x, y) is any point on the terminal arm of
an angle in standard position, then:
opposite side y y -coordinate
sin θ = = =
hypotenuse r radius vector
adjacent side x x -coordinate
cos θ = = =
hypotenuse r radius vector
opposite side y y -coordinate
tan θ = = =
adjacent side x x -coordinate
Since the value of r is always positive, the sign of the trigonometric ratio
depends upon the sign of the x- and y-coordinates of P(x, y).
If P(x, y) is in Quadrant I, then the measure of angle q < 90°, x and y are
positive, and all trigonometric ratios of angles are positive.
y
 P(x, y)
r y
 
x x
For any angle q where q < 90° and x > 0 and y > 0,
y
sin θ = will be positive
r
x
cos θ = will be positive
r
y
tan θ = will be posiitive
x
If P(x, y) is in Quadrant II, the measure of angle q is between 90° and 180°,
and the x-value of P(x, y) is negative. Any trigonometric ratio in Quadrant II
whose ratio is defined using x will be negative.
y
 P(x, y)
y r


x x

For any angle where 90° < q < 180° and x < 0 and y > 0,
y
sin θ = will be positive
r
x
cos θ = will be negative
r
y
tan θ = will be negaative
x
If P(x, y) is in Quadrant III, then the measure of angle q is between 180° and
270°, and the x- and y-values of P(x, y) are negative.
y

x
x

y r
 P(x, y)
For any angle where 180° < q < 270° and x < 0 and y < 0,
y
sin θ = will be negative
r
x
cos θ = will be negative
r
y
tan θ = will be posiitive
x
If P(x, y) is in Quadrant IV, then the measure of angle q is between 270° and
360°, and the x-value is positive and the y-value is negative.
y

x
x

y
r
 P(x, y)
For any angle where 270° < q < 360° and x > 0 and y < 0,
y
sin θ = will be negative
r
x
cos θ = will be positive
r
y
tan θ = will be nega
ative
x
You can generalize this information about the signs of the values of the
trigonometric functions using the trigonometric ratio definitions as you
were shown. Since r is always positive, the sign of the value of sin q in each
quadrant matches the sign of y for the quadrant of q. Similarly, the sign of the
value of cos q in each quadrant matches the sign of x for the quadrant of q.
Finally, the sign of the value of tan q in each quadrant matches the sign of the
y
quotient of for the quadrant of q.
x
To summarize:
Q sign of sin q matches sign of y for the quadrant of q
Q sign of cos q matches sign of x for the quadrant of q

Some students prefer to memorize the signs of the trigonometric ratios in
each quadrant with the aid of the acronym CAST. The following diagram
below show how the CAST acronym can be used to summarize where the
trigonometric ratios are positive.
y

y

Sin All
is positive are positive S A
 x  x
Tan Cos T C
is positive is positive


Notice that cos q is positive in the quadrants where x is positive, sin q is

positive wherever y is positive, and tan q is positive wherever x and y have the
same sign.
Before you continue with the rest of your lesson, go back and reread the
material you have just read. Then, add to your resource sheet any definitions,
descriptions, or images that you feel will help you remember the material.
This material may appear difficult at first, so it is a good idea to read it again
to make sure you understand.
Example 1
P(x, y) is a point on the terminal arm of angle q in standard position.
Determine sin q, cos q, and tan q of the following points and draw a sketch.
Show your work to determine the length of the radius vector from the origin
to P(x, y).
a) P(3, 4)
b) P(-3, 4)
c) P(-3, -4)
d) P(3, -4)
Solutions
a) P(3, 4)
y r = 32 + 4 2 = 25 = 5
 P(3, 4)
y 4
sin θ = =
r 5
r 4 x 3
cos θ = =
r 5
y 4
tan θ = =
 x 3
3 x
Notice that even after you have drawn the diagram, you can still use the
trigonometric ratio definition as:
opposite adjacent opposiite
sin θ = ; cos θ = ; tan θ =
hypotenuse hypotenuse adjacent

b) P(-3, 4)
2
 P(3, 4) y r = (−3) + 4 2 = 25 = 5
y 4
sin θ = =
r 5
r x −3
4
cos θ = =
r 5
 y 4 4
tan θ = = =−
x −3 3
3 x
Notice the signs of the trigonometric values in Quadant II. The sign of sin
q matches the sign of y and is positive. The sign of cos q matches the sign
y
of x and is negative. The sign of tan q matches the sign of the quotient, ,
x
and is negative.

c) P(-3, -4)
y 2 2
r = (−3) + (−4 ) = 25 = 5
y −4
 sin θ = =
3 r 5
x
x −3
cos θ = =
r 5
y −4 4
4 r tan θ = = =
x −3 3
 P(3, 4)
Notice the signs of sin q, cos q, and tan q in Quadrant III. Both sin q and
cos q are negative because y and x are negative in Quadrant III. Tan q is
y
positive because it matches the sign of the quotient .
x
d) P(3, -4)
y
2
r = 32 + (−4 ) = 25 = 5
y −4
 sin θ = =
3 r 5
x
 x 3
cos θ = =
r 5
y −4
r 4 tan θ = =
x 3
 P(3, 4)
Notice the signs again. Sin q is negative in Quadrant IV because it matches

the sign of y. Cos q is positive in Quadrant IV because it matches the sign
of x.
Example 2
Use your calculator to find each of the following ratios and comment on the
sign of the ratio. Round to five decimal places, if necessary.
a) cos 200° b) tan 315°
c) sin 150° d) tan 240°
e) tan 275° f) sin 250°
g) cos 150° h) sin 315°
Solutions
a) cos 200° = -0.939 69
The terminal arm of 200° is in Quadrant III and the x-coordinate is
negative in Quadrant III.
b) tan 315° = -1
The terminal arm of 315° is in Quadrant IV and the y-coordinate is
negative in Quadrant IV.
c) sin 150° = 0.5
The terminal arm of 150° is in Quadrant II and the y-coordinate is positive
in Quadrant II.
d) tan 240° = 1.732 05
The terminal arm of 240° is in Quadrant III and the x- and y-coordinates
are both negative in Quadrant III, so the ratio will be positive.
e) tan 275° = -11.430 05
f) sin 250° = -0.939 69
The terminal arm of 250° is in Quadrant III and the y-coordinate is
negative in Quadrant III.
g) cos 150° = -0.866 03
The terminal arm of 150° is in Quadrant II and the x-coordinate is
negative in Quadrant II.
h) sin 315° = -0.707 11

Example 3
Angle q is either an acute or an obtuse angle. From the sign of the
trigonometric ratio, determine whether q is acute or obtuse, if:
a) cos q > 0
b) tan q < 0
c) cos q < 0
Solutions
An acute angle has a measure between 0° and 90°. An obtuse angle has a
measure between 90° and 180°. Therefore, angle q will be either in Quadrant I
or Quadrant II. Assume that P(x, y) is a point on the terminal arm of q.
a) The sign of cos q depends upon the sign of the x-coordinate of P(x, y).
Since cos q > 0, then the x-coordinate must be positive. Thus, the terminal
arm of q must be in Quadrant I, and q must be an acute angle.
b) The sign of tan q depends upon the signs of both the x- and y-coordinates
of P(x, y). Since tan q < 0, either x < 0 or y < 0 but not both. This occurs in
Quadrant II where x < 0 and y > 0 so the angle is obtuse.
c) The sign of cos q depends upon the sign of the x-coordinate of P(x, y).
Since cos q < 0, then the x-coordinate must be negative. Thus, the terminal
arm of q must be in Quadrant II and q must be an obtuse angle.
Part A: BrainPower
1. Jacob went to three stores. He spent $76 at the first store, $47 at the second
store, and $152 at the third store. If Jacob had $300, how much money does
he have left?
2. If two angles in a triangle measure 137° in total, what is the measure of the
third angle in the triangle?
3. Solve for g: (2g + 1)(g - 5) = 0
continued
4. You and your brother are partial owners of the family vehicle. If you own
half as much as your brother, how much of the car do you own?
5. Simplify: 108
1 1
3
6. Order these values from lowest to highest: 5 5 , 5 , 5 4 , and 5
7 3
3 2
8. Find the slope of the line parallel to the line 2x + y = 1.
Part B: Trigonometric Ratios
1. Determine which of the following angles are in standard position.
Explain.
a) y b) y
 x

 
c) y d) y

x
 

continued

2. P(x, y) is a point on the terminal side of angle q in standard position.
Determine sin q, cos q, and tan q for the following points. Draw a sketch.
Show your work for determining the distance from the origin to the point
P(x, y). Rationalize any denominators.
a) (-5, 12)
b) (24, -7)
c) (-4, -3)
d) (5, 3)
3. Without using a calculator, determine if each value should be positive or
negative by drawing the angle in standard position.
a) cos 191°
b) sin 255°
c) tan 340.4°
d) sin 161°
4. Determine the quadrants in which P(x, y) may lie under the following
conditions.
a) sin q > 0
b) cos q > 0
c) tan q > 0
d) cos q > 0 and sin q < 0
continued
5. Fill in the following chart by indicating which quadrant(s) each angle is in
by considering the sign of each ratio or by using the CAST rule.
Ratio Value Quadrant
2
cos θ =
5
4
sin θ =
5
2
tan θ = −
3
−1
sin θ =
5
3
tan θ =
5
6. Given the following angles in standard position, determine if the sine,

cosine, and tangent ratios are positive or negative. Explain your answers.
a) q = 26°
b) q = 305°
c) q = 152°
d) q = 206°
Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned how the three primary trigonometric ratios (sine,
cosine, and tangent) could be used on the coordinate plane. As well, you
learned how to recognize angles in standard position. When angles are
in standard position and you are given a point on the terminal arm, you
learned how to draw the corresponding right triangle and calculate the three
trigonometric ratios related to that particular triangle. In the next lesson,
you will learn about reference angles and how to solve linear trigonometric
equations.

L e s s on 2: R ef er enc e A ng l e s a nd S olv ing
Tr ig o n o m e t r ic E q u at io n s i n
Linear Form
Lesson Focus

q learn how to determine the reference angle of an angle in
standard position
q learn how to determine which angles have the same reference
angle
q learn what quadrantal angles are and how to determine their trig
ratio values
q learn how to solve trigonometric equations in linear form
Lesson Introduction
In the last lesson, you learned how to recognize angles that were in standard
position. All angles in standard position have a reference angle. In fact, there
is a relationship among all angles having the same reference angle. In this
lesson, you will learn about the value of reference angles and how to find
them. You will also learn how to solve trigonometric equations in linear form,
which often appear in applications such as robotic arms, amusement park
rides, and global positioning systems (GPSs).
Reference Angles
Before you can determine the reference angle for a given angle in standard
position, you first have to draw the angle in standard position.
Sketch an Angle in Standard Position

Example 1
Sketch each angle in standard position. State the quadrant in which the
terminal arm of the angle lies.
a) 82°
b) 328°
c) 164°
d) 221°
Solution
In order to draw an angle in standard position, first determine in which
quadrant the angle lies. You can draw the angle by using a protractor or you
can sketch a reasonable approximation for the angle.
a) Since 0° < 82° < 90°, q = 82° lies in Quadrant I.
As 82° is very close to 90°, this angle will be very close to the positive
y-axis.
y

 = 82°

b) Since 270° < 328° < 360°, q lies in Quadrant IV.
As 328° is a little more than halfway from 270° to 360°, this angle will lie a
little bit more than halfway between the negative y-axis and the positive
x-axis.
y
 = 328°
x

c) Since 90° < 164° < 180°, q lies in Quadrant II.

164° is very close to 180°, and thus the terminal arm should lie close to the
negative x-axis.
y
 = 164°

d) Since 180° < 221° < 270°, q lies in Quadrant III.

221° is about halfway between 180° and 270°, and thus this angle should
lie halfway between the negative x-axis and the negative y-axis.
y
 = 221°
x

Determine the Reference Angle of an Angle in Standard Position
Let q be an angle in standard position. Its reference angle is the acute angle
formed between the terminal arm of q and the nearer portion of the x-axis.
The reference angle is denoted by qr and is always a positive acute angle. It
is important to learn how to find reference angles because the trigonometric
ratio values of all angles with the same reference angle are related.
In each of the following diagrams, the reference angle is 30°.
y y
 = r = 30°

r = 30°  = 150°
x
x
Quadrant III Quadrant IV

y y
 = 210°  = 330°
x r = 30° x
r = 30°

Can you determine how the reference angle (qr) is found in each quadrant?
In Quadrant I, any angle is acute so the angle of rotation, q, and the reference
angle, qr, are the same angle.
In Quadrant II, qr = 180° - q.
y
Reference

angle: r
In Quadrant III, qr = q - 180°.

y
Reference
angle: r
In Quadrant IV, qr = 360° - q.
y
Reference
angle: r
Example 2
Find the reference angle for the following.
a) 226°
b) 147°
c) 25°
d) 340°
Solution
a) The terminal arm of 226° lies in Quadrant III.
\ qr = q - 180° y
= 226° - 180°
= 46°
 = 226°
x
46°
r

b) The terminal arm of 147° lies in Quadrant II.
\ qr = 180° - q y
= 180° - 147°
= 33°
 = 147°
r
33°
x
c) The terminal arm of 25° is in Quadrant I, so it is already an acute angle.

Thus, qr = 25°.
d) The terminal arm of 340° is in Quadrant IV.
\ qr = 180° - q y
= 360° - 340°
= 20°
 = 340°
x

r = 20°
Determining Which Angles Have the Same Reference Angle
As you noticed, each reference angle has four corresponding angles of
rotation: one between 0° and 90°, one between 90° and 180°, one between 180°
and 270°, and one between 270° and 360°. Consider the following example.
Example 3
Determine the angles from 0° to 360° that have 20° as a reference angle.
Solution
In Quadrant I, the equation is: q = qr.
Thus, one angle of rotation that has 20° as a reference angle is 20°.
In Quadrant II, the equation is: qr = 180° - q.
If you substitute 20° in for qr, 20° = 180° - q
q = 180° - 20°
q = 160°
Thus, another angle that has 20° as a reference angle is 160°.
In Quadrant III, the equation is: qr = q - 180°.
If you substitute 20° in for qr, 20° = q - 180°
q = 20° + 180°
q = 200°
Thus, another angle that has 20° as a reference angle is 200°.
In Quadrant IV, the equation is: qr = 360° - q.
If you substitute 20° in for qr, 20° = 360° - q
q = 360° - 20°
q = 340°
Thus, the fourth angle between 0° and 360° that has 20° as a reference angle is
340°.
Rather than memorizing the equations given for each quadrant, it is a good
idea to draw a diagram of the angle of rotation or the reference angle and
determine how to find the desired angle using reasoning skills. Eventually,
you will be able to visualize the diagram in your mind and you won’t need to
draw it.
All of the angles you have just found are reflections in the x- and/or the y-axis
of the reference angle. Consider the following example.

Example 4
Determine the corresponding angle of rotation, q, in standard position, when
the reference angle of 30° is reflected
a) in the y-axis
b) in the x-axis
c) in the y-axis and then the x-axis
Solution
a) When you reflect an angle of 30° in the y-axis, the result is a reference
angle of 30° in Quadrant II. The measure of the angle in standard position
for Quadrant II is 180° - 30° = 150°.
y
original angle
reflected in the y-axis
r = 30° and  = 150°
 original angle

r = 30° 30°


b) When you reflect an angle of 30° in the x-axis, this will result in a
reference angle of 30° in Quadrant IV. The measure of the angle in
standard position for Quadrant IV is 360° - 30° = 330°.
y
original angle

30°
x

 r = 30°

original angle
reflected in the x-axis
r = 30° and  = 330°
c) When you reflect an angle of 30° in the y-axis and then the x-axis, this will
result in a reference angle of 30° in Quadrant III. The measure of the angle
in standard position for Quadrant III is 180° + 30° = 210°.
y
first reflection of the
original angle in the y-axis

30°
x

r = 30°
second reflection 
over the x-axis

r = 30° and  = 210°
For every angle between 90° and 360°, its reference angle is a reflection in the
x- and/or y- axis of its reference angle from the first quadrant.
Quadrantal Angles
Until now, we have defined angles to be in the four quadrants. Their
measures have been in the following intervals: (0°, 90°), (90°, 180°), (180°, 270°),
or (270°, 360°).
Sometimes the terminal arm of an angle coincides with the x- or y-axis. In
other words, the angle in standard position is exactly 0°, 90°, 180°, 270°, or 360°.
These angles are called quadrantal angles. A quadrantal angle has as its
initial arm as a ray from the origin along the positive x-axis and its terminal
arm along one of the axes. If measured in a counter-clockwise direction, it has
a positive value.
These angles are not in any quadrant. However, you can easily choose a point
on the axis and then determine the trigonometric ratios for each of these
quadrantal angles. In each of the following, assume x is positive and y is
positive.

An angle of 0°
y
 = 0°

P(x, 0) x
The initial side and the terminal side are the same. The measure of the angle
is 0°. Since a point P(x, y) is on the positive x-axis, then P has coordinates (x, 0)
and r = x 2 + 0 2 = x.
Now you can write the trigonometric ratios:

x -coordinate x
cos 0° = = =1
radius vector x
y -coordinate 0
sin 0° = = =0
radiuss vector x
y -coordinate 0
tan 0° = = =0
x -coordinate x
An angle of 90°
y
 P(0, y)
  = 90°
The terminal side lies along the positive y-axis. The measure of the angle is
90°. Since the point P(x, y) is on the positive y-axis, then P has coordinates
(0, y) and r = 0 2 + y 2 = y.
x -coordinate 0
cos 90° = = =0
radius vector y
y -coordinate y
sin 90° = = =1
radiius vector y
y -coordinate y
tan 90° = = = undefined since division by 0 is impossible
x -coordinate 0
An angle of 180°
y
 = 180°
P(x, 0)


x
The terminal side lies along the negative x-axis. The measure of the angle is
180°. Since the point P(x, y) is on the negative x-axis, then P has coordinates
2
(-x, 0) and r = (−x ) + 0 2 = − x = x.

x -coordinate −x
cos 180° = = = −1
radius vector x
y -coordinatee 0
sin 180° = = =0
radius vector x
y -coordinate 0
tan 180° = = =0
x -coordinate −x

An angle of 270°
y
 = 270°

x
 P(0, y)
The terminal side lies along the negative y-axis. The measure of the angle is
270°. Since the point P(x, y) is on the negative y-axis, then P has coordinates
2 2
(0, -y) and r = (0 ) + (−y ) = − y = y.

x -coordinate 0
cos 270° = = =0
radius vector y
y -coordinate −y
sin 270° = = = −1
raadius vector y
y -coordinate y
tan 270° = = = undefined since division by 0 is impossible
x -coordinate 0
An angle of 360°
y
 = 360°
x

P(0, y)
You have already considered this case because the terminal side of an angle of
360° coincides with the positive x-axis. The trigonometric ratios for 360° will
be the same as the trigonometric ratios for an angle of 0°.
Summary
q cos q sin q tan q
0° 1 0 0
90° 0 1 undefined
180° -1 0 0
270° 0 -1 undefined
360° 1 0 0
An easy way to remember all these values of the trigonometric ratios for the
quadrantal angles of q uses the (x, y) coordinates of points on a circle with
radius 1, called the unit circle. This concept will be developed further in
Grade 12 pre-calculus.
(0, 1) Since r = 1, the ratios become
x x
 cos θ = = = x -coordinate
90° r 1
y y
sin θ = = = y -coordinate
(1, 0)  180° 0°  (1, 0) r 1
y y -coo
ordinate
270° tan θ = =
x x -coordinate

(0, 1)
For example:
cos 90° = 0, since that is the x-coordinate of (0, 1)
sin 270° = -1, since that is the y-coordinate of (0, -1)
y -coordinate
tan 180° = 0, since that is the of (-1, 0)
x -coordinate
Challenge yourself and see if you can write down, from memory, all of the
trigonometric ratio values in the table using the coordinates on the x- and
y-axes of the unit circle.

Solving Linear Trigonometric Equations
To solve a trigonometric equation means to determine the values of the
unknown angle that satisfy the equation. In other words, q is the variable you
need to isolate.
To solve trigonometric equations where the angles are between 0° and 360°,
reference angles are used.
You have developed the following formulas for finding the reference angle for
any angle, q.
In Quadrant I qr = q
In Quadrant II qr = 180° - q
In Quadrant III qr = q - 180°
In Quadrant IV qr = 360° - q
Now, you can rearrange these formulas and solve for q. This is similar to what
you did in Example 3.
In Quadrant I q = qr
In Quadrant II q = 180° - qr
In Quadrant III q = 180° + qr
In Quadrant IV q = 360° - qr
It is best if you do not try to memorize these formulas. Instead, draw a
triangle diagram in a quadrant and use reasoning to determine how q and qr
are related in each quadrant.
The following diagram summarizes the CAST rule and the relationship
between q and qr in the four quadrants.
y
S A
 = 180°  r  = r


r

r
r r x

 = 180° + r  = 360°  r
T C
Your calculator has limitations when it comes to solving trigonometric
equations. Use your calculator to find the following values that all have a
reference angle of 30°:
cos 30° = 0.8660
cos 150° = -0.8660
cos 210° = -0.8660
cos 330° = -0.8660
You probably noticed that the number is the same for each cos q value when
qr = 30°, but the sign depends on the quadrant for q.
Use your calculator to find all these trigonometric ratios for angles of rotation
having a reference angle of 40°:
sin 40° = 0.6427
sin 140° = 0.6427
sin 220° = -0.6427
sin 320° = -0.6427
Again, the sin q values are all the same but signs depend on the quadrant
for q.
The limitations of your calculator show up when you try to find q when given
the value of a trigonometric ratio. This is what is required when you solve a
trigonometric equation.
For example, use your calculator to find q given sin q = 0.6427.
q = sin-1(0.6427)
q = 39.99°
You know from the work above that there should be two answers for q
between 0° and 360° but your calculator only gave you one. The other q value
should be very near 140°.
Now try solving cos q = -0.8660 to find all values of q between 0° and 360°.
q = cos-1(-0.8660)
q = 150.00°
Again, the calculator only found one of the two possible answers. The other
answer should be very close to 210°.
You will use your knowledge of reference angles to find all possible values of
q between 0° and 360°.

Your calculator can find the reference angle, qr, when given a trigonometric
ratio. You will use the inverse trigonometric function to find q and always use
the corresponding positive trigonometric ratio value, if it is given as negative,
since the reference angle is an acute angle equivalent to q in Quadrant I.
That is, given sin q = 0.6427
qr = sin-1(0.6427)
qr = 39.99°
Now find the angles of rotation with that reference angle in Quadrants I and
II where sin q > 0.
Also, given cos q = -0.8660
qr = cos-1(0.8660) (notice the positive ratio is used)
qr = 30.00°
Now find the angles of rotation with that reference angle in Quadrants II and
III where cos q < 0.
Example 5
Use your calculator to solve for q if 2 sin q - 1 = 0 and q lies in the interval
[0°, 360°].
Solution
2 sin θ − 1 = 0
2 sin θ = 1
1
sin θ =
2
Now use your calculator to find the reference angle, qr.

1
sin θ r =
2
To isolate q, find inverse sin of both sides of the equation.

1
θ r = sin−1  
2
θ r = 30°
Now find q.
1
Since sin θ = , then sin q > 0 and q must be in Quadrants I or II.
2
S3 A3
T C
y y
r = 30° r = 30° 



x x
q = qr q = 180° - qr
\ q = 30° q = 180° - 30°
q = 150°
The solutions are q = 30°, 150°.
Example 6
Solve for q if 2 tan q + 5 = 0. Round to the nearest degree.
Solution
2 tan θ + 5 = 0
2 tan θ = −5
−5
tan θ =
2
5 Ignore the negative sign since the
θ r = tan−1 
2 reference angle is the same as q in
Quadrant I.
θ r = 68°

−5
Since tan θ = , then tan q < 0. This occurs in Quadrants II and IV.
2
S3 A
T C3
Quadrant II Quadrant IV
y y
r = 68° 
 

x x


r = 68°
q = 180 - qr q = 360° - qr
q = 180° - 68° q = 360° - 68°
q = 112° q = 292°
The solutions are q = 112°, 292°.
Steps for solving linear trigonometric equations:

1. Rearrange the equation to isolate the trigonometric function.
2. Solve for the reference angle using the appropriate inverse trigonometric
function (and a positive trigonometric ratio).
3. Determine in which quadrants the solutions for q will lie, depending upon
the sign of the trigonometric function (or use the CAST rule).
4. Solve for q using the reference angle relationships in the quadrants.
Part A: BrainPower
1. Gwen planted 120 seeds of green beans. If one-quarter of the beans did
not grow, how many beans did grow?
2. The minute hand of a clock starts at 12 and travels 60% of the way around
the clock. How many degrees from the 12 has the minute hand travelled?
4 5
3. Calculate: +
3 7
4. The two legs of a right-angled triangle measure 3 cm and 4 cm. What is
the measure of the hypotenuse?
5. If you do homework for half an hour every night from Monday to Friday,
as well as 45 minutes on both Saturday and Sunday, how many hours of
homework do you do in a week?
not simplify.
8.7 10.2
5.4

continued

Part B: Reference Angles and Solving Trigonometric Equations in
Linear Form
1. In which quadrant does the terminal arm of each angle lie?
a) 67°
b) 340°
c) 241°
d) 123°
2. Without measuring, match each angle to its corresponding graph.
a) 140°
b) 267°
c) 316°
d) 17°
i) y ii) y



x  x
iii) y iv) y



x 
x
continued
3. Sketch each angle in standard position and find its reference angle. Write
the measure of the reference angle.
a) 98°
b) 120°
c) 352°
d) 263°
4. Determine the measure of the 3 other angles in standard position that
have the same reference angle as 58°.
5. Determine the angle in standard position when an angle of 65° is reflected
a) in the y-axis. Draw the diagram.
b) in the x-axis. Draw the diagram.
c) in the y-axis and then the x-axis. Draw the diagram.
6. Determine the solution set for each of the following trigonometric
equations over the interval [0°, 360°]. Round to one decimal place if
necessary.
2
a) cos θ = − g) 5 cos θ − 2 = 0
3
b) sin θ + 1 = 0 h) 5 tan θ + 4 = 0
tan θ
c) tan θ − 2 = 5 i) −1= 0
6
1
d) 2 cos θ = 2 j) 2 cos θ + 1 =
2
e) −3 sin θ = 2 k) 4 tan θ − 7 = 5 tan θ − 6
tan θ
f) =5
2
Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you continued to learn about the three primary trigonometric
ratios. You learned how to find the reference angle for a given angle, as well
as how to determine which angles have the same reference angle. Using this
knowledge, you were able to solve trigonometric equations. In the next lesson,
you will look at trigonometric ratios again and try to find patterns among
them. Before moving onto the next lesson, complete the assignment that
follows.

Assignment 7.1
Trigonometric Ratios, Reference Angles, and Trigonometric

Equations
Total: 58 marks
1. P(x, y) is a point on the terminal side of angle q in standard position. Determine
sin q, cos q, and tan q for the following points. Draw a sketch. Show your work.
Rationalize any denominators. (5 marks each, for a total of 20 marks)
a) (1, 3)
b) (5, -7)
continued
Trigonometric Equations (continued)
c) (-3, 14)
d) (-7, -4)
continued

2. Without using a calculator, determine whether each value should be positive or
negative. Explain. (1 mark each, for a total of 4 marks)
a) cos 113°
b) sin 265°
c) tan 179°
d) sin 81°
3. Given the following angles in standard position, determine in which quadrant the
terminal arm of each angle lies. Determine if the sine, cosine, and tangent ratios are
positive or negative. Explain your answers. (2 marks each, for a total of 8 marks)
a) q = 96°
b) q = 73°
c) q = 194°
d) q = 303°
continued
4. Sketch each angle in standard position and find its reference angle. Write the
measure of the reference angle. (2 marks each, for a total of 8 marks)
a) 108°
b) 76°
continued

c) 346°
d) 191°
continued
5. Determine the measure of the 3 other angles in standard position that have the same
reference angle as 75°. (3 marks)
6. Determine the corresponding angle, q, in standard position when the reference angle
of 15° is reflected in each of the following. Include a diagram in your solution.
(1 mark each, for a total of 3 marks)
a) In the y-axis
continued

b) In the x-axis
c) In the y-axis and then the x-axis.
continued
7. Determine the solution for each of the following trigonometric equations over the
interval [0°, 360°]. Round to one decimal place. (2 marks each, for a total of 12 marks)
−4
a) cos θ =
7
b) sin q - 1 = 0
c) tan q + 2 = 3
continued

d) 5 cos q = 2
e) 7 sin q = -1
tan θ
f) = −2
3
Notes

L e s s on 3: Pat t er n s in t he Sine, C o sine,
a n d Ta n g e n t R at i o s
Lesson Focus

q learn how to determine the exact values of any angle with
reference angles of 30°, 45°, and 60°
q learn about the relationship among the coordinates of the points
P(x, y), P(-x, y), P(-x, -y), and P(x, -y)
q learn how to solve application problems involving trigonometric
ratios in right triangles
Lesson Introduction
In Lessons 1 and 2, you learned how to determine the sine, cosine, and
tangent ratios at a given point in any of the four quadrants. You noticed some
patterns between the ratios and their signs. In this lesson, you will begin to
discover more patterns among the sine, cosine, and tangent ratios.
Special Right Triangles
For some angles between 0° and 360°, it is possible to find the exact values of
the trigonometric ratios. An exact value is an answer that does not contain
rounded off decimal values. Instead, the answer may contain radicals, which
are exact value representations of infinite non-repeating decimals (irrational
numbers). Consider the following example.
Example 1
Sketch a triangle situated in Quadrant I for the following lengths of x, y, and
r. Recall that the value of r is the measure of the hypotenuse or the distance
from the origin to the point P(x, y), and x2 + y2 = r2. Find the measure of the
missing side length of the triangle.
a) x = 1, y = 1
b) x = 1, r = 2
c) y = 1, r = 2
Solution
a) x = 1, y = 1
y
r = x2 + y2
r = 1+1
1
r= 2
2 1
r=


1 1 x

What is the value of q for this special right triangle? You may have
recognized that the triangle is isosceles so the two angles must be equal.
The angles of the triangles are 45°, 45°, and 90°. Therefore, q = 45°.
b) x = 1, r = 2
One way to sketch the triangle is to find the approximate value of 3.
Note the difference between “sketching” the length of 3 and writing an
“exact” value for 3.
y
y2 = r 2 − x2
y = r 2 − x2
y = 4−1
1
y= 3
2 y = 3


1 1 x

What is the value of q for this special right triangle? This is easier to
determine if you think of reflecting the triangle over its vertical side with
length of 3.
y
1
2 2

1 1 x

Now you may recognize that the new large triangle is equilateral with all
sides that have a length of 2. Therefore, q = 60°.
c) y = 1, r = 2
y
x2 = r 2 − y 2
x = r2 − y2
1 x = 4−1
2
x= 3
1


x = 3 2 x

What is the value of q for this special right triangle? This is easier to
determine if you think of creating an equilateral triangle by reflecting the
triangle over the x-axis.
y
2
1

x
2 1

Now you may recognize that the value of q is half of one angle of the
equilateral triangle. Therefore, q = 30°.
Now that you have drawn the triangles and determined the missing side
lengths, it is possible to find the correct values of the trigonometric ratios for
each angle without using your calculator! Consider the following example.
Example 2
Using the diagrams from Example 1, and q in standard position, find the
exact values of trigonometric ratios for q = 45°, 60°, and 30°.
x
a)  y
1, 1, r  2
x
b)  y
1, 3, r  2
c)
 x 3, y
 1, r  2
Solution
a) From Example 1 (a) above,
x 1 2
cos 45° = = =
r 2 2
y 1 2
sin 45° = = =
r 2 2
y 1
tan 45° = = =1
x 1
Use your calculator to compare the values of cos 45°, sin 45°, and tan 45° to
the exact values you found using the triangles.

b) From the Example 1 (b) above,
x 1
cos 60° = =
r 2
y 3
sin 60° = =
r 2
y 3
tan 60° = = = 3
x 1
c) From the Example 1 (c) above,
x 3
cos 30° = =
r 2
y 1
sin 30° = =
r 2
y 1 3
tan 30° = = =
x 3 3
As you can see, it is possible to connect the exact values for the trigonometric
ratios to angles 30°, 45°, and 60°. This information can be summarized using
the following chart.
q cos q sin q tan q
3 1 1
30°
2 2 3
1 2 1 2
45° or or 1
2 2 2 2
1 3
60° 3
2 2
To help you find the exact values for any angles in standard position with
a reference angle of 30°, 45°, and 60°, remember the side lengths of the three
special right triangles.
y y y
2
2 1 3
2 1
45° 60° 30°
1 x 1 x 3 x
Can you write all the values in the table above using only these three
triangles?
You may want to add information about the three special right triangles to
your resource sheet. It is expected that you will remember the triangle side
lengths so you can determine exact trigonometric values for q = 30°, 45°, and
60° and their related angles without your calculator.
Example 3
a) Which angles in the interval [0°, 360°] have a reference angle of:
i) 30°?
ii) 45°?
iii) 60°?
b) Do you think it is possible to find exact trigonometric ratios for each of
these special angles?
Solution
a) i) qr = 30°
In Quadrant II: q = 180° - qr
q = 180° - 30°
q = 150°
In Quadrant III: q = 180° + qr
q = 180° + 30°
q = 210°
In Quadrant IV: q = 360° - qr
q = 360° - 30°
q = 330°

ii) qr = 45°
In Quadrant II: q = 180° - 45° = 135°
In Quadrant III: q = 180° + 45° = 225°
In Quadrant IV: q = 360° - 45° = 315°
iii) qr = 60°
In Quadrant II: q = 180° - 60° = 120°
In Quadrant III: q = 180° + 60° = 240°
In Quadrant IV: q = 360° - 60° = 300°
Summary
The “families” of special angles that are related by their reference angles
are:
i) 30°, 150°, 210°, 330°
ii) 45°, 135°, 225°, 315°
iii) 60°, 120°, 240°, 300°
b) Yes, it is possible to find exact trigonometric ratios for these special angles
as well. This is because the value of the ratio stays the same in each
quadrant. The only aspect that changes is the sign of the ratio. This is the
same concept that you used in the last lesson.
Consider the following example as it relates to the previous three examples.
Example 4
Draw the following angles in standard position. Label x, y, and r on the
corresponding triangle with exact values. Then, complete the following chart
for each trigonometric ratio.
a) 120°
b) 135°
c) 150°
q qr cos q sin q tan q
(a) 120°
(b) 135°
(c) 150°
Solution
a) y
2
r=2
y = 3
  = 120°
r = 60°

x = 1 x
As 120° has 60° as its reference angle, this triangle will have the same
side lengths as the triangle drawn in Quadrant I that had an angle of 60°
except for the sign of x.
b) y
r=
2
y=1
  = 135°
r = 45°

x = 1 x
As 135° has 45° as its reference angle, this triangle will have the same
side lengths as the triangle drawn in Quadrant I that had an angle of 45°
except for the sign of x.

c) y
r=
y=1 2
  = 150°
r = 30°

x = 3 x
As 150° has 30° as its reference angle, this triangle will have the same side
lengths to the triangle drawn in Quadrant I that had an angle of 30° except
for the sign of x.
Recall: In Quadrant II, sine is positive while cosine and tangent are negative.
As you can see on the diagrams you have drawn, this is because the cosine
and tangent ratios contain the variable x.

1 3
(a) 120° 60° - - 3
2 2
1 2 1 2
(b) 135° 45° - or - or –1
2 2 2 2
3 1 1
(c) 150° 30° - -
2 2 3
If you compare this chart to the chart you completed in Example 2, you will
notice that the ratios stayed the same as those of the reference angles, except
for their signs. This is one of the many patterns that can be found in the
trigonometric ratios.
P(x, y), P(–x, y), P(–x, –y), and P(x, –y)
If you are given a point P(x, y), you can determine the three other points that
have the same reference angle as the point P(x, y).
Example 5
Determine the points on the terminal sides of the angles in standard position
that have the same reference angle as the point P(3, 5).
Solution
The point P(3, 5) is in Quadrant I. y
The angle, q, and its reference angle,
qr, are equal. The corresponding right
triangle is shown.  P(3, 5)
In the next diagram, an equivalent

triangle is drawn in each of the y=5
other three quadrants, showing the
corresponding x- and y-coordinates. 

x=3 x
P(3, 5)   P(3, 5)

r r

x

r r

P(3, 5)   P(3, 5)

Application Problems of Trigonometric Ratios
In Grade 10 Introduction to Applied and Pre-Calculus Mathematics, you studied
right triangle trigonometry and some of its uses. Trigonometric ratios in the
coordinate plane have many similar applications. Consider the following
example.
Example 6
Determine the exact vertical distance the tip of the hour hand on a clock must
travel between 9:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. if its length is 10 cm.
Solution
First, you need to sketch a diagram to figure out what values you have and
what values you need to find.
12
11
10
r r
y y
 10 cm
9 x 

x
From the diagram, you can see that you are looking for the y-value. To find
this distance, you first have to realize the hour hand travels clockwise and
sweeps out at an angle of 30° every hour. This is because one complete
revolution is 360° and there are 12 hours on the clock; 360° ¸ 12° = 30°.
In order to find the vertical distance the hour hand travels, you need to
find the y-value. You know the angle and you know the r-value. The y- and
r-values both appear in the sine ratio. Thus, you can use the sine ratio to
determine the y-value.
y
sin θ =
r
y
sin 30° = q is 30°
10
y = 10 sin 30°
1 30° is one of the angles in the special triangles for
y = 10 
2 which you can find an exact sine value without a
calculator.
y=5
The total vertical distance the hour hand travels is 5 cm.
Part A: BrainPower
1. Jason had 37 hits in 45 times at bat during a baseball season. Sherri had
12 hits in 15 times at bat. Who is the better hitter?
2. Factor: x2 + 5x - 6
1
3. Evaluate: (6 2 ) 2
4. In which quadrants is sin q > 0?

5. Find the sum of 12 382 and 14 593.
6. Simplify: (-3x2 - 6x + 7) + (2x2 - 5x)
Part B: Patterns in the Sine, Cosine, and Tangent Ratios
1. Determine the angles in Quadrants III and IV that have 30°, 45°, and 60° as
reference angles.
continued

2. Fill in the following chart with the exact values for sine, cosine, and
tangent. Use the trigonometric ratio for the corresponding reference angle
and attach a negative sign appropriately. Try to draw the special triangles
from memory and determine the exact values for the trigonometric ratios
using the appropriate special triangle.
180°
210°
225°
240°
270°
300°
315°
330°
360°
continued
3. Complete the table below. List the sine, cosine, and tangent ratios for q. Use
your calculator and round to four decimal places.
Angle cos q sin q tan q

0°
15°
30°
45°
60°
75°
90°
a) What do you notice about the three ratios as the angle increases?
b) What do you notice about the sine and cosine ratios for each angle?
c) Determine the signs of the ratios in Quadrant II.
4. Determine the coordinates of the points on the terminal arm of the angles
having 30° as a reference angle if r = 4. Write exact values. 0° £ q £ 360°
5. A backhoe operator is digging a basement for a
new house. To do this, on the first day he starts at
the far end of the hole at angle of 349° and digs dirt
backwards to end at an angle of 201°. If the length
of the arm of the backhoe is 3 metres, what is the
horizontal length of the hole that the backhoe
operator is digging? Round your answer to 3 decimal places.
y y
201°
349°
 x  x
  



initial position final position

3 metres

Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you discovered patterns among the sine, cosine, and tangent
ratios. You discovered that the sign of the tangent ratio depended on the
sign of the sine and cosine ratios. You also discovered trigonometric ratios
of angles having the same related angle. Using your knowledge of the
trigonometric ratios, you also solved application problems involving these
ratios. In the next lesson, you will learn how to solve non-right triangles by
using the Sine Law.
Notes

L e s s o n 4: Th e S i n e L aw
Lesson Focus

q learn how to use the Sine Law to solve oblique triangles when
you are given the measure of two angles and one side of the
triangle
q learn how to use the Sine Law to solve oblique triangles when
you are given the measure of two sides, and one angle opposite
one of the sides
q learn how to prove the Sine Law
Lesson Introduction
In Lessons 1 to 3, you used the definitions of the trigonometric ratios to find

formulas for the sine, cosine, and tangent ratios of angles in standard position.
All of the triangles included right angles. Triangles that have no right angles
are called oblique triangles. In this lesson, you will learn how to solve
oblique triangles when you are given two angles and one side of a triangle
using the Sine Law. As well, you will also learn how to solve oblique triangles
when you are given two sides and an angle opposite one of the sides.
Labelling Triangles
As standard notation, we label the angles of a triangle with capital letters, A,

B, and C, and their opposite sides with lower-case letters, a, b, and c, as shown
in the diagram.
B
c a
A C
b
A triangle has six parts: three sides and three angles. To solve an oblique
triangle, you need to know the measure of at least one side and any two other
parts of the triangle. To solve a triangle means to find the measures of all
three of the other missing parts.
The Sine Law can be used to solve the triangles if you are given a side and the
angle opposite that side.
The Sine Law
The Sine Law is stated in the form:

a b c
 
sin A sin B sin C

As you can see from the formula, each ratio has a matching pair, a side and its
opposite angle. When you are using this formula, you will only use two ratios
at a time. You will never use all three ratios at once. The formula is simply
showing that the ratio between any side and the sine of its opposite angle is
the same regardless of which side and opposite angle are used.
When solving triangles, a careful sketch is useful as a quick test for the
reliability of an answer. When using a calculator, do not round off until you
have reached the end of all calculations. Try to show as many steps as you
can before having to use your calculator.
Remember that the longest side is opposite the largest angle and the shortest
side is opposite the smallest angle of the triangle.
Example 1
Given DABC with ÐA = 38.3°, ÐB = 28.2°, and b = 38 cm, find the remaining
angle and sides. Round to 2 decimal places.
Solution
The given information for this oblique triangle includes an angle and its
opposite side (that is, angle B and side b). You can use the Sine Law.
C
b = 38 cm a
38.3° 28.2°
A B
c
ÐC = 180° - (ÐA + ÐB)

ÐC = 180° - (38.3° + 28.2°)
ÐC = 113.5°

Solving for a:
a b
=
sin A sin B
a 38
=
sin 38.3° sin 28.2°
38
a= × sin 38.3° Multiply both sides by sin 38.3°.
sin 28.2°
a = 49.844 cm
Solving for c:
c b
=
sin C sin B
c 38
=
sin 113.5° sin 28.2°
38
c= × sin 113.5°
sin 28.2°
c = 73..75 cm
The measure of the remaining angle is 113.5° and sides a and c are 49.84 cm
and 73.75 cm, respectively.
Example 2
Given DABC with ÐB = 27.5°, ÐC = 54.4°, and a = 9.25 m, find the remaining
angle and sides. Round the measures of the sides to two decimal places and
the angle to one decimal place.
Solution
You do not know both a side and its opposite angle so it may appear that you
cannot use the Sine Law. However, it is possible to find angle A and you are
given the value of its opposite side, a.
ÐA = 180° - (27.5° + 54.4°)
A
= 98.1°
c b
27.5° 54.4°
B C
a = 9.25 m
Using the Sine Law and solving for b:
a b
=
sin A sin B
9.25 b
=
sin 98.1° sin 27.5°
9.25 sin 27.5°
b=
sin 98.1°
b = 4..31 m
Solving for c:
a c
=
sin A sin C
9.25 c
=
sin 98.1° sin 54.4°
9.25 sin 54.4°
c=
sin 98.1°
c = 7..60 m
Example 3
Solve acute-angled DABC by finding the measure of the other two angles of
DABC and the missing side length, given the diagram below. Round to one
decimal place.
A B
58°
8 7
Solution
As you are given the measure of an angle that is opposite one of the given
side lengths, you can use the Sine Law to solve this triangle.

a b
=
sin A sin B
7 8
=
sin A sin 58°
7 sin 58° = 8 sin A
(7 ) (sin 58° )
sin A =
8
 7 sin 58° 
∠A r = sin−1 
 8 
∠A r = 47.9°
Since you are given that DABC is acute-angled, then you don’t need to find
the measure of the obtuse angle for ÐA.
\ ÐA = 47.9°
ÐC = 180° - (ÐA + ÐB)
ÐC = 180° - (47.9° + 58°)
ÐC = 74.1°
To find the missing side c, use Sine Law again, using ÐC.
b c
=
sin B sin C
8 c
=
sin 58° sin 74.1°
8 sin 74.1°
c=
sin 58°
c = 9.1
The missing values are:

ÐA = 47.9°
ÐC = 74.1°
c = 9.1
Example 4
Two cabins are located on the same side of a river at its edge. The cabins
are 500 m apart. A boathouse, also at the edge of this river, is located on the
opposite side of the river. Use the illustration below to find the width of the
river to the nearest metre.
Boathouse

River
65° 30°
 
Cabin A 500 m Cabin B
Solution
C

65° 30°
 
A D 500 m B
You need to find the distance CD. You can find ÐACB and then use the Sine
Law as part of your solution.
ÐACB = 180° - (65° + 30°) = 85°
AC 500
In DACB: =
sin 30° sin 85°
500 sin 30°
AC =
sin 85°
AC = 250.954 959 4
Now use right triangle ACD to find CD.

CD
sin 65° =
AC
CD = AC sin 65°
CD = 250.954 959 4 sin 65°
CD = 227.442 433 9
The river is 227 m wide.

Proof of the Sine Law
You can prove the Sine Law by using the area of DABC with height, h.
C
b a
h
A B
D
c
In right DACD,
opposite h
sin A
 
hypotenuse b
Thus , h  b sin A.
In right DBCD,
opposite h
sin B 
hypotenuse a
Thus , h  a sin B.
Since the same variable, h, is defined in two different ways,

h = b sin A and h = a sin B
then we can write:
b sin A = a sin B.
Now make an equivalent equation by dividing both sides by (sin A)(sin B).
b sin A a sin B
=
(sin A )(sin B) (sin A )(sin B)
b a
=
sin B sin A
If you use either AC or BC to be the base instead, then you will get the third
c
ratio, , as shown below.
sin C
Using AC as the base, you can drawn an altitude perpendicular to AC
through B. You will find there are two equivalent expressions for this altitude:
h2 = a sin C
h2 = c sin A
Therefore, a sin C = c sin A.
a sin C c sin A

sin A sin C sin A sin C
a c

sin A sin C
Thus, all three rations are equivalent:

a b c
 
sin A sin B sin C
and the Sine Law has been shown to be true.

To complete the proof of the Sine Law in the following learning activity that
follows (question 5), you will be asked to explain the steps in the proof.
Remember: To use the Sine Law, you must know at least one side and the
a b c
angle opposite that side. That is, in the formula,   ,
sin A sin B sin C
one of the ratios must be complete.

Part A: BrainPower
22
1. You received on a math test. What was your percentage?
25
2. Find the common difference in the following pattern: 8, 2, -4, -10, . . .
3. In which quadrants is tan > 0?
4. What is the price of one box of Kleenex if 8 boxes of Kleenex cost $16.64?
5. The side lengths of a right-angled triangle are 15, 17, and 8. Which side
length is the hypotenuse?
3
6. Simplify: 3 + 3
32
2
continued
Part B: The Sine Law
1. Solve the following triangles for all missing sides and angles. Round to
2 decimal places.
a) In ∆ABC, ÐA = 67°, ÐB = 73°, and b = 42.
b) In ∆ABC, ÐA = 150°, a = 200, and ÐC = 20°.
2. A lighthouse is visible to two sailboats 310 m apart. Use the angle
measures shown to find the distance of each sailboat from the lighthouse.
Round to two decimal places.
C

100° 30°
A B
310 m
3. A kite is spotted simultaneously by two observers at points A and B, 3 km

apart. The angles of elevation of the kite from A and B are 25° and 75°,
respectively. How high above the ground to the nearest tenth is the kite
if the kite is in the same vertical plane as A and B and if the point on the
ground directly below the kite is:
a) between A and B? (Include a diagram.)
b) not between A and B? (Include a diagram.)
4. To calculate the width of the Assiniboine River south of the Legislative
Building, a surveyor marks a baseline, AB, 200 m in length along the
north riverbank. From each end of the baseline, an apartment, C, is sighted
on the south bank of the river, making angles of 40° and 20° with the
baseline. How wide is the river? Round to the nearest hundredth.
continued

5. Explain the steps in the given proof of the Sine Law.
a) h1 b
sin A and h1 a sin B
b) b sin A  a sin B
b a
c) 
sin B sin A
d) h2  a sin C and h2  c sin A
e) a sin C  c sin A
a c
f) 
sin A sin C
a b c
g)  
sin A sin B sin C
Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned how to find the missing sides and angles of a
triangle using the Sine Law when you were given at least one side and the
angle opposite that side. You also saw how the Sine Law could be used in
application problems involving triangles. In the next lesson, you will be
learning about the Cosine Law. The Cosine Law will help you solve triangles
for their missing angles and sides where the Sine Law does not apply.
Notes

Assignment 7.2
Patterns in Trigonometric Ratios and the Sine Law
Total: 25 marks
1. Determine the coordinates of the points on the terminal arm of all angles that have
qr = 25° as a reference angle if the distance from the point to the origin is 16. Round
to two decimal places. Sketch a diagram. (5 marks)
continued
(continued)
2. Determine the exact vertical distance the hour hand on a clock must travel between
3 p.m. and 5 p.m. if the radius of the clock is 12 cm. (5 marks)
12
x
 3
y
12
4
cm
5
6

continued

(continued)
3. Solve the following triangles for all missing sides and angles. Round to 2 decimal
places. (5 marks each, for a total of 10 marks)
a) In DABC, ÐA = 54°, ÐB = 38°, and a = 21.
b) In DABC, ÐB = 78°, b = 37, and ÐC = 54°.
continued
(continued)
4. Fire ranger Jamal is 20 km due west of fire ranger Raj. They spot a fire and report the
sightings as follows:
Jamal reports that the fire is N 47° E of his station.
Raj reports that the fire is N 20° W of his station.
Fire

North North

20°

47°
West   East
Jamal’s 20 km Raj’s
Station Station

a) How far is the fire from Jamal’s station? Round to the nearest tenth. (2.5 marks)
continued

(continued)
b) What is the shortest distance from the fire to the east-west highway joining
Jamal’s and Raj’s stations? Round to the nearest tenth. (2.5 marks)

Notes

L e s s o n 5: Th e C o s i n e L aw
Lesson Focus

q learn how to use the Cosine Law to find the length of a side of
a triangle when you are given the measure of two sides and the
angle between these sides
q learn how to use the Cosine Law to find the measure of any angle
of a triangle when you are given the measure of each of the three
sides of the triangle
Lesson Introduction
In the last lesson, you learned how to solve triangles using the Sine Law. You
learned that you could use the Sine Law when you were given at least one
side and the angle opposite that side. The Cosine Law is helpful in solving
triangles when you are not given that information about the triangle. Thus,
the Cosine Law can help you solve triangles where the Sine Law cannot.
The Cosine Law
If you are given three sides or two sides and the included angle between the
two sides, then only one part of each ratio included in the Sine Law would be
known. You would not know both a side and its opposite angle. Therefore,
you cannot rely on the Sine Law to solve these two cases. Instead, you need
the Cosine Law. The proof of the Cosine Law is shown in Learning Activity
7.5, Question 7.
The Cosine Law can be stated in the following way:
a2 = b2 + c2 - 2bc cos A
If ÐA = 90°, then cos 90° = 0 and the expression becomes 2bc cos 90° is zero.
Notice that the first part of the formula resembles the Pythagorean theorem.
The last part, 2bc cos A, calculates an adjustment when ÐA ¹ 90°.
The placing of the letters for triangle ABC are somewhat arbitrary. The
formula could be written as:
c2 = a2 + b2 - 2ab cos C
or
b2 = a2 + c2 - 2ac cos B
It is important that the side opposite to the angle in the Cosine Law is the side
on the LHS of the equal sign.
Include this formula on your resource sheet. You will practice using this
formula in Example 1.
Example 1
In DABC, AC = 12, AB = 8, ÐA = 95°. Find the length of BC rounded to two
decimal places.
Solution
B
a
c=8
95°
A C
b = 12
From the diagram, you can see there is no matching pair of a side and its
opposite angle. Thus, cannot use the Sine Law but you can use the Cosine
Law to find the side.
a2 = b 2 + c 2 − 2 bc cos A
a2 = 12 2 + 82 − 2 (12 )(8) cos 95°
a2 = 224.733 902 6
a2 = 224.733 902 6
a = 14.99
Notice that the Cosine Law was used to find the side opposite the given angle
of 95°.

Example 2
Given three sides of DABC to be a = 5, b = 6, and c = 8, find the three angles of
the triangle. Round to the nearest degree.
Solution:
C
b=6 a=5
A B
c=8
Although it doesn’t matter which angle you find first, solving for the largest
may give you more information. Thus, solve for ÐC first. You will need to use
the Cosine Law for angles.
To find angle C opposite the side of length 8, write:
82 = 62 + 52 = 2(6)(5) cos C
Now carefully use algebra skills to solve for cos C:
82 − 6 2 − 52 − 2 (6 )( 5) cos C
3 = −60 cos C
3
= cos C
−60
−0.05 = cos C
C = cos−1 (−0.05)
C = 92.9°
Before continuing, notice cos C is negative, which means it is a Quadrant II

angle so must be obtuse. Do not make the mistake of changing the cos inverse
argument to a positive value as you did when finding a reference angle for an
angle of rotation.
The side on the LHS of the Cosine Law must be the side opposite the angle
used in the Cosine Law.
To find angle A opposite the smallest side of length 5, write:
52 = 82 + 62 - 2(8)(6) cos A
Use algebra to solve for cos A:
52 − 82 − 6 2 = −2 (8)(6 ) cos A
−75 = −96 cos A
+0.78125 = cos A
A = cos−1 (0.78125)
A = 38.6°
Note that cos A > 0 so ÐA is acute.

Solving for ÐB:
ÐB = 180° - ÐA - ÐC
ÐB = 180° - 38.6° - 92.9°
ÐB = 48.5°
Thus, the three angles of DABC are ÐA = 38.6°, ÐB = 48.5°, and ÐC = 92.9°.
The formula for the Cosine Law can be rearranged using your algebra skills
when you are solving for an angle.
a2 = b 2 + c 2 − 2 bc cos A
a2 + 2 bc cos A = b 2 + c 2 Add 2bc cos A to both sides.
2 bc cos A = b 2 + c 2 − a 2 Subtract a2 from both sides.
b 2 + c 2 − a2 Divide both sides by 2bc.

cos A =
2 bc
Now let’s try more complicated examples.

Example 3
Find the length of x in the diagram. Round to two decimal places.
B
70°
6 cm
10 cm
C
y 6 cm
140°
A x D
Solution
In DABC, you do not have a matching pair of a side and its opposite angle.
Thus, use the Cosine Law for sides to find y.
y 2 = 6 2 + 10 2 − 2 (6 )(10 ) (cos 70° )
y 2 = 94.957 582 8
y 2 = 94.957 582 8
y = 9.744 618 145
Now use the value of y to solve for x in DACD. Since there is no matching pair
of a side and its opposite angle, use the Cosine Law for sides.
C
9.744 618 145 140° 6 cm
A x D
x 2 = 9.744 618 1452 + 6 2 − 2 (9.744 618 145) (6 ) (cos 140° )
x 2 = 220.535 309 8
x = 14.850 431 3
The length of x is 14.85 cm.
Example 4
An electric transmission line is planned to go directly over a pond. The power
line will be supported by posts at points A and B. A surveyor measures the
distance from B to point C as 580 m, the distance from A to point C as 337 m,
and ÐBCA as 105°. What is the distance in metres from post A to post B
rounded to the nearest hundredth?
Solution
C
105°
b = 337 m
a = 580 m
B A
c
pond
You are not given a matching pair of a side and its opposite angle. Therefore,
you can use the Cosine Law for sides to solve for side c.
c 2 = a 2 + b 2 − 2 ab cos C
c 2 = 580 2 + 337 2 − 2 ( 580 )( 337 ) cos 105°
c 2 = 551 146.541 1
c = 551 146.541 1
c = 742.392 444 1
Thus, the distance from post A to post B is 742.39 m.

Part A: BrainPower
1. In which quadrant are sin q, cos q, and tan q all greater than zero?
2. What is the probability of rolling an even number on a number cube?
3. Calculate the tax (13%) on an item that costs $43.99.
5. What is the value of the discriminant of the quadratic equation
2x2 - 3x + 6 = 0?
6. Express in exponential form: 12 x 3 y 7
7. Find the midpoint between the two points (7, -1) and (-8, 15).
“Jace discovers that the more he studies for a test, the higher his mark is.”
continued
Part B: The Cosine Law
1. Find the length of x in each diagram. Round to the nearest tenth.
a) b) 7
x 5 135°
11
x
40°
7
c) d) 5
130°
30° 4
y
10 30° x
x 80°
2. Find the measure of ÐA. Round to the nearest tenth.

4 A
a) A b) C
4 5 7
10
C B
6
B
c)
6 5
50° C
A
3. An isosceles triangle has sides of length 10 cm, 10 cm, and 6 cm. What is
the measure of each angle of this triangle? Round to the nearest tenth.
4. Janice spots a bird on the roof of her apartment block with an angle
of elevation of 35°. She moves 15 m closer to the apartment block and
now the angle of elevation is 40°. How far above the ground is the bird?
(Assume the ground to be level and Janice walked directly toward the
bird on the roof.) Round to the nearest tenth.
continued

5. A ship leaves port at 12 noon and sails west at 40 km/h. At 2:00 p.m., it
changes direction and sails N 60° W for another two hours. How far is the
ship from the port? Round to the nearest tenth.
N
(ending point) Q
2x
40 60°

P (starting point)
A 2 x 40

6. The pitcher’s mound on a slo-pitch softball diamond is 15.2 m from home
plate and the distance between the bases is 19.8 m. How far is the pitcher’s
mound from first base if the angle at home plate between the pitcher’s
mound and first base is 45°? Round to the nearest hundredth.
7. Prove the Law of Cosines for a2 = b2 + c2 - 2bc cos A using the diagram
below.
C
b a
h
x cx
A B
D
c

Proof:
The proof begins by using the Pythagorean theorem for each right
triangle:
in DBCD, a2 = h2 + (c - x)2
in DACD, b2 = h2 + x2
The next step is to subtract the two equations to eliminate h2.
Now, finish the proof.
Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned how to use the Cosine Law. The Cosine Law is
useful in solving triangles where the Sine Law cannot be used. In the next
lesson, you will be learning about the ambiguous case. Sometimes when you
are solving oblique triangles, there may be no solution, one solution, or two
solutions. You will learn about this in more detail in the next lesson.

L e s s o n 6: Th e A m b ig u o u s C a s e
Lesson Focus

q learn how to solve any triangle when two sides of the triangle
and an angle opposite one of the sides are given
Lesson Introduction
In Lesson 4, you used the Sine Law to solve triangles when you are given
two sides of the triangle and an angle opposite one of those sides. You were
also told that the unknown angle(s) was acute. However, when you are given
this type of information without knowing if the unknown angle is acute or
obtuse, the ambiguous case may occur. In the ambiguous case, there are three
possible outcomes: no solution, one solution, or two solutions. This means that
there could be no possible triangles with the given measurements, only one
possible triangle with the given measurements, or two possible triangles with
the given measurements. Since the number of triangles possible is not clear,
the case involving side-side-angle is called the ambiguous case.
The Ambiguous Case
To understand why the ambiguous case occurs, it is easiest to look at different

cases.
In each example, you are given two sides and an angle opposite one of those
sides. The information will be placed on the triangle in the same way so that
you can make comparisons more easily.
C
b = given side a = given side opposite given angle
terminal arm of given angle
given angle
A B
initial arm of given angle
Q The given angle, ÐA, will be placed in the lower left corner.
Q The side opposite this angle will be partially drawn and its measure
indicated, side a.
Q The base of the triangle will be considered the initial arm of the given
angle. You don’t know how long this side is or the measure of its opposite
angle, ÐC.
Q The terminal arm of the given angle will be the second given side of the
triangle, side b.
When the Given Angle Is Acute

As you can see by the previous diagram, if the side opposite the given angle
is too short, then no triangle is possible. You may also be able to visualize
that one or two triangles may be possible depending on the length of the side
opposite the given angle.
Each of the first four examples illustrates the possible solution(s) for such a
triangle when the given angle is acute.
As you will see from the examples, a problem will occur when you try to
determine whether the angle at B is acute, right, or obtuse.
Example 1: No Solution
In DABC, a = 2, b = 6, ÐA = 30°. Solve the triangle.
Solution
You are not given the length of AB, so you do not know where to place B.
Also, you do not know where to join C and B. Thus, you need to make a
sketch with the side opposite the given angle being incomplete.
C
a=2
b=6
h
30°
A B
Since a = 2 and b = 6, we have the case where a < b.

From this figure, it appears that side a is too short to form any triangle. To
verify this, we solve for h (the height of the triangle, DABC).

h
sin 30° =
6
h = 6 sin 30°
h=3
Since side a, opposite the given angle A, is shorter than the height of the
triangle, it is not possible to draw a triangle. Thus, there is no solution.
Conclusion: If the side opposite the given angle is smaller than the calculated
height of the triangle, then no such triangle exists.
Note: In general, the height of the triangle can be found using the formula:
h
sin
 A or h
 b sin A
b
Add the above conclusion as well as the formula for finding the height of a
triangle to your resource sheet.
An alternate method to reach this conclusion involves the use of the Sine Law.
For the parameters given, check:
a b
=
sin A sin B
2 6
=
sin 30° sin B
6 sin 30°
sin B =
2
sin B = 1.5
B = sin−1 (1.5)
You get an error on your calculator since the maximum value for sin q is 1.
Thus, no triangle is possible.
Example 2: Right Triangle; One Solution; ÐB = 90°
Solution
C
a=3
b=6
h
30°
A B
Since a = 3 and b = 6, we have a < b.

To determine if a solution is possible, find the height of the triangle.
h = b sin A = 6 sin 30° = 3
Then, the height is the same length as the side opposite the given angle. Thus,
the triangle must be a right triangle and ÐB must be 90°. You can now draw
the triangle with the sides completed.
C
b=6
h=a=3
30°
A B
You can now solve for the remaining parts of the triangle.
∠C = 180° − 90° − 30° = 60°
c Since it is a right triangle, use
cos 30° =
6 adjacent
cos A  .
c = 6 cos 30° hypotenuse
c = 5.2
Conclusion: The solution will be one right triangle if the side opposite the
given angle is equal to the height of the triangle.
Include the above conclusion on your resource sheet.

An alternate method to reach this conclusion involves the use of the Sine Law.
For the parameters given, check:
3 6
=
sin 30° sin B
6 sin 30°
sin B =
3
sin B = 1
B = sin−1 (1)
B = 90°
You get a right angle, thus one right triangle is possible.
Example 3: Oblique Triangle; Two Solutions; ÐB Is Acute or Obtuse

Solution
C
a=4
b=6
h
30°
A B
Since a = 4 and b = 6, we have a < b.

To determine if we have a solution, we will find the height.
h = b sin A = 6 sin 30° = 3
Thus, we have the relationship:
a < b and a > h
Since the side opposite the given angle is now bigger than the height but still
smaller than the second given side, we will have two possible triangles.
or C
C
b=6 b=6
a=4
a=4
30° 30°
A B A 
c c B
To solve the triangle, we use the Sine Law:
4 6
=
sin 30° sin B
4 sin B = 6 sin 30°
6 sin 30° 3
sin B = =
4 4
3
∠Br = sin−1 
4
∠Br = 48.6°
When sin B > 0, you know that ÐB can be acute (Quadrant I), or it can be
obtuse (Quadrant II). Thus, there are two possible solutions for ÐB and two
possible triangles.
ÐB1 = ÐBr or ÐB2 = 180° - ÐBr
ÐB1 = 48.6° or ÐB2 = 180° - 48.6°
ÐB2 = 131.4°
Sketch the two possible triangles. One of them will be the triangle drawn
with ÐB1 acute, and the other will have ÐB2 as an obtuse angle. Notice how
short c2 must be in comparison with c1.
C C
b=6 b=6
a=4 a=4
30° 48.6° 30° 131.4°

A B1 A c2 B2
c1
Now, finish solving each triangle separately.

∠C 1 = 180° − 30° − 48.6° = 101.4° ∠C 2 = 180° − 30° − 131.4° = 18.6°
4 c1 4 c2
= =
sin 30° sin 101.4° sin 30° sin 18.6°
4 sin 101.4° 4 sin 18.6°
c1 = c1 =
sin 30° sin 30°
c1 = 7.8 c1 = 2.6
Conclusion: There will be two solutions if the side opposite the given angle is
smaller than the second given side and bigger than the height of the triangle.

Example 4: Oblique Triangle; One Solution; ÐB Is Acute

Solution
C
a=7
b=6
h
30°
A B
Since a = 7 and b = 6, we have a > b.

In this case, there will be only one solution and ÐB will be acute. If you tried
drawing the triangle with an obtuse angle at B, then side b would need to be
the biggest side, opposite the biggest angle, which is not the case.
Thus, you can immediately draw the completed triangle and solve it.
C
b=6 a=7
30°
A B
c
To solve for ÐB: To solve for c:

7 6 7 c
= =
sin 30° sin B sin 30° sin 124.6°
6 sin 30° 7 sin 124.6°
sin B = c=
7 sin 30°
 6 sin 30°  c = 11.5
∠B = sin−1 
 7 
∠B = 25.4°
To solve for ÐC
∠C = 180° − ( 30° + 25.4° )
∠C = 124.6°
Conclusion: There will be only one solution if the side opposite the given
angle is larger than the other given side.
Note that in Example 4 above, if you were to find both the acute and obtuse
angle values for ÐB, you could quickly determine why there is only one
solution.
If ÐBr = 25.4°, then ÐB1 = 25.4° as the acute angle and ÐB2 = 180° - 25.4° =
154.6° as the obtuse angle. Now solve for ÐC2 using obtuse angle ÐB2.
ÐC2 = 180° - 154.6° - 30° = -4.6°.
Since ÐC2 cannot be negative, using obtuse ÐB2 is not possible.
When the Given Angle is Obtuse

If the given angle is obtuse, there are two possible cases, as shown in the
examples below.
Example 5: Oblique Triangle; One Solution; ÐB Is Acute
Solution
C
a=7
b=6
130°
A B
c
Since a = 7 and b = 6, then a > b.

There can only be one obtuse angle in a triangle. Thus, the angle at B must be
acute and there is one solution.
To solve for ÐB: To solve for ÐC:
7 6 ∠C = 180° − ( 41.0° + 130° )
=
sin 130° sin B
∠C = 9.0°
6 sin 130°
sin B =
7
∠B = 41.0°

To solve for c
7 c
=
sin 130° sin 9°
7 sin 9°
c=
sin 130°
c = 1.4
Conclusion: If the given angle is obtuse and the side opposite the given side
is bigger than the second given side, there is only one possible triangle.
Include this conclusion on your resource sheet.
Example 6: Oblique Triangle; No Solution

Solution
C
a=7
b=8
130°
A B
As you can see from the diagram, the longer side is not opposite the obtuse
angle. There cannot be a solution.
Conclusion: If the given angle is obtuse and the side opposite the given angle
is shorter than the second given side, there is no possible triangle.
Include this conclusion on your resource sheet.
In each of the above examples, you were given triangles with two sides and
the angle opposite one of those sides. Two solutions may occur when solving
a triangle if the given angle is opposite the shorter of the two sides. When the
given angle is opposite the longer of the two given sides, there is only one
solution.
The following chart summarizes the various possibilities involved in the
ambiguous case. Note that a represents the side opposite the given angle,
b represents the other given side, not the base, and h represents the height of
the triangle (i.e., h = b sin A).
ÐA is Acute
Necessary
a < b AND a < h a < b AND a = h a < b AND a > h a < b AND a > h a>b
Conditions
C C C C C
Sketch b
h
a b a=h
b
h
a b
a h b h a
A B A B1 A A B
A B B2
Number of
none one two one
Solutions
Size of ÐB none ÐB = 90° ÐB1 is acute ÐB2 is obtuse ÐB is acute
ÐA is Obtuse
Necessary
a£b a>b
Conditions
C C
Sketch b b
a
A B A B
Number of
none one
Solutions
Size of ÐB none ÐB is acute
You may find it helpful to include the above two charts on your resource
sheet.
The Sine Law can help you determine the number of solutions and it is used
to solve the question, as you saw in the examples.

Part A: BrainPower
1. Calculate the tax (13%) on an item that costs $72.
2. How many 4-piece bags of candy can you make to give out on Halloween
if you have 288 pieces of candy?
3. In which quadrants is cos q > 0?
4. The length of the hypotenuse of a right triangle is 13 and one of its legs is
length 12. What is the length of the other leg?
5. Does the parabola y + 5x2 = -2x + 4 open up or down?
13 5
6. Express as a radical: x 2 y2
6
7. (-56, 27) is on a line with a slope of . Find another point on this line.
8
8. Simplify: (x2 - 1)(2x2 + 5x - 6)
continued
Part B: The Ambiguous Case
1. Decide whether there are no solutions, exactly one solution, or two
solutions for each DABC. You do not need to solve the triangle, but you
must justify your choice and include a diagram.
Note: Always draw the given angle in the lower left corner of the triangle.
Mark the given side opposite it with a dotted line. Do not mark the second
given side as the base. (Reason: It makes solving the ambiguous case easier
if you always use the same pattern.)
a) C
a=5
b = 10
h
35°
A B
b) C
a = 16
b = 10
120°
A B
c) ÐC = 60°, c = 43, b = 32
d) ÐA = 18°, a = 38, c = 50
e) ÐB = 60°, b = 14, c = 15
f) ÐC = 170°, c = 10, b = 15
continued

2. Find the possible values of the indicated side. Round answers to the
nearest tenth.
a) In DABC, ÐB = 34°, a = 4, and b = 3. Find c.
b) In DXYZ, ÐX = 13°, x = 12, and y = 15. Find z.
c) In DABC, ÐB = 34°, a = 4, and b = 5. Find c.
d) In DRST, ÐR = 130°, r = 20, and t = 16. Find s.
e) In DMBT, ÐM = 170°, m = 19, and t = 11. Find b.
f) In DABC, ÐB = 34°, a = 4, and b = 2. Find c.
3. Find all possible values of the indicated angle measure. Round to one
decimal place.
a) In DABC, ÐA = 19°, a = 25, and c = 30. Find ÐC.
b) In DBDJ, ÐB = 28°, b = 50, and d = 20. Find ÐD.
c) In DXYZ, ÐX = 58°, x = 9.3, and z = 7.5. Find ÐZ.
d) In DBIG, ÐB = 39°, b = 900, and g = 1000. Find ÐI.
Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned that when you are given two sides and one angle
opposite one of those sides in a triangle, this is called the ambiguous case
because three situations may occur. There may be no solution, one solution, or
two solutions. You learned to determine when each of these types of solutions
occurred by comparing the lengths of the given sides, the height of the
triangle, as well as whether the given angle was obtuse or acute. Make sure
you remember that when you are given two sides and one angle opposite one
of the given sides of a triangle, you always need to check to see how many
solutions there are.
Notes

Assignment 7.3
The Cosine Law and the Ambiguous Case
Total: 41 marks
1. Find the length of side a in each diagram. Round to three decimal places.
a) 2.7 (3 marks)
34.4°
a
3.5
b) Q (4 marks)
3 5
a
P R
S
 7 
continued
Assignment 7.3: The Cosine Law and the Ambiguous Case (continued)
2. Find all of the missing angles and the length of all missing sides for the following
triangles. Round to the nearest tenth. (6 marks each, for a total of 12 marks)
a) In DABC, a = 7, b = 5 and c = 11.
b) In DABC, a = 15, b = 5 and ÐC = 62°.
continued

3. From a dock, the bearings of two boats A and B are N 20° E and N 10° W,
respectively. If boat A is 50 m from the dock and boat B is 72 m from the dock, how
far is boat A from boat B? Round to the nearest metre. (4 marks)
North
B
10°
A

72 m
20°
50 m

West  East
D
dock

continued
4. Find all the possible missing values in the following triangles. Round your answers
to one decimal place.
a) Find all the possible measures of ÐB, ÐC, and c in DABC if a = 23, b = 47, and
ÐA = 52°. (2 marks)
b) Find all the possible measures of ÐA, ÐC, and a in DABC if b = 16, c = 20, and
ÐB = 42°. Round to the nearest tenth. (8 marks)
continued

c) Find all the possible measures of ÐA, ÐC, and c in DABC if a = 5, b = 6, and
ÐB = 34°. Round to the nearest tenth. (4 marks)
d) Find all the possible measures of ÐB, ÐC, and c in DABC if a = 20, b = 15, and
ÐA = 152°. Round to the nearest tenth. (4 marks)
Notes

Module 7 Summary
Congratulations, you are now well on your way to finishing this course. You
only have to complete one more module.
In this module, you learned more about trigonometry. You extended your
knowledge of right-angled trigonometry to learn about angles from 0° to
360° in Quadrants I, II, III, and IV. You learned how each angle in standard
position has a reference angle and you also learned how to find that reference
angle. Once you learned about angles, you studied triangles that do not
have a 90° angle. These oblique triangles can be solved by using either the
Sine Law or the Cosine Law, depending upon what information is provided.
However, when you are given two sides and an angle opposite one of those
sides, the ambiguous case occurs. In the ambiguous case, there can be either
no solution, one solution, or two solutions. Make sure you always consider the
number of possible solutions when you are solving such a triangle.
In the next module, you will be learning about two new types of functions:
absolute value functions and reciprocal functions. Absolute value functions
take each y-value, whether positive or negative, and make it positive.
Reciprocal functions take the reciprocal of a given function.
q Assignment 7.1: Trigonometric Ratios, Reference Angles, and
q Assignment 7.2: Patterns in Trigonometric Ratios and the Sine Law
q Assignment 7.3: The Cosine Law and the Ambiguous Case
Notes

Module 7
Trigonometry

M o d u l e 7:
Part A: BrainPower
he have left?
3. Solve for g: (2g + 1)(g - 5) = 0
5. Simplify: 108
1 1
3
6. Order these values from lowest to highest: 55 , 5, 54 , and 5
7 3
3 2
Answers:
1. $25 ($76 + $47 + $152 = $275; $300 - $275 = $25)
2. 43° (180° - 137°)
1
3. g = − or g = 5
2
1
4. (Your brother owns two parts and you own one part. So you can think
3
of there being a total of 3 parts.)
5. 6 3 ( 4 9 3)

1 1  1 1
3 3
6. 55 < 54 < 5< 5 5=5 ;
 2 5= 53  
 
7 6 7 3 7 3 2
7. 
 = 
6 3 2 3 (2) 

8. -2 (y = -2x + 1
Explain.
a) y b) y
 x

 
c) y d) y

x
 

Answers:
a) This angle is in standard position as the initial side is along the
positive x-axis and the angle is measured from the initial to the
terminal arm, and the vertex is at the origin. The angle is positive
because its rotation is in a counter-clockwise direction.

b) This angle is in standard position and the vertex is at the origin. The
initial side is along the positive x-axis. It is rotated to the terminal arm
in a clockwise direction and its measure is considered a negative value.
c) This angle is in standard position. This angle is the reflex angle to the
angle in (b). The angle is measured counter-clockwise from the initial
side to the terminal arm so it is a positive angle.
d) This angle is not in standard position, as the initial side is not along the
positive x-axis.

a) (-5, 12)
Answer:
y
r = x2 + y2
P(5, 12)  2
= (−5) + 12 2
= 169
= 13
12 r
y 12
sin θ = =
r 13
x −5 5
 cos θ = = =−

r 13 13
5 x
y 12 12
tan θ = = =−
x −5 5


b) (24, -7)
Answer:
y

24
 x
7
r

P(24, 7)
Notice that these triangles in quadrant diagrams do not need to be

drawn to scale.
y −7 7
r = x2 + y2 sin θ = = =−
r 25 25
2
= ( 24 ) + (−7 )
2 x 24
cos θ = =
r 25
= 625
y −7 7
tan θ = = =−
= 25 x 24 24
c) (-4, -3)
Answer:
y r = x2 + y2
2 2
= (−4 ) + (−3)
 = 25
4 =5
 x
y −3 3
3
r
sin θ = = =−
r 5 5
P(4, 3) 
x −4 4
cos θ = = =−
r 5 5
y −3 3
tan θ = = =
x −4 4

d) (5, 3)
Answer:
y r = x2 + y2
= 52 + 32
P(5, 3)
= 34

r
3
 y 3 3 34

 sin θ = = =
5 5 x
r 34 34
x 5 5 34
cos θ = = =
r 34 34
y 3
tan θ = =
x 5

a) cos 191°
Answer:
q is in Quadrant III where
y
x-coordinates are negative; or,
you can use the CAST rule:
 = 191°
S A

x
T C
cos q is negative in Quadrant III.
\ cos 191° is negative.
b) sin 255°
Answer:
y q = 255° is located in Quadrant III
where y-coordinates are negative;
 = 255° or you can use the CAST rule:
 x S A
T C
sin q < 0 in this quadrant.
\ sin 255° is negative.

c) tan 340.4°
Answer:
y q = 340.4° is located in Quadrant IV
where x-values are positive and
 = 340.4° y-values are negative.
x
y -value
∴ tan 340.4° =

x -value
negative
=
positive
= negative
Or, use the CAST rule and only

cosine is positive in Quadrant IV.
So tan 340.4° is negative.
d) sin 161°
Answer:
q = 161° is located in Quadrant II
y
where the y-values are positive.
y -value
∴ sin θ =
r
 = 161°
positive

x
=
positive
= positive
Or, use the CAST rule and sin q is

positive in Quadrant II. So sin 161°
is positive.
conditions.
a) sin q > 0
Answer:
y -value
The ratio for sin q is . Thus, sin q is positive when the y-values
r -value
are positive because the r-value is always positive. This occurs in
Quadrant I or II.

b) cos q > 0
Answer:
x -value
The ratio for cos q is . Thus, cos q is positive when the x-values
r -value
are positive. This occurs in Quadrant I or IV.
c) tan q > 0
Answer:
y -value
The ratio for tan q is . Thus, tan q is positive when the x- and
x -value
y-values are both positive or both negative. This occurs in Quadrant I
or III.
Answer:
Since the x-value must be positive and the y-value negative, the only
quadrant where this occurs is Quadrant IV.

Answers:
2
cos θ = I or IV
5
4
sin θ = I or II
5
2
tan θ = − II or IV
3
−1
sin θ = III or IV
5
3
tan θ = I or III
5

a) q = 26°
Answer:
This angle is located in Quadrant 1. All of the ratios, including the sine,
cosine, and tangent ratios, are positive because all ratios in Quadrant I
are positive.
b) q = 305°
Answer:
This angle is located in Quadrant IV where cosine is positive and both
sine and tangent are negative. In Quadrant IV, x > 0, y < 0; thus,
x y y
is positive, is negative, and is negative.
r r x
c) q = 152°
Answer:
This angle is located in Quadrant II where sine is positive and both
cosine and tangent are negative. In Quadrant II, x < 0 and y > 0.
d) q = 206°
Answer:
This angle is located in Quadrant III. Sine and cosine are both negative
in Quadrant III and tangent is positive.

Part A: BrainPower
4 5
3. Calculate: +
3 7
not simplify.
8.7 10.2
5.4

Answers:
1. 90 (one-quarter of 120 is 30, and 120 - 30 = 90)
2. 216° (60% of 360 degrees = 50% of 360 + 10% of 360 = 180° + 36°)
43  28 15 
3.  + 
21  21 21 
4. 5 (32 + 42 = x2; 9 + 16 = x2; 25 = x2; 5 = x)

5. 4 hours (5 ´ half an hour = 2.5 hours; 45 minutes ´ 2 = 1.5 hours)
5.4
6.
10.2
8.7
7.
10.2
5.4
8.
8.7

Linear Form
a) 65°
Answer:
As this angle lies between 0° and 90°, the terminal arm of this angle
lies in Quadrant I.
b) 340°
Answer:
lies in Quadrant IV.
c) 241°
Answer:
lies in Quadrant III.
d) 123°
Answer:
lies in Quadrant II.

a) 140°
b) 267°
c) 316°
d) 17°
i) y ii) y



x  x
iii) y iv) y



x 
x
Answers:
(a) and (iii)
(b) and (ii)
(c) and (iv)
(d) and (i)

a) 98°
Answer:
y This work is optional.
qr = 180° - q
qr = 180° - 98°
qr = 82°
r = 82° 
98° = 
b) 120°
Answer:
qr = 180° - q
qr = 180° - 120°
qr = 60°
r = 60°  120° = 

c) 352°
Answer:
y
This work is optional.
qr = 360° - q
qr = 360° - 352°
qr = 8°
 = 352°
r = 8°
d) 263°
Answer:
qr = q - 180°
qr = 263° - 180°
 = 263° qr = 83°
r = 83°

have the same reference angle as an angle in standard position of 58°.
Answer:
In Quadrant II, the angle is: q = 180° - qr
q = 180° - 58°
q = 122°
In Quadrant III, the angle is: q = 180° + qr
q = 180° + 58°
q = 238°
In Quadrant IV, the angle is: q = 360° - qr
q = 360° - 58°
q = 302°
The other three angles are 122°, 238°, and 302°.

Answer:
y
reflected
angle

r = 65°   65° = 

Thus, the angle in standard position is: q = 180° - 65°

q = 115°

Answer:
y
 65°


r = 65°
reflected
angle

q = 295°
Answer:
y

65°

 x
r = 65° 
reflected in
y-axis, then
x-axis
Thus, the angle in standard position is: q = 180° + 65°

q = 245°

necessary.
2
a) cos θ = − g) 5 cos θ − 2 = 0
3
b) sin θ + 1 = 0 h) 5 tan θ + 4 = 0
tan θ
c) tan θ − 2 = 5 i) −1= 0
6
1
d) 2 cos θ = 2 j) 2 cos θ + 1 =
2
e) −3 sin θ = 2 k) 4 tan θ − 7 = 5 tan θ − 6
tan θ
f) =5
2
Answers:
2
a) cos θ = −
3
2
θ r = cos−1  Use the positive ratio to find qr.
3
= 48.2°
cos q < 0 in Quadrants II and III
In Quadrant II, q = 180° - 48.2° = 131.8°.
In Quadrant III, q = 180° + 48.2° = 228.2°.
b) sin q = -1
This is a quadrantal angle through (0, -1) that lies on the negative
y-axis.
\ q = 270°
c) tan q - 2 = 5
tan q = 7
qr = tan-1(7)
= 81.9°
tan q > 0 in Quadrants 1 and III
In Quadrant I, q = 81.9°.
In Quadrant III, q = 180° + 81.9° = 261.9°.

d) 2 cos q = 2
cos q = 1
This is a quadrantal angle through (1, 0) that lies on the positive x-axis.
\ q = 0° or 360°.
e) −3 sin θ = 2
2
sin θ = −
3
2
θ r = sin−1  Use the positive ratio to find qr.
3
= 41.8°
sin q < 0 in Quadrants III and IV
In Quadrant III, q = 180° + 41.8° = 221.8°.
In Quadrant IV, q = 360° - 41.8° = 318.2°.
tan θ
f) =5
2
tan θ = 10
θ r = tan−1 (10 )
= 84.3°
tan q > 0 in Quadrants I and III
In Quadrant III, q = 180° + 84.3° = 264.3°.
g) 5 cos θ − 2 = 0
2
cos θ =
5
2
θ r = cos−1 
5
= 66.4°
cos q > 0 in Quadrants I and IV
In Quadrant IV, q = 360° - 66.4° = 293.6°.

h) 5 tan θ + 4 = 0
4
tan θ = −
5
4
θ r = tan−1 
5
= 38.7°
tan q < 0 in Quadrants II and IV
In Quadrant II, q = 180° - 38.7° = 141.3°.
In Quadrant IV, q = 360° - 38.7° = 321.3°.
tan θ
i) −1= 0
6
tan θ
=1
6
tan θ = 6
θ r = tan−1 6
= 80.5°
In Quadrant III, q = 180° + 80.5° = 260.5°.
1
j) 2 cos θ + 1 =
2
1
2 cos θ = −
2
1
cos θ = −
4
1
θ r = cos−1 
4
= 75.5°
In Quadrant II, q = 180° - 75.5° = 104.5°.
In Quadrant III, q = 180° + 75.5° = 255.5°.

k) 4 tan q - 7 = 5 tan q - 6
-tan q = 1
tan q = -1
qr = tan-1 (1)
qr = 45°
In Quadrant II, q = 180° - 45° = 135°.
In Quadrant IV, q = 360° - 45° = 315°.

Part A: BrainPower
2. Factor: x2 + 5x - 6
1
3. Evaluate: ( )
6 2 2

6. Simplify: (-3x2 - 6x + 7) + (2x2 - 5x)
Answers:
12 36 37 
1. Jason (Sherri’s ratio is  ; Jason’s ratio is 
15 45 45 
2. (x + 6)(x - 1)
3. 6
4. Quadrants I and II.
5. 26 975 (12 382 + 14 593)
6. -3x2 - 6x + 7 + 2x2 - 5x = -x2 - 11x + 7
7. 40°
third angle must measure 40°.
Method 2: An isosceles triangle will have two angles that are the same.
Therefore, the third angle must measure 40°.)
8. 10.3% (multiply by 100)

reference angles.
Answer:
The formula for finding angles in standard position that have qr as a
reference angle in Quadrant III is q = 180° + qr.
Thus, the three angles in Quadrant III are:
q = 180° + 30° = 210°
q = 180° + 45° = 225°
q = 180° + 60° = 240°
reference angle in Quadrant IV is q = 360° - qr.
Thus, the three angles in Quadrant IV are:
q = 360° - 30° = 330°
q = 360° - 45° = 315°
q = 360° - 60° = 300°


(quadrantal
180° -1 0 0
angle)
3 1 1
210° 30° - -
2 2 3
-1 - 2 -1 - 2
225° 45° or or 1
2 2 2 2
1 3
240° 60° - - 3
2 2
(quadrantal
angle)
1 3
300° 60° - - 3
2 2
1 2 -1 - 2
315° 45° or or -1
2 2 2 2
3 1 1
330° 30° - -
2 2 3
(quadrantal
360° 1 0 0
angle)


0° 1 0 0
15° 0.9659 0.2588 0.2679
30° 0.8660 0.5 0.5774
45° 0.7071 0.7071 1
60° 0.5 0.8660 1.7321
75° 0.2588 0.9659 3.7321
90° 0 1 undefined
Answer:
As the angle increases, sine increases from 0 to 1, cosine decreases
from 1 to 0, and tangent increases from 0 to a large number.
Answer:
The cosine ratio has the same value as the sine ratio of its complement.
(The complement of q is 90° - q.) For example, sin 15° = cos 75°.
Answer:
In Quadrant II, sine will be positive while cosine and tangent are
negative.

Answer:
To solve for the coordinates of the point P(x, y), you can use the exact
values of the trigonometric ratios for 30°.
y
P(x, y)

4
r= y

30°
x x
x y
cos θ = sin θ =
r r
x y
cos 30° = sin 30° =
4 4
x = 4 cos 30° y = 4 sin 30°
 3 1
x = 4
 2 
 y = 4 
  2
x=2 3 y=2
The coordinates of P(x, y) are ( 2 3 , 2 ) . The coordinates of the points in
the other three quadrants are (−2 3 , 2 ) , (−2 3 , − 2 ) , and ( 2 3 , − 2 ) .
 
(23, 2) P(x, y) = (23, 2)
r=
4 r =4

30° 30°

x

30° 30°

4 r=
r= 4
(23, 2)  
(23, 2)

Notice that since the r-value in this question is twice the r-value in the
basic triangle for 30° that you have memorized, the x- and y-values are
also doubled. They are similar triangles.
4
2
2
1
30° 30°
23
3
r = 2 r=4
coordinates coordinates
P(x, y) = ( 3 , 1) P(x, y) = ( 2 3 , 2 )

operator is digging? Round your answer to
3 decimal places.
y y
201°
349°
 x  x
  




3 metres
Answer:
You will use your calculator to find approximate answers since the angles
in question do not have reference angles of 30°, 45°, or 60°.
To find the horizontal distance, you need to create two different triangles:
one in Quadrant IV and one in Quadrant III. These triangles will represent
the initial and final positions of the backhoe. Once these triangles are
drawn, if you find the x-component of each triangle and add these two
values together, you will find the length of the hole.

y
 = 349° r

x1

3m x

y1
x1
Initial Position

To find x1, you need to find the horizontal distance, or the x-component,
when the angle is 349° and the arm length is 3 m. To find the value of qr,
you need to find the reference angle for 349°.
qr = 360° - 349° = 11°
You now have the values of qr and r; thus, you need to use to cosine ratio
in order to determine the x-value.
x
cos θ =
r
x
cos 11° =
3
x = 3 cos 11°
x = 2.945 metres
y
 = 201°
x2
x

r

y2 3m
x2
Final Position

when the angle is 201° and the boom length is 3 m.

The reference angle of 201° is:
201° - 180° = 21°
x
cos θ =
r
x
cos 21° =
3
x = 3 cos 21°
x = 2.801 metres
Now, to find the length of the hole, you can add these values together.
Thus, the length of the hole is 2.945 + 2.801 = 5.746 metres.

Part A: BrainPower
22
25
33 + 3
6. Simplify:
32
2
7. Express as a radical: 9 3. Do not simplify.
Answers:
 22 
1. 88%  = multiply top and bottom by 4 to get a denominator off 100 
 25 
2. -6
3. Quadrants I and III
 $16 $0.64 
4. $2.08  = $2 ; = $0.08 ; $2 + $0.08 = $2.08
 8 8 
5. 17 (The hypotenuse is always the longest side.)
10  33 + 3 27 + 3 30 
6.  = = 
3  32 9 9
3
7. 92
15  12 − (−3) 15 
8. m = = 
−14  −6 − 8 −14 

2 decimal places.
a) In ∆ABC, ÐA = 67°, ÐB = 73°, and b = 42.
Answer:
A
67°
b = 42
c
C
73°
a B
ÐC = 180° - 67° - 73° = 40°

To find a: To find c:
a b c b
= =
sin A sin B sin C sin B
a 42 c 42
= =
sin 67° sin 73° sin 40° sin 73°
42 sin 67° 42 sin 40°
a= c=
sin 73° sin 73°
a = 40.43 c = 28.23
Summary:
ÐC = 40°
a = 40.43
c = 28.23

b) In ∆ABC, ÐA = 150°, a = 200, and ÐC = 20°.
Answer:
B
a = 20
0
c
20° C
150° b
A
ÐB = 180° - 150° - 20° = 10°

To find b: To find c:
a b a c
= =
sin A sin B sin A sin C
200 b 200 c
= =
sin 150° sin 10° sin 150° sin 20°
200 sin 10° 200 sin 20°
b= c=
sin 150° sin 150°
b = 69.46 c = 136.81
Summary:
ÐB = 10°
b = 69.46
c = 136.81

C

100° 30°
A B
310 m
Answer:
ÐC = 180° - (100° + 30°)
= 50°
C
50°
a
b
100° 30°
A B
310 m

b c a c
= =
sin B sin C sin A sin C
b 310 a 310
= =
sin 30° sin 50° sin 100° sin 50°
310 sin 30° 310 sin 100°
b= a=
sin 50° sin 50°
b = 202.34 m a = 398.53 m

Answer:
K (kite)
75° 25°
B A
C
3 km
ÐBKA = 180° - (75° + 25°) = 80°

In DBKA, by the Sine Law
BK 3
=
sin 25° sin 80°
3 sin 25°
BK =
sin 80°
BK = 1.287 413 489
In right DBCK, ÐC = 90°

KC
sin 75° =
BK
KC = BK sin 75°
KC = 1.287 413 489 sin 75°
= 1.243 545 938
\ The kite is approximately 1.2 km above the ground.

Answer:
K (kite)
50°

75° 105° 25°
A
C B
3 km
ÐKBA = 180° - 75° = 105°

ÐBKA = 180° - (105° + 25°) = 50°
In DABK, using the Sine Law:
BK 3
=
sin 25° sin 50°
3 sin 25°
BK =
sin 50°
BK = 1.655 066 878
In right DCKB, ÐC = 90°

KC
sin 75° =
BK
KC = BK sin 75°
KC = 1.655 066 878 sin 75°
= 1.598 671 842
In this case, the kite is 1.6 m above the ground.

Answer:
C
40° 20°
A B
D
200 m
In DACB,
ÐC = 180° - (40° + 20°) = 120°
Use DABC and the Sine Law to find BC.
200 BC
k =
sin 120° sin 40°
200 sin 40°
BC =
sin 120°
BC = 148.445 439 8
In right DCDB, ÐD = 90°

CD
sin 20° =
BC
CD = BC sin 20°
CD = 148.445 439 8 sin 20°
CD = 50.77
The Assiniboine River is about 50.77 m wide at the Legislative Building.

a) h1 b
b a
c) 
sin B sin A
a c
f) 
sin A sin C
a b c
g)  
sin A sin B sin C
Answer:
a) Determine two expressions for the height through C.
b) Equate two equal expressions for the same height.
c) Divide both sides by sin A sin B.
d) Determine two expressions for the height through B.
e) Equate two equal expressions for the same height.
f) Divide both sides by sin A sin C.
a
g) Equate the formulas found in (c) and (f) since they both equal .
sin A

Part A: BrainPower
2x2 - 3x + 6 = 0?
Answers:
1. Quadrant I
3 1
2. 
6 2
3. $5.28 (10% of 43.99 = $4.40; 1% of 43.99 = $0.44; 13% of $43.99 =

$4.40 + $0.44 + $0.44 + $0.44 = $5.72)
4. 10 (62 + 82 = x2; 36 + 64 = x2; 100 = x2; 10 = x)
5. -39 (b2 - 4ac = 9 - 4(2)(6) = 9 - 48 = -39)
1 3 7  1
 12 x y = (12 x y ) 
3 7 3 7 2
6. 12 x 2 y 2
2  
 
 1   7 + (−8) −1 + 15   1 14   1 
7. − , 7   M = , =− , =− , 7 
 2   2 2   2 2   2 
8. Independent Variable: The amount of time spent studying

Dependent Variable: The mark on the test

a) b) 7
x 5 135°
11
x
40°
7
c) d) 5
130°
30° 4
y
10 30° x
x 80°
Answers:
a) The triangle has no matching pair of a side and its opposing angle. Use
the Cosine Law for sides.
x 2 = 7 2 + 52 − 2 (7 )( 5) (cos 40° )
x 2 = 20.376 888 98
x 2 = 20.376 888 98
x = 4.5
b) The triangle has no matching pair of a side and its opposing angle. Use
x 2 = 7 2 + 112 − 2 (7 )(11) (cos 135° )
x 2 = 278.894 444 3
x 2 = 278.894 444 3
x = 16.7

c) The triangle has a matching pair of side and its opposing angle once
ÐA is found. Use the Sine Law.
∠A = 180° − 80° − 30°
30° ∠A = 70°
10 x 10
70° =
x 80° sin 30° sin 70°
10 sin 30°
x=
sin 70°
x = 5.3
d) First solve DABC for y using the Cosine Law for sides. There is no
matching pair of a side and its opposite angle.
A
5 y 2 = 4 2 + 52 − 2 ( 4 )( 5) (cos 130° )
130° C
4
y
y 2 = 66.711 504 39
B 30° x
y 2 = 66.711 504 39
D
y = 8.167 711 086
In DBCD, there is a right angle. Use the sine ratio.

x
sin 30° =
y
x = y sin 30°
x = 8.167 711 086 sin 30°
x = 4.1

4 A
C
a) A b)
4 5 7
10
C B
6
B
B
c)
6 5
50° C
A
Answers:
a) There is no matching pair for the Sine Law. Use the Cosine Law for
angles.
Method 1: Write the Cosine Law as:
62 = 42 + 52 - 2(4)(5) cos A
62 - 42 - 52 = -2(4)(5) cos A
-5 = -40 cos A
0.125 = cos A
A = cos-1(0.125)
A = 82.8°
Method 2: Use the rearranged formula:
b 2 + c 2 − a2
cos A =
2 bc
4 2 + 52 − 6 2
cos A =
2 ( 4 )( 5)
cos A = 0.125
∠A = cos−1 (0.1255)
∠A = 82.8°

b) There is no matching pair to use the Sine Law. Use the Cosine Law for
angles.
Using the rearranged formula:
b 2 + c 2 − a2
cos A =
2 bc
4 2 + 7 2 − 10 2
cos A =
2 ( 4 )(7 )
cos A = −0.625 (Notice the negative value for cos A;
so, ÐA will be obtuse.)
∠A = 128.7°
c) There is a matching pair of an angle and its corresponding opposite

side. Use the Sine Law.
5 6
=
sin A sin 50°
5 sin 50°
sin A =
6
sin A = 0.638 370 369
∴ ∠Ar = sin−1 (0.638 370 369 )
∠Ar = 39.7°
Since your calculator only gives one of two possible angles when using
sine inverse, the solution for ÐA could be an acute or an obtuse angle.
However, you are given the diagram and it shows ÐA to be acute.
Thus, the only solution is ÐA = 39.7°.
Answer:
A
10 cm 10 cm
B C
6 cm
Since there is no matching angle and its opposite side, solve for an angle
using the Cosine Law for angles.

b 2 + c 2 − a2
cos A =
2 bc
10 2 + 10 2 − 6 2
cos A =
2 (10 )(10 )
cos A = 0.82
∠A = cos−1 (0..82 )
∠A = 34.9°
180° − 34.9°
Since DABC is isosceles, ÐB = ÐC. Thus, ∠B = = 72.5°.
2
The measure of the angles of the triangle are 34.9°, 72.5°, and 72.5°.
4. Janice spots a bird on the roof of her apartment block with an angle of
elevation of 35°. She moves 15 m closer to the apartment block and now the
angle of elevation is 40°. How far above the ground is the bird? (Assume
the ground to be level and Janice walked directly toward the bird on the
roof.) Round to the nearest tenth.
Answer:
B
5°
140°
35°
40°

 
W
15 m J T
One method to solve for BW is to solve first for BT in DBJT and then use
the sine ratio in the right triangle, DBTW.
For DBJT, ÐJTB = 180° - 40° = 140° and ÐJBT = 180° - 35° - 140° = 5°.
BT 15
=
sin 35° sin 5°
15 sin 35°
BT =
sin 5°
BT = 98.715 773 33

In DBJW,
BW
sin 40° =
BT
BW = BT sin 40°
BW = (98.715 773 33) (sin 40° )
BW = 63.5 m
N
(ending point) Q
2x
40 60°

P (starting point)
A 2 x 40

Answer:
The ship is travelling from noon until 2:00 p.m. (2 hours) for 40 km in each
hour. It travels 80 km due west. When it changes direction, it travels for
the same time at the same speed, and thus travels another 80 km.
The measure of ÐQAP = 60° + 90° = 150°.
Q
a
80
150°
P
A 80

There is no matching pair of side and opposite angles. Use the Law of
Cosines for sides.
a2 = 80 2 + 80 2 − 2 (80 )(80 ) (cos 150° )
a2 = 23 885.125 17
a2 = 23 885.125 17
a = 154.5
The ship is 154.5 km from port at 4:00 p.m.

Answer:
A (Pitcher’s Mound)
b C (First Base)
15.2 m
19.8 m
45°
B (Home Plate)
There is no matching pair of a side and its opposite angle. Thus, use the
Cosine Law.
b 2 = a2 + c 2 − 2 ac cos B
2 2
= (19.8) + (15.2 ) − 2 (19.8)(15.2 ) cos 45°
b = 14.05
Thus, the distance between the pitcher’s mound and first base is 14.05 m.

below.
C
b a
h
x cx
A B
D
c

Proof:
triangle:
in DBCD, a2 = h2 + (c - x)2
Now finish the proof.
Answer:
Subtract the two equations to eliminate h2:
2
a 2 − b 2 = (c − x ) − x 2
a 2 − b 2 = c 2 − 2cx + x 2 − x 2 Simplify
a2 − b 2 = c 2 − 2cx Simplify
a2 = b 2 + c 2 − 2cx Rearrange
Now, write x in terms of the sides and angles of triangle ABC, and use
DACD and find cos A.
x
cos A 
b
x  b cos A
Substitute x = b cos A into a2 = b2 + c2 - 2cx to get:

a2 = b2 + c2 - 2c(b cos A)
a2 = b2 + c2 - 2bc cos A

Note to Student: You are not expected to know the proof of either the Sine
Law or the Cosine Law for the exam.

Part A: BrainPower
13 5
6
8
8. Simplify: (x2 - 1)(2x2 + 5x - 6)
Answers:
1. $9.36 (10% of 72 = $7.20; 1% of 72 = $0.72; so 13% of $72 =
$7.20 + $0.72 + $0.72 + $0.72 = $9.36)
 288 200 88 
2. 72  = + = 50 + 22 = 72 
 4 4 4 
3. Quadrants I and IV
4. 5 (x2 + 122 = 132; x2 = 169 - 144; x2 = 25; x = 5)
5. Down (y = -5x2 - 2x + 4)
 13 5 1 
6. 13 5
x y  x 2 y 2 = ( x 13 y 5 ) 2 = x 13 y 5 
 
 
6
7. (-48, 33) (A slope of refers to a rise of 6, which affects the y-values, and
8
a run of 8, which affects the x-values, so (-56 + 8, 27 + 6))
8. 2x4 + 5x3 - 6x2 - 2x2 - 5x + 6 = 2x4 + 5x3 - 8x2 - 5x + 6

a) C
a=5
b = 10
h
35°
A B
Answer:
The side opposite the given angle is smaller than the other given side.
We need to find the height.
h = 10 sin 35°
h = 5.7
Since 5 < h, there is no triangle.
b) C
a = 16
b = 10
120°
A B
Answer:
Because the side opposite the given angle is greater than the other
given side, and ÐA is obtuse, there is only one triangle.

c) ÐC = 60°, c = 43, b = 32
Answer:
The longer side is opposite the given angle. There is only one triangle.
A
32 43
60°
C B
d) ÐA = 18°, a = 38, c = 50
Answer:
h = 50 sin 18° = 15.45
Since 38 > h, there are two solutions.
B
a = 38
b = 50
h
A 18°
C
e) ÐB = 60°, b = 14, c = 15
Answer:
h = 15 sin 60° = 12.99
Since 14 > h, we have two solutions.
A
b = 14
c = 15
h
60°
B C

f) ÐC = 170°, c = 10, b = 15
Answer:
The side opposite the given angle is shorter than the other given side
and the given angle is obtuse. There is no solution.
c = 10
A
170°
b = 15 B
C
nearest tenth.
Answer:
Since the side opposite the given angle is smaller than the other given
side, we need to find the height.
h = 4 sin 34° = 2.2
3 > h, so there are two triangles.
C
b=3
a=4
h
34°
B A
We will now solve for the two measures of ÐA, using the Sine Law.
a b
=
sin A sin B
4 3
=
sin A sin 34°
4 sin 34°
sin A =
3
 4 sin 34° 
∠A r = sin−1 
 3 
∠A 1 = 48.2° (acute angle )
∠A 2 = 180° − 48.2° = 131.8° (obtuse angle )

Now we can draw the two triangles and solve each of them.
C C
a=4 b=3
a=4
b=3
34° 48.2°
B A1
c1
B 34° 131.8°
c2 A2
∠C = 180° − ( 34o + 48.2° ) ∠C = 180° − ( 34° + 131.8° )

∠C = 97.8° ∠C = 14.2°
To solve for c1 : To solve for c 2 :
c1 3 3 c2
= =
sin 97.8° sin 34° sin 34° sin 14.2°
c1 = 5.3 c 2 = 1.3

Answer:
Z
y = 15 x = 12
h
13°
X Y
h = 15 sin 13° = 3.37

12 > h, so there are two triangles
We will now solve for the two measures for ÐY using the Sine Law.
Z Z
y = 15
y = 15 x = 12 13°
x = 12
13° X
X z1 Y1 z2 Y2

x y
=
sin X sin Y
12 15
=
sin 13° sin Y
15 sin 13°
sin Y =
12
∠Yr = 16.3°
Thus, ÐY1 = 16.3° and ÐY2 = 180° - 16.3° = 163.7°.

In DXY1Z:
If ÐY1 = 16.3°
then ÐZ = 180° - (16.3° + 13°)
= 150.7°
In DXY2Z:
If ÐY2 = 163.7°
then ÐZ = 180° - (13° + 163.7°)
= 3.3°
In DXY1Z: In DXY2Z:
For z1: For z2:
x z1 x z2
= =
sin X sin Z sin X sin Z
12 z1 12 z2
= =
sin 13° sin 150.7° sin 13° sin 3.3°
12 sin 150.7° 12 sin 3.3°
z1 = z2 =
sin 13° sin 13°
z1 = 26.1 z2 = 3.1

Answer:
C
a=4 b=5
34°
B A
Since b > a, only one triangle exists.

a b side c
=
sin A sin B
b c
=
4 5 sin B sin C
=
sin A sin 34°
5 c
4 sin 34° =
sin A = sin 34° sin 119.4°
5
5 sin 119.4°
∠A = 26.6° c=
sin 34°
∠C = 180° − ( 34° + 266.6° )
c = 7.8
= 119.4°

Note: You can verify that there is only one value for ÐA.
If there were two triangles, then the second ÐA is:
ÐA2 = 180° - 26.6° = 153.4°.
\ ÐC2 = 180° - (34° + 153.4°) = -7.4°
This is impossible. An angle in a triangle cannot have a negative
measure.

Answer:
S
r = 20
t = 16
130°
T
R
Because r > t, there is only one solution.

To find the measure of ÐT:
r t
=
sin R sin T
20 16
=
sin 130° sin T
16 sin 130°
sin T =
20
∠T = 37.8°
∠S = 180° − ( 37.8° + 130° )
= 12.2°
To find the measure of s:
s r
=
sin S sin R
s 20
=
sin 12.2° sin 130°
20 sin 12.2°
s=
sin 130°
s = 5.5

Answer:
B
m = 19
t = 11
170°
T
M
Because m > t, there is only one solution.

t m
=
sin T sin M
11 19
=
sin T sin 170°
11 sin 170°
sin T =
19
∠T = 5.8°
∠B = 180° − (170° + 5.8° )
= 4.2°
To find the measure of b:
b m
=
sin B sin M
b 19
=
sin 4.2° sin 170°
19 sin 4.2°
b=
sin 170°
b = 8.0

Answer:
C
a=4 b=2
h
34°
B A
h = 4 sin 34°
h = 2.2
Since the side opposite the given angle is smaller than the height of the
triangle, there is no solution.
decimal place.
Answer:
B
c = 30 a = 25
h
A 19°
C
h = 30 sin 19°
h = 9.8
Since the side opposite the given angle is larger than the height of the
triangle, there are two solutions of ÐC. We will find the two measures
for ÐC using the Sine Law.

30 25
=
sin C sin 19°
30 sin 19°
sin C =
25
 30 sin 19° 
∠C r = sin−1 
 25 
∠C 1 = 23.0° (acute angle)
∠C 2 = 180o − 23.0° = 157.0° (obtuse angle)

Answer:
J
d = 20 b = 50
28°
B D
Because b > d, there is only one value for ÐD.

d b
=
sin D sin B
20 50
=
sin D sin 28°
20 sin 28°
sin D =
50
∠D = 10.8°

Answer:
Y
z = 7.5 x = 9.3
58°
X Z
Because x > z, there is only one solution.

x z
=
sin X sin Z
9.3 7.5
=
sin 58° sin Z
7.5 sin 58°
sin Z =
9.3
∠Z = 43.1°

Answer:
I
b = 900
g = 1000
h
39°
B G
h = 1000 sin 39°
h = 629.3
triangle, there are two solutions. We will find the two measures of ÐG
first.
900 1000
=
sin 39° sin G
 1000 sin 39° 
∠Gr = sin−1 
 900 
∠G1 = 44.4° (acute)
∠G 2 = 180° − 44.4° = 135.6° (obtuse)
Now we can find the corresponding measures of the third angle in the
triangle, ÐI.
ÐI1 = 180° - (39° + 44.4°) = 96.6°
ÐI2 = 180° - (39° + 135.6°) = 5.4°

Module 7
Trigonometry

M o d u l e 7:
Part A: BrainPower
he have left?
3. Solve for g: (2g + 1)(g - 5) = 0
5. Simplify: 108
1 1
3
6. Order these values from lowest to highest: 55 , 5, 54 , and 5
7 3
3 2
Answers:
1. $25 ($76 + $47 + $152 = $275; $300 - $275 = $25)
2. 43° (180° - 137°)
1
3. g = − or g = 5
2
1
4. (Your brother owns two parts and you own one part. So you can think
3
of there being a total of 3 parts.)
5. 6 3 ( 4 9 3)

1 1  1 1
3 3
6. 55 < 54 < 5< 5 5=5 ;
 2 5= 53  
 
7 6 7 3 7 3 2
7. 
 = 
6 3 2 3 (2) 

8. -2 (y = -2x + 1
Explain.
a) y b) y
 x

 
c) y d) y

x
 

Answers:
a) This angle is in standard position as the initial side is along the
positive x-axis and the angle is measured from the initial to the
terminal arm, and the vertex is at the origin. The angle is positive
because its rotation is in a counter-clockwise direction.

b) This angle is in standard position and the vertex is at the origin. The
initial side is along the positive x-axis. It is rotated to the terminal arm
in a clockwise direction and its measure is considered a negative value.
c) This angle is in standard position. This angle is the reflex angle to the
angle in (b). The angle is measured counter-clockwise from the initial
side to the terminal arm so it is a positive angle.
d) This angle is not in standard position, as the initial side is not along the
positive x-axis.

a) (-5, 12)
Answer:
y
r = x2 + y2
P(5, 12)  2
= (−5) + 12 2
= 169
= 13
12 r
y 12
sin θ = =
r 13
x −5 5
 cos θ = = =−

r 13 13
5 x
y 12 12
tan θ = = =−
x −5 5


b) (24, -7)
Answer:
y

24
 x
7
r

P(24, 7)
Notice that these triangles in quadrant diagrams do not need to be

drawn to scale.
y −7 7
r = x2 + y2 sin θ = = =−
r 25 25
2
= ( 24 ) + (−7 )
2 x 24
cos θ = =
r 25
= 625
y −7 7
tan θ = = =−
= 25 x 24 24
c) (-4, -3)
Answer:
y r = x2 + y2
2 2
= (−4 ) + (−3)
 = 25
4 =5
 x
y −3 3
3
r
sin θ = = =−
r 5 5
P(4, 3) 
x −4 4
cos θ = = =−
r 5 5
y −3 3
tan θ = = =
x −4 4

d) (5, 3)
Answer:
y r = x2 + y2
= 52 + 32
P(5, 3)
= 34

r
3
 y 3 3 34

 sin θ = = =
5 5 x
r 34 34
x 5 5 34
cos θ = = =
r 34 34
y 3
tan θ = =
x 5

a) cos 191°
Answer:
q is in Quadrant III where
y
x-coordinates are negative; or,
you can use the CAST rule:
 = 191°
S A

x
T C
cos q is negative in Quadrant III.
\ cos 191° is negative.
b) sin 255°
Answer:
y q = 255° is located in Quadrant III
where y-coordinates are negative;
 = 255° or you can use the CAST rule:
 x S A
T C
sin q < 0 in this quadrant.
\ sin 255° is negative.

c) tan 340.4°
Answer:
y q = 340.4° is located in Quadrant IV
where x-values are positive and
 = 340.4° y-values are negative.
x
y -value
∴ tan 340.4° =

x -value
negative
=
positive
= negative
Or, use the CAST rule and only

cosine is positive in Quadrant IV.
So tan 340.4° is negative.
d) sin 161°
Answer:
q = 161° is located in Quadrant II
y
where the y-values are positive.
y -value
∴ sin θ =
r
 = 161°
positive

x
=
positive
= positive
Or, use the CAST rule and sin q is

positive in Quadrant II. So sin 161°
is positive.
conditions.
a) sin q > 0
Answer:
y -value
The ratio for sin q is . Thus, sin q is positive when the y-values
r -value
are positive because the r-value is always positive. This occurs in
Quadrant I or II.

b) cos q > 0
Answer:
x -value
The ratio for cos q is . Thus, cos q is positive when the x-values
r -value
are positive. This occurs in Quadrant I or IV.
c) tan q > 0
Answer:
y -value
The ratio for tan q is . Thus, tan q is positive when the x- and
x -value
y-values are both positive or both negative. This occurs in Quadrant I
or III.
Answer:
Since the x-value must be positive and the y-value negative, the only
quadrant where this occurs is Quadrant IV.

Answers:
2
cos θ = I or IV
5
4
sin θ = I or II
5
2
tan θ = − II or IV
3
−1
sin θ = III or IV
5
3
tan θ = I or III
5

a) q = 26°
Answer:
This angle is located in Quadrant 1. All of the ratios, including the sine,
cosine, and tangent ratios, are positive because all ratios in Quadrant I
are positive.
b) q = 305°
Answer:
This angle is located in Quadrant IV where cosine is positive and both
sine and tangent are negative. In Quadrant IV, x > 0, y < 0; thus,
x y y
is positive, is negative, and is negative.
r r x
c) q = 152°
Answer:
This angle is located in Quadrant II where sine is positive and both
cosine and tangent are negative. In Quadrant II, x < 0 and y > 0.
d) q = 206°
Answer:
This angle is located in Quadrant III. Sine and cosine are both negative
in Quadrant III and tangent is positive.

Part A: BrainPower
4 5
3. Calculate: +
3 7
not simplify.
8.7 10.2
5.4

Answers:
1. 90 (one-quarter of 120 is 30, and 120 - 30 = 90)
2. 216° (60% of 360 degrees = 50% of 360 + 10% of 360 = 180° + 36°)
43  28 15 
3.  + 
21  21 21 
4. 5 (32 + 42 = x2; 9 + 16 = x2; 25 = x2; 5 = x)

5. 4 hours (5 ´ half an hour = 2.5 hours; 45 minutes ´ 2 = 1.5 hours)
5.4
6.
10.2
8.7
7.
10.2
5.4
8.
8.7

Linear Form
a) 65°
Answer:
lies in Quadrant I.
b) 340°
Answer:
lies in Quadrant IV.
c) 241°
Answer:
lies in Quadrant III.
d) 123°
Answer:
lies in Quadrant II.

a) 140°
b) 267°
c) 316°
d) 17°
i) y ii) y



x  x
iii) y iv) y



x 
x
Answers:
(a) and (iii)
(b) and (ii)
(c) and (iv)
(d) and (i)

a) 98°
Answer:
qr = 180° - q
qr = 180° - 98°
qr = 82°
r = 82° 
98° = 
b) 120°
Answer:
qr = 180° - q
qr = 180° - 120°
qr = 60°
r = 60°  120° = 

c) 352°
Answer:
y
This work is optional.
qr = 360° - q
qr = 360° - 352°
qr = 8°
 = 352°
r = 8°
d) 263°
Answer:
qr = q - 180°
qr = 263° - 180°
 = 263° qr = 83°
r = 83°

have the same reference angle as an angle in standard position of 58°.
Answer:
In Quadrant II, the angle is: q = 180° - qr
q = 180° - 58°
q = 122°
In Quadrant III, the angle is: q = 180° + qr
q = 180° + 58°
q = 238°
In Quadrant IV, the angle is: q = 360° - qr
q = 360° - 58°
q = 302°
The other three angles are 122°, 238°, and 302°.

Answer:
y
reflected
angle

r = 65°   65° = 


q = 115°

Answer:
y
 65°


r = 65°
reflected
angle

q = 295°
Answer:
y

65°

 x
r = 65° 
reflected in
y-axis, then
x-axis
Thus, the angle in standard position is: q = 180° + 65°

q = 245°

necessary.
2
a) cos θ = − g) 5 cos θ − 2 = 0
3
b) sin θ + 1 = 0 h) 5 tan θ + 4 = 0
tan θ
c) tan θ − 2 = 5 i) −1= 0
6
1
d) 2 cos θ = 2 j) 2 cos θ + 1 =
2
e) −3 sin θ = 2 k) 4 tan θ − 7 = 5 tan θ − 6
tan θ
f) =5
2
Answers:
2
a) cos θ = −
3
2
θ r = cos−1  Use the positive ratio to find qr.
3
= 48.2°
In Quadrant II, q = 180° - 48.2° = 131.8°.
In Quadrant III, q = 180° + 48.2° = 228.2°.
b) sin q = -1
This is a quadrantal angle through (0, -1) that lies on the negative
y-axis.
\ q = 270°
c) tan q - 2 = 5
tan q = 7
qr = tan-1(7)
= 81.9°
tan q > 0 in Quadrants 1 and III
In Quadrant III, q = 180° + 81.9° = 261.9°.

d) 2 cos q = 2
cos q = 1
This is a quadrantal angle through (1, 0) that lies on the positive x-axis.
\ q = 0° or 360°.
e) −3 sin θ = 2
2
sin θ = −
3
2
θ r = sin−1  Use the positive ratio to find qr.
3
= 41.8°
sin q < 0 in Quadrants III and IV
In Quadrant III, q = 180° + 41.8° = 221.8°.
In Quadrant IV, q = 360° - 41.8° = 318.2°.
tan θ
f) =5
2
tan θ = 10
θ r = tan−1 (10 )
= 84.3°
In Quadrant III, q = 180° + 84.3° = 264.3°.
g) 5 cos θ − 2 = 0
2
cos θ =
5
2
θ r = cos−1 
5
= 66.4°
cos q > 0 in Quadrants I and IV
In Quadrant IV, q = 360° - 66.4° = 293.6°.

h) 5 tan θ + 4 = 0
4
tan θ = −
5
4
θ r = tan−1 
5
= 38.7°
In Quadrant II, q = 180° - 38.7° = 141.3°.
In Quadrant IV, q = 360° - 38.7° = 321.3°.
tan θ
i) −1= 0
6
tan θ
=1
6
tan θ = 6
θ r = tan−1 6
= 80.5°
In Quadrant III, q = 180° + 80.5° = 260.5°.
1
j) 2 cos θ + 1 =
2
1
2 cos θ = −
2
1
cos θ = −
4
1
θ r = cos−1 
4
= 75.5°
In Quadrant II, q = 180° - 75.5° = 104.5°.
In Quadrant III, q = 180° + 75.5° = 255.5°.

k) 4 tan q - 7 = 5 tan q - 6
-tan q = 1
tan q = -1
qr = tan-1 (1)
qr = 45°
In Quadrant II, q = 180° - 45° = 135°.
In Quadrant IV, q = 360° - 45° = 315°.

Part A: BrainPower
2. Factor: x2 + 5x - 6
1
3. Evaluate: ( )
6 2 2

6. Simplify: (-3x2 - 6x + 7) + (2x2 - 5x)
Answers:
12 36 37 
1. Jason (Sherri’s ratio is  ; Jason’s ratio is 
15 45 45 
2. (x + 6)(x - 1)
3. 6
4. Quadrants I and II.
5. 26 975 (12 382 + 14 593)
6. -3x2 - 6x + 7 + 2x2 - 5x = -x2 - 11x + 7
7. 40°
third angle must measure 40°.
Method 2: An isosceles triangle will have two angles that are the same.
Therefore, the third angle must measure 40°.)
8. 10.3% (multiply by 100)

reference angles.
Answer:
reference angle in Quadrant III is q = 180° + qr.
Thus, the three angles in Quadrant III are:
q = 180° + 30° = 210°
q = 180° + 45° = 225°
q = 180° + 60° = 240°
reference angle in Quadrant IV is q = 360° - qr.
Thus, the three angles in Quadrant IV are:
q = 360° - 30° = 330°
q = 360° - 45° = 315°
q = 360° - 60° = 300°


(quadrantal
180° -1 0 0
angle)
3 1 1
210° 30° - -
2 2 3
-1 - 2 -1 - 2
225° 45° or or 1
2 2 2 2
1 3
240° 60° - - 3
2 2
(quadrantal
angle)
1 3
300° 60° - - 3
2 2
1 2 -1 - 2
315° 45° or or -1
2 2 2 2
3 1 1
330° 30° - -
2 2 3
(quadrantal
360° 1 0 0
angle)


0° 1 0 0
15° 0.9659 0.2588 0.2679
30° 0.8660 0.5 0.5774
45° 0.7071 0.7071 1
60° 0.5 0.8660 1.7321
75° 0.2588 0.9659 3.7321
90° 0 1 undefined
Answer:
As the angle increases, sine increases from 0 to 1, cosine decreases
from 1 to 0, and tangent increases from 0 to a large number.
Answer:
The cosine ratio has the same value as the sine ratio of its complement.
(The complement of q is 90° - q.) For example, sin 15° = cos 75°.
Answer:
In Quadrant II, sine will be positive while cosine and tangent are
negative.

Answer:
To solve for the coordinates of the point P(x, y), you can use the exact
values of the trigonometric ratios for 30°.
y
P(x, y)

4
r= y

30°
x x
x y
cos θ = sin θ =
r r
x y
cos 30° = sin 30° =
4 4
x = 4 cos 30° y = 4 sin 30°
 3 1
x = 4
 2 
 y = 4 
  2
x=2 3 y=2
The coordinates of P(x, y) are ( 2 3 , 2 ) . The coordinates of the points in
the other three quadrants are (−2 3 , 2 ) , (−2 3 , − 2 ) , and ( 2 3 , − 2 ) .
 
(23, 2) P(x, y) = (23, 2)
r=
4 r =4

30° 30°

x

30° 30°

4 r=
r= 4
(23, 2)  
(23, 2)

Notice that since the r-value in this question is twice the r-value in the
basic triangle for 30° that you have memorized, the x- and y-values are
also doubled. They are similar triangles.
4
2
2
1
30° 30°
23
3
r = 2 r=4
coordinates coordinates
P(x, y) = ( 3 , 1) P(x, y) = ( 2 3 , 2 )

operator is digging? Round your answer to
3 decimal places.
y y
201°
349°
 x  x
  




3 metres
Answer:
You will use your calculator to find approximate answers since the angles
in question do not have reference angles of 30°, 45°, or 60°.
To find the horizontal distance, you need to create two different triangles:
one in Quadrant IV and one in Quadrant III. These triangles will represent
the initial and final positions of the backhoe. Once these triangles are
drawn, if you find the x-component of each triangle and add these two
values together, you will find the length of the hole.

y
 = 349° r

x1

3m x

y1
x1
Initial Position

when the angle is 349° and the arm length is 3 m. To find the value of qr,
you need to find the reference angle for 349°.
qr = 360° - 349° = 11°
You now have the values of qr and r; thus, you need to use to cosine ratio
in order to determine the x-value.
x
cos θ =
r
x
cos 11° =
3
x = 3 cos 11°
x = 2.945 metres
y
 = 201°
x2
x

r

y2 3m
x2
Final Position

when the angle is 201° and the boom length is 3 m.

The reference angle of 201° is:
201° - 180° = 21°
x
cos θ =
r
x
cos 21° =
3
x = 3 cos 21°
x = 2.801 metres
Now, to find the length of the hole, you can add these values together.
Thus, the length of the hole is 2.945 + 2.801 = 5.746 metres.

Part A: BrainPower
22
25
33 + 3
6. Simplify:
32
2
Answers:
 22 
1. 88%  = multiply top and bottom by 4 to get a denominator off 100 
 25 
2. -6
3. Quadrants I and III
 $16 $0.64 
4. $2.08  = $2 ; = $0.08 ; $2 + $0.08 = $2.08
 8 8 
5. 17 (The hypotenuse is always the longest side.)
10  33 + 3 27 + 3 30 
6.  = = 
3  32 9 9
3
7. 92
15  12 − (−3) 15 
8. m = = 
−14  −6 − 8 −14 

2 decimal places.
a) In ∆ABC, ÐA = 67°, ÐB = 73°, and b = 42.
Answer:
A
67°
b = 42
c
C
73°
a B
ÐC = 180° - 67° - 73° = 40°

To find a: To find c:
a b c b
= =
sin A sin B sin C sin B
a 42 c 42
= =
sin 67° sin 73° sin 40° sin 73°
42 sin 67° 42 sin 40°
a= c=
sin 73° sin 73°
a = 40.43 c = 28.23
Summary:
ÐC = 40°
a = 40.43
c = 28.23

b) In ∆ABC, ÐA = 150°, a = 200, and ÐC = 20°.
Answer:
B
a = 20
0
c
20° C
150° b
A
ÐB = 180° - 150° - 20° = 10°

To find b: To find c:
a b a c
= =
sin A sin B sin A sin C
200 b 200 c
= =
sin 150° sin 10° sin 150° sin 20°
200 sin 10° 200 sin 20°
b= c=
sin 150° sin 150°
b = 69.46 c = 136.81
Summary:
ÐB = 10°
b = 69.46
c = 136.81

C

100° 30°
A B
310 m
Answer:
ÐC = 180° - (100° + 30°)
= 50°
C
50°
a
b
100° 30°
A B
310 m

b c a c
= =
sin B sin C sin A sin C
b 310 a 310
= =
sin 30° sin 50° sin 100° sin 50°
310 sin 30° 310 sin 100°
b= a=
sin 50° sin 50°
b = 202.34 m a = 398.53 m

Answer:
K (kite)
75° 25°
B A
C
3 km
ÐBKA = 180° - (75° + 25°) = 80°

In DBKA, by the Sine Law
BK 3
=
sin 25° sin 80°
3 sin 25°
BK =
sin 80°
BK = 1.287 413 489
In right DBCK, ÐC = 90°

KC
sin 75° =
BK
KC = BK sin 75°
KC = 1.287 413 489 sin 75°
= 1.243 545 938
\ The kite is approximately 1.2 km above the ground.

Answer:
K (kite)
50°

75° 105° 25°
A
C B
3 km
ÐKBA = 180° - 75° = 105°

ÐBKA = 180° - (105° + 25°) = 50°
In DABK, using the Sine Law:
BK 3
=
sin 25° sin 50°
3 sin 25°
BK =
sin 50°
BK = 1.655 066 878
In right DCKB, ÐC = 90°

KC
sin 75° =
BK
KC = BK sin 75°
KC = 1.655 066 878 sin 75°
= 1.598 671 842
In this case, the kite is 1.6 m above the ground.

Answer:
C
40° 20°
A B
D
200 m
In DACB,
ÐC = 180° - (40° + 20°) = 120°
Use DABC and the Sine Law to find BC.
200 BC
k =
sin 120° sin 40°
200 sin 40°
BC =
sin 120°
BC = 148.445 439 8
In right DCDB, ÐD = 90°

CD
sin 20° =
BC
CD = BC sin 20°
CD = 148.445 439 8 sin 20°
CD = 50.77
The Assiniboine River is about 50.77 m wide at the Legislative Building.

a) h1 b
b a
c) 
sin B sin A
a c
f) 
sin A sin C
a b c
g)  
sin A sin B sin C
Answer:
a) Determine two expressions for the height through C.
b) Equate two equal expressions for the same height.
c) Divide both sides by sin A sin B.
d) Determine two expressions for the height through B.
e) Equate two equal expressions for the same height.
f) Divide both sides by sin A sin C.
a
g) Equate the formulas found in (c) and (f) since they both equal .
sin A

Part A: BrainPower
2x2 - 3x + 6 = 0?
Answers:
1. Quadrant I
3 1
2. 
6 2
3. $5.28 (10% of 43.99 = $4.40; 1% of 43.99 = $0.44; 13% of $43.99 =

$4.40 + $0.44 + $0.44 + $0.44 = $5.72)
4. 10 (62 + 82 = x2; 36 + 64 = x2; 100 = x2; 10 = x)
5. -39 (b2 - 4ac = 9 - 4(2)(6) = 9 - 48 = -39)
1 3 7  1
 12 x y = (12 x y ) 
3 7 3 7 2
6. 12 x 2 y 2
2  
 
 1   7 + (−8) −1 + 15   1 14   1 
7. − , 7   M = , =− , =− , 7 
 2   2 2   2 2   2 
8. Independent Variable: The amount of time spent studying

Dependent Variable: The mark on the test

a) b) 7
x 5 135°
11
x
40°
7
c) d) 5
130°
30° 4
y
10 30° x
x 80°
Answers:
a) The triangle has no matching pair of a side and its opposing angle. Use
x 2 = 7 2 + 52 − 2 (7 )( 5) (cos 40° )
x 2 = 20.376 888 98
x 2 = 20.376 888 98
x = 4.5
b) The triangle has no matching pair of a side and its opposing angle. Use
x 2 = 7 2 + 112 − 2 (7 )(11) (cos 135° )
x 2 = 278.894 444 3
x 2 = 278.894 444 3
x = 16.7

c) The triangle has a matching pair of side and its opposing angle once
ÐA is found. Use the Sine Law.
∠A = 180° − 80° − 30°
30° ∠A = 70°
10 x 10
70° =
x 80° sin 30° sin 70°
10 sin 30°
x=
sin 70°
x = 5.3
d) First solve DABC for y using the Cosine Law for sides. There is no
matching pair of a side and its opposite angle.
A
5 y 2 = 4 2 + 52 − 2 ( 4 )( 5) (cos 130° )
130° C
4
y
y 2 = 66.711 504 39
B 30° x
y 2 = 66.711 504 39
D
y = 8.167 711 086
In DBCD, there is a right angle. Use the sine ratio.

x
sin 30° =
y
x = y sin 30°
x = 8.167 711 086 sin 30°
x = 4.1

4 A
C
a) A b)
4 5 7
10
C B
6
B
B
c)
6 5
50° C
A
Answers:
a) There is no matching pair for the Sine Law. Use the Cosine Law for
angles.
Method 1: Write the Cosine Law as:
62 = 42 + 52 - 2(4)(5) cos A
62 - 42 - 52 = -2(4)(5) cos A
-5 = -40 cos A
0.125 = cos A
A = cos-1(0.125)
A = 82.8°
Method 2: Use the rearranged formula:
b 2 + c 2 − a2
cos A =
2 bc
4 2 + 52 − 6 2
cos A =
2 ( 4 )( 5)
cos A = 0.125
∠A = cos−1 (0.1255)
∠A = 82.8°

b) There is no matching pair to use the Sine Law. Use the Cosine Law for
angles.
b 2 + c 2 − a2
cos A =
2 bc
4 2 + 7 2 − 10 2
cos A =
2 ( 4 )(7 )
cos A = −0.625 (Notice the negative value for cos A;
so, ÐA will be obtuse.)
∠A = 128.7°
c) There is a matching pair of an angle and its corresponding opposite

side. Use the Sine Law.
5 6
=
sin A sin 50°
5 sin 50°
sin A =
6
sin A = 0.638 370 369
∴ ∠Ar = sin−1 (0.638 370 369 )
∠Ar = 39.7°
Since your calculator only gives one of two possible angles when using
sine inverse, the solution for ÐA could be an acute or an obtuse angle.
However, you are given the diagram and it shows ÐA to be acute.
Thus, the only solution is ÐA = 39.7°.
Answer:
A
10 cm 10 cm
B C
6 cm
Since there is no matching angle and its opposite side, solve for an angle
using the Cosine Law for angles.

b 2 + c 2 − a2
cos A =
2 bc
10 2 + 10 2 − 6 2
cos A =
2 (10 )(10 )
cos A = 0.82
∠A = cos−1 (0..82 )
∠A = 34.9°
180° − 34.9°
Since DABC is isosceles, ÐB = ÐC. Thus, ∠B = = 72.5°.
2
The measure of the angles of the triangle are 34.9°, 72.5°, and 72.5°.
4. Janice spots a bird on the roof of her apartment block with an angle of
elevation of 35°. She moves 15 m closer to the apartment block and now the
angle of elevation is 40°. How far above the ground is the bird? (Assume
the ground to be level and Janice walked directly toward the bird on the
roof.) Round to the nearest tenth.
Answer:
B
5°
140°
35°
40°

 
W
15 m J T
One method to solve for BW is to solve first for BT in DBJT and then use
the sine ratio in the right triangle, DBTW.
For DBJT, ÐJTB = 180° - 40° = 140° and ÐJBT = 180° - 35° - 140° = 5°.
BT 15
=
sin 35° sin 5°
15 sin 35°
BT =
sin 5°
BT = 98.715 773 33

In DBJW,
BW
sin 40° =
BT
BW = BT sin 40°
BW = (98.715 773 33) (sin 40° )
BW = 63.5 m
N
(ending point) Q
2x
40 60°

P (starting point)
A 2 x 40

Answer:
The ship is travelling from noon until 2:00 p.m. (2 hours) for 40 km in each
hour. It travels 80 km due west. When it changes direction, it travels for
the same time at the same speed, and thus travels another 80 km.
The measure of ÐQAP = 60° + 90° = 150°.
Q
a
80
150°
P
A 80

There is no matching pair of side and opposite angles. Use the Law of
Cosines for sides.
a2 = 80 2 + 80 2 − 2 (80 )(80 ) (cos 150° )
a2 = 23 885.125 17
a2 = 23 885.125 17
a = 154.5
The ship is 154.5 km from port at 4:00 p.m.

Answer:
A (Pitcher’s Mound)
b C (First Base)
15.2 m
19.8 m
45°
B (Home Plate)
There is no matching pair of a side and its opposite angle. Thus, use the
Cosine Law.
b 2 = a2 + c 2 − 2 ac cos B
2 2
= (19.8) + (15.2 ) − 2 (19.8)(15.2 ) cos 45°
b = 14.05
Thus, the distance between the pitcher’s mound and first base is 14.05 m.

below.
C
b a
h
x cx
A B
D
c

Proof:
triangle:
in DBCD, a2 = h2 + (c - x)2
Now finish the proof.
Answer:
Subtract the two equations to eliminate h2:
2
a 2 − b 2 = (c − x ) − x 2
a 2 − b 2 = c 2 − 2cx + x 2 − x 2 Simplify
a2 − b 2 = c 2 − 2cx Simplify
a2 = b 2 + c 2 − 2cx Rearrange
Now, write x in terms of the sides and angles of triangle ABC, and use
DACD and find cos A.
x
cos A 
b
x  b cos A
Substitute x = b cos A into a2 = b2 + c2 - 2cx to get:

a2 = b2 + c2 - 2c(b cos A)
a2 = b2 + c2 - 2bc cos A

Note to Student: You are not expected to know the proof of either the Sine
Law or the Cosine Law for the exam.

Part A: BrainPower
13 5
6
8
8. Simplify: (x2 - 1)(2x2 + 5x - 6)
Answers:
1. $9.36 (10% of 72 = $7.20; 1% of 72 = $0.72; so 13% of $72 =
$7.20 + $0.72 + $0.72 + $0.72 = $9.36)
 288 200 88 
2. 72  = + = 50 + 22 = 72 
 4 4 4 
3. Quadrants I and IV
4. 5 (x2 + 122 = 132; x2 = 169 - 144; x2 = 25; x = 5)
5. Down (y = -5x2 - 2x + 4)
 13 5 1 
6. 13 5
x y  x 2 y 2 = ( x 13 y 5 ) 2 = x 13 y 5 
 
 
6
7. (-48, 33) (A slope of refers to a rise of 6, which affects the y-values, and
8
a run of 8, which affects the x-values, so (-56 + 8, 27 + 6))
8. 2x4 + 5x3 - 6x2 - 2x2 - 5x + 6 = 2x4 + 5x3 - 8x2 - 5x + 6

a) C
a=5
b = 10
h
35°
A B
Answer:
h = 10 sin 35°
h = 5.7
Since 5 < h, there is no triangle.
b) C
a = 16
b = 10
120°
A B
Answer:
Because the side opposite the given angle is greater than the other
given side, and ÐA is obtuse, there is only one triangle.

c) ÐC = 60°, c = 43, b = 32
Answer:
The longer side is opposite the given angle. There is only one triangle.
A
32 43
60°
C B
d) ÐA = 18°, a = 38, c = 50
Answer:
h = 50 sin 18° = 15.45
Since 38 > h, there are two solutions.
B
a = 38
b = 50
h
A 18°
C
e) ÐB = 60°, b = 14, c = 15
Answer:
h = 15 sin 60° = 12.99
Since 14 > h, we have two solutions.
A
b = 14
c = 15
h
60°
B C

f) ÐC = 170°, c = 10, b = 15
Answer:
The side opposite the given angle is shorter than the other given side
and the given angle is obtuse. There is no solution.
c = 10
A
170°
b = 15 B
C
nearest tenth.
Answer:
h = 4 sin 34° = 2.2
3 > h, so there are two triangles.
C
b=3
a=4
h
34°
B A
We will now solve for the two measures of ÐA, using the Sine Law.
a b
=
sin A sin B
4 3
=
sin A sin 34°
4 sin 34°
sin A =
3
 4 sin 34° 
∠A r = sin−1 
 3 
∠A 1 = 48.2° (acute angle )
∠A 2 = 180° − 48.2° = 131.8° (obtuse angle )

Now we can draw the two triangles and solve each of them.
C C
a=4 b=3
a=4
b=3
34° 48.2°
B A1
c1
B 34° 131.8°
c2 A2
∠C = 180° − ( 34o + 48.2° ) ∠C = 180° − ( 34° + 131.8° )

∠C = 97.8° ∠C = 14.2°
To solve for c1 : To solve for c 2 :
c1 3 3 c2
= =
sin 97.8° sin 34° sin 34° sin 14.2°
c1 = 5.3 c 2 = 1.3

Answer:
Z
y = 15 x = 12
h
13°
X Y
h = 15 sin 13° = 3.37

12 > h, so there are two triangles
We will now solve for the two measures for ÐY using the Sine Law.
Z Z
y = 15
y = 15 x = 12 13°
x = 12
13° X
X z1 Y1 z2 Y2

x y
=
sin X sin Y
12 15
=
sin 13° sin Y
15 sin 13°
sin Y =
12
∠Yr = 16.3°
Thus, ÐY1 = 16.3° and ÐY2 = 180° - 16.3° = 163.7°.

In DXY1Z:
If ÐY1 = 16.3°
then ÐZ = 180° - (16.3° + 13°)
= 150.7°
In DXY2Z:
If ÐY2 = 163.7°
then ÐZ = 180° - (13° + 163.7°)
= 3.3°
In DXY1Z: In DXY2Z:
For z1: For z2:
x z1 x z2
= =
sin X sin Z sin X sin Z
12 z1 12 z2
= =
sin 13° sin 150.7° sin 13° sin 3.3°
12 sin 150.7° 12 sin 3.3°
z1 = z2 =
sin 13° sin 13°
z1 = 26.1 z2 = 3.1

Answer:
C
a=4 b=5
34°
B A
Since b > a, only one triangle exists.

a b side c
=
sin A sin B
b c
=
4 5 sin B sin C
=
sin A sin 34°
5 c
4 sin 34° =
sin A = sin 34° sin 119.4°
5
5 sin 119.4°
∠A = 26.6° c=
sin 34°
∠C = 180° − ( 34° + 266.6° )
c = 7.8
= 119.4°

Note: You can verify that there is only one value for ÐA.
If there were two triangles, then the second ÐA is:
ÐA2 = 180° - 26.6° = 153.4°.
\ ÐC2 = 180° - (34° + 153.4°) = -7.4°
This is impossible. An angle in a triangle cannot have a negative
measure.

Answer:
S
r = 20
t = 16
130°
T
R
Because r > t, there is only one solution.

r t
=
sin R sin T
20 16
=
sin 130° sin T
16 sin 130°
sin T =
20
∠T = 37.8°
∠S = 180° − ( 37.8° + 130° )
= 12.2°
To find the measure of s:
s r
=
sin S sin R
s 20
=
sin 12.2° sin 130°
20 sin 12.2°
s=
sin 130°
s = 5.5

Answer:
B
m = 19
t = 11
170°
T
M
Because m > t, there is only one solution.

t m
=
sin T sin M
11 19
=
sin T sin 170°
11 sin 170°
sin T =
19
∠T = 5.8°
∠B = 180° − (170° + 5.8° )
= 4.2°
To find the measure of b:
b m
=
sin B sin M
b 19
=
sin 4.2° sin 170°
19 sin 4.2°
b=
sin 170°
b = 8.0

Answer:
C
a=4 b=2
h
34°
B A
h = 4 sin 34°
h = 2.2
Since the side opposite the given angle is smaller than the height of the
triangle, there is no solution.
decimal place.
Answer:
B
c = 30 a = 25
h
A 19°
C
h = 30 sin 19°
h = 9.8
triangle, there are two solutions of ÐC. We will find the two measures
for ÐC using the Sine Law.

30 25
=
sin C sin 19°
30 sin 19°
sin C =
25
 30 sin 19° 
∠C r = sin−1 
 25 
∠C 1 = 23.0° (acute angle)
∠C 2 = 180o − 23.0° = 157.0° (obtuse angle)

Answer:
J
d = 20 b = 50
28°
B D
Because b > d, there is only one value for ÐD.

d b
=
sin D sin B
20 50
=
sin D sin 28°
20 sin 28°
sin D =
50
∠D = 10.8°

Answer:
Y
z = 7.5 x = 9.3
58°
X Z
Because x > z, there is only one solution.

x z
=
sin X sin Z
9.3 7.5
=
sin 58° sin Z
7.5 sin 58°
sin Z =
9.3
∠Z = 43.1°

Answer:
I
b = 900
g = 1000
h
39°
B G
h = 1000 sin 39°
h = 629.3
triangle, there are two solutions. We will find the two measures of ÐG
first.
900 1000
=
sin 39° sin G
 1000 sin 39° 
∠Gr = sin−1 
 900 
∠G1 = 44.4° (acute)
∠G 2 = 180° − 44.4° = 135.6° (obtuse)
Now we can find the corresponding measures of the third angle in the
triangle, ÐI.
ÐI1 = 180° - (39° + 44.4°) = 96.6°
ÐI2 = 180° - (39° + 135.6°) = 5.4°

Module 8
Absolute Value and Reciprocal Functions
Module 8:
A b s o lu t e Va lu e a n d R ec ipro c a l Fu n c t io n s
Introduction
Welcome to the last module of Grade 11 Pre-Calculus Mathematics! In this

module, you will be learning about two different types of functions and their
graphs.
You will first learn about absolute value functions, which occur when only
positive y-values are desired. Absolute value is especially important in
distance, as you would never say you are a negative distance away from your
destination. You could be 10 kilometres east or 10 kilometres west, but either
way you are still 10 kilometres away.
Once you learn about absolute value functions, you will learn about reciprocal
functions. Reciprocal functions are used to define many relationships,
including gravitational forces between planets, currency exchange, and the
amount of time a diver can take to rise to the surface of the water depending
on the depth. As you have already studied linear and quadratic functions,
you will now learn how to graph the reciprocals of these types of functions in
this module.
2 Assignment 8.1 Absolute Value
Absolute Value Equations and Graphing

4 Assignment 8.2
5 Assignment 8.3 Reciprocal Functions: Part 2
Module 8: Absolute Value and Reciprocal Func tions 3

Resource Sheet
any marks for it.

formula is used.

Writing Your Final Examination
You will write the final examination when you have completed Module 8 of
this course. The final examination is based on Modules 1 to 8, and is worth
25 percent of your final mark in the course. The examination content will
consist of 20% from Modules 1 to 4 and 80% from Modules 5 to 8. You will
write the final examination when you have completed Module 8. To do well
on the final examination, you should review all the work you complete in
Modules 1 to 8, including all the learning activities and assignments. You will
write the final examination under supervision.

Notes

L e s s o n 1: A b s o l u t e Va l u e o f a N u m b e r
Lesson Focus

q learn how to determine the absolute value of a positive or
negative real number
q learn how the distance between two points on a number line is
related to absolute value
q learn how to determine the absolute value of a numerical
expression
Lesson Introduction
Consider the following situation. You and your friend are meeting at a movie
theatre. You are both coming from opposite directions; however, you are both
3 km away from the theatre. This situation could be represented as 3 km in
one direction and negative 3 km (-3 km) in the other direction. However,
since distance is usually represented using a positive value, you would,
therefore, normally say that you are both 3 km away from the movie theatre
and 6 km away from each other. This idea is related to the concept of absolute
value.
Absolute Value of a Number
The absolute value of a real number is always positive or zero. To denote

the absolute value of a number, a vertical bar is placed on each side of the
number. For example, | 5 | denotes the absolute value of 5.
Determining the Absolute Value of a Number

The absolute value of a positive number is always the positive number. For
instance, | 6 | = 6.
The absolute value of zero is always zero, | 0 | = 0.
The absolute value of a negative number is the negative of that number. For
example, | -6 | = -(-6) = 6.

Definition: The absolute value of a real number x, | x |, is defined by
x , x ≥0

x =
−x , x < 0

This method of defining the absolute value of a number is very important,

very useful, and is used in solving absolute value equations. This kind of
notation, piece-wise, is studied more thoroughly in Lesson 2. In this lesson,
some experience using the notation is provided.
Example 1
Evaluate:
a) | 8 |
b) | -2 |
c) | 1 |
d) | -(-9) |
Solution
a) | 8 | = 8 as | x | = x for all x ³ 0.
b) | -2 |= -(-2) = 2 as | x |= -x for all x < 0.
c) | 1 | = 1 as | x | = x for all x ³ 0.
d) | -(-9) | = | 9 | = 9. Notice that you can simplify the expression inside the
absolute value symbols first, before finding the answer.
Relating Absolute Value to Distance

Consider the absolute value of negative 4 and positive 4.
| -4 | = 4 |4| = 4
These answers are equivalent. Where else do you encounter a negative value
and a positive value being equal?
Distance! But their values aren’t equal; rather, their absolute values are equal.
As mentioned in the introduction to this lesson, distance is usually measured
in positive values. For example, you would never say you were a negative
distance away from somewhere. This same concept can be related to distance
from zero on a number line.

| -4 | = 4 |4| = 4
10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
4 units 4 units
from 0 from 0
From the number line, you can see how | -4 | = | 4 | = 4. As negative 4 and
positive 4 are both four units away from zero, the absolute values of 4 and –4
are equivalent.
Example 2
a) Determine the distance of -8 and 8 from 0 on the number line.
b) Evaluate the following:
i) | -8 |
ii) | 8 |
Solution
a)
10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
8 units 8 units
from 0 from 0
As you can see, both negative 8 and positive 8 are 8 units from 0. Any
positive and negative number in the form ±a will be the same distance
away from zero. In other words, any positive number and its negative will
be the same distance away from zero.
b) i) | -8 | = -(-8) = 8
ii) | 8 | = 8
Both negative 8 and positive 8 have an absolute value of 8. From part (a)
above, you can see how this relates to the distance from 0 of each value.

Example 3
Determine the distance from -4 to 3 using a number line and an equation.
Solution
7 units
10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
4 units 3 units
from 0 from 0
Using the number line, you can see that the distance from -4 to 3 is 7 units.
To find a positive value for distance, you can subtract the two values from
each other (in any order) and then find the absolute value of the answer.
| -4 - 3 | = | -7 | = -(-7) = 7
| 3 - (-4) | = | 3 + 4 | = | 7 | = 7
You will get the same answer of 7 units in either case and a positive answer
for distance.
Example 4
Determine the distance between the following points using subtraction and
absolute values.
a) 5 and -12
b) -8 and -5
Solution
a) | 5 - (-12) | = | 5 + 12 | = 17
or
| -12 - 5 | = | -17 | = -(-17) = 17
b) | -8 - (-5) | = | -8 + 5 | = | -3 | = -(-3) = 3
or
| -5 - (-8) | = | -5 + 8 | = | 3 | = 3

Example 5
Order the following values from least to greatest using a number line.
1 2 3 1 1 7
- , , -4, -4 , , , ,-
2 5 5 2 8 2
Solution
First, you need to evaluate each expression and express the final answer in
decimal form. This will allow you to compare the values easily.
1 1
− = = 0.5
2 2
2
= 0.4
5
−4 = −4
− 4 = −(−4 ) = 4
3 3
= = 0.6
5 5
1 1
= = 0.5
2 2
1
= 0.125
8
7
− = −3.5
2
Now, you need to order the values from least to greatest.

-4, -3.5, 0.125, 0.4, 0.5, 0.5, 0.6, 4
Place the corresponding original expression of each value on the number line
in its correct position.
2
7 1
1 5 3
4 2 2 |4|
8 5







    
10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

1

2

Evaluating Absolute Value Expressions
Just as you can evaluate linear or quadratic expressions, it is also possible to
evaluate absolute value expressions. Consider the following example.
Example 6
Evaluate the following expressions.
a) | 4 | - | -9 |
b) 5 - 3 | -2 - 7 |
c) | -3 - 5(3 - 6)2 |
Solution
The first step for evaluating absolute value expressions is to evaluate
everything inside the absolute value symbols. Once the absolute value
symbols are only surrounding one term, you can then take the absolute
value of that term. Remember the order of operations: inside the Brackets,
Exponents, Division, Multiplication, Addition, Subtraction, or the mnemonic
BEDMAS.
a) | 4 | - | -9 |
As each set of absolute value symbols only contain one term, you can take
the absolute value of each term right away and then simplify.
| 4 | - | -9 | = 4 - [-(-9)] = 4 - 9 = -5
b) 5 - 3 | -2 - 7 |
As the set of absolute value symbols does not contain only one term, you
need to simplify the expression inside the absolute value symbols first.
5 - 3 | -2 - 7 | = 5 - 3 | -9 |
You can now take the absolute value and then simplify.
5 - 3 | -9 | = 5 - 3(-(-9)) = 5 - 3(9) = 5 - 27 = -22
c) | -3 - 5(3 - 6)2 |
Following the order of operations, you need to simplify the expression
inside the brackets first, and then deal with the exponent.
| -3 - 5(3 - 6)2 | = | -3 - 5(-3)2 | = | -3 - 5(9) |
Now, you can compute the multiplication and then the subtraction
following the BEDMAS rule.
| -3 - 5(9) | = | -3 - 45 | = | -48 |
Finally, you can take the absolute value.
| -48 | = -(-48) = 48

It is also possible to evaluate an absolute value expression for a variable.
Consider the following examples.
Example 7
Evaluate the following expressions for x = -3.
a) 2| -2x + 5 | - 1
b) 3| -x2 - 6x + 3 | + 4
Solution
To evaluate each of these expressions, simply substitute x = -3 in for the
variable x and evaluate as you did in Example 6 using BEDMAS.
a) 2| -2x + 5 | - 1
= 2| -2(-3) + 5 | - 1
= 2| 6 + 5 | - 1
= 2| 11 | - 1
= 2(11) - 1
= 22 - 1
= 21
b) 3| -x2 - 6x + 3 | + 4
= 3| -(-3)2 - 6(-3) + 3 | + 4
= 3| -9 + 18 + 3 | + 4
= 3| 12 | + 4
= 3(12) + 4
= 36 + 4
= 40
Before you complete the following learning activity to practice the skills you
learned in this lesson, update your resource sheet. Include any examples that
you found difficult or helped you understand the concept of absolute value
better, as well as its definition.

Part A: BrainPower
1. In the three courses you are taking this semester, you receive final marks
of 72%, 83%, and 91%. What is your average?
2. Find the equation of a line with a slope of 2 and a y-intercept of -6.
5 7
3. Evaluate and express as a mixed fraction: +
6 4
4. You have a job at an electronics store. As a bonus for excellent sales this
1
month, your employer offers you either or 7% of your annual salary.
20
Which one is the better choice?
5. Evaluate: 26
6. Estimate: 220
3 3 2 + 12
2 −4 18
8. In which quadrant is an angle of 294° located?
continued

Part B: Absolute Value
1. Evaluate.
a) | -13 |
b) | 4 |
c) | 0 |
d) | -(52) |
e) 2| 5 - 3(2) | + 1
f) 3| 4(3 + 2)2 - 42 | - 2
2. Use absolute value symbols to write an expression for the distance
between each pair of points on the number line. Using this expression,
determine the distance between the two points.
A B C D
   
5 4 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5
4.5 2 0.25 2.75
a) A and D
b) B and D
c) C and B
3. Describe how distance can be related to absolute value.
4. Determine the distance between each of the following sets of points.
Include a graph for (b), (c), and (d).
a) -45 and -23
b) (5, 3) and (-2, 3)
c) (-1, 6) and (-1, -5)
d) An extension of finding absolute value on the coordinate graph is
to find the distance of a point from the origin—in other words, its
absolute value. Find the absolute value for the point (2, 3).
5. Order the following set of absolute values from least to greatest.
1 1 2 3 1 7
- , , - 3, - 3 , , , ,-
4 3 9 2 2 3
continued

6. Evaluate the following expressions for x = -2.
a) 3| -2x - 5 | + 4
b) 3| x2 - 7x + 2 | - 5
x
7. Consider the expression .
x
x
a) What is the value of when x is positive?
x
x
b) What is the value of when x is negative?
x
8. In Manitoba, the temperature could go as low as -40° C in the winter. In

the summer, the temperature may reach a high of 30° C. Determine the
difference in the range of these two temperatures.
9. Charlize works in an office building and uses an electronic key card
in order to travel to different floors of the building by elevator. This
electronic key card tracks her movements throughout the day. The floors
Charlize travelled to throughout one day are displayed in the chart below.
Time Floor
8 a.m. 1
9:13 a.m. 4
11:41 a.m. 2
12:51 p.m. 7
2:00 p.m. 4
2:10 p.m. 6
2:30 p.m. 4
4 p.m. 1
a) Write and evaluate an absolute value expression to determine the total
amount of floor changes throughout Charlize’s day.
b) Write and evaluate an absolute value expression to determine the net
change in Charlize’s location from the beginning of the day to the end
of the day.
c) Compare the value you calculated in (a) to the value you found in (b).
How does the total change compare to the net change of Charlize’s
location?

Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you were introduced to the concept of absolute value. You
learned how the absolute value of a number is always positive or zero. The
concept of absolute value can also be related to distance. For example, the
distance between any two points on a number line or any two places on a
map is always positive. In the next lesson, you will be learning about absolute
value graphs.

Notes

L e s s o n 2: G r a phin g A b s o lu t e Va lu e
Functions
Lesson Focus

q learn how to express an absolute value function using piece-wise
notation
q learn how to graph the absolute value of a given function
q learn how the absolute value operation affects the graph of a
function as well as its intercepts, domain, and range
Lesson Introduction
In Lesson 1, you learned that the absolute value of a number is always positive
or zero. This idea leads to using a new notation for defining functions called
piece-wise functions. In this lesson, you will learn how to graph absolute
value functions and how to express the graph of an absolute value function as
a piece-wise function.
Absolute Value Functions
All absolute value functions can be expressed as piece-wise functions.
Piece-wise Functions
Piece-wise functions are defined by a formula for each different part of their
domains. The absolute value is just one example of a function that can be
defined using piece-wise notation.
Piece-wise functions break up the domain of the graph. In different parts of
the domain, different functions are graphed. In Lesson 1, you saw that the
definition of absolute value consists of two pieces, when x is greater than
or equal to zero and when x is less than zero. The definition for an absolute
value function is similar.

Definition: The absolute value function y = | x | is defined by
x , x ≥ 0

y = x =
−x , x < 0

This definition states that the y-value remains the same as the x-value as long
as the x-value is non-negative and the y-value is the opposite of the x-value if
the x-value is negative.
Graphing Absolute Value Functions

The sketch of y = | x | is shown below.
y
y = |x|
negative x-values and positive x-values and

positive y-values positive y-values
The graph shows a piece of the line, y = x, when x ³ 0, and a piece of the line
y = -x, when x < 0. Which piece of each line is graphed depends on how the
domain of the function is given.
Another interpretation of piece-wise functions involves transformations. The
absolute value can be thought of as an operation on a function. The absolute
value operation results in a partial reflection on the graph of a function by
changing the negative y-values to positive y-values and, thus, reflecting the
points below the x-axis to points above the x-axis. You could think of the
graph of y = | x | as the graph of y = x with the portion below the x-axis
reflected above the x-axis. The x-axis becomes the line of reflection.
The absolute value transformation can be defined as (x, y) ® (x, | y |). A graph
of this transformation is shown below.
y y
x x

Example 1
Sketch the graph of y = x + 2 and then the graph of y = | x + 2 |.
Solution
Method 1
Use a table of values:
x x+2 |x + 2|
-5 -3 3
-4 -2 2
-3 -1 1
-2 0 0
-1 1 1
0 2 2
1 3 3
2 4 4
3 5 5
y y
2  
 
  2
2 2 x
 
2 
2 2 x
2

Method 2
Use your knowledge of the absolute value transformation.
y y
y = |x + 2|
y=x+2
2 2
2 2 x 2 2 x
2 2
Note that the x-intercept, x = -2, in the original function is the x-intercept
of the absolute value function as well. In other words, the point (-2, 0) is
not changed in the absolute value transformation. Such a point is called an
invariant point.
In absolute value transformations, the x-intercept of the original function also
becomes a pivot point or a turning point, where the graph changes direction.
All the segments of the graph that are below the x-axis get reflected over
the x-axis at its pivot points. The negative y-values are changed to positive
y-values.
Add the definition of pivot point and invariant point to your resource sheet.
Example 2
Write y = | x - 2 | as a piece-wise function.
Solution
By definition of an absolute value function, you have
x − 2 , x − 2 ≥ 0

y =
−( x − 2 ) , x − 2 < 0

There are two cases to consider, because there are two pieces of the domain.

Case 1: y = x - 2 and x - 2 ³ 0
This case can be simplified to y = x - 2 and x ³ 2.
This means the expression inside the absolute value symbols is positive or
zero when x is greater than or equal to two. Thus, the function, y = | x - 2 |,
can be written as y = x - 2. The absolute value signs can be removed. You
have a piece of the line y = x - 2 as long as x ³ 2.
Case 2: y = -(x - 2) and x - 2 < 0
This case can be simplified to y = -x + 2 and x < 2.
Since the expression inside the absolute value brackets is now negative,
the function values need changing to make them positive. Thus, when
the absolute value symbols are removed, y = | x - 2 | must be written as
y = -(x - 2) = -x + 2. Now you have a piece of the line, y = -x + 2, as long as
x < 2.
In summary, you can write the absolute value function y = | x - 2 | in piece-
wise notation as
x − 2 , x ≥ 2

y =
−x + 2 , x < 2

Example 3
Sketch each pair of functions using the absolute value transformation, and
find the x- and y-intercepts.
a) f(x) = -2x + 1 and F(x) = | -2x + 1 |
b) g(x) = x2 - 4 and G(x) = | x2 - 4 |
c) Provide the following information for the functions in (a) and (b),
summarized in a chart: domain, range, intercepts.
Solution
a) f(x) = -2x + 1
To graph F(x), it is easiest to find the pivot point of f(x) by solving for the
x-intercept of f(x).
f ( x ) = −2 x + 1
0 = −2 x + 1
−1 = −2 x
1
=x
2

Now, find the y-intercept of F(x).
F (x) = −2x + 1
F (0) = − 2 (0) + 1
F (0) = 1
Graph these two points on the coordinate plane. Then, using the slope of
f(x) as negative 2, you can find additional points on the line.
y
2 2 x
2
f(x) = 2x + 1

Then, reflect the part of f(x) that is below the x-axis to above the x-axis,
1 
starting at the x-intercept or pivot point  , 0  to get the function
2 
F(x) = | -2x + 1 |.
y
F(x) = |2x + 1|
2
2 1 2 x
2
2

b) g(x) = x2 - 4
The pivot points are the zeros of the function. Therefore, you need to solve
for x when the function value is zero in order to find the pivot points.
g(x) = x2 - 4
x2 - 4 = 0
(x - 2)( x + 2) = 0
x = ±2
Now, find the y-intercept of G(x).
G(x) = | x2 - 4 |
G(0) = | 02 - 4 |
G(0) = 4
Also, the vertex of g(x) is (0, 4); the curve opens up and is normal size.
Using this information, you can draw the graph of g(x) = x2 - 4.
y
g(x) = x2  4
2 2 x
2
4

Using this graph, you can reflect the portion below the x-axis to above the
x-axis to get y = | x2 - 4 |.
y
G(x) = |x2  4|
2 2 x
2

Notice how the curve now has sharp corners or “cusps” at the pivot
points.
c) Function Domain Range x-intercept(s) y-intercept

1
f(x) = -2x + 1 Â Â 1
2
1
F(x) = |-2x + 1| Â [0, ¥) 1
2
g(x) = x2 - 4 Â [-4, ¥) ±2 -4
G(x) = |x2 - 4| Â [0, ¥) ±2 4
Example 4
Write a simplified piece–wise function for the two absolute value functions in
Example 3.
Solution
There are two methods to answer this question. An algebraic method is
shown for F(x). A graphing method is shown for G(x).
a) F(x) = | -2x + 1 |
By definition of an absolute value function,
−2 x + 1, − 2 x + 1 ≥ 0

F (x) = 
−(−2 x + 1) , − 2 x + 1 < 0


There are two cases to consider.
Case 1: F(x) = -2x + 1 and -2x + 1 ³ 0
First, simplify the domain:
−2 x + 1 ≥ 0
−2 x ≥ −1
1 Reverse the direction of the inequality when
x≤ dividing by a negative.
2
This means the expression inside the absolute value signs is positive or
1
zero when x is less than or equal to . Thus, the function,
2
F(x) = | -2x + 1 | can be written as F(x) = -2x + 1. The absolute value
signs can be removed. You have a piece of the line y = -2x + 1 as long as
1
x£ .
2
Case 2: F(x) = -(-2x + 1) and -2x + 1 < 0

Simplify the domain:
−2 x + 1 < 0
−2 x < −1
1
x>
2
Since the expression inside the absolute value brackets is negative, the
function values need changing to make them positive when x is greater
1
than . Thus, when the absolute value signs are removed,
2
F(x) = | -2x + 1 | must be written as F(x) = -(-2x + 1) = 2x - 1. Now you
1
have a piece of the line, y = 2x - 1, as long as x  .
2
In summary, you can write the absolute value function F(x) = | -2x + 1 |
in piece-wise notation as
 1
−2 x + 1, x ≤
 2
F (x) = 
 1
2 x − 1 , x >
 2

b) G(x) = | x2 - 4 |
By looking at the graph of g(x) = x2 - 4, you can see that g(x) ³ 0 when
x £ -2 and when x ³ 2. Therefore, these segments of the graph are always
positive and the function can be written as G(x) = x2 - 4 when x £ -2 and
when x ³ 2.
Between -2 and 2, the graph of g(x) = x2 - 4 is below the x-axis. When the
absolute value of this function is taken, this part of the graph is reflected
over the x-axis. Therefore, G(x) = | x2 - 4 | can be written as
G(x) = -(x2 - 4) when -2 < x < 2. You can simplify G(x) = | x2 - 4 | to get
G(x) = -x2 + 4.
G(x) can be written as the following piece-wise function:
x 2 − 4 , ≤ −2


G x = −x 2 + 4 , − 2 < x < 2
( )

2
x − 4 , x ≥ 2

Part A: BrainPower
1. If you get paid $11 an hour and you work 30 hours in a week, how much
will you get paid (before taxes)?
2. If you travel at a speed of 72 km/h for 6 hours, how far will you travel?
5
7
4. Calculate 15% of 140.
5. Find the equation of a line with a slope of 3 that crosses through the point
(1, 1).
6. Express in exponential form: ( 5 )( 3 5 )
continued

7. Determine the distance between the following two points:
(7, -1) and (-8, 15)
8. How many feet are in 24 yards?
Part B: Graphing Absolute Value Functions
1. Sketch each function and state the values of the intercepts.
a) f(x) = | 2x - 1 |
b) g(x) = | x + 3 |
c) h(x) = | x2 - 1 |
d) j(x) = | -x2 + 2x + 3 |
e) State the domain and range for each function in (a) to (d).
2. Write each function from Question 1 using piece-wise notation and
simplify.
3. The point (2, -5) is on the graph y = f(x). Identify the corresponding point
on the graph y = | f(x) |.
4. The graph of y = f(x) has an x-intercept of –6 and a y-intercept of -1. What
are the x- and y-intercepts on the graph of y = | f(x) |?
5. Write the piece-wise function that represents each graph.
a) y b) y
 
 3
 
   
 2
6 x

3 2 2 x
2
continued

c) y d) y
(1, 4) 5

 
f(x)
  2 
5 3 x
 
2 4 x
 

(1, 4)
5
6. Graph f(x) = | -4x + 3 | and g(x) = | 4x - 3 | using a table of values. What

do you notice about these two graphs? Explain.
x y = -4x + 3 f(x) = |-4x + 3| y = 4x - 3 g(x) = |4x - 3|
-3
-2
-1
0
1
2
3
7. Graph the function f(x) = | x2 - 6x + 5 |. Write a different absolute value

function having the same graph as f(x).
Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned how to graph absolute value functions. You
learned how the graphs of absolute value functions are always above or on
the x-axis. Any points of the original function that aren’t above the x-axis are
reflected over the x-axis to obtain positive y-values. You also learned how
it was possible for two different functions to have the same absolute value
graphs. You will be learning more about this concept when you learn how to
solve absolute value equations in the next lesson.

Assignment 8.1
Absolute Value
Total: 42 marks
1. Evaluate. (1 mark each, for a total of 4 marks)
a) 2| 3(-2) - 4 | + 1
b) -2| -1(3) + 2 | - 3
c) 3| 22 - 4(3) - 3 | + 1
d) -2| (-3)2 - 11 + 1 | + 3
continued

Assignment 8.1: Absolute Value (continued)
2. Determine the distance between each of the following sets of points. (2 marks each,
a) (-1, 7) and (-1, -5)
b) (-2, 4) and (-9, 4)
3. Order the following numbers from least to greatest. (2 marks)

1 4 3 4
7.5, -8 , - , , 1.5 , -
3 5 2 3
continued

4. Evaluate the following expressions for x = -4. (2 marks each, for a total of 4 marks)
a) -2| -2x + 1 | + 5
b) 2| x2 + 4x + 3 | - 6
5. On one cold day in winter, the temperature was -42°C with the windchill. By
lunchtime, the temperature had climbed to -11°C with no windchill. Determine how
many degrees the temperature warmed up during the day. (2 marks)
continued

6. Sketch each function and state the domain, range, and the values of the intercepts.
a) y = | -3x + 2 |
b) y = | 2(x + 1)2 - 4 |
continued

7. Write each function from Question 6 using piece-wise notation. (2.5 marks each, for a
total of 5 marks)
8. Write the piece-wise function that represents each graph. (4 marks each, for a total of
8 marks)
a) y
 
1 

3 x
continued

b) y
36 
6
 
2 4 10 x
9. Graph f(x) = | x2 - 4 |. Write a different absolute value function that would have the
same graph as f(x) = | x2 - 4 |. (3 marks)

L e s s o n 3: S o lv in g A b s o lu t e Va lu e
Equat ion s
Lesson Focus

q learn how to solve absolute value equations algebraically
q learn how to solve absolute value equations graphically
q learn how to apply solving absolute value equations to word
problems
Lesson Introduction
In the first two lessons, you learned how to find the absolute value of a
numerical expression as well as how to graph an absolute value function.
These two skills are needed in order to solve absolute value equations.
Absolute value equations are useful when you are asked to find the distance
from a particular point. Distance is always positive or zero. Therefore,
the distance can be either in the negative or positive direction and still be
considered a positive distance.
Absolute Value Equations
The absolute value of ±a is equal to a given a ³ 0. Therefore, there are pairs of

values on the number line having the same absolute value. This may result in
absolute value equations having more than one solution.
Solving Absolute Value Equations Algebraically

If Becky’s cubicle is on the fourth floor of her office building and her boss
Suzanne’s office is two floors away from Becky, what possible floors could
Suzanne’s office be on?
This expression can be easily solved by adding or subtracting 2 from 4 to get
6 and 2 respectively. Therefore, Suzanne’s possible office locations are on the
second floor and the sixth floor.

Suzanne’s Office
Sixth Floor
2 floors away
Becky’s Cubicle
Fourth Floor
2 floors away
Suzanne’s Office
Second Floor
Exit Enter Exit

Only Only
This same type of problem can be expressed in an absolute value equation.

Let x represent the floor number for Suzanne’s office. You are solving an
equation that reads “the distance from x to 4 is 2.” As distance is always
positive, the first half of the expression will be surrounded by absolute value
symbols. The word “is” means “equal to,” so your absolute value equation
becomes
|x - 4| = 2
You know the answers to this equation are 6 and 2, but how do you get there?
To solve for x to get a value of x = 6, you can simply eliminate the absolute
value symbols.
x-4=2
x=2+4
x=6

How do you solve for x to get a value of x = 2? Well, you know that a negative
number will have the same absolute value as the positive value of that same
number. Therefore, if you make the expression inside the absolute value
symbols negative, you should be able to find the value of x = 2.
-(x - 4) = 2
-x + 4 = 2
-x = 2 - 4
-x = -2
x=2
In general, to solve an absolute value equation algebraically, solve the
equation twice—once when the expression inside the absolute value symbols
is positive, and again when the expression inside the absolute value symbols
is negative. Consider the following examples.
Example 1
Write the following expressions in words. Using mathematical reasoning,
solve for the missing x-values. Then, solve for the missing x-values
algebraically.
a) | x | = 3
b) | x - 5 | = 2
Solution
a) | x | = 3
This expression can be read as, “The distance from x to 0 is three units.”
Therefore, the pair of solutions is x = 3 or x = -3.
Solving algebraically:
Case 1: x = 3, when x ³ 0
and
Case 2: -x = 3, when x < 0
x = -3
Therefore, you get the same solutions of x = 3 and -3 by considering the
x-value as a distance as well as by calculating the answer algebraically.

b) | x - 5 | = 2
This expression can be read as, “This distance from x to 5 is 2 units.”
Consider the number line below:
2 units 2 units
  
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 x
From the number line, you can see that the two values that are 2 units
away from 5 are 3 and 7.
Solving algebraically:
Case 1: x - 5 = 2, when x - 5 ³ 0
x = 2 + 5 and x ³ 5
x = 7 and x ³ 5
Case 2: -(x - 5) = 2, when x - 5 < 0
-x + 5 = 2 and x < 5
-x = -3 and x < 5
x = 3 and x < 5
Thus, the two solutions for x are 3 and 7.
Solving absolute value equations is similar to solving absolute value equations

by using the definition of absolute value. The definition of absolute value is:
x , x ≥ 0

x =
−x , x < 0

Example 2
Solve the following equations using the definition of absolute value.
a) | x + 1 | = 3
b) | 3x - 5 | = 8
c) | 2x - 5 | = 5 - 3x
d) | x2 + 3x | = 4
e) | x2 - 11x | = -x + 11
f) | 3x - 15 | = 0

Solutions
a) | x + 1 | = 3
There are two cases:
Case 1: x + 1 = 3, x + 1 ³ 0
Case 2: -(x + 1) = 3, x + 1 < 0
Solve Case 1 and then Case 2:
Case 1: x + 1 = 3 and x+1³0
x + 1 = 3
x+1³0
x = 2 x ³ -1
Both x = 2 and x ³ -1 are true.
\ x = 2 is a solution.
Case 2: –(x + 1) = 3 and x+1<0
–(x + 1) = 3 x+1<0
-x - 1 = 3 x < -1
-x = 4
x = -4 and x < -1
Both x = -4 and x < -1 are true.
\ x = -4 is a solution.
The solutions are x = 2, -4.
b) | 3x - 5 | = 8
Case 1: −( 3x − 5) = 8 and 3x − 5 ≥ 0
3x − 5 = 8 3x ≥ 5
3x = 13 5
x≥
13 3
x=
3
13 5
Since x  is in the interval x ³ , then it is a solution.
3 3
Case 2: −( 3x − 5) = 8 and 3x − 5 ≥ 0
−3x + 5 = 8 3x < 5
−3x = 3 5
x<
x = −1 3
13
Both conditions are satisfied. The solutions are x  or x = -1.
3

c) | 2x - 5 | = 5 - 3x
Case 1: 2 x − 5 = 5 − 3x and 2x − 5 ≥ 0
5x = 10 2x ≥ 5
x=2 5
x≥
2
5
Since x = 2 is not in the interval x ³ , then it is not a solution. The value
2
x = 2 is called an extraneous root. Also notice that the right side of the
equation has a value of -1 when x = 2, suggesting | 2x - 5 | = -1. This is
false. An absolute value can never have a negative value.
Case 2: −( 2 x − 5) = 5 − 3x and 2x − 5 < 0
−2 x + 5 = 5 − 3x 2x < 5
x=0 5
x<
2
5
Since x = 0 is in the interval x  , then x = 0 is a solution.
2
\ The only solution is x = 0.
d) | x2 + 3x | = 4
Case 1: x 2 + 3x = 4 and x 2 + 3x ≥ 0
x 2 + 3x − 4 = 0 x ( x + 3) ≥ 0
( x + 4 ) ( x − 1) = 0 x = 0, −3
x = −4 , 1
+  +
 
3 0 x

Solution: (-¥, -3] È [0, ¥)
Both conditions are satisfied because x = -4 is in the interval (-¥, -3] and
x = 1 is in the interval [0, ¥).
\ x = -4, 1 are solutions.

Case 2: -(x2 + 3x) = 4 and x2 + 3x < 0
-x2 - 3x = 4
x2 + 3x = -4
x2 + 3x + 4 = 0
discriminant = b2 - 4ac = 32 - 4(1)(4)
= 9 - 16
= -7
Since the discriminant is negative, there are no real roots.
\ The solutions are x = -4, 1.
e) | x2 - 11x | = -x + 11
Case 1: x 2 − 11x = −x + 11 and x 2 − 11x ≥ 0
x 2 − 11x + x − 11 = 0 x ( x − 11) ≥ 0
x 2 − 10 x − 11 = 0 x = 0 , 11
( x − 11) ( x + 1) = 0
x = 11, −1
+  +
 
0 11 x

Solution: (-¥, 0] È [11, ¥)
Since x = 11 is in the interval [11, ¥) and x = -1 is in the interval (-¥, 0],
then both are solutions.
Case 2: −( x 2 − 11x ) = −x + 11 and x 2 − 11x < 0
−x 2 + 11x + x − 11 = 0 x ( x − 11) < 0

x = 0 , 11
x 2 − 12 x + 11 = 0
( x − 11) ( x − 1) = 0
x = 11, 1
+  +
0 11 x

Solution: (0, 11)
Since x = 11 is not in the interval (0, 11) but x = 1 is, then the only solution
here is x = 1.
\ The solutions are x = 11, -1, 1.

f) | 3x - 15 | = 0
There are no cases here. There is only one possibility. If | 3x - 15 | = 0,
then 3x - 15 must be zero and x = 5 is the answer.
Solving Absolute Value Equations Graphically

To solve an absolute value equation graphically, you can graph the
corresponding functions on either side of the equal sign. Once these two
functions are graphed, the x-coordinate of the point(s) at which the functions
intersect will be the solution(s) to the absolute value equation.
Example 3
Solve the following equations graphically.
a) | x + 1 | = -3
b) | x + 2 | = 3
c) | 2x - 5 | = 5 - 3x
d) | x2 + 3x | = 4
e) | x2 - 11x | = -x + 11
Solutions
a) | x + 1 | = -3
The corresponding functions are y = | x + 1 | and y = -3.
y
y = |x + 1|
1 1 x
y = 3
As the two functions do not intersect, there is no solution. You can also see
from the equation itself, there is no solution because an absolute value is
always positive or zero, never negative.

b) | x + 2 | = 3
The corresponding functions are y = x + 2 and y = 3.
y
y = |x + 2|
 
2 y=3
5 2 1 x
From the graph, you can see that there are two points of intersection: one
point at (-5, 3) and another point at (1, 3). The x-values of these points are
the solutions for x for the absolute value equation. Therefore, the solutions
are x = -5 and x = 1.
c) | 2x - 5 | = 5 - 3x
The corresponding functions are y = | 2x - 5 | and y = 5 - 3x.
y
5
y = |2x  5|
2 2 x
2
y = 5  3x
5
From the graph, you can see there is one point of intersection at (0, 5).
Therefore, the solution to this absolute value equation is x = 0.

d) | x2 + 3x | = 4
The function y = | x2 + 3x | is found by first graphing y = x2 + 3x. This
is a parabola opening up, normal size, and its vertex can be found by
completing the square:
y = x 2 + 3x
 9 9
y = x 2 + 3x + −
 4 4
2
 3 9
y = x +  −
 2 4
 3 −9 
The vertex is − , .
 2 4 
The absolute value transformation reflects any point with a negative

y-value over the x-axis. The graph is shown below. The graph of the other
function, from the right-hand side of the equation, y = 4, is also graphed.
y
y=4
 4 

  y = |x2 + 3x|
2 2 x
2
The two solutions are x = -4 and x = 1, which are the same solutions you
arrived at algebraically in Example 2(d) above.

e) | x2 - 11x | = -x + 11
The function corresponding to the left-hand side of the equation is
y = | x2 - 11x | with zeros at x2 - 11x = 0 or x(x - 11) = 0. The
zeros are 0 and 11. The vertex can be found using the formula
b −(−11) 11
x =− = = .
2a 2 ( 1) 2
 11 2  11 
The y-coordinate of the vertex is y =   − 11  = − 30.25 = 30.25.
2 2
The vertex is (5.5, 30.25). The function corresponding to the right-hand

side of the equation is y = -x + 11. Both functions are shown on the graph
below.
y
y = |x2  11x|
35 (5.5, 30.25)

 
25
 15
 

5
 
6 4 2 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 x
10 y = x + 11
From the graph, you can see the two functions intersect at three points:
(-1, 12), (1, 10), and (11, 0). The y-coordinate of the first intersection point
can be verified by substitution of x = -1 into both functions:
y = | x2 - 11x | = | (-1)2 - 11(-1) | = 12
y = -x + 11 = -(-1) + 11 = 12
The three solutions are x = -1, x = 1, and x = 11, which are the same
solutions found in Example 2(e) above.

Absolute Value Word Problem
Example 4
A company manufactures screws with a diameter of 1.4 mm. If they differ
from this value by more than 0.3 mm, they are rejected.
a) Write an absolute value equation that represents this situation.
b) Solve the absolute value equation.
c) Find the range of acceptable values for the diameter of the screws.
Solution
Let x be an acceptable value for the diameter of the screws measured in mm.
a) Another way of describing this situation is to say “the distance from x to
1.4 is 0.3.” This relates to an absolute value equation of | x - 1.4 | = 0.3.
b) As it may be difficult to see on a graph where these two functions
intersect, solving this equation algebraically is the preferable method.
| x - 1.4 | = 0.3
Case 1: x - 1.4 = 0.3 and x - 1.4 ³ 0
x - 1.4 = 0.3 x - 1.4 ³ 0
x = 1.7 x ³ 1.4
Since x = 1.7 is in the interval x ³ 1.4, it is a solution.
Case 2: -(x - 1.4) = 0.3 and x - 1.4 < 0
-x + 1.4 = 0.3 x < 1.4
-x = -1.1
x = 1.1
Since x = 1.1 is in the interval x < 1.4, then it is a solution.
The solutions are x = 1.7 mm and x = 1.1 mm.
c) The acceptable range of measure for the diameter of the screws is between
1.1 mm and 1.7 mm. You really didn’t need all this algebra to answer this
question; however, the algebra gives you a process that will work for a
much more complicated question.
Before you complete the following learning activity, go back through the
lesson and add to your resource sheet. Include notes on how to solve absolute
value equations algebraically and graphically. If you found any example
difficult, you may find it helpful to include that example on your resource
sheet as well.

Part A: BrainPower
1. You take your best friend out for dinner at a restaurant and the bill comes
to $67.32. If you tip the waiter 15%, how much change will you get back if
you pay with a $100 bill?
2. Find the equation of a line with a slope of -1 that crosses through the
point (5, 2).
3. Evaluate: 34
2 6
4. Evaluate: +
13 7
5. If Jacob can read an average of 98 pages a day, how many pages can he
read in a week?
5
7. Three angles in a parallelogram measure 30°, 93°, and 72°. What is the
measure of the fourth angle?
8. The equation of a parabola is y = x2 + 2x - 15. What are the x-intercepts?
continued

Part B: Solving Absolute Value Equations
1. Solve the following equations using the definition of absolute value.
a) | 2x - 3 | = 7
b) | 3x - 8 | = 2 - 4x
c) | x2 - 4x | = 5
d) | x2 + 2x | = x + 30
2. Solve the absolute value equations in Question 1 graphically.
a) | 2x - 3 | = 7
b) | 3x - 8 | = 2 - 4x
c) | x2 - 4x | = 4
d) | x2 + 2x | = x + 30
3. A manufacturer rejects boxes of cookies when the mass of the box differs
from the stated mass of 325 g by more than 4.6 g.
c) State the range of acceptable values for the mass of a box of cookies.
4. Arrange the numbers from 0 to 9 into the boxes so that each absolute value
equation is mathematically correct. You can only use each digit once.
a) 2 x + =6 b) 2x + 7 =
x = 0, − x =−
2
c) x2 − x =1 d) x 2 − 2 x − 16 =
x= , 1+ 2, 1− 2 x = −4 , − 2 , ,6
e) 3x − = 24
x = − , 11
continued

5. Armani and Jennifer are both trying to solve the absolute value equation
| x - 3 | = 2x + 1. Armani’s and Jennifer’s work is shown below.
Armani’s work:
Case 1: Case 2:
x − 3 = 2x + 1 −x + 3 = 2 x + 1
x + 3 = 2x + 1 2 = 3x
2=x 2
x=
3
Jennifer’s work:
Case 1: Case 2:
x − 3 = 2x + 1 −x + 3 = 2 x + 1
x − 3 = 2x + 1 2 = 3x
−4 = x 2
x=
3
a) Explain whose answer is incorrect.
b) Explain how a person could have discovered that his or her work was
incorrect.
6. Determine whether each statement is always true, sometimes true, or
never true. Explain.
a) The value of | x + 5 | is greater than zero.
b) The value of | x + a |, when a is a real number is greater than or equal
to zero.
c) The value of | 5 + a | + a is greater than zero.
7. Write an absolute value equation with the indicated solutions or type of
solution.
a) -4
b) No solution
c) One solution
d) Two solutions

Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned how to solve absolute value equations. Using what
you learned in Lesson 2, you were able to graph the corresponding absolute
value functions in order to solve an absolute value equation. You also used
the definition of an absolute value in order to solve absolute value equations
algebraically.
In the next lesson, you will switch your focus to reciprocal functions. You
will learn how to graph reciprocal functions, which are similar to rational
functions.

L e s s o n 4: G r a p hin g R e c ip ro c a l
Func t ion s: Pa rt 1
Lesson Focus

q learn how to describe the graph and other properties of the
reciprocal of a function
q learn how to sketch the reciprocal of a given function
Lesson Introduction
a b
The reciprocal of an expression is . Finding a reciprocal means
b a
interchanging the numerator and the denominator of a fraction. For example,
1 2
the reciprocal of 2 is . You can write 2 as . If you interchange the
2 1
2 1
numerator and the denominator of , you arrive at an answer of .
1 2
In this course, you will be learning about reciprocals of linear and quadratic
functions. When you have a polynomial f(x), the reciprocal of that polynomial
1
is f ( x ) . This is the type of function you will be learning how to graph in the
next two lessons.

As mentioned in the introduction to this module, reciprocal relationships
occur in many places, including currency exchange rates and various physics
applications some of which involve pitch and intensity.

Reciprocal Functions
Reciprocals of linear and quadratic functions are a special type of rational

function. You learned about rational functions and equations in Modules 2
and 4.
p (x)
Recall: A rational function is a function of the form f ( x ) = , where
q (x)
q(x) ¹ 0 and where p(x) and q(x) are polynomials and q(x) contains the
variable, x.
Some examples of rational functions are as follows:
1 x+1 x
f (x) = , g (x) = , or h ( x ) = 2
x−2 ( x + 1) ( x − 2 ) x +1
Examples of functions that are not rational are

1 1
t (x) = x + 3, j ( x ) =
4 x
You can see that t(x) does not have a variable in the denominator and j(x) has
an expression, x , that is not a polynomial in its denominator.
When you graph polynomial functions, such as linear and quadratic

functions, the domain is always the set of real numbers. However, rational
function domains are often restricted to avoid division by zero.
In the examples of rational functions given above, in f(x), you cannot have
x = 2 or you will have division by zero. In g(x), you cannot have x = -1 or
x = 2 or you will also have division by zero. In h(x), the domain is the set
of all real numbers because there are no real values of x that will make the
denominator zero.
In this course, you will only be dealing with reciprocals of linear and
quadratic functions. In other words, you will be dealing with rational
1
functions in the form f ( x ) = , where q(x) is either a linear or a quadratic
q (x)
function. To summarize, a reciprocal is obtained by interchanging the
1
numerator and the denominator. Therefore, the reciprocal of a number x is ,
x
1
and the reciprocal of a polynomial function f(x) is .
f (x)

It may be helpful for you to include the definition of a reciprocal on your
resource sheet.
When sketching the graph of a reciprocal function, you should give special
attention to the shape of the graph near x-values that are not in its domain.
Example 1
1
Sketch the graph of f ( x ) = .
x
Solution
Because the denominator is zero when x = 0, the domain of f is all real
numbers as long as x ¹ 0. To determine the behaviour of f near 0, evaluate f(x)
to the left and right of x = 0, as shown in the tables below.
As x approaches 0 from the left:
x -1.0 -0.5 -0.1 -0.01 -0.001 as x approaches 0 from the left,

f(x) -1.0 -2.0 -10 -100 -1000 f(x) approaches -¥
Thus, as x approaches 0 from the left, f(x) becomes a bigger and bigger
negative number.
1
This behaviour of f ( x ) = , written in mathematical notation, is:
x
as x 0-, f(x) -¥
This is read as follows: “As x approaches 0 from the left, f(x) approaches
negative infinity.”
Now consider as x approaches 0 from the right.
x 1.0 0.5 0.1 0.01 0.001 as x approaches 0 from the right,

f(x) 1.0 2.0 10 100 1000 f(x) approaches +¥
Thus, as x approaches 0 from the right, f(x) increases indefinitely.

1
The behaviour of f ( x ) = is denoted by the following:
x
as x 0+, f(x) +¥
This is read as follows: “As x approaches 0 from the right, f(x) approaches
positive infinity.”
This behaviour on a graph is represented by a vertical dashed line at x = 0.

We call the line x = 0 a vertical asymptote of the graph of f(x).
Now let’s consider what happens to f(x) as x goes off to infinity to the right or
to negative infinity to the left.
x 1 2 10 100 1000 as x approaches +¥,

f(x) approaches 0 through
f(x) 1 0.5 0.1 0.01 0.001
positive values
x -1 -2 -10 -100 -1000 as x approaches -¥,

f(x) approaches 0 through
f(x) -1 –0.5 -0.1 -0.01 - 0.001
negative values
This behaviour on a graph is represented by a horizontal dashed line at y = 0.

We call the line y = 0 a horizontal asymptote of f(x).
Note that the asymptotes are like magnets that draw the curve towards them.
However, unlike a magnet, the curve never intersects or touches vertical
asymptotes. The horizontal asymptotes describe the behaviour of the function
as x goes off to infinity to the left or right.
y
y is approaching +
vertical
asymptote 1
y=
x
2 y is approaching zero
1 x
y is approaching zero
horizontal
asymptote
y is approaching 
Vertical Asymptote: The line x = a is a vertical asymptote of the graph of f if

f(x) ® +¥ or f(x) ® -¥ as x ® a, either from the right or from the left. In other
words, if f(x) approaches positive or negative infinity at x = a, the line x = a is
a vertical asymptote.
Horizontal Asymptote: The line y = b is a horizontal asymptote of the graph
of f if f(x) ® b as x ® +¥ or x ® -¥. In other words, if f(x) approaches positive
or negative infinity at y = b, the line y = b is a horizontal asymptote.

Note that discussing the behaviour of a function near its horizontal
asymptote implies you are considering very large positive x-values or very
small negative x-values. You are not considering what happens to the function
relatively nearer to the origin.
1
Comparing y = f(x) to y =
f (x)
1
Consider the table of values showing the function values for y = x and y  .
x
1
x y=x y
x
1
-2 -2 -
2
-1 -1 -1
1 1
- - -2
2 2
0 0 undefined
1 1
2
2 2
1 1 1
1
2 2
2
1
The values for y  are the reciprocals of every y-value of the function y = x.
x

Consider the following coordinate plane, which contains the graphs of y = x
1
and y  .
x
y
y=x

1
1  y=

x
 1 1 2 x
1 
y=
x
 2
1
The graph of y  has two distinct pieces that are located on either side of
x
the vertical asymptote, x = 0, and the horizontal asymptote, y = 0.
1
Characteristic y=x y
x
Domain {x|x Î Â} {x|x ¹ 0, x Î Â}

Range {y|y Î Â} {y|y ¹ 0, x Î Â}
y approaches 0 from
Behaviour as x ® +¥ y approaches +¥
above the x-axis
y approaches 0 from
Behaviour as x ® -¥ y approaches -¥
below the x-axis
y is undefined; vertical
Behaviour at x = 0 y=0
asymptote at x = 0
Invariant Points (-1, -1) and (1, 1)
Invariant points are points that do not change in a transformation and thus
1
are the same points on both the graph of y = f(x) and the graph of y = .
f (x)

Graphing Reciprocal Functions
The following guidelines pertain to the asymptotes of reciprocal functions.
It may be helpful to include these guidelines on your resource sheet to help
you remember how to find vertical and horizontal asymptotes. Guidelines for
graphing reciprocal functions are included after Example 2.
1
Let f ( x ) = , where q(x) is a polynomial.
q (x)
1. The graph of f has a vertical asymptote at each of the zeros of q(x), the
denominator.
2. The graph of f has a horizontal asymptote at y = 0. (Since the numerator is
1, then f(x) will never be zero.)
3. Any asymptotes that occur other than along the x- or y-axis should be
shown on the graph as a dotted line and their equations written on the
graph.
Example 2
Find the vertical and horizontal asymptotes of the following:
1
a) f ( x ) =
( x + 2 )2
1
b) g ( x ) =
3x − 5
Solutions
a) The vertical asymptote(s) occur at the zero of the denominator
q(x) = (x + 2)2. Since, x = -2 is the zero of the denominator, it is also the
equation of the vertical asymptote.
As x gets larger (toward ¥ or -¥), the value of f(x) gets smaller but will
never be zero. The x-axis is the horizontal asymptote and its equation is
y = 0.
As you can see, the vertical asymptotes occur at the non-permissible
values of the reciprocal function, or the points at which the denominator
equals zero.
b) The vertical asymptote(s) occur at the zero of the denominator
5 5
q(x) = 3x - 5 = 0 or x  . Therefore, x  is the zero of the
3 3
denominator and the equation of the vertical asymptote.
As x gets larger (toward ¥ or -¥), the value of q(x) gets smaller but will
never be zero. The x-axis is the horizontal asymptote and the equation of
the x-axis is y = 0.

Remember that many, but not all, reciprocal functions are discontinuous
because of the nature of the asymptotes.
Reciprocal functions can be difficult to graph by merely plotting the
reciprocal of several points. Identifying discontinuities, such as vertical and
horizontal asymptotes, and the invariant points before you graph can help
you find key features of the graphs of reciprocal functions.
Guidelines for Graphing Reciprocal Functions

1
Let f ( x ) = , where q(x) is a polynomial in factored form.
q (x)
1. Find and plot the y-intercept (if any) by evaluating f(0). Remember the
y-intercept is at a point on the y-axis, so the x-coordinate is zero at that
point.
2. Sketch the corresponding vertical asymptotes by solving the equation of
the denominator q(x) = 0 to find the zeros of the denominator. Remember
the vertical asymptotes are drawn at the location of the zeros of the
denominator to indicate the function does not exist there.
3. Sketch the horizontal asymptote at y = 0. This will always be true when
graphing the reciprocal of a polynomial function.
4. Find the invariant points of the function. These points remain unchanged
when a transformation (such as taking the reciprocal) is applied to a
graph. As y-values of 1 and -1 remain unchanged when you take their
reciprocal, solving for the denominator equal to 1 and -1 will provide you
with the invariant points.
5. Plot the invariant points of the function where the y-coordinate is 1 or -1.
6. Use smooth curves to complete the graph on each side of the vertical
asymptotes.

Example 3
1
Sketch the graph of f ( x ) = .
x−2
Solution
y-intercept: Let x = 0
1 1
f (0) = =−
0−2 2
Vertical asymptote: Find the zero of the denominator by letting the expression
in the denominator equal 0.
x-2=0
x = 2
Horizontal asymptote: As x approaches ±¥, f(x) approaches zero so the
horizontal asymptote is the x-axis and its equation is y = 0.
Invariant points: To find the invariant points, set the denominator of the
function equal to 1 and negative 1 and solve.
y = 1 y = -1
x-2=1 x - 2 = -1
x = 3 x=1
Therefore, the two invariant points are (3, 1) and (1, -1).
Draw in the curve: To draw the curve, first plot the two invariant points and
the y-intercept. Then, draw in the horizontal and vertical asymptotes.
y
x=2
1 
1  x
1 

There are going to be two sections of the graph, as there are two different
regions separated by the vertical asymptote. To draw the graph, draw a
smooth curve through the points on each side as defined by the asymptotes
with the ends of the curves approaching, but never touching, the vertical or
horizontal asymptotes.
y
x=2
1
f(x) = x  2
1 
 x
1 
Asymptotes are drawn with a dashed line (unless the asymptote is covered
by the x- or y-axis).
To check your work you might find it helpful to sketch both the functions
1
y = x - 2 and y = on the same set of axes. Then you would be able to
x−2
confirm the location of invariant points and you could check a few y-values
for both functions at the same x-value to be sure the y-values are reciprocals
of each other.
y
x=2 1
f(x) = x  2
y-value is 2
1
1 y-value is

2
 x
1 
y=x2

Example 4
Sketch the reciprocal of the horizontal line y = 4.
Solution
1
The reciprocal function is defined by g ( x ) = . Then, g ( x ) = 1 .
y 4
1
y-intercept: The y-intercept of this function is .
4
Vertical asymptote: There is no vertical asymptote, as the denominator never
equals zero.
1
Horizontal asymptote: As x approaches ±¥, g(x) remains equal to so there is
4
no horizontal asymptote.
Invariant points: There are no invariant points, as g(x) never equals ±1.
Draw the curve:
y
1
g(x) =
4
1
1
4 

1 1 x
1
From this example, you can generalize that the reciprocal of a horizontal line
is another horizontal line, unless you are considering the line y = 0 (where
the reciprocal function does not exist). Also, from the definition of a rational
function, there needs to be a variable in the denominator of the function.
1
Thus, g ( x ) = is not considered to be a rational function.
4

The following examples show graphs of the reciprocal of a quadratic function
having either 2, 1, or 0 x-intercepts.
Example 5
1
Sketch the graph of f ( x ) = 2
.
x −4
Solution
y-intercept: Find f(0):
1 1 1
f (0) = 2
= =−
0 − 4 −4 4
Vertical asymptote: Let the denominator, x2 - 4, equal 0, find the zeros, as the
places where to draw dotted vertical asymptotes through those x-values.
x2 - 4 = 0
(x - 2)(x + 2) = 0
x = 2 and x = -2
Horizontal asymptote: The horizontal asymptote is the line y = 0.
Invariant points: Set the denominator, x2 - 4, equal to 1 and -1.
y=1 y = −1
x2 − 4 = 1 x 2 − 4 = −1
x2 = 5 x2 = 3
x = ± 5 ≈ ±2.2 x = ± 3 ≈ ±1.7
Therefore, the four invariant points are at (2.2, 1), (-2.2, 1), (1.7, -1), and
(-1.7, -1).
Draw in the curve: First draw the vertical asymptotes and plot the invariant
points and the y-intercept. A key point for a quadratic is the vertex. Find the
vertex of the original parabola and the corresponding point in the reciprocal
function.
V(0, -4) for y = x2 - 4
1  −1 
A key point on the function f ( x ) = 2
is  0 , .
x −4  4 

y
x = 2 x=2
2
 
1  x
 
2
Whenever you have a quadratic function in the denominator, if the quadratic

has two zeros, you will always have three sections to your graph separated
by the two vertical asymptotes. The outer two sections will look similar to the
reciprocal of a linear function. However, the inner section will always look
like a bounded U-shape with the function approaching two different vertical
asymptotes. The final graph is shown below.
y
x = 2 x=2
2
 
1  x
 
2
Note: To check your work, you might try graphing y = x2 - 4 first. Then
determine the reciprocal function directly from the graph of the quadratic
by choosing the reciprocal of the y-values at key points such as the zeros, the
vertex, and the invariant points.

1
Characteristic y = x2 - 4 y= 2
x −4
Domain {x|x Î Â} {x|x ¹ -2, 2, x Î Â}

 1 
Range [-4, ¥) y | y ≤ − or y > 0 , y ∈ ℜ
 4 
y approaches 0 from
Behaviour as x ® +¥ y approaches +¥
above the x-axis
y approaches 0 from
Behaviour as x ® -¥ y approaches +¥
above the x-axis
y is undefined; vertical
Behaviour at x = 2 and -2 y=0 asymptote at x = 2 and
x = -2
Invariant Points ( 5 , 1) , (− 5 , 1) , ( 3 , −1) , (− 3 , −1)
Look carefully at the range of the quadratic function y = x2 - 4 and the range
of its reciprocal. Compare the range to the graph of the functions and confirm
that they are consistent.
Example 6
2 1
Sketch f ( x ) = ( x + 3) and y = on the same set of axes.
f (x)
Solution
First sketch the parabola y = (x + 3)2 with vertex at (-3, 0) and standard shape.
1
Then sketch. y = .
( x + 3)2
y-intercept: Let x = 0.
1 1
y= 2
=
( 0 + 3) 9
Vertical asymptote: The denominator will equal zero when x + 3 = 0. The

vertical asymptote occurs at x = -3.
Horizontal asymptote: The horizontal asymptote is y = 0.

Invariant points: Set the denominator of the function equal to ±1.
(x + 3)2 = -1
( x + 3)2 = 1
This equation has no solution
( x + 3) = ± 1 as any squared value will
never be negative.
x + 3 = ±1
x + 3 = 1 and x + 3 = −1
x = −2 , − 4
The two invariant points are (-2, 1) and (-4, 1).

Draw the curve:
y
1
y = f(x)
f(x) = (x + 3)2 6
 
 


9 6 3 1 1 3 x
2
As you can see, graphs of reciprocals of quadratic functions that have only
one x-intercept (or zero) are different from the graphs of reciprocals of
quadratic functions that have two x-intercepts. The reciprocal function is split
into only two parts.
What happens if the quadratic function has no zeros? Consider the next
example.

Example 7
1
Sketch g ( x ) = and state domain, range, intercepts, and equation(s) of
2
x +1
asymptotes.
Solution
Since x2 + 1 is never equal to zero, no vertical asymptotes exist. However,
there is a horizontal asymptote at y = 0. As x approaches ±¥, g(x) approaches
but never equals zero.
Step 1: Plot the y-intercept Step 2: Find additional
points on each side of the
1 1 vertex of the graph of
g (0) = = =1 f(x) = x2 + 1. Then find the
0+1 1
corresponding reciprocal
In this situation, the y-values on the graph of
y-intercept is the same as 1
the invariant point. .
f (x)

y
1
x y= x2 +1 g (x) = 2
x +1
1 5
-2 5  
5
1
-1 2
2 y = x2 + 1
 2 
0 1 1 
1 1 1 x
1 2
2
1
2 5
5

Step 3: Use smooth curves to complete the graph.
y
2
1
(1, )  (1, 1 )
(2, 15 ) 2

2
(2, 1 )
  5

2 1 1 2 x
The domain, the range, the values of any intercepts that may exist, and the
equation of the asymptotes are shown below.
Equation of
Function Domain Range y-intercept x-intercepts
Asymptotes
1
g (x) = Â (0, 1] 1 none y=0
x2 + 1
You need to be familiar with the reciprocals of linear and quadratic functions,
including quadratic functions having no zeros, one zero, or two zeros. It may
be helpful for you to include an example of each different type of reciprocal of
quadratic functions on your resource sheet.

Part A: BrainPower
1. One-third of students in a class of 108 students have never failed a test.
How many students have never failed a test?
2. There is a 50% discount on decorations after Halloween. If it costs you
$52.44 to buy Halloween decorations before Halloween, how much will it
cost you to buy those same decorations the day after Halloween?
1 2
4. Evaluate: +
4 7
( x + 3) ( x − 4 )
( x + 4 ) ( x − 1)
2
6. Express as a power: 12 7
7. In which quadrant is an angle of 145° in standard position located?
8. Find the slope of the line defined by the equation -5x = 2y + 9.
continued

Part B: Graphing Reciprocal Functions
1. Write the reciprocal of each function.
a) y = x - 1
b) y = -3x + 6
c) y = x2 + 4x - 2
d) y = x2 - 9
2. For each of the following, identify the (i) x-intercepts of f(x),
1
(ii) the reciprocal function, y = , (iii) the non-permissible values of
f (x)
the reciprocal function, and (iv) the equation(s) of the vertical asymptotes
of the reciprocal function
a) f(x) = 2x + 5
b) f(x) = x2 - 9
c) f(x) = x2 + 4x + 3
3. Match each function with the graph of its reciprocal. Hint: Consider the
asymptotes.
a) y = x2 + x - 6
b) y = -2
c) y = x - 5
d) y = x2 - 2x - 3
e) y = x2 - 6x + 9
f) y = 3x + 7
g) y = x2 - 5x + 7
continued

y y
i) ii)
2
 1  
2 x 3 x

2 2
7
x=
3 x = 3 x=2
iii) y iv) y
x = 1 x=3
2
  
1 5 x  x

2
x=5
continued

v) y vi) y
2 1

 
  

5 x 2 2 x
2
1
2
vii) y
x=3
1  
2 4 x
4. State the equation(s) of the vertical asymptote(s) for each function.

1
a) y =
5x − 10
1
b) y =
x−4
1
c) y =
( x + 3) ( x − 6 )
1
d) y = 2
x − x − 20
continued

5. Sketch the graph of each reciprocal function. State the y-intercept, the
x-intercept(s), the invariant points, and the equation(s) of the horizontal
and vertical asymptote(s), as well as the domain and range.
1 1
a) f ( x ) = d) f ( x ) = 2
x+3 x − 2x − 8
1 1
b) f ( x ) = e) f ( x ) = 2
2x + 8 x + 8x + 16
1 1
c) f ( x ) = 2
f) f (x) = 2
x +x−2 x − 2x + 6
Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned what reciprocal functions were. You also learned
how to graph these functions by considering their horizontal and vertical
asymptotes, as well as their invariant points. In the next lesson, you will
1
expand on this knowledge to learn how to graph a function y = when
f (x)
you are given the graph of y = f(x) and also how to find the original function
1
y = f(x) when you are given the graph of y = .
f (x)
Before moving onto the next lesson, complete Assignment 8.2.

Assignment 8.2
Absolute Value Equations and Graphing Reciprocal Functions: Part 1
Total: 58 marks
a) | 3x - 2 | = 4
b) | 2x + 1 | = 13 - 4x
continued

Functions: Part 1
c) | x2 - x | = 42
d) | x2 + 2x | = x + 6
continued

Functions: Part 1
2. Solve the absolute value equation in Question 1(d) graphically. Show your work.
(4 marks)
| x2 + 2x | = x + 6
continued

Functions: Part 1
3. A manufacturer rejects 450 g packages of frozen vegetables when the mass of the
package differs from the stated mass by more than 15 g.
a) Write an absolute value equation that represents this situation. (1 mark)
b) Solve the absolute value equation. (4 marks)
c) What are the greatest and lowest acceptable weights for the packages? (1 mark)
continued

Functions: Part 1
4. For each of the following, write the (i) x-intercepts of f(x), (ii) the reciprocal function
of f(x), (iii) the non-permissible values of the reciprocal function, and
(iv) the equation(s) of the vertical asymptotes of the reciprocal function.
a) f(x) = 3x + 2
b) f(x) = x2 - 16
c) f(x) = x2 + 3x - 28
continued

Functions: Part 1
5. Sketch the graph of each reciprocal function. State the y-intercept, the x-intercept(s),
the invariant points, and the equation(s) of the horizontal and vertical asymptote(s),
as well as the domain and range. (5 marks each, for a total of 20 marks)
1
a) f ( x ) =
x−8
continued

Functions: Part 1
1
b) f ( x ) = 2
x − 3x − 18
continued

Functions: Part 1
1
c) f ( x ) = 2
x − 4x + 4
continued

Functions: Part 1
1
d) f ( x ) = 2
x − 2x + 2

Notes

L e s s o n 5: G r a p hin g R e c ip ro c a l
Func t ion s: Pa rt 2
Lesson Focus

q learn how to sketch the reciprocal of a function when you are
given the graph of the polynomial function
q learn how to sketch a polynomial function when you are given the
graph of its reciprocal function
Lesson Introduction
In the last lesson, you learned how to graph reciprocal functions by

discovering their asymptotes and invariant points. In this lesson, you will
learn how to graph the reciprocal of a function when you are given the graph
of another function. You will also learn how to graph the original function
when you are given the graph of the reciprocal of a function. These two
different processes will increase your understanding of the relationships
between functions and their reciprocals.
Reciprocal Functions
Using what you learned in Lesson 4, you are now able to graph reciprocal
functions in various ways. If you have any questions about the content in
Lesson 4, make sure you go back and review the material or ask your tutor/
marker for an additional explanation.
1
Graphing y = When You Are Given the Graph of y = f(x)
f(x)
1
Given the graph of y = f(x), it is possible to sketch the graph of y = in
f (x)
two ways.

Method 1: Algebra Method
You can find the equation of the graph of f(x) and then use the steps explained
in Lesson 4 to graph the reciprocal function. However, this can be difficult
to do with quadratic functions, as their equations are not always easy to find
from points on their graphs.
Example 1
Given the graph of f(x) shown in the graph below, sketch the graph of
1
y= .
f (x)
y

 y = f(x)
4

3 2 x
Solution
To graph the reciprocal of this function using Method 1, you first need to find
the equation of this function. The easiest way to do this is to find the slope
and the y-intercept.
Slope: 2
y-intercept: 4
Using the slope-intercept equation of a line:
y = mx + b
y = 2x + 4
Now that you have the equation of the line, you can now graph the reciprocal
1
of this function, f ( x ) = , using the method you learned in Lesson 4.
2x + 4

1
f (x) =
2x + 4
1 1
f (0) = =
2 (0) + 4 4
Vertical asymptote: Let the denominator equal 0, find the zero, and draw the
dotted vertical asymptote through this zero.
2x + 4 = 0
2x = -4
x = -2
Invariant points: Set the denominator equal to 1 and -1.
y=1 y = −1
2x + 4 = 1 2 x + 4 = −1
2 x = −3 2 x = −5
3 5
x =− x =−
2 2
 3   5 
Therefore, the two invariant points are − , 1 and − , −1.
 2   2 
Draw the curve: First, plot the y

invariant points and the
y-intercept. Then, draw the 1
asymptote and the curves. y = f(x)
2


2 x
 1
x = 2

Method 2: Graphing Method
You can find the y-intercept, the equations of the asymptotes, as well as the
invariant points from the graph of y = f(x). You can then sketch the graph of
1
y=
f ( x ) by using that information.
Example 2
Given the graph of y = f(x) shown in the graph below, sketch the graph of
1
y= .
f (x)
y
invariant
points


(1, 1)

1  x
 (3, 1)
x-intercept
1
2, 
2
Solution
1
The y-intercept of f(x) looks like it is so the y-intercept of the reciprocal
2
function is 2.
The vertical asymptote(s) occur at the x-intercepts of f(x).
This line crosses the x-axis at the point (1, 0). Therefore, in the reciprocal
 1
function, this point is  1,  and the y-value is not defined here. Since the
 0
x-intercept of f(x) is 1, the equation of the vertical asymptote of the reciprocal
function would be x = 1.
The invariant points occur when the y-coordinate is 1 or -1. These points are
(-1, 1) and (3, -1).
The horizontal asymptote is y = 0.

Using this information, you can now graph the reciprocal function.
y
x=1
1
y = f(x)
invariant
points

(1, 1)

1 2 x

(3, 1)

vertical
asymptote
Example 3
Given the graph of f(x) shown in the graph below, sketch the graph of
1
y= .
f (x)
y
 
 
5 2 1 x
 
 
 
 9

Solution
1
The y-intercept of f(x) is -5 so the y-intercept of the reciprocal is - .
5
f(x) crosses the x-axis at -5 and 1 where the y-values are 0. Therefore, the
equations of the vertical asymptotes of the reciprocal function would be
x = -5 and x = 1.
The invariant points occur when the y-coordinate is 1 or -1. These points are
roughly (1.2, 1), (-5.2, 1), (0.8, -1), and (-4.8, -1).
The vertex of f(x) is a key point of the parabola and it is at (-2, -9). Its image
 1
for the reciprocal function is also a key point and it is at −2 , − .
 9
Notice that the x-value does not change. The y-value or f(x) value becomes the
reciprocal.
Using the y-intercept, the asymptotes, the invariant points, and the key point,
you can graph the reciprocal function.
y x=1
x = 5
 1 
 
2 x
 1 
 
 
 9

Compare values on the function and its reciprocal. Notice the following:
1. The reciprocal of a positive is still a positive value, and the reciprocal of a
negative is a negative.
2. The reciprocal of a large number is a very small number and vice versa.
3. The reciprocal of 0 is undefined. The x-intercepts of the original function
give the position of the vertical asymptotes of the reciprocal function.
4. The invariant points occur where the graphs intersect the horizontal lines
y = 1 and y = -1.
1
Graphing y = f(x) When You Are Given the Graph of y = f(x)
When you are given the graph of a reciprocal function, it is possible to
“reverse” the reciprocal and sketch the graph of the original function. There
are ways to do this for both the reciprocals of linear functions and the
reciprocals of quadratic functions.
In the graph of the reciprocal of a function, you can easily see the equation(s)
of the vertical asymptote(s). These equations will give you the value(s) of the
x-intercept(s) of the original function. Once you find the x-intercepts, you then
need to find additional points on the reciprocal graph. The easiest points to
use would be invariant points with a y-coordinate of 1 or –1, because these
points do not change position in a reciprocal transformation. However, any
point on the graph can be used, but you will need to take the reciprocal of the
y-value of your point to find the point on the graph of the original function.
Example 4
1
Given the graph of y = shown on the graph below, sketch the graph of
f (x)
y = f(x).
y
1
3,
4
1

2
 x
1
1, 
4
x=2

Solution
The equation of the horizontal asymptote is y = 0.
The equation of the vertical asymptote is x = 2. From this equation, you know
that the graph of f(x) crosses the x-axis, or has an x-intercept at 2. Therefore,
one point on the graph of f(x) is (2, 0).
 1
You also have one point,  3 , , on the reciprocal graph. Using this point,
 4
you can find the corresponding point on the graph of f(x) by taking the
reciprocal of the y-coordinate.
1
The reciprocal of  4. Therefore, a point on f(x) is (3, 4).
4
 1
Similarly, the point  1, −  for the reciprocal function is the point (1, -4) for
 4
f(x).
Now that you have the coordinates of the three points, you can sketch the
original function.
y
 (3, 4)

2 x
 (1, 4)

Example 5
1
Given the graph of y = shown in the graph below, sketch the graph of
f (x)
y = f(x).
y
x = 3 x = 1
 
 
3 x
 

Solution
From the graph, you can see that the two vertical asymptotes occur at x = -1
and x = -3. Therefore, the graph of f(x) will have zeros at x = -1 and x = -3. In
other words, the function f(x) will be a quadratic of the form, a(x + 1)(x + 3), or
y = a(x + 1)(x + 3), where a is some value yet to be determined.
The point (-2, -1) is also given on the reciprocal graph. This corresponds to
the same point, (-2, -1), on the graph of f(x), as this is an invariant point. It
has a y-coordinate of negative one. The point (-2, -1) will be the vertex of f(x),
since (-2, -1) is the maximum value in the reciprocal function in the interval
between the asymptotes. y
The other invariant points occur

where y = 1. These coordinates are
approximately at (-3.4, 1) and
(-0.6, 1). 3
Using the zeros as well as the

invariant points, including the vertex  
of the quadratic function, you can 

3

1 x
now graph f(x). 
2

Part A: BrainPower
1. Eric has a big crush on a girl sitting 6 desks away from him. If each desk
is 80 cm wide and there are no spaces between them, how far away (in
metres) is Eric sitting from his crush?
2. Simplify: (32)3
3. What is the slope of the line defined by the equation 3y + 2x - 7 = 0?
4. If 36% of 1500 is 540, what is 18% of 1500?
x 2 + 3x − 4
x2 − 2x + 1
3
20
7. (45, -72) is on a line with a slope of . Find another point on this line.
17
252
462
continued

Part B: Reciprocal Functions
1
1. Given the graph of y = f(x), sketch the graph of y = . Describe the
f (x)
method you used.
a) y
1 

x
1 
3 
b) y
1 

4 6 x
1 
continued

c) y
2
  1
 
4  1 x
5 1
 ,
2 4
d) y
 
 
4 2 x
 1 
5
9
continued

1
2. Given the graph of y = , sketch the graph of y = f(x). Describe the
f (x)
method you used.
a) y
 1
2 x
 1
x = 4
b) y
2 
3 5 x
2 
x=4
continued

y
c) x = 2
x = 1
2
 
3 x
3,
 4
2



y
d) x=1 x=5
 1 
3, 
4
 x
 
continued

3. The movement of a pendulum in a grandfather clock can be
represented using a reciprocal formula. The frequency, f, is
equal to the reciprocal of the period, T. The period is measured
in seconds, and measures the time for one cycle, or, in other
words, how long it takes the pendulum to swing back and forth
once. The frequency is the number of cycles per second.
a) Write the formula for the frequency of a pendulum.
b) Sketch the graph of the function in (a).
c) Using the graph as well as the formula in (a), determine the period of a
pendulum when the frequency is 2.1 cycles per second.
Lesson Summary
In this lesson, you learned how to graph reciprocal functions when you were
given the graph of a function. You also learned how to graph the original
function when you were given the graph of the reciprocal of a function.
Being able to graph functions and their reciprocals helps you understand
how functions and their reciprocals are related. Make sure you complete the
following assignment as it will prepare you for your final exam. Remember,
Assignment 8.3 is the last assignment in this course!

Notes

Assignment 8.3
Total: 20 marks
1
1. Given the graph of y = f(x), sketch the graph of y = on the same grid. Describe
f (x)
the method you used. (5 marks each, for a total of 10 marks)
a) y
1
0, 3 

 2 x

1
,0
2
continued

Assignment 8.3: Reciprocal Functions: Part 2 (continued)

b)

continued

1
2. Given the graph of y = , sketch the graph of y = f(x) on the same grid. Describe
f (x)
the method you used. (5 marks each, for a total of 10 marks)
a) y
3
1
1 3, 5
1, 
5

 6 x
1
x=2
continued


b)


Module 8 Summary
Congratulations! You have completed all of the modules in Grade 11

Pre-Calculus Mathematics! All you have left to do is complete the final
examination in this course.
In this module, you learned about two new types of functions: absolute value
functions and reciprocal functions. Before you learned how to graph absolute
value functions, you learned how to find the absolute value of a number. This
was useful when you were asked to solve absolute value equations.
In order to graph reciprocal functions, you related them to rational functions.
To do this, you learned how the non-permissible values of rational functions
are related to the asymptotes when you are graphing reciprocal functions.
It is now time to take your final examination. The following information will
tell you how to apply and prepare for your final exam. It is also a good idea to
complete the final practice examination as it will let you know what areas you
are struggling with, and perhaps need to study further.
q Assignment 81: Absolute Value
q Assignment 8.2: Absolute Value Equations and Graphing Reciprocal
Functions: Part 1
q Assignment 8.3: Reciprocal Functions: Part 2

Final Examination
Congratulations, you have finished Module 8 in the course. The final

examination is out of 100 marks and worth 25% of your final mark. The
examination content will consist of 20% from Modules 1 to 4 and 80% from
Modules 5 to 8. In order to do well on this examination, you should review all
of your learning activities and assignments from Modules 1 to 8.
You will complete this examination while being supervised by a proctor.
You should already have made arrangements to have the examination sent
to the proctor from the Distance Learning Unit. If you have not yet made
arrangements to write it, then do so now. The instructions for doing so are
provided in the Introduction to this module.
You will need to bring the following items to the examination: pens/pencils
your Examination Resource Sheet. A maximum of 2.5 hours is available to
complete your final examination. When you have completed it, the proctor
will then forward it for assessment. Good luck!
At this point you will also have to combine your resource sheets from
Modules 1 to 8 onto one 8½” ´ 11” paper (you may use both sides). Be sure
you have all the formulas, definitions, and strategies that you think you will
need. This paper can be brought into the examination with you.
Examination Review
You are now ready to begin preparing for your final examination. Please
review the content, learning activities, and assignments from Modules 1 to 8.
The final practice examination is also an excellent study aid for reviewing
Modules 1 to 8.
You will learn what types of questions will appear on the examination
and what material will be assessed. Remember, your mark on the final
examination determines 25% of your final mark in this course and you will
have 2.5 hours to complete the examination.

Final Practice Examination and Answer Key
To help you succeed in your examination, a practice examination can
be found in the learning management system (LMS). The final practice
examination is very similar to the actual examination that you will be
writing. The answer key is also included so that, when you have finished
writing the practice examination, you can check your answers. This will give
you the confidence that you need to do well on your examination. If you do
not have access to the Internet, contact the Distance Learning Unit at
1-800-465-9915 to get a copy of the practice examination and the answer key.
To get the most out of your final practice examination, follow these steps:
1. Study for the final practice examination as if it were an actual
examination.
2. Review those learning activities and assignments from Modules 1 to 8 that
you found the most challenging. Reread those lessons carefully and learn
the concepts.
3. Contact your learning partner and your tutor/marker if you need help.
4. Review your lessons from Modules 1 to 8, including all of your notes,
learning activities, and assignments.
5. Use your module resource sheets to make a draft of your Final
Examination Resource Sheet. You can use both sides of an 8½” by 11”
piece of paper.
6. Bring the following to the final practice examination: pens/pencils
your Final Examination Resource Sheet.
7. Write your final practice examination as if it were an actual examination.
In other words, write the entire examination in one sitting, and don’t
check your answers until you have completed the entire examination.
Remember that the time allowed for writing the final examination is
3 hours.
8. Once you have completed the entire practice examination, check your
answers against the answer key. Review the questions that you got wrong.
For each of those questions, you will need to go back into the course and
learn the things that you have missed.
9. Go over your resource sheet. Was anything missing or is there anything
that you didn’t need to have on it? Make adjustments to your Final
Examination Resource Sheet. Once you are happy with it, make a
photocopy that you can keep.

Notes

Module 8

Module 8:
Part A: BrainPower
5 7
6 4
1
20
5. Evaluate: 26
6. Estimate: 220
3 3 2 + 12
2 −4 18
Answers:
 246 
1. 82% 72 + 83 + 91 = 246 ; = 82%
 3 
2. y = 2x - 6
7 5 7 10 21 31 7
3. 2  + = + = =2 
12  6 4 12 12 12 12 
1 5 7 
4. 7% is the better choice  = ; 7% = 
 20 100 100 

5. 64 (2 ´ 2 ´ 2 ´ 2 ´ 2 ´ 2)
6. @14.8 (220 is between 196 and 225; therefore, 220 is between 14 and 15)

3 3 ( 2 + 4) 3 2 + 12

3 2 + 12 
7. No  = = ≠
 2 − 4 ( 2 − 4) ( 2 + 4) −14 18 
 
8. Quadrant IV
1. Evaluate.
a) | -13 |
b) | 4 |
c) | 0 |
d) | -(52) |
e) 2| 5 - 3(2) | + 1
f) 3| 4(3 + 2)2 - 42 | - 2
Answers:
a) | -13 |= -(-13) = 13
b) | 4 | = 4
c) | 0 | = 0
d) | -(52) |= -(-52) = 52
e) 2| 5 - 3(2) | + 1
= 2| 5 - 6 | + 1
= 2| -1 | + 1
= 2[-(-1)] + 1
= 2(1) + 1
=2+1
=3

f) 3| 4(3 + 2)2 - 42 | - 2
= 3| 4(5)2 - 42 | - 2
= 3| 4(25) - 42 | - 2
= 3| 100 - 42 | - 2
= 3| 58 | - 2
= 3(58) - 2
= 174 - 2
= 172

A B C D
   
5 4 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5
4.5 2 0.25 2.75
a) A and D
Answer:
The distance between A and D can be represented by the absolute
value expression | -4.5 - 2.75 | and can be calculated as
| -7.25 | = -(-7.25) = 7.25.
b) B and D
Answer:
The distance between B and D can be represented by the absolute
value expression | -2 - 2.75 | and can be calculated as
| -4.75 | = -(-4.75) = 4.75
c) C and B
Answer:
The distance between C and B can be represented by the absolute
value expression | 0.25 - (-2) | and can be calculated as
| 0.25 + 2 | = | 2.25 | = 2.25

Answer:
There are two ways of answering this question. From Question 2, you can
see that distances from positive to negative values, as well as distance
from negative to positive values, are all positive. This is because distance
can be understood as the absolute value of a number. Or, the absolute
value of a number can be understood as its distance away from 0.

a) -45 and -23
Answer:
| -45 - (-23) | = | -45 + 23 | = | -22 | = -(-22) = 22
b) (5, 3) and (-2, 3)
Answer:
y
5 + 2 = 7 units
2 units 5 units
 
(2, 3) (5, 3)
2 2 4 6 x
These points on the coordinate graph have the same y-coordinates

and are 7 units apart. This can also be symbolized by subtraction and
absolute value:
| 5 - (-2) | = | 5 + 2 | = | 7 | = 7
c) (-1, 6) and (-1, -5)
Answer:
y
(1, 6)  6
4 6 + 5 = 11 units
6 units
2
3 3 x
2
5 units
4
(1, 5) 

These points on the coordinate graph have the same x-coordinates
absolute value:
| 6 - (-5) | = | 6 + 5 | = | 11 | = 11
Answer:
y
3  (2, 3)

2 x
The distance can be found by using Pythagorean theorem:

d = 2 2 + 32
d = 13
Since d represents the hypotenuse of a right triangle, its value must be
positive and only the principal square root of 13 is considered.

1 1 2 3 1 7
- , , - 3, - 3 , , , ,-
4 3 9 2 2 3
Answer:
1 1
− = = 0.25
4 4
1
= 0.3
3
−3 = −3
− 3 = −(−3) = 3
2 2
= = 0.2
9 9
3 3
= = 1.5
2 2
1
= 0.5
2
7
− = −2.3
3
The order from least to greatest is
−3 < −2.3 < 0.2 < 0.25 < 0.3 < 0.5 < 1.5 < 3
7 2 1 1 1 3
−3 < − < < − < < < < −3
3 9 4 3 2 2

a) 3| -2x - 5 | + 4
Answer:
3| -2x - 5 | + 4
= 3| -2(-2) - 5 | + 4
= 3| 4 - 5 | + 4
= 3| -1 | + 4
= 3[-1(-1)] + 4
= 3(1) + 4
=3+4
=7

b) 3| x2 - 7x + 2 | - 5
Answer:
3| x2 - 7x + 2 | - 5
= 3| (-2)2 - 7(-2) + 2 | - 5
= 3| 4 + 14 + 2 | - 5
= 3| 20 | - 5
= 3(20) - 5
= 60 - 5
= 55
x
x
x
x
Answer:
Since x > 0, the denominator, | x |, will be positive and the numerator
x
will be the same value. The expression becomes , which equals 1.
x
x
x
Answer:
When x < 0, the denominator, | x |, will be positive and the numerator
will be negative. Therefore, the expression will be negative and will
equal -1.

Answer:
| -40 - 30 | = | -70 | = -(-70) = 70
Therefore, the range in Manitoba’s temperatures is 70°C.

Time Floor
8 a.m. 1
9:13 a.m. 4
11:41 a.m. 2
12:51 p.m. 7
2:00 p.m. 4
2:10 p.m. 6
2:30 p.m. 4
4 p.m. 1

Answer:
|4 - 1| + |2 - 4| + |7 - 2| + |4 - 7| + |6 - 4| + |4 - 6| +
|1 - 4|
= | 3 | + | -2 | + | 5 | + | -3 | + | 2 | + | -2 | + | -3 |
=3+2+5+3+2+2+3
= 20
of the day.
Answer:
|1 - 1| = |0| = 0
location?
Answer:
The net change is the change from the beginning of the day to the end
of the day. The total change is the sum of all the changes throughout
the day. Therefore, it may look like Charlize didn’t change floors at all
throughout the day; however, she really travelled through 20 different
floors. This is a significant difference.

Part A: BrainPower
5
7
(1, 1).
(-8, 15)
Answers:
1. $330 (30 ´ 11)
2. 432 km (72 ´ 6 = 70 ´ 6 + 2 ´ 6 = 420 + 12)
7
3.
5
4. 21 (10% of 140 = 14; 5% of 140 = 7; 15% of 140 = 14 + 7 = 21)

5. y = 3x - 2 (y = mx + b; 1 = 3(1) + b; 1 - 3 = b; -2 = b)
5  1 1 1 1 3 2 5
+ +
( 5 )( 5 ) = 5 5 = 5
3
6. 5 6  2 3 2 3 =5 6 6 =5 
6

 
 2 2 2 2 
7. 481  d = (−8 − 7 ) + (15 − (−1)) = (−15) + (16 ) = 225 + 256 
 
8. 72 (There are 3 feet in 1 yard and 3 ´ 24 = 72 feet in 24 yards.)

a) f(x) = | 2x - 1 |
Answer:
There are two graphs to draw:
1
f(x) = 2x - 1 when 2x - 1 ³ 0 or x ³
2
1
and f(x) = -(2x - 1) when 2x - 1 < 0 or x 
2
The pivot point is the x-intercept. The y-intercept is
f (x) = 2x − 1 f (x) = 2x − 1
0 = 2x − 1 f (0) = 2 (0) − 1
0 = 2x − 1 f (0 ) = − 1
1 f (0) = 1
=x
2
y
2 1 2 x
2
2

b) g(x) = | x + 3 |
Answer:
The piece-wise definition is
x + 3 , x + 3 ≥ 0

g (x) = 
−( x + 3) , x + 3 < 0

Simplify to get
x + 3 , x ≥ −3

g (x) = 
−x − 3 , x < −3

The pivot-point is x = -3, which is also the x-intercept.

The y-intercept is
g(x) = | x + 3 |
g(0) = | 0 + 3 |
g(0) = 3
y
 3
 
 

3 2 x
2

c) h(x) = | x2 - 1 |
Answer:
x 2 − 1, x 2 − 1 ≥ 0

h (x) = 
−( x − 1) , x − 1 < 0
2 2

Using a graphing transformations method, first graph y = x2 - 1 with

vertex (0, 1), opening up and standard size.
y
 3 
 
1 1 x
1 
Using the absolute value transformation, reflect any points with

negative y-values over the x-axis. This would be the portion of the
graph in the domain, -1 < x < 1.
y
 3 
 
1 1 x
2
The x-intercepts are ±1 and the y-intercept is 1.

d) j(x) = | -x2 + 2x + 3 |
Answer:
−x 2 + 2 x + 3 , − x 2 + 2 x + 3 ≥ 0

j (x) = 

−(−x 2 + 2 x + 3) , − x 2 + 2 x + 3 < 0

To sketch the graph of y = -x2 + 2x + 3, first complete the square to
find the vertex:
y = −x 2 + 2 x + 3
y = −( x 2 − 2 x )+3
y = −( x 2 − 2 x + 1) + 3 − 1 (−1)
2
y = −( x − 1) + 4
The parabola opens down and is standard size. The vertex is (1, 4).
y
4 
 
 
1 3 x

The absolute value transformation reflects any points with negative
y-values over the x-axis. This occurs in two places in the domain for
x < -1 and x > 3.
y
 
4 
3 
 
1 3 x
The x-intercepts are -1 and 3. The y-intercept is 3.

Answer:
Question Domain Range
(a) Â [0, ¥)
(b) Â [0, ¥)
(c) Â [0, ¥)
(d) Â [0, ¥)

simplify.
Answers:
a) f(x) = | 2x - 1 |
The piece-wise function is
2 x − 1, 2 x − 1 ≥ 0

f (x) = 
−( 2 x − 1) , 2 x − 1 < 0

Simplify both the function part and the domain pieces to get:
 1
2 x − 1, x ≥
 2
f (x) = 
 1
−2 x + 1, x <
 2
You can verify your answer from the graph.

b) g(x) = | x + 3 |
x + 3 , x + 3 ≥ 0

g (x) = 
−( x + 3) , x + 3 < 0

Simplify the function and domain pieces to get
x + 3 , x ≥ −3

g (x) = 
−x − 3 , x < −3

Check your answer from the graph.

c) h(x) = | x2 - 1 |
The piece-wise definition is:
x 2 − 1, x 2 − 1 ≥ 0

h (x) = 
−( x − 1) , x − 1 < 0
2 2

The function pieces are easily simplified, h(x) = -(x2 - 1) = -x2 + 1.

The domain pieces can be simplified by using the graph. Separate
the pieces into intervals according to the x-intercepts. The simplified
version is:
x 2 − 1, x ≤ −1


h ( x ) = −x 2 + 1, −1 < x < 1

2
x − 1, x ≥ 1

Note that the middle piece of h(x) shows the portion where the graph
was reflected over the x-axis to get a piece of a parabola opening down
with vertex (0, 1).

d) j(x) = | -x2 + 2x + 3 |
−x 2 + 2 x + 3 , − x 2 + 2 x + 3 ≥ 0

j (x) = 
−(−x + 2 x + 3) , − x + 2 x + 3 < 0
2 2

The function j(x) = -(-x2 + 2x + 3) simplified is x2 - 2x - 3.

The domain pieces can be simplified from the graph by considering
the intervals of the domain according to the x-intercepts.
The simplified version of j(x) becomes
x 2 − 2 x − 3 , x ≤ −1


j ( x ) = −x 2 + 2 x + 3 , −1 < x < 3

2
x − 2 x − 3 , x ≥ 3

Note that the first and last pieces of j(x) indicate the portions of graph
of y = -x2 + 2x + 3 that were reflected over the x-axis by the absolute
value transformation. They are pieces of a parabola that opens up and
has its vertex at (1, -4).
Answer:
The absolute value transformation can be defined as (x, y) ® (x, | y |).
The absolute value function turns every negative y-value into a positive
y-value. Therefore, the point (2, -5) becomes (2, 5).
4. The graph of y = f(x) has an x-intercept of -6 and a y-intercept of -1. What

Answer:
The x-intercept of an absolute value function stays the same as the
x-intercept is always the invariant point of the absolute value function.
Therefore, the x-intercept is still -6. However, an absolute value function
does not contain negative y-values. Therefore, this y-intercept would be
reflected over the x-axis to result in a y-intercept of 1 in y = | f(x) |.

a) y
 3
 
 

6 x
3
Answer:
1
The slope of the line when x is greater than or equal to -6 is .
2
1
The y-intercept is 3. The slope of the line when x is less than -6 is - .
2
If this line were to continue down below the x-axis, the y-intercept
would be -3. Therefore, the piece-wise function for this graph is
 1
− x − 3 , x < −6
 2
y =
1
 x + 3 , x ≥ −6
2
b) y
 
 
2

2 2 x
2

Answer:
The slope of the line when x is greater than or equal to -2 is 3. The
y-intercept is 6. Therefore, this piece of the graph has the equation
y = 3x + 6. When x is less than -2, the line, y = 3x + 6, is reflected over
the x-axis, resulting in the line y = -(3x + 6) or y = -3x - 6. The piece-
wise function for this graph is thus
−3x − 6 , x < −2

y =
3x + 6 , x ≥ −2

c) y
(1, 4) 5

 
f(x)
 
5 3 x
 

(1, 4)
5
Answer:
This graph represents the absolute of a quadratic function whose
vertex was originally at (-1, -4), opening up and y-value reduced
by a factor of 4. The pieces of the domain are determined by the
x-intercepts. Thus, the piece-wise definition is
1 2
 ( x + 1) − 4 , x ≤ −5
 4
 1 2 
f ( x ) = − ( x + 1) − 4 , − 5 < x < 3
 4 

 1 ( x + 1)2 − 4 , x ≥ 3
4
Note that you might have seen this graph as a parabola opening down
with its original vertex at (-1, 4). This possibility is shown in the
next solution. Either interpretation will give the same absolute value
function.

The simplified version of the function is
1 2
 ( x + 1) − 4 , x ≤ −5
4
 1 2
f ( x ) = − ( x + 1) + 4 , − 5 < x < 3
 4
1
 ( x + 1)2 − 4 , x ≥ 3
4
d) y
2 
 
2 4 x
Answer:
This graph could be the absolute value transformation of a quadratic
function with vertex at (2, 2), opening down, and having the y-values
reduced by a factor of 2. The original quadratic function would
−1
be y = ( x − 2 )2 + 2. The tails of the parabola were reflected
2
over the x-axis at pivot points x = 0 and x = 4 by the absolute value
transformation. The piece-wise absolute value function is
  −1 
− ( x − 2 )2 + 2 , x < 0
  2 

 1 2
f ( x ) = − ( x − 2 ) + 2 , 0 ≤ x ≤ 4
 2
  −1 
− ( x − 2 )2 + 2 , x > 4
  2
 

The simplified form:
1 2
 (x − 2) − 2 , x < 0
2
 1 2
f ( x ) = − ( x − 2 ) + 2 , 0 ≤ x ≤ 4
 2
1
 ( x − 2 )2 − 2 , x > 4
2

Answer:
x y = -4x + 3 f(x) = |-4x + 3| y = 4x - 3 g(x) = |4x - 3|
-3 15 15 -15 15
-2 11 11 -11 11
-1 7 7 -7 7
0 3 3 -3 3
1 -1 1 1 1
2 -5 5 5 5
3 -9 9 9 9
y y
   
y = |4x + 3| y = |4x  3|
   
2 2
 
 
2 2 x 2 3 2 x
 4
2 2
y = 4x + 3 
y = 4x  3

These two absolute value graphs are identical. This is because the
expression inside the absolute value symbols can either be positive or
negative to yield the same answer. Therefore, | -4x + 3 | = | 4x - 3 |.

Answer:
f(x) = | x2 - 6x + 5 |
Consider the function y = x2 - 6x + 5. Graph this function and then use
the absolute value transformation.
y = x2 - 6x + 5
y = (x2 - 6x + 9) + 5 - 9
y = (x - 3)2 - 4
Vertex (3, -4) opens up with normal size. Reflect the portion of the
parabola with negative y-values over the x-axis. The graph of f(x) is shown
below.
y
f(x)
5 (3, 4) 
 
1 5 x
original
parabola

(3, 4)
Another absolute value function having the same graph as f(x) would be
the absolute value of the negative of the original quadratic y = x2 - 6x + 5.
This function would be
g(x) = | -(x2 - 6x + 5) |
g(x) = | -x2 + 6x - 5 |

Part A: BrainPower
point (5, 2).
3. Evaluate: 34
2 6
4. Evaluate: +
13 7
read in a week?
5
Answers:
1. $22.58 ($67.32 ´ 10% = $6.73; $67.32 ´ 5% = $3.37; the bill will total
$67.32 + $6.73 + $3.37 = $77.42; $100 - $77.42 = $22.58)
2. y = -x + 7 (y = mx + b; 2 = -1(5) + b; 2 = -5 + b; 7 = b)
3. 81 (3 ´ 3 ´ 3 ´ 3 = 9 ´ 9)
92  14 78 
4.  + 
91  91 91 
5. 686 (90 ´ 7 = 630; 8 ´ 7 = 56; 98 ´ 7 = 686)

4
6. 85
7. 165° (The sum of the angles in a parallelogram is 360°. The missing angle
is 360° - 30° - 93° - 72° = 165°.)
8. -5 and 3 (Factor the corresponding quadratic equation: 0 = x2 + 2x - 15 =
(x + 5)(x - 3).

a) | 2x - 3 | = 7
Answer:
Case 1: 2x − 3 = 7 and 2x − 3 ≥ 0
2x − 3 = 7 2x − 3 ≥ 0
2 x = 10 2x ≥ 3
x=5 3
x≥
2
3
Since x = 5 is in the interval x ³ , then x = 5 is a solution.
2
Case 2: −( 2 x − 3) = 7 and 2x − 3 < 0
−2 x + 3 = 7 2x − 3 < 0
−2 x = 4 2x < 3
x = −2 3
x<
2
3
Since x = -2 is in the interval x  , then x = -2 is a solution.
2
\ The solutions are x = 5 and x = -2.

b) | 3x - 8 | = 2 - 4x
Answer:
Case 1: 3x − 8 = 2 − 4 x and 3x − 8 ≥ 0
7 x = 10 3x ≥ 8
10 8
x= x≥
7 3
10 8
Since x = is not in the interval x ³ , it is not a solution. It is an
7 3
extraneous root.
Case 2: −( 3x − 8) = 2 − 4 x and 3x − 8 < 0
−3x + 8 = 2 − 4 x 3x < 8
x = −6 8
x<
3
8
Since x = -6 is in the interval x  , then it is a solution.
3
\ The only solution is x = -6.
c) | x2 - 4x | = 4
Answer:
Case 1: x 2 − 4x = 4 and x 2 − 4x ≥ 0
x 2 − 4x − 4 = 0 x (x − 4) ≥ 0
Using the quadratic formula: x = 0, 4
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac +  +
x= , then 
0

4 x
2a
x = 4.828 or Solution interval:
x = −0.828 (-¥, 0] È [4, ¥)
Since x = 4.828 is in the interval [4, ¥) and x = -0.828 is in the interval

(-¥, 0], then both are solutions.

Case 2: −( x 2 − 4 x ) = 4 and x 2 − 4x < 0
−x 2 + 4 x = 4
+  +
2 x
−x + 4 x − 4 = 0 0 4
x 2 − 4x + 4 = 0 Solution interval: (0, 4)
Factoring: (x – 2)(x – 2) = 0
x=2
Since x = 2 is in the interval (0, 4), then x = 2 is also a solution.
\ The solutions are x = 4.828, x = -0.828, and x = 2.
d) | x2 + 2x | = x + 30
Answer:
Case 1: x 2 + 2 x = x + 30 and x2 + 2x ≥ 0
x 2 + x − 30 = 0 x (x + 2) ≥ 0
( x + 6 ) ( x − 5) = 0 x = 0, −2
x = −6 , 5 +  +
 
2 0 x
Solution: (–¥, –2] È [0, ¥)
Since x = -6 is in the interval (-¥, -2] and x = 5 is in the interval

[0, ¥), both are solutions.
Case 2: −( x 2 + 2 x ) = x + 30 and x2 + 2x < 0
−x 2 − 2 x = x + 30
−x 2 − 3x − 30 = 0
x 2 + 3x + 30 = 0
discriminant = b2 - 4ac
= 32 - 4(1)(30)
= -111
There are no real number solutions.
\ The only solutions are x = -6, 5.

a) | 2x - 3 | = 7
Answer:
The corresponding function for the left side of the equation is
y = | 2x - 3 |.
The line is y = 2x - 3 with slope 2 and y-intercept of -3. The pivot
point is the x-intercept of
0 = 2x − 3
0 = 2x − 3
3
=x
2
The corresponding function for the right side of the equation is y = 7.
The graphs are shown below.
y
y=7
 
3 y = |2x  3|
 
2 2 4 x
The two points of intersection are (-2, 7) and (5, 7). The x-coordinates
of these points are x = -2 and x = 5.
Therefore, as in Question 1(a), the solutions to this absolute value
equation are x = -2 and x = 5.

b) | 3x - 8 | = 2 - 4x
Answer:
Graph y = | 3x - 8 | and y = 2 - 4x on the same graph. Use a scale of 2
on both axes.
y
 26
8
6 8 x

8 
The x-value at which these two functions intersect is -6. As in

Question 1(b), this absolute value equation has a solution of x = -6.

c) | x2 - 4x | = 4
Answer:
The function for the left side is y = | x2 - 4x |. The parabola y = x2 - 4x
has zeros at
0 = x2 - 4x
0 = x(x - 4)
x = 0, 4
The vertex for y = x2 - 4x is
y = x2 - 4x
y = (x2 - 4x + 4) - 4
y = (x - 2)2 - 4
Vertex coordinates of y = x2 - 4x are (2, -4).
Vertex coordinates of y = | x2 - 4x | are (2, 4).
The graph of both functions, y = | x2 - 4x | and y = 4 are shown below:
y
y = |x2  4x| 8
6
y=4 (2, 4)
  
(0.828, 4) (4.828, 4)
2 4 x
To find the x-values for the two outside points, solve (x2 - 4x) = 4 using
the quadratic formula x2 - 4x - 4 = 0 Þ x = 4.828 or x = -0.828.
The x-values at which these two functions intersect are x = -0.828,
x = 2, and x = 4.828 and are thus the solutions to this absolute value
equation, as shown algebraically in Question 1(c).

d) | x2 + 2x | = x + 30
Answer:
The left side function is y = | x2 + 2x |. The vertex of the parabola
y = x2 + 2x is
y = x2 + 2x
y = (x2 + 2x + 1) - 1
y = (x + 1)2 - 1
Vertex (-1, -1)
The zeros are
0 = x2 + 2x
0 = x(x + 2)
x=0 x+2=0
x = -2
The line y = x + 30 on the right side of the equation has a y-intercept of
30 and slope of 1. Use a scale of 5 on the y-axis.
y
 35 
y = x + 30 
 25
 
10 y = |x2 + 2x|
 
6 2 5 x
The x-values at which these two functions intersect are x = -6 and

x = 5 and are thus the solutions to this absolute value equation, as
shown algebraically in Question 1(d).

Answer:
Let x represent an acceptable weight for a box of cookies, measured in
grams.
| x - 325 | = 4.6 or | 325 - x | = 4.6
Answer:
| x - 325 | = 4.6
Case 1: x - 325 = 4.5 and x - 325 ³ 0
x = 329.6 x ³ 325
Since x = 329.6 is in the interval x ³ 325, it is a solution.
Case 2: -(x - 325) = 4.6 and x - 325 < 0
-x + 325 = 4.6 x < 325
-x = -320.4
x = 320.4
Since x = 320.4 is in the interval x < 325, it is a solution.
The solutions for the absolute value equation are x = 320.4 g and
x = 329.6 g.
Answer:
Thus, the greatest possible acceptable weight of the box of cookies is
329.6 g and the least possible acceptable weight of the box of cookies is
320.4 g.

Answer:
a) 2 x + 3 = 6 b) 2x + 7 = 0
7
x = 0 ,− 6 x =−
2
c) x 2 − 2 x =1 d) x 2 − 2 x − 16 = 8
x = 1 , 1+ 2, 1− 2 x = −4 , − 2 , 4 , 6
e) 3x − 9 = 24
x = − 5 , 11
Solutions for each of the absolute value equations:

a) 2 x + 3 = 6
6
x+3 =
2
x+3 = 3
Case 1: x + 3 = 3 x+3³0
x = 0 x ³ -3
Case 2: -(x + 3) = 3 x+3<0
-x - 3 = 3 x < -3
-x = 6
x = -6
Solutions are x = 0 and x = -6.
b) 2x + 7 = 0
2x + 7 = 0
2 x = −7
−7
x=
2

c) | x2 - 2x | = 1
Case 1: x2 - 2x = 1 and x2 - 2x ³ 0
x2 − 2x − 1 = 0 x (x − 2) ≥ 0
2 ± 4 − 4 (1) (−1) x = 0, 2
x=
2 ( 1)
+  +
 
2± 8 0 2 x
x=
2
Solution: (-¥, 0] È [2, ¥)
2±2 2
x=
2
x = 1± 2
x = 1 + 2 ≈ 2.4
x = 1 − 2 ≈ −0.4
Thus, x = 1 + 2 is in the interval [2, ¥) and x = 1 − 2 is in the

interval (-¥, 0] and both are solutions.
Case 2: −( x 2 − 2 x ) = 1 and x2 − 2x < 0
−x 2 + 2 x = 1 x (x − 2) < 0
x = 0, 2
−x 2 + 2 x − 1 = 0
+  
x2 − 2x + 1 = 0 x
0 2
2
( x − 1) = 0 Solution: (0, 2)
x=1
Since x = 1 is in the interval (0, 2), it is a solution.
\ The solutions are 1, 1 + 2 , and 1 − 2 .

d) | x2 - 2x - 16 | = 8
Case 1: x 2 − 2 x − 16 = 8 and x 2 − 2 x − 16 ≥ 0
x 2 − 2 x − 24 = 0 2 ± 4 − 4 (1) (−16 )
x=
(x − 6) (x + 4) = 0 2 ( 1)
x = 6, −4 2 ± 68
x=
2
2 ± 2 17
x=
2
x = 1 ± 17
x ≈ 5.1 or − 3.1
+  +
 
3.1 5.1 x

Approximate solution:
(-¥, -3.1] È [5.1, ¥)
Since x = 6 and x = -4 are in the intervals, they are solutions.
Case 2: −( x 2 − 2 x − 16 ) = 8 and x 2 − 2 x − 16 < 0
−x 2 + 2 x + 16 = 8 Approximate solution:
(−3.1, 5.1)
−x 2 + 2 x + 8 = 0
x2 − 2x − 8 = 0
(x − 4) (x + 2 ) = 0
x = 4,, −2
Since both values x = 4 and x = -2 are in the interval, they are

solutions.
\ The solutions are 6, -4, 4, -2.

e) | 3x - 9 | = 24
Case 1: 3x − 9 = 24 and 3x − 9 ≥ 0
3x = 33 3x ≥ 9
x = 11 x≥3
Since x = 11 is in the interval x ³ 3, it is a solution.
Case 2: −( 3x − 9 ) = 24 and 3x − 9 < 0
−3x + 9 = 24 3x < 9
−3x = 15 x<3
x = −5
Since x = -5 is in the interval x < 3, it is a solution.
Thus, x = -5 and x = 11 are the solutions.
Armani’s work:
Case 1: x − 3 = 2 x + 1 Case 2: −x + 3 = 2 x + 1
x + 3 = 2x + 1 2 = 3x
2=x 2
x=
3
Jennifer’s work:
Case 1: x − 3 = 2 x + 1 Case 2: −x + 3 = 2 x + 1
x − 3 = 2x + 1 2 = 3x
−4 = x 2
x=
3
Answer:
Armani’s second equation is correct as she took the negative of the
entire expression inside the absolute value symbols. However, the first
equation is incorrect. An absolute value equation has possible solutions
in two cases, when the expression inside the symbols is positive and
when the expression inside the symbols is negative. However, Armani
thought that you had to change all the signs to positive inside the
absolute value brackets. This is incorrect. Also, she didn’t write the
interval restrictions for each case.

Jennifer’s work is also incorrect. Jennifer solved the equation correctly.
However, she forgot to check the intervals of the domain. If Jennifer
were to set up her work using the definition of an absolute value, she
would have discovered her answer of negative 4 wasn’t possible.
Case 1: x = -4 as long as x - 3 ³ 0 or x ³ 3. The solution is not in the
interval and is an extraneous solution.
2
Case 2: x = as long as x - 3 < 0 or x < 3. This value of x is in the
3
interval x < 3 and is a solution.
2
\ Jennifer needed to reject x = -4 and keep the only solution, x = .
3
incorrect.
Answer:
Armani and Jennifer could have discovered their work was incorrect
by checking their answers.
2
Verifying the solutions of x = 2 , , and − 4.
3
| x - 3 | = 2x + 1
Verify x = 2.
LHS RHS
|x - 3| 2x + 1
|2 - 3| 2(2) + 1
1 5
LHS ¹ RHS
x = 2 is not a solution.

2
Verify x = .
3
LHS RHS
x-3 2x + 1
2 2
-3 2 + 1
3 3
1 4
-2 +1
3 3
1
1 2
2 3
3
LHS = RHS
Verify x = -4.
LHS RHS
|x - 3| 2x + 1
| -4 - 3 | 2(–4) + 1
7 -7
LHS ¹ RHS
x = -4 is not a solution.
2
The only solution of the three is x = . By using the domain interval
3
restrictions, extraneous roots can be rejected. By verifying your
answers, your calculations may be corrected.

Answer:
This is sometimes true. The absolute value of any expression is always
greater than or equal to zero.

to zero.
Answer:
This is always true because the absolute value of any expression is
always greater than or equal to zero.
Answer:
greater than or equal to zero. However, if a is a negative number, the
expression | 5 + a | + a could be less than zero. For example, if a = -3,
| 5 + (-3) | + (-3) = | 2 | - 3 = -1, which is not a positive number.

solution.
a) -4
Answer:
Answers will vary.
A possible equation is
|x - 3| = 7
b) No solution
Answer:
Answers will vary. However, in order for an absolute value equation
to have no solution, the absolute value expression has to be equal to a
negative value. A possible equation is
| x + 24| = -3
c) One solution
Answer:
Answers will vary. However, answers must have only one solution and
not two solutions.
An example is
| 2x - 6 | = 0
d) Two solutions
Answer:
Answers will vary. A possible equation is
|x + 1| = 5

Part A: BrainPower
1 2
4. Evaluate: +
4 7
( x + 3) ( x − 4 )
( x + 4 ) ( x − 1)
2
Answers:
1. 36 (One-third of 99 = 33; one-third of 9 = 3; one-third of 108 = 33 + 3 = 36)
2. $26.22 ($52 ¸ 2 = $26 and 0.44 ¸ 2 = 0.22)
3. -2 and -4 ((x + 2)(x + 4) = 0)
15  7 8
4.  + 
28  28 28 
( x + 4 ) ( x − 1)
5.
( x + 3) ( x − 4 )
7
6. 12 2
7. Quadrant II
5 5 9
8. −  2 y = −5x − 9 ; y = − x − 
2 2 2

a) y = x - 1
Answer:
1
f (x) =
x−1
b) y = -3x + 6
Answer:
1
f (x) =
−3x + 6
c) y = x2 + 4x - 2
Answer:
1
f (x) = 2
x + 4x − 2
d) y = x2 - 9
Answer:
1
f (x) = 2
x −9

2. For each of the following, identify the (i) x-intercepts of f(x), (ii) the
1
reciprocal function y = , (iii) the non-permissible values of the
f (x)
reciprocal function, and (iv) the equation(s) of the vertical asymptotes of
the reciprocal function
a) f(x) = 2x + 5
Answer:
i) 0 = 2x + 5
−5 = 2 x
5
x =−
2
ii) y = 1
2x + 5
5
iii) The non-permissible value is x = − .
2
5
iv) The equation of the vertical asymptote is x = − .
2
b) f(x) = x2 - 9
Answer:
i) 0 = x2 - 9
0 = (x - 3)(x + 3)
x = 3 or -3
1
ii) y = 2
x −9
iii) The non-permissible values are x = 3 and x = -3.
iv) The equations of the vertical asymptotes are x = 3 and x = -3.
c) f(x) = x2 + 4x + 3
Answer:
i) 0 = x2 + 4x + 3
0 = (x + 3)(x + 1)
x = -3 or -1
1
ii) y = 2
x + 4x + 3
iii) The non-permissible values are x = -3 and x = -1.
iv) The equations of the vertical asymptotes are x = -3 and x = -1.

asymptotes.
a) y = x2 + x - 6
b) y = -2
c) y = x - 5
d) y = x2 - 2x - 3
e) y = x2 - 6x + 9
f) y = 3x + 7
g) y = x2 - 5x + 7
y y
i) ii)
2
 1  
2 x 3 x

2 2
7
x=
3 x = 3 x=2
iii) y iv) y
x = 1 x=3
2
  
1 5 x  x

2
x=5

v) y vi) y
2 1

 
  

5 x 2 2 x
2
1
2
vii) y
x=3
1  
2 4 x
Answers:
a) (ii) Since y = (x + 3)(x - 2), the vertical
asymptotes are at x = -3 and x = 2.
1
b) (vi) Since y = -2, the reciprocal is a constant, y = − .
2
c) (iii) Since y = x - 5, the vertical asymptote is at x = 5.
d) (iv) Since y = (x - 3)(x + 1), the vertical asymptotes are at x = 3 and
x = -1.
e) (vii) Since y = (x - 3)(x - 3), only one vertical asymptote at x = 3.
7
f) (i) Since y = 3x + 7, the vertical asymptote is at x = − .
3
g) (v) Since y = x2 - 5x + 7 has a discriminate of b2 - 4ac = (-5)2 - 4(1)(7)
= -3, which is negative, then the parabola has no zeros so its reciprocal
will have no vertical asymptotes.

1
a) y =
5x − 10
Answer:
5x - 10 = 0
5x = 10
x=2

\ Vertical asymptote is x = 2.
1
b) y =
x−4
Answer:
x-4=0
x=4
1
c) y =
( x + 3) ( x − 6 )
Answer:
(x + 3)(x - 6) = 0
x = -3 or x = 6
\ Vertical asymptotes are x = -3 and x = 6.
1
d) y = 2
x − x − 20
Answer:
x2 - x - 20 = 0
(x - 5)(x + 4) = 0
x = 5 or x = -4
\ Vertical asymptotes are x = 5 and x = -4.

1 1
a) f ( x ) = d) f ( x ) = 2
x+3 x − 2x − 8
1 1
b) f ( x ) = e) f ( x ) = 2
2x + 8 x + 8x + 16
1 1
c) f ( x ) = 2
f) f (x) = 2
x +x−2 x − 2x + 6
Answers:
1
a) f ( x ) =
x+3
1 1
f (0) = =
0+3 3
Vertical asymptote: Let the denominator, x + 3, equal 0, find the zero,
and draw the dotted vertical line through that zero.
x+3=0
x = -3
y = 1 y = -1
x+3=1 x + 3 = -1
x = -2 x = -4
Therefore, the two invariant points are (-2, 1), and (-4, -1).

Draw the curve: Plot the invariant points and the y-intercept. Draw the
asymptotes and draw the curves.
y
 1

4 2 x
 1
x = 3
Domain: {x|x ¹ -3, x Î Â}

Range: {y|y ¹ 0, y Î Â}
There is no x-intercept.
1
b) f ( x ) =
2x + 8
Answer:
1 1
f (0) = =
2 (0) + 8 8
Vertical asymptote: Let the denominator, 2x + 8, equal 0, find the zero,
2x + 8 = 0
2x = -8
x = -4

y=1 y = −1
2x + 8 = 1 2 x + 8 = −1
2 x = −7 2 x = −9
7 9
x =− x =−
2 2
 7   9 
 2   2 
y
x = 4
2


2 2 x

2


1
c) f ( x ) =
x2 + x − 2
Answer:
1 1
f (0) = 2
=−
0 +0−2 2
Vertical asymptote: Let the denominator equal 0, find the zeros, and
draw the dotted vertical asymptotes through those zeros.
x2 + x - 2 = 0
(x + 2)(x - 1) = 0
x = -2, x = 1
Vertex of the original parabola:
y = x2 + x − 2
 1 1
y = x 2 + x + − 2 −
 4 4
2
 1  9
y = x +  −− 
 2  4
 1 9
Vertex: − , − 
 2 4
In the reciprocal function, the maximum value in the interval
between the vertical asymptotes will occur at the vertex where
1 1 4
x = − and y = =− .
2 9 9
−
4

y=1 y = -1
x2 + x - 2 = 1 x2 + x - 2 = -1
x2 + x - 3 = 0 x2 + x - 1 = 0
Using the quadratic formula: Discriminant:
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac b 2 − 4 ac = 1 − 4 (1) (−1)
x=
2a =5
−1 ± 12 − 4 (1) (−3) −1 ± 5
x= x=
2 2
−1 ± 12 + 12 −1 + 5
x= x= = 0.6
2 2
−1 + 13 −1 − 5
x= = 1.3 x= = −1.6
2 2
−1 − 13
x= = −2.3
2
Therefore, the four invariant points are (1.3, 1), (-2.3, 1), (0.6, -1), and
(-1.6, -1).
y
2
 

2 x
 
x = 2 x=1

The domain and range can be read from the graph:
Domain: {x|x ¹ -2, 1, x Î Â}
 4
The range is −∞, − ∪ (0 , ∞) .
 9
1
d) f ( x ) = 2
x − 2x − 8
Answer:
1 1
f (0) = =−
−8 8
x2 - 2x - 8 = 0

(x - 4)(x + 2) = 0
x = 4, x = -2
Vertex of the parabola:
y = x2 − 2x − 8
y = ( x 2 − 2 x + 1) − 8 − 1
2
y = ( x − 1) − 9
Vertex: (1, -9)

In the reciprocal function, the highest point in the interval between the
vertical asymptotes is at the reciprocal of the vertex point where x = 1
1 1
and y = =− .
−9 9

y=1 y = -1
x2 - 2x - 8 = 1 x2 - 2x - 8 = -1
x2 - 2x - 9 = 0 x2 - 2x - 7 = 0
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac −b ± b 2 − 4 ac
x= x=
2a 2a
2 2
2 ± (−2 ) − 4 (1) (−9 ) 2 ± (−2 ) − 4 (1) (−7 )
x= x=
2 2
2 ± 4 + 36 2 ± 4 + 28
x= x=
2 2
2 ± 40 2 ± 32
x= x=
2 2
2 ± 2 10 2±4 2
x= x=
2 2
x = 1 ± 10 x = 1±2 2
Therefore, the four invariant points are (1 + 10 , 1) , (1 − 10 , 1) ,
(1 + 2 2 , −1) , and (1 − 2 2 , −1) . These points are approximately

equal to (4.2, 1), (-2.2, 1), (3.8, -1), and (-1.8, -1).
y
2
 
6 x

 
2
x = 2 x=4

The domain is {x|x ¹ -2, 4, x Î Â}.
 1
The range is −∞, − ∪ (0 , ∞) .
 9
1
e) f ( x ) = 2
x + 8x + 16
Answer:
1 1
f (0) = 2
=
0 + 8 (0 ) + 16 16
Vertical asymptote: The denominator will equal zero when

x2 + 8x + 16 = 0.
x2 + 8x + 16 = 0

(x + 4)(x + 4) = 0
The vertical asymptote occurs at x = -4.
Vertex of parabola: The parabola is y = x2 + 8x + 16 = (x + 4)2. Its
vertex is (-4, 0). The corresponding point on the reciprocal function is
 1
−4 , , ,which does not exist. The vertical asymptote passes through
 0
the vertex of the original parabola since the vertex is on the x-axis.
Invariant points: Set the denominator equal to ±1.
y=1 y = -1
x2 + 8x + 16 = 1 x2 + 8x + 16 = -1
x2 + 8x + 15 = 0 x2 + 8x + 17 = 0
(x + 3)(x + 5) = 0 b2 - 4ac = 82 - 4(17)
x = -3, -5 = 64 - 68
= -4
This equation has no solution as the
discriminant is negative.

y
 

5 3 x
x = 4

The range is {y|y > 0, y Î Â}.
1
f) f ( x ) = 2
x − 2x + 6
Answer:
1 1
f (0) = 2
=
0 − 2 (0) + 6 6

x2 - 2x + 6 = 0.
b2 - 4ac = (-2)2 - 4(1)(6)

= 4 - 24
= -20
This equation has no solution as the discriminant is negative.
Therefore, there are no vertical asymptotes.

y=1 y = -1
x2 - 2x + 6 = 1 x2 - 2x + 6 = -1
x2 - 2x + 5 = 0 x2 - 2x + 7 = 0
b2 - 4ac = (-2)2 - 4(5) b2 - 4ac = (-2)2 - 4(7)
= 4 - 20 = 4 - 28
= -16 = -24
Both of these equations have no solution as both discriminants are
negative. Thus, there are no invariant points.
To help graph this reciprocal, find the coordinates of the vertex of the
quadratic function located in the denominator of f(x). Then, find the
reciprocal of that point.
Vertex:
y = x2 − 2x + 6
b −2 2
x =− =− = =1
2a 2 2
Once you find the x-coordinate of the vertex, you can substitute that
value back into the quadratic function to determine the y-coordinate of
the vertex.
y = (1)2 - 2(1) + 6 = 1 - 2 + 6 = 5
The vertex is at (1, 5).
 1
The corresponding point in the reciprocal function is  1, .
 5
Now find points on each side of the vertex.
1
x y = x2 - 2x + 6 y= 2
x − 2x + 6
1
0 6
6
1
1 5
5
1
2 6
6
Plot the points of the reciprocal function and draw the curve smoothly
toward the horizontal asymptote as x goes to infinity to the left and
right.

Draw the curve:
y
1
f(x) =
x2  2x + 6
1
1
1, 5 1
2, 6

 
2 1 1 2 x
1
The domain is {x|x Î Â}.

 1 
The range is y | 0 < y ≤ , y ∈ ℜ.
 5 

Part A: BrainPower
2. Simplify: (32)3
4. If 36% of 1500 is 540, what is 18% of 1500?
x 2 + 3x − 4
5. State the reciprocal of. 2 .
x − 2x + 1
3
20
17
252
462
Answers:
1. 4.8 m (6 ´ 80 = 480 cm = 4.8 m)
2. 36 = 729 (9 ´ 9 ´ 9 = 81 ´ 9; 80 ´ 9 = 720 + 1 ´ 9 = 9)
2 2 7
3. −  3 y = −2 x + 7 ; y = − x + 
3 3 3
 540 
4. 270  
 2 
2
5. x − 2 x + 1
x 2 + 3x − 4
 3 
3 3
6. 16 
 16 = 16 3 = 16 

 
7. (62, -52) (45 + 17, -72 + 20)
6  252 126 42 6
8.  = = = 
11  462 231 77 11 

1
f (x)
method you used.
a) y
1 

x
1 
3 
Answer:
From the graph, you can see y
that the x-intercept is 3.
Therefore, the vertical
asymptote in the reciprocal
function will be x = 3. Also, the
two invariant points of this
1 
function will be (4, 1) and
(2, -1), as these are the points 4 x
at which the y-coordinate is 1 
either 1 or -1.
The horizontal asymptote is
y = 0.
Using this information, you can
x=3
graph the reciprocal function.

b) y
1 

4 6 x
1 
Answer:
From the graph, you can see that the x-intercept is 4. Therefore, the
vertical asymptote in the reciprocal function will be x = 4. Also, the
two invariant points of this function will be (6, 1) and (2, -1), as these
are the
points at which the y-coordinate is either 1 or -1.
Using this information, you can graph the reciprocal function.
y
2 6 x

x=4

c) y
2
  1
 
4  1 x
5 1
 ,
2 4
Answer:
From the graph, you can see that the x-intercepts are -2 and -3.
Therefore, the vertical asymptotes in the reciprocal function will have
equations of x = -2 and x = -3.
The invariant points on the function are approximately at (-1.4, 1) and
(-3.6, 1).
 5 1
The key point of the parabola is at the vertex at − , − .
 2 4
 5 
The corresponding point on the reciprocal function is − , − 4 .
 2 
Using this information, x = 3

y
you can graph the x = 2
reciprocal function.
 
1 x
 4



d) y
 
 
4 2 x
 1 
5
9
Answer:
From the graph, you can see that the x-intercepts are 2 and -4.
equations of x = 2 and x = -4.
The vertex of the parabola is at (-1, -9). The corresponding point on
 1
the reciprocal function is −1, − .
 9
The invariant points are approximately at (-4.21, 1), (2.2, 1) and
(-3.8, -1), (1.8, -1).
y
 
 x
1
 

x = 4 x=2

1
f (x)
method you used.
a) y
 1
2 x
 1
x = 4
Answer:
The vertical asymptote of this reciprocal graph is at x = -4. Therefore,
there will be an x-intercept on f(x) as (-4, 0).
There are also two points given: (-3, 1) and (-5, -1). These are
invariant points and therefore they stay the same on the graph of f(x).
Using these three pieces of information, it is possible to graph f(x).
y

4 x


b) y
2 
3 5 x
2 
x=4
Answer:
The vertical asymptote of this reciprocal graph is at x = 4. Therefore,
there will be an x-intercept on f(x) as (4, 0).
There are also two points given: (5, 2) and (3, -2). The points on the
 1  1
reciprocal of the function are  5 ,  and  3 , − . Using these three
 2  2
pieces of information, it is possible to graph f(x).
y


 4 6 x
2 

y
c) x = 2
x = 1
2
 
3 x
3,
 4
2

Answer:
The vertical asymptotes of this reciprocal graph occur at x = -1 and
x = -2 and are thus the x-intercepts in the graph of f(x). In other words,
f(x) has the form of a(x + 1)(x + 2).
 3 
The one given point is − , − 4 . The corresponding point on the
 2 
 3 1
reciprocal of the function is − , −  and it will be the vertex of the
 2 4
parabola.
The invariant points are approximately at (-2.6, 1) and (-0.4, 1).
y
2
 
 
3 1 1 x

y
d) x=1 x=5
 1 
3, 
4
 x
 
Answer:
The vertical asymptotes of this graph occur at x = 1 and x = 5 and are
thus the x-intercepts in the graph of f(x). In other words, f(x) is of the
form a(x - 1)(x - 5) or f(x) = a(x - 1)(x - 5).
 1
The key point is  3 , − . The corresponding point on f(x) is (3, -4).
 4
It is the vertex of the parabola.
Reading from the graph, the invariant points are approximately at
(0.8, 1), (5.2, 1) and (1.3, -1), (4.7, -1).
y
 
 
1 5 x
 

(3, 4)

Answer:
1
f =
T

Answer:
f
2 


2 T
Answer:
Using the graph, the period of a pendulum with a frequency of
2.1 cycles per second is approximately 0.4 s.
1
Using the formula in (a): f =
T
1
2.1 =
T
1
T=
2.1
T = 0.4762 seconds

Module 8

Module 8:
Part A: BrainPower
5 7
6 4
1
20
5. Evaluate: 26
6. Estimate: 220
3 3 2 + 12
2 −4 18
Answers:
 246 
1. 82% 72 + 83 + 91 = 246 ; = 82%
 3 
2. y = 2x - 6
7 5 7 10 21 31 7
3. 2  + = + = =2 
12  6 4 12 12 12 12 
1 5 7 
4. 7% is the better choice  = ; 7% = 
 20 100 100 

5. 64 (2 ´ 2 ´ 2 ´ 2 ´ 2 ´ 2)
6. @14.8 (220 is between 196 and 225; therefore, 220 is between 14 and 15)

3 3 ( 2 + 4) 3 2 + 12

3 2 + 12 
7. No  = = ≠
 2 − 4 ( 2 − 4) ( 2 + 4) −14 18 
 
8. Quadrant IV
1. Evaluate.
a) | -13 |
b) | 4 |
c) | 0 |
d) | -(52) |
e) 2| 5 - 3(2) | + 1
f) 3| 4(3 + 2)2 - 42 | - 2
Answers:
a) | -13 |= -(-13) = 13
b) | 4 | = 4
c) | 0 | = 0
d) | -(52) |= -(-52) = 52
e) 2| 5 - 3(2) | + 1
= 2| 5 - 6 | + 1
= 2| -1 | + 1
= 2[-(-1)] + 1
= 2(1) + 1
=2+1
=3

f) 3| 4(3 + 2)2 - 42 | - 2
= 3| 4(5)2 - 42 | - 2
= 3| 4(25) - 42 | - 2
= 3| 100 - 42 | - 2
= 3| 58 | - 2
= 3(58) - 2
= 174 - 2
= 172

A B C D
   
5 4 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5
4.5 2 0.25 2.75
a) A and D
Answer:
The distance between A and D can be represented by the absolute
value expression | -4.5 - 2.75 | and can be calculated as
| -7.25 | = -(-7.25) = 7.25.
b) B and D
Answer:
The distance between B and D can be represented by the absolute
value expression | -2 - 2.75 | and can be calculated as
| -4.75 | = -(-4.75) = 4.75
c) C and B
Answer:
The distance between C and B can be represented by the absolute
value expression | 0.25 - (-2) | and can be calculated as
| 0.25 + 2 | = | 2.25 | = 2.25

Answer:
There are two ways of answering this question. From Question 2, you can
see that distances from positive to negative values, as well as distance
from negative to positive values, are all positive. This is because distance
can be understood as the absolute value of a number. Or, the absolute
value of a number can be understood as its distance away from 0.

a) -45 and -23
Answer:
| -45 - (-23) | = | -45 + 23 | = | -22 | = -(-22) = 22
b) (5, 3) and (-2, 3)
Answer:
y
5 + 2 = 7 units
2 units 5 units
 
(2, 3) (5, 3)
2 2 4 6 x
These points on the coordinate graph have the same y-coordinates

absolute value:
| 5 - (-2) | = | 5 + 2 | = | 7 | = 7
c) (-1, 6) and (-1, -5)
Answer:
y
(1, 6)  6
4 6 + 5 = 11 units
6 units
2
3 3 x
2
5 units
4
(1, 5) 

These points on the coordinate graph have the same x-coordinates
absolute value:
| 6 - (-5) | = | 6 + 5 | = | 11 | = 11
Answer:
y
3  (2, 3)

2 x
The distance can be found by using Pythagorean theorem:

d = 2 2 + 32
d = 13
Since d represents the hypotenuse of a right triangle, its value must be
positive and only the principal square root of 13 is considered.

1 1 2 3 1 7
- , , - 3, - 3 , , , ,-
4 3 9 2 2 3
Answer:
1 1
− = = 0.25
4 4
1
= 0.3
3
−3 = −3
− 3 = −(−3) = 3
2 2
= = 0.2
9 9
3 3
= = 1.5
2 2
1
= 0.5
2
7
− = −2.3
3
The order from least to greatest is
−3 < −2.3 < 0.2 < 0.25 < 0.3 < 0.5 < 1.5 < 3
7 2 1 1 1 3
−3 < − < < − < < < < −3
3 9 4 3 2 2

a) 3| -2x - 5 | + 4
Answer:
3| -2x - 5 | + 4
= 3| -2(-2) - 5 | + 4
= 3| 4 - 5 | + 4
= 3| -1 | + 4
= 3[-1(-1)] + 4
= 3(1) + 4
=3+4
=7

b) 3| x2 - 7x + 2 | - 5
Answer:
3| x2 - 7x + 2 | - 5
= 3| (-2)2 - 7(-2) + 2 | - 5
= 3| 4 + 14 + 2 | - 5
= 3| 20 | - 5
= 3(20) - 5
= 60 - 5
= 55
x
x
x
x
Answer:
Since x > 0, the denominator, | x |, will be positive and the numerator
x
will be the same value. The expression becomes , which equals 1.
x
x
x
Answer:
When x < 0, the denominator, | x |, will be positive and the numerator
will be negative. Therefore, the expression will be negative and will
equal -1.

Answer:
| -40 - 30 | = | -70 | = -(-70) = 70
Therefore, the range in Manitoba’s temperatures is 70°C.

Time Floor
8 a.m. 1
9:13 a.m. 4
11:41 a.m. 2
12:51 p.m. 7
2:00 p.m. 4
2:10 p.m. 6
2:30 p.m. 4
4 p.m. 1

Answer:
|4 - 1| + |2 - 4| + |7 - 2| + |4 - 7| + |6 - 4| + |4 - 6| +
|1 - 4|
= | 3 | + | -2 | + | 5 | + | -3 | + | 2 | + | -2 | + | -3 |
=3+2+5+3+2+2+3
= 20
of the day.
Answer:
|1 - 1| = |0| = 0
location?
Answer:
The net change is the change from the beginning of the day to the end
of the day. The total change is the sum of all the changes throughout
the day. Therefore, it may look like Charlize didn’t change floors at all
throughout the day; however, she really travelled through 20 different
floors. This is a significant difference.

Part A: BrainPower
5
7
(1, 1).
(-8, 15)
Answers:
1. $330 (30 ´ 11)
2. 432 km (72 ´ 6 = 70 ´ 6 + 2 ´ 6 = 420 + 12)
7
3.
5
4. 21 (10% of 140 = 14; 5% of 140 = 7; 15% of 140 = 14 + 7 = 21)

5. y = 3x - 2 (y = mx + b; 1 = 3(1) + b; 1 - 3 = b; -2 = b)
5  1 1 1 1 3 2 5
+ +
( 5 )( 5 ) = 5 5 = 5
3
6. 5 6  2 3 2 3 =5 6 6 =5 
6

 
 2 2 2 2 
7. 481  d = (−8 − 7 ) + (15 − (−1)) = (−15) + (16 ) = 225 + 256 
 
8. 72 (There are 3 feet in 1 yard and 3 ´ 24 = 72 feet in 24 yards.)

a) f(x) = | 2x - 1 |
Answer:
There are two graphs to draw:
1
f(x) = 2x - 1 when 2x - 1 ³ 0 or x ³
2
1
and f(x) = -(2x - 1) when 2x - 1 < 0 or x 
2
The pivot point is the x-intercept. The y-intercept is
f (x) = 2x − 1 f (x) = 2x − 1
0 = 2x − 1 f (0) = 2 (0) − 1
0 = 2x − 1 f (0 ) = − 1
1 f (0) = 1
=x
2
y
2 1 2 x
2
2

b) g(x) = | x + 3 |
Answer:
x + 3 , x + 3 ≥ 0

g (x) = 
−( x + 3) , x + 3 < 0

Simplify to get
x + 3 , x ≥ −3

g (x) = 
−x − 3 , x < −3

The pivot-point is x = -3, which is also the x-intercept.

The y-intercept is
g(x) = | x + 3 |
g(0) = | 0 + 3 |
g(0) = 3
y
 3
 
 

3 2 x
2

c) h(x) = | x2 - 1 |
Answer:
x 2 − 1, x 2 − 1 ≥ 0

h (x) = 
−( x − 1) , x − 1 < 0
2 2

Using a graphing transformations method, first graph y = x2 - 1 with

vertex (0, 1), opening up and standard size.
y
 3 
 
1 1 x
1 
Using the absolute value transformation, reflect any points with

negative y-values over the x-axis. This would be the portion of the
graph in the domain, -1 < x < 1.
y
 3 
 
1 1 x
2
The x-intercepts are ±1 and the y-intercept is 1.

d) j(x) = | -x2 + 2x + 3 |
Answer:
−x 2 + 2 x + 3 , − x 2 + 2 x + 3 ≥ 0

j (x) = 

−(−x 2 + 2 x + 3) , − x 2 + 2 x + 3 < 0

To sketch the graph of y = -x2 + 2x + 3, first complete the square to
find the vertex:
y = −x 2 + 2 x + 3
y = −( x 2 − 2 x )+3
y = −( x 2 − 2 x + 1) + 3 − 1 (−1)
2
y = −( x − 1) + 4
The parabola opens down and is standard size. The vertex is (1, 4).
y
4 
 
 
1 3 x

The absolute value transformation reflects any points with negative
y-values over the x-axis. This occurs in two places in the domain for
x < -1 and x > 3.
y
 
4 
3 
 
1 3 x
The x-intercepts are -1 and 3. The y-intercept is 3.

Answer:
Question Domain Range
(a) Â [0, ¥)
(b) Â [0, ¥)
(c) Â [0, ¥)
(d) Â [0, ¥)

simplify.
Answers:
a) f(x) = | 2x - 1 |
The piece-wise function is
2 x − 1, 2 x − 1 ≥ 0

f (x) = 
−( 2 x − 1) , 2 x − 1 < 0

Simplify both the function part and the domain pieces to get:
 1
2 x − 1, x ≥
 2
f (x) = 
 1
−2 x + 1, x <
 2
You can verify your answer from the graph.

b) g(x) = | x + 3 |
x + 3 , x + 3 ≥ 0

g (x) = 
−( x + 3) , x + 3 < 0

Simplify the function and domain pieces to get
x + 3 , x ≥ −3

g (x) = 
−x − 3 , x < −3

Check your answer from the graph.

c) h(x) = | x2 - 1 |
The piece-wise definition is:
x 2 − 1, x 2 − 1 ≥ 0

h (x) = 
−( x − 1) , x − 1 < 0
2 2

The function pieces are easily simplified, h(x) = -(x2 - 1) = -x2 + 1.

The domain pieces can be simplified by using the graph. Separate
the pieces into intervals according to the x-intercepts. The simplified
version is:
x 2 − 1, x ≤ −1


h ( x ) = −x 2 + 1, −1 < x < 1

2
x − 1, x ≥ 1

Note that the middle piece of h(x) shows the portion where the graph
was reflected over the x-axis to get a piece of a parabola opening down
with vertex (0, 1).

d) j(x) = | -x2 + 2x + 3 |
−x 2 + 2 x + 3 , − x 2 + 2 x + 3 ≥ 0

j (x) = 
−(−x + 2 x + 3) , − x + 2 x + 3 < 0
2 2

The function j(x) = -(-x2 + 2x + 3) simplified is x2 - 2x - 3.

The domain pieces can be simplified from the graph by considering
the intervals of the domain according to the x-intercepts.
The simplified version of j(x) becomes
x 2 − 2 x − 3 , x ≤ −1


j ( x ) = −x 2 + 2 x + 3 , −1 < x < 3

2
x − 2 x − 3 , x ≥ 3

Note that the first and last pieces of j(x) indicate the portions of graph
of y = -x2 + 2x + 3 that were reflected over the x-axis by the absolute
value transformation. They are pieces of a parabola that opens up and
has its vertex at (1, -4).
Answer:
The absolute value transformation can be defined as (x, y) ® (x, | y |).
The absolute value function turns every negative y-value into a positive
y-value. Therefore, the point (2, -5) becomes (2, 5).
4. The graph of y = f(x) has an x-intercept of -6 and a y-intercept of -1. What

Answer:
The x-intercept of an absolute value function stays the same as the
x-intercept is always the invariant point of the absolute value function.
Therefore, the x-intercept is still -6. However, an absolute value function
does not contain negative y-values. Therefore, this y-intercept would be
reflected over the x-axis to result in a y-intercept of 1 in y = | f(x) |.

a) y
 3
 
 

6 x
3
Answer:
1
The slope of the line when x is greater than or equal to -6 is .
2
1
The y-intercept is 3. The slope of the line when x is less than -6 is - .
2
If this line were to continue down below the x-axis, the y-intercept
would be -3. Therefore, the piece-wise function for this graph is
 1
− x − 3 , x < −6
 2
y =
1
 x + 3 , x ≥ −6
2
b) y
 
 
2

2 2 x
2

Answer:
The slope of the line when x is greater than or equal to -2 is 3. The
y-intercept is 6. Therefore, this piece of the graph has the equation
y = 3x + 6. When x is less than -2, the line, y = 3x + 6, is reflected over
the x-axis, resulting in the line y = -(3x + 6) or y = -3x - 6. The piece-
wise function for this graph is thus
−3x − 6 , x < −2

y =
3x + 6 , x ≥ −2

c) y
(1, 4) 5

 
f(x)
 
5 3 x
 

(1, 4)
5
Answer:
This graph represents the absolute of a quadratic function whose
vertex was originally at (-1, -4), opening up and y-value reduced
by a factor of 4. The pieces of the domain are determined by the
x-intercepts. Thus, the piece-wise definition is
1 2
 ( x + 1) − 4 , x ≤ −5
 4
 1 2 
f ( x ) = − ( x + 1) − 4 , − 5 < x < 3
 4 

 1 ( x + 1)2 − 4 , x ≥ 3
4
Note that you might have seen this graph as a parabola opening down
with its original vertex at (-1, 4). This possibility is shown in the
next solution. Either interpretation will give the same absolute value
function.

The simplified version of the function is
1 2
 ( x + 1) − 4 , x ≤ −5
4
 1 2
f ( x ) = − ( x + 1) + 4 , − 5 < x < 3
 4
1
 ( x + 1)2 − 4 , x ≥ 3
4
d) y
2 
 
2 4 x
Answer:
This graph could be the absolute value transformation of a quadratic
function with vertex at (2, 2), opening down, and having the y-values
reduced by a factor of 2. The original quadratic function would
−1
be y = ( x − 2 )2 + 2. The tails of the parabola were reflected
2
over the x-axis at pivot points x = 0 and x = 4 by the absolute value
transformation. The piece-wise absolute value function is
  −1 
− ( x − 2 )2 + 2 , x < 0
  2 

 1 2
f ( x ) = − ( x − 2 ) + 2 , 0 ≤ x ≤ 4
 2
  −1 
− ( x − 2 )2 + 2 , x > 4
  2
 

The simplified form:
1 2
 (x − 2) − 2 , x < 0
2
 1 2
f ( x ) = − ( x − 2 ) + 2 , 0 ≤ x ≤ 4
 2
1
 ( x − 2 )2 − 2 , x > 4
2

Answer:
x y = -4x + 3 f(x) = |-4x + 3| y = 4x - 3 g(x) = |4x - 3|
-3 15 15 -15 15
-2 11 11 -11 11
-1 7 7 -7 7
0 3 3 -3 3
1 -1 1 1 1
2 -5 5 5 5
3 -9 9 9 9
y y
   
y = |4x + 3| y = |4x  3|
   
2 2
 
 
2 2 x 2 3 2 x
 4
2 2
y = 4x + 3 
y = 4x  3

These two absolute value graphs are identical. This is because the
expression inside the absolute value symbols can either be positive or
negative to yield the same answer. Therefore, | -4x + 3 | = | 4x - 3 |.

Answer:
f(x) = | x2 - 6x + 5 |
Consider the function y = x2 - 6x + 5. Graph this function and then use
the absolute value transformation.
y = x2 - 6x + 5
y = (x2 - 6x + 9) + 5 - 9
y = (x - 3)2 - 4
Vertex (3, -4) opens up with normal size. Reflect the portion of the
parabola with negative y-values over the x-axis. The graph of f(x) is shown
below.
y
f(x)
5 (3, 4) 
 
1 5 x
original
parabola

(3, 4)
Another absolute value function having the same graph as f(x) would be
the absolute value of the negative of the original quadratic y = x2 - 6x + 5.
This function would be
g(x) = | -(x2 - 6x + 5) |
g(x) = | -x2 + 6x - 5 |

Part A: BrainPower
point (5, 2).
3. Evaluate: 34
2 6
4. Evaluate: +
13 7
read in a week?
5
Answers:
1. $22.58 ($67.32 ´ 10% = $6.73; $67.32 ´ 5% = $3.37; the bill will total
$67.32 + $6.73 + $3.37 = $77.42; $100 - $77.42 = $22.58)
2. y = -x + 7 (y = mx + b; 2 = -1(5) + b; 2 = -5 + b; 7 = b)
3. 81 (3 ´ 3 ´ 3 ´ 3 = 9 ´ 9)
92  14 78 
4.  + 
91  91 91 
5. 686 (90 ´ 7 = 630; 8 ´ 7 = 56; 98 ´ 7 = 686)

4
6. 85
7. 165° (The sum of the angles in a parallelogram is 360°. The missing angle
is 360° - 30° - 93° - 72° = 165°.)
8. -5 and 3 (Factor the corresponding quadratic equation: 0 = x2 + 2x - 15 =
(x + 5)(x - 3).

a) | 2x - 3 | = 7
Answer:
Case 1: 2x − 3 = 7 and 2x − 3 ≥ 0
2x − 3 = 7 2x − 3 ≥ 0
2 x = 10 2x ≥ 3
x=5 3
x≥
2
3
Since x = 5 is in the interval x ³ , then x = 5 is a solution.
2
Case 2: −( 2 x − 3) = 7 and 2x − 3 < 0
−2 x + 3 = 7 2x − 3 < 0
−2 x = 4 2x < 3
x = −2 3
x<
2
3
Since x = -2 is in the interval x  , then x = -2 is a solution.
2
\ The solutions are x = 5 and x = -2.

b) | 3x - 8 | = 2 - 4x
Answer:
Case 1: 3x − 8 = 2 − 4 x and 3x − 8 ≥ 0
7 x = 10 3x ≥ 8
10 8
x= x≥
7 3
10 8
Since x = is not in the interval x ³ , it is not a solution. It is an
7 3
extraneous root.
Case 2: −( 3x − 8) = 2 − 4 x and 3x − 8 < 0
−3x + 8 = 2 − 4 x 3x < 8
x = −6 8
x<
3
8
Since x = -6 is in the interval x  , then it is a solution.
3
\ The only solution is x = -6.
c) | x2 - 4x | = 4
Answer:
Case 1: x 2 − 4x = 4 and x 2 − 4x ≥ 0
x 2 − 4x − 4 = 0 x (x − 4) ≥ 0
Using the quadratic formula: x = 0, 4
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac +  +
x= , then 
0

4 x
2a
x = 4.828 or Solution interval:
x = −0.828 (-¥, 0] È [4, ¥)
Since x = 4.828 is in the interval [4, ¥) and x = -0.828 is in the interval

(-¥, 0], then both are solutions.

Case 2: −( x 2 − 4 x ) = 4 and x 2 − 4x < 0
−x 2 + 4 x = 4
+  +
2 x
−x + 4 x − 4 = 0 0 4
x 2 − 4x + 4 = 0 Solution interval: (0, 4)
Factoring: (x – 2)(x – 2) = 0
x=2
Since x = 2 is in the interval (0, 4), then x = 2 is also a solution.
\ The solutions are x = 4.828, x = -0.828, and x = 2.
d) | x2 + 2x | = x + 30
Answer:
Case 1: x 2 + 2 x = x + 30 and x2 + 2x ≥ 0
x 2 + x − 30 = 0 x (x + 2) ≥ 0
( x + 6 ) ( x − 5) = 0 x = 0, −2
x = −6 , 5 +  +
 
2 0 x
Solution: (–¥, –2] È [0, ¥)
Since x = -6 is in the interval (-¥, -2] and x = 5 is in the interval

[0, ¥), both are solutions.
Case 2: −( x 2 + 2 x ) = x + 30 and x2 + 2x < 0
−x 2 − 2 x = x + 30
−x 2 − 3x − 30 = 0
x 2 + 3x + 30 = 0
discriminant = b2 - 4ac
= 32 - 4(1)(30)
= -111
There are no real number solutions.
\ The only solutions are x = -6, 5.

a) | 2x - 3 | = 7
Answer:
The corresponding function for the left side of the equation is
y = | 2x - 3 |.
The line is y = 2x - 3 with slope 2 and y-intercept of -3. The pivot
point is the x-intercept of
0 = 2x − 3
0 = 2x − 3
3
=x
2
The corresponding function for the right side of the equation is y = 7.
The graphs are shown below.
y
y=7
 
3 y = |2x  3|
 
2 2 4 x
The two points of intersection are (-2, 7) and (5, 7). The x-coordinates
of these points are x = -2 and x = 5.
Therefore, as in Question 1(a), the solutions to this absolute value
equation are x = -2 and x = 5.

b) | 3x - 8 | = 2 - 4x
Answer:
Graph y = | 3x - 8 | and y = 2 - 4x on the same graph. Use a scale of 2
on both axes.
y
 26
8
6 8 x

8 
The x-value at which these two functions intersect is -6. As in

Question 1(b), this absolute value equation has a solution of x = -6.

c) | x2 - 4x | = 4
Answer:
The function for the left side is y = | x2 - 4x |. The parabola y = x2 - 4x
has zeros at
0 = x2 - 4x
0 = x(x - 4)
x = 0, 4
The vertex for y = x2 - 4x is
y = x2 - 4x
y = (x2 - 4x + 4) - 4
y = (x - 2)2 - 4
Vertex coordinates of y = x2 - 4x are (2, -4).
Vertex coordinates of y = | x2 - 4x | are (2, 4).
The graph of both functions, y = | x2 - 4x | and y = 4 are shown below:
y
y = |x2  4x| 8
6
y=4 (2, 4)
  
(0.828, 4) (4.828, 4)
2 4 x
To find the x-values for the two outside points, solve (x2 - 4x) = 4 using
the quadratic formula x2 - 4x - 4 = 0 Þ x = 4.828 or x = -0.828.
The x-values at which these two functions intersect are x = -0.828,
x = 2, and x = 4.828 and are thus the solutions to this absolute value
equation, as shown algebraically in Question 1(c).

d) | x2 + 2x | = x + 30
Answer:
The left side function is y = | x2 + 2x |. The vertex of the parabola
y = x2 + 2x is
y = x2 + 2x
y = (x2 + 2x + 1) - 1
y = (x + 1)2 - 1
Vertex (-1, -1)
The zeros are
0 = x2 + 2x
0 = x(x + 2)
x=0 x+2=0
x = -2
The line y = x + 30 on the right side of the equation has a y-intercept of
30 and slope of 1. Use a scale of 5 on the y-axis.
y
 35 
y = x + 30 
 25
 
10 y = |x2 + 2x|
 
6 2 5 x
The x-values at which these two functions intersect are x = -6 and

x = 5 and are thus the solutions to this absolute value equation, as
shown algebraically in Question 1(d).

Answer:
Let x represent an acceptable weight for a box of cookies, measured in
grams.
| x - 325 | = 4.6 or | 325 - x | = 4.6
Answer:
| x - 325 | = 4.6
Case 1: x - 325 = 4.5 and x - 325 ³ 0
x = 329.6 x ³ 325
Since x = 329.6 is in the interval x ³ 325, it is a solution.
Case 2: -(x - 325) = 4.6 and x - 325 < 0
-x + 325 = 4.6 x < 325
-x = -320.4
x = 320.4
Since x = 320.4 is in the interval x < 325, it is a solution.
The solutions for the absolute value equation are x = 320.4 g and
x = 329.6 g.
Answer:
Thus, the greatest possible acceptable weight of the box of cookies is
329.6 g and the least possible acceptable weight of the box of cookies is
320.4 g.

Answer:
a) 2 x + 3 = 6 b) 2x + 7 = 0
7
x = 0 ,− 6 x =−
2
c) x 2 − 2 x =1 d) x 2 − 2 x − 16 = 8
x = 1 , 1+ 2, 1− 2 x = −4 , − 2 , 4 , 6
e) 3x − 9 = 24
x = − 5 , 11
Solutions for each of the absolute value equations:

a) 2 x + 3 = 6
6
x+3 =
2
x+3 = 3
Case 1: x + 3 = 3 x+3³0
x = 0 x ³ -3
Case 2: -(x + 3) = 3 x+3<0
-x - 3 = 3 x < -3
-x = 6
x = -6
Solutions are x = 0 and x = -6.
b) 2x + 7 = 0
2x + 7 = 0
2 x = −7
−7
x=
2

c) | x2 - 2x | = 1
Case 1: x2 - 2x = 1 and x2 - 2x ³ 0
x2 − 2x − 1 = 0 x (x − 2) ≥ 0
2 ± 4 − 4 (1) (−1) x = 0, 2
x=
2 ( 1)
+  +
 
2± 8 0 2 x
x=
2
Solution: (-¥, 0] È [2, ¥)
2±2 2
x=
2
x = 1± 2
x = 1 + 2 ≈ 2.4
x = 1 − 2 ≈ −0.4
Thus, x = 1 + 2 is in the interval [2, ¥) and x = 1 − 2 is in the

interval (-¥, 0] and both are solutions.
Case 2: −( x 2 − 2 x ) = 1 and x2 − 2x < 0
−x 2 + 2 x = 1 x (x − 2) < 0
x = 0, 2
−x 2 + 2 x − 1 = 0
+  
x2 − 2x + 1 = 0 x
0 2
2
( x − 1) = 0 Solution: (0, 2)
x=1
Since x = 1 is in the interval (0, 2), it is a solution.
\ The solutions are 1, 1 + 2 , and 1 − 2 .

d) | x2 - 2x - 16 | = 8
Case 1: x 2 − 2 x − 16 = 8 and x 2 − 2 x − 16 ≥ 0
x 2 − 2 x − 24 = 0 2 ± 4 − 4 (1) (−16 )
x=
(x − 6) (x + 4) = 0 2 ( 1)
x = 6, −4 2 ± 68
x=
2
2 ± 2 17
x=
2
x = 1 ± 17
x ≈ 5.1 or − 3.1
+  +
 
3.1 5.1 x

Approximate solution:
(-¥, -3.1] È [5.1, ¥)
Since x = 6 and x = -4 are in the intervals, they are solutions.
Case 2: −( x 2 − 2 x − 16 ) = 8 and x 2 − 2 x − 16 < 0
−x 2 + 2 x + 16 = 8 Approximate solution:
(−3.1, 5.1)
−x 2 + 2 x + 8 = 0
x2 − 2x − 8 = 0
(x − 4) (x + 2 ) = 0
x = 4,, −2
Since both values x = 4 and x = -2 are in the interval, they are

solutions.
\ The solutions are 6, -4, 4, -2.

e) | 3x - 9 | = 24
Case 1: 3x − 9 = 24 and 3x − 9 ≥ 0
3x = 33 3x ≥ 9
x = 11 x≥3
Since x = 11 is in the interval x ³ 3, it is a solution.
Case 2: −( 3x − 9 ) = 24 and 3x − 9 < 0
−3x + 9 = 24 3x < 9
−3x = 15 x<3
x = −5
Since x = -5 is in the interval x < 3, it is a solution.
Thus, x = -5 and x = 11 are the solutions.
Armani’s work:
Case 1: x − 3 = 2 x + 1 Case 2: −x + 3 = 2 x + 1
x + 3 = 2x + 1 2 = 3x
2=x 2
x=
3
Jennifer’s work:
Case 1: x − 3 = 2 x + 1 Case 2: −x + 3 = 2 x + 1
x − 3 = 2x + 1 2 = 3x
−4 = x 2
x=
3
Answer:
Armani’s second equation is correct as she took the negative of the
entire expression inside the absolute value symbols. However, the first
equation is incorrect. An absolute value equation has possible solutions
in two cases, when the expression inside the symbols is positive and
when the expression inside the symbols is negative. However, Armani
thought that you had to change all the signs to positive inside the
absolute value brackets. This is incorrect. Also, she didn’t write the
interval restrictions for each case.

Jennifer’s work is also incorrect. Jennifer solved the equation correctly.
However, she forgot to check the intervals of the domain. If Jennifer
were to set up her work using the definition of an absolute value, she
would have discovered her answer of negative 4 wasn’t possible.
Case 1: x = -4 as long as x - 3 ³ 0 or x ³ 3. The solution is not in the
interval and is an extraneous solution.
2
Case 2: x = as long as x - 3 < 0 or x < 3. This value of x is in the
3
interval x < 3 and is a solution.
2
\ Jennifer needed to reject x = -4 and keep the only solution, x = .
3
incorrect.
Answer:
Armani and Jennifer could have discovered their work was incorrect
by checking their answers.
2
Verifying the solutions of x = 2 , , and − 4.
3
| x - 3 | = 2x + 1
Verify x = 2.
LHS RHS
|x - 3| 2x + 1
|2 - 3| 2(2) + 1
1 5
LHS ¹ RHS
x = 2 is not a solution.

2
Verify x = .
3
LHS RHS
x-3 2x + 1
2 2
-3 2 + 1
3 3
1 4
-2 +1
3 3
1
1 2
2 3
3
LHS = RHS
Verify x = -4.
LHS RHS
|x - 3| 2x + 1
| -4 - 3 | 2(–4) + 1
7 -7
LHS ¹ RHS
x = -4 is not a solution.
2
The only solution of the three is x = . By using the domain interval
3
restrictions, extraneous roots can be rejected. By verifying your
answers, your calculations may be corrected.

Answer:
greater than or equal to zero.

to zero.
Answer:
This is always true because the absolute value of any expression is
always greater than or equal to zero.
Answer:
greater than or equal to zero. However, if a is a negative number, the
expression | 5 + a | + a could be less than zero. For example, if a = -3,
| 5 + (-3) | + (-3) = | 2 | - 3 = -1, which is not a positive number.

solution.
a) -4
Answer:
Answers will vary.
A possible equation is
|x - 3| = 7
b) No solution
Answer:
Answers will vary. However, in order for an absolute value equation
to have no solution, the absolute value expression has to be equal to a
negative value. A possible equation is
| x + 24| = -3
c) One solution
Answer:
Answers will vary. However, answers must have only one solution and
not two solutions.
An example is
| 2x - 6 | = 0
d) Two solutions
Answer:
Answers will vary. A possible equation is
|x + 1| = 5

Part A: BrainPower
1 2
4. Evaluate: +
4 7
( x + 3) ( x − 4 )
( x + 4 ) ( x − 1)
2
Answers:
1. 36 (One-third of 99 = 33; one-third of 9 = 3; one-third of 108 = 33 + 3 = 36)
2. $26.22 ($52 ¸ 2 = $26 and 0.44 ¸ 2 = 0.22)
3. -2 and -4 ((x + 2)(x + 4) = 0)
15  7 8
4.  + 
28  28 28 
( x + 4 ) ( x − 1)
5.
( x + 3) ( x − 4 )
7
6. 12 2
7. Quadrant II
5 5 9
8. −  2 y = −5x − 9 ; y = − x − 
2 2 2

a) y = x - 1
Answer:
1
f (x) =
x−1
b) y = -3x + 6
Answer:
1
f (x) =
−3x + 6
c) y = x2 + 4x - 2
Answer:
1
f (x) = 2
x + 4x − 2
d) y = x2 - 9
Answer:
1
f (x) = 2
x −9

2. For each of the following, identify the (i) x-intercepts of f(x), (ii) the
1
reciprocal function y = , (iii) the non-permissible values of the
f (x)
reciprocal function, and (iv) the equation(s) of the vertical asymptotes of
the reciprocal function
a) f(x) = 2x + 5
Answer:
i) 0 = 2x + 5
−5 = 2 x
5
x =−
2
ii) y = 1
2x + 5
5
iii) The non-permissible value is x = − .
2
5
iv) The equation of the vertical asymptote is x = − .
2
b) f(x) = x2 - 9
Answer:
i) 0 = x2 - 9
0 = (x - 3)(x + 3)
x = 3 or -3
1
ii) y = 2
x −9
iii) The non-permissible values are x = 3 and x = -3.
iv) The equations of the vertical asymptotes are x = 3 and x = -3.
c) f(x) = x2 + 4x + 3
Answer:
i) 0 = x2 + 4x + 3
0 = (x + 3)(x + 1)
x = -3 or -1
1
ii) y = 2
x + 4x + 3
iii) The non-permissible values are x = -3 and x = -1.
iv) The equations of the vertical asymptotes are x = -3 and x = -1.

asymptotes.
a) y = x2 + x - 6
b) y = -2
c) y = x - 5
d) y = x2 - 2x - 3
e) y = x2 - 6x + 9
f) y = 3x + 7
g) y = x2 - 5x + 7
y y
i) ii)
2
 1  
2 x 3 x

2 2
7
x=
3 x = 3 x=2
iii) y iv) y
x = 1 x=3
2
  
1 5 x  x

2
x=5

v) y vi) y
2 1

 
  

5 x 2 2 x
2
1
2
vii) y
x=3
1  
2 4 x
Answers:
a) (ii) Since y = (x + 3)(x - 2), the vertical
asymptotes are at x = -3 and x = 2.
1
b) (vi) Since y = -2, the reciprocal is a constant, y = − .
2
c) (iii) Since y = x - 5, the vertical asymptote is at x = 5.
d) (iv) Since y = (x - 3)(x + 1), the vertical asymptotes are at x = 3 and
x = -1.
e) (vii) Since y = (x - 3)(x - 3), only one vertical asymptote at x = 3.
7
f) (i) Since y = 3x + 7, the vertical asymptote is at x = − .
3
g) (v) Since y = x2 - 5x + 7 has a discriminate of b2 - 4ac = (-5)2 - 4(1)(7)
= -3, which is negative, then the parabola has no zeros so its reciprocal
will have no vertical asymptotes.

1
a) y =
5x − 10
Answer:
5x - 10 = 0
5x = 10
x=2

1
b) y =
x−4
Answer:
x-4=0
x=4
1
c) y =
( x + 3) ( x − 6 )
Answer:
(x + 3)(x - 6) = 0
x = -3 or x = 6
\ Vertical asymptotes are x = -3 and x = 6.
1
d) y = 2
x − x − 20
Answer:
x2 - x - 20 = 0
(x - 5)(x + 4) = 0
x = 5 or x = -4
\ Vertical asymptotes are x = 5 and x = -4.

1 1
a) f ( x ) = d) f ( x ) = 2
x+3 x − 2x − 8
1 1
b) f ( x ) = e) f ( x ) = 2
2x + 8 x + 8x + 16
1 1
c) f ( x ) = 2
f) f (x) = 2
x +x−2 x − 2x + 6
Answers:
1
a) f ( x ) =
x+3
1 1
f (0) = =
0+3 3
Vertical asymptote: Let the denominator, x + 3, equal 0, find the zero,
x+3=0
x = -3
y = 1 y = -1
x+3=1 x + 3 = -1
x = -2 x = -4
Therefore, the two invariant points are (-2, 1), and (-4, -1).

y
 1

4 2 x
 1
x = 3

1
b) f ( x ) =
2x + 8
Answer:
1 1
f (0) = =
2 (0) + 8 8
Vertical asymptote: Let the denominator, 2x + 8, equal 0, find the zero,
2x + 8 = 0
2x = -8
x = -4

y=1 y = −1
2x + 8 = 1 2 x + 8 = −1
2 x = −7 2 x = −9
7 9
x =− x =−
2 2
 7   9 
 2   2 
y
x = 4
2


2 2 x

2


1
c) f ( x ) =
x2 + x − 2
Answer:
1 1
f (0) = 2
=−
0 +0−2 2
x2 + x - 2 = 0
(x + 2)(x - 1) = 0
x = -2, x = 1
Vertex of the original parabola:
y = x2 + x − 2
 1 1
y = x 2 + x + − 2 −
 4 4
2
 1  9
y = x +  −− 
 2  4
 1 9
Vertex: − , − 
 2 4
In the reciprocal function, the maximum value in the interval
between the vertical asymptotes will occur at the vertex where
1 1 4
x = − and y = =− .
2 9 9
−
4

y=1 y = -1
x2 + x - 2 = 1 x2 + x - 2 = -1
x2 + x - 3 = 0 x2 + x - 1 = 0
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac b 2 − 4 ac = 1 − 4 (1) (−1)
x=
2a =5
−1 ± 12 − 4 (1) (−3) −1 ± 5
x= x=
2 2
−1 ± 12 + 12 −1 + 5
x= x= = 0.6
2 2
−1 + 13 −1 − 5
x= = 1.3 x= = −1.6
2 2
−1 − 13
x= = −2.3
2
Therefore, the four invariant points are (1.3, 1), (-2.3, 1), (0.6, -1), and
(-1.6, -1).
y
2
 

2 x
 
x = 2 x=1

The domain and range can be read from the graph:
Domain: {x|x ¹ -2, 1, x Î Â}
 4
The range is −∞, − ∪ (0 , ∞) .
 9
1
d) f ( x ) = 2
x − 2x − 8
Answer:
1 1
f (0) = =−
−8 8
x2 - 2x - 8 = 0

(x - 4)(x + 2) = 0
x = 4, x = -2
Vertex of the parabola:
y = x2 − 2x − 8
y = ( x 2 − 2 x + 1) − 8 − 1
2
y = ( x − 1) − 9
Vertex: (1, -9)

In the reciprocal function, the highest point in the interval between the
vertical asymptotes is at the reciprocal of the vertex point where x = 1
1 1
and y = =− .
−9 9

y=1 y = -1
x2 - 2x - 8 = 1 x2 - 2x - 8 = -1
x2 - 2x - 9 = 0 x2 - 2x - 7 = 0
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac −b ± b 2 − 4 ac
x= x=
2a 2a
2 2
2 ± (−2 ) − 4 (1) (−9 ) 2 ± (−2 ) − 4 (1) (−7 )
x= x=
2 2
2 ± 4 + 36 2 ± 4 + 28
x= x=
2 2
2 ± 40 2 ± 32
x= x=
2 2
2 ± 2 10 2±4 2
x= x=
2 2
x = 1 ± 10 x = 1±2 2
Therefore, the four invariant points are (1 + 10 , 1) , (1 − 10 , 1) ,
(1 + 2 2 , −1) , and (1 − 2 2 , −1) . These points are approximately

equal to (4.2, 1), (-2.2, 1), (3.8, -1), and (-1.8, -1).
y
2
 
6 x

 
2
x = 2 x=4

The domain is {x|x ¹ -2, 4, x Î Â}.
 1
The range is −∞, − ∪ (0 , ∞) .
 9
1
e) f ( x ) = 2
x + 8x + 16
Answer:
1 1
f (0) = 2
=
0 + 8 (0 ) + 16 16

x2 + 8x + 16 = 0.
x2 + 8x + 16 = 0

(x + 4)(x + 4) = 0
The vertical asymptote occurs at x = -4.
Vertex of parabola: The parabola is y = x2 + 8x + 16 = (x + 4)2. Its
vertex is (-4, 0). The corresponding point on the reciprocal function is
 1
−4 , , ,which does not exist. The vertical asymptote passes through
 0
the vertex of the original parabola since the vertex is on the x-axis.
y=1 y = -1
x2 + 8x + 16 = 1 x2 + 8x + 16 = -1
x2 + 8x + 15 = 0 x2 + 8x + 17 = 0
(x + 3)(x + 5) = 0 b2 - 4ac = 82 - 4(17)
x = -3, -5 = 64 - 68
= -4
This equation has no solution as the
discriminant is negative.

y
 

5 3 x
x = 4

The range is {y|y > 0, y Î Â}.
1
f) f ( x ) = 2
x − 2x + 6
Answer:
1 1
f (0) = 2
=
0 − 2 (0) + 6 6

x2 - 2x + 6 = 0.
b2 - 4ac = (-2)2 - 4(1)(6)

= 4 - 24
= -20
This equation has no solution as the discriminant is negative.
Therefore, there are no vertical asymptotes.

y=1 y = -1
x2 - 2x + 6 = 1 x2 - 2x + 6 = -1
x2 - 2x + 5 = 0 x2 - 2x + 7 = 0
b2 - 4ac = (-2)2 - 4(5) b2 - 4ac = (-2)2 - 4(7)
= 4 - 20 = 4 - 28
= -16 = -24
Both of these equations have no solution as both discriminants are
negative. Thus, there are no invariant points.
To help graph this reciprocal, find the coordinates of the vertex of the
quadratic function located in the denominator of f(x). Then, find the
reciprocal of that point.
Vertex:
y = x2 − 2x + 6
b −2 2
x =− =− = =1
2a 2 2
Once you find the x-coordinate of the vertex, you can substitute that
value back into the quadratic function to determine the y-coordinate of
the vertex.
y = (1)2 - 2(1) + 6 = 1 - 2 + 6 = 5
The vertex is at (1, 5).
 1
The corresponding point in the reciprocal function is  1, .
 5
Now find points on each side of the vertex.
1
x y = x2 - 2x + 6 y= 2
x − 2x + 6
1
0 6
6
1
1 5
5
1
2 6
6
Plot the points of the reciprocal function and draw the curve smoothly
toward the horizontal asymptote as x goes to infinity to the left and
right.

Draw the curve:
y
1
f(x) =
x2  2x + 6
1
1
1, 5 1
2, 6

 
2 1 1 2 x
1
The domain is {x|x Î Â}.

 1 
The range is y | 0 < y ≤ , y ∈ ℜ.
 5 

Part A: BrainPower
2. Simplify: (32)3
4. If 36% of 1500 is 540, what is 18% of 1500?
x 2 + 3x − 4
5. State the reciprocal of. 2 .
x − 2x + 1
3
20
17
252
462
Answers:
1. 4.8 m (6 ´ 80 = 480 cm = 4.8 m)
2. 36 = 729 (9 ´ 9 ´ 9 = 81 ´ 9; 80 ´ 9 = 720 + 1 ´ 9 = 9)
2 2 7
3. −  3 y = −2 x + 7 ; y = − x + 
3 3 3
 540 
4. 270  
 2 
2
5. x − 2 x + 1
x 2 + 3x − 4
 3 
3 3
6. 16 
 16 = 16 3 = 16 

 
7. (62, -52) (45 + 17, -72 + 20)
6  252 126 42 6
8.  = = = 
11  462 231 77 11 

1
f (x)
method you used.
a) y
1 

x
1 
3 
Answer:
From the graph, you can see y
that the x-intercept is 3.
Therefore, the vertical
asymptote in the reciprocal
function will be x = 3. Also, the
two invariant points of this
1 
function will be (4, 1) and
(2, -1), as these are the points 4 x
at which the y-coordinate is 1 
either 1 or -1.
The horizontal asymptote is
y = 0.
Using this information, you can
x=3
graph the reciprocal function.

b) y
1 

4 6 x
1 
Answer:
From the graph, you can see that the x-intercept is 4. Therefore, the
vertical asymptote in the reciprocal function will be x = 4. Also, the
two invariant points of this function will be (6, 1) and (2, -1), as these
are the
points at which the y-coordinate is either 1 or -1.
y
2 6 x

x=4

c) y
2
  1
 
4  1 x
5 1
 ,
2 4
Answer:
From the graph, you can see that the x-intercepts are -2 and -3.
equations of x = -2 and x = -3.
The invariant points on the function are approximately at (-1.4, 1) and
(-3.6, 1).
 5 1
The key point of the parabola is at the vertex at − , − .
 2 4
 5 
The corresponding point on the reciprocal function is − , − 4 .
 2 
Using this information, x = 3

y
you can graph the x = 2
reciprocal function.
 
1 x
 4



d) y
 
 
4 2 x
 1 
5
9
Answer:
From the graph, you can see that the x-intercepts are 2 and -4.
equations of x = 2 and x = -4.
The vertex of the parabola is at (-1, -9). The corresponding point on
 1
the reciprocal function is −1, − .
 9
The invariant points are approximately at (-4.21, 1), (2.2, 1) and
(-3.8, -1), (1.8, -1).
y
 
 x
1
 

x = 4 x=2

1
f (x)
method you used.
a) y
 1
2 x
 1
x = 4
Answer:
The vertical asymptote of this reciprocal graph is at x = -4. Therefore,
there will be an x-intercept on f(x) as (-4, 0).
There are also two points given: (-3, 1) and (-5, -1). These are
invariant points and therefore they stay the same on the graph of f(x).
Using these three pieces of information, it is possible to graph f(x).
y

4 x


b) y
2 
3 5 x
2 
x=4
Answer:
The vertical asymptote of this reciprocal graph is at x = 4. Therefore,
there will be an x-intercept on f(x) as (4, 0).
There are also two points given: (5, 2) and (3, -2). The points on the
 1  1
reciprocal of the function are  5 ,  and  3 , − . Using these three
 2  2
pieces of information, it is possible to graph f(x).
y


 4 6 x
2 

y
c) x = 2
x = 1
2
 
3 x
3,
 4
2

Answer:
The vertical asymptotes of this reciprocal graph occur at x = -1 and
x = -2 and are thus the x-intercepts in the graph of f(x). In other words,
f(x) has the form of a(x + 1)(x + 2).
 3 
The one given point is − , − 4 . The corresponding point on the
 2 
 3 1
reciprocal of the function is − , −  and it will be the vertex of the
 2 4
parabola.
The invariant points are approximately at (-2.6, 1) and (-0.4, 1).
y
2
 
 
3 1 1 x

y
d) x=1 x=5
 1 
3, 
4
 x
 
Answer:
The vertical asymptotes of this graph occur at x = 1 and x = 5 and are
thus the x-intercepts in the graph of f(x). In other words, f(x) is of the
form a(x - 1)(x - 5) or f(x) = a(x - 1)(x - 5).
 1
The key point is  3 , − . The corresponding point on f(x) is (3, -4).
 4
It is the vertex of the parabola.
Reading from the graph, the invariant points are approximately at
(0.8, 1), (5.2, 1) and (1.3, -1), (4.7, -1).
y
 
 
1 5 x
 

(3, 4)

Answer:
1
f =
T

Answer:
f
2 


2 T
Answer:
Using the graph, the period of a pendulum with a frequency of
2.1 cycles per second is approximately 0.4 s.
1
Using the formula in (a): f =
T
1
2.1 =
T
1
T=
2.1
T = 0.4762 seconds

Glossary
Appendix A: Glossary
absolute value of an expression asymptote

A positive number of zero that is A line that a function approaches, but
denoted by vertical bars surrounding never touches or crosses as its domain
an expression (it represents the values or its range values approach ¥
distance a number is from the origin); or -¥.
the absolute value of an expression is
defined as: axis of symmetry
A vertical line passing through
x , x ≥ 0
 the vertex of a quadratic function
x =
−x , x < 0
 which divides the parabola into two

symmetrical parts (see symmetrical).
absolute value equation
boundary line
An equation that involves the absolute
A line or curve of the graph of an
value of a variable.
inequality that divides the Cartesian
absolute value function plane into two regions; this line will
x , x ≥ 0
 be solid if the inequality involves the
y = x = signs ³ or £. This line will be broken
−x , x < 0
 or dashed if the inequality involves the
signs > or <.
acute angle
An angle that is less than 90° and more coefficient
than 0°. The number multiplying the variable(s)
in a term.
ambiguous case
A situation that may arise when Example
solving oblique triangles in which 7 is the coefficient of 7x3
there may be zero, one, or two
solutions. conjugate of a binomial
The conjugate of a + b is a - b and the
arithmetic sequence conjugate of a - b is a + b; there is only
A list of numbers in which each one sign change.
succeeding term is found by adding Example
the same value to the previous term; the conjugate of 2 + 3 is 2 − 3
it is also the range of a linear function
whose domain is the natural numbers. common difference
arithmetic sequence formula for the The value that is added to each term in
general term an arithmetic sequence in order to get
tn = t1 + (n - 1)d the next term.
arithmetic series common ratio

The sum of consecutive terms in an The value that is multiplied to each
arithmetic sequence. term in a geometric sequence in order
to get the next term.
Glossary 3
completing the square entire radical
The process of changing a quadratic An equivalent form of a mixed radical
function written in general form expression.
f(x) = ax2 + bx + c into vertex form Example
f(x) = a(x - p)2 + q. the mixed radical, 2 3 , is equivalent
constant term to 12 , which is an entire radical
An expression that has no variables.
It is either a number or a symbol that exact value
represents a number, such as p. An answer that does not contain
approximated decimal values.
convergent series
A series with an infinite number of exponential function
terms in which its sequence of partial A function in the form of y = abx.
sums approaches a fixed value. extraneous root
Cosine Law A number obtained when solving
Defined as c2 = a2 + b2 - 2ab cos C, an equation that does not satisfy the
where a, b, and c are sides of DABC, initial restrictions on the variable, or is
and is used to solve oblique triangles. not a root of the original equation.
difference of squares factor

A binomial where the terms are To write an expression as a product.
subtracted and each term is a perfect factored form of a quadratic function
square. y = a(x - r1)(x - r2), where a is the
discriminant leading coefficient and r1 and r2 are the
The expression b2 - 4ac is called x-intercepts.
the discriminant. It enables you to finite series
determine the nature of the roots of a A series that terminates or ends.
quadratic equation without actually
finding the roots. function
A relation such that for each x-value,
divergent series there is exactly one value of y.
A series with an infinite number of
terms in which the sequence of partial geometric sequence
sums does not approach a fixed value. A sequence in which the ratio of any
term and its preceding term is a fixed
domain number.
The set of all x-values for which a
function is defined. geometric sequence formula for the
general term
double root/double zero
tn = t1rn-1
A value that appears as a root or a zero
of a quadratic equation twice. geometric series
The sum of the terms of a geometric
sequence.

greatest common factor (GCF) invariant points
The greatest number or term that is Points on a graph that remain in the
a factor of two or more numbers or same location on both the graph of
terms. 1
y = f(x) and the graph of y = ,
Examples: f (x)
n the greatest common factor of 12 or, in general, an equivalent point on
and 18 is 6 f(x) and its transformed graph; their
n the greatest common factor of 2xy x-coordinates are equal and their
and 2yz is 2y y-coordinates are equal.
horizontal asymptote inverse operation’s property for radicals

The line y = b is a horizontal asymptote n
an = a , where a ≥ 0 , n ≥ 2 , n ∈ N
of the graph of f if f(x) ® b as x ® ¥ or irrational number
x ® -¥. A number that cannot be written in
a
horizontal shift the form, , where a Î N, b Î N; an
The graph of f(x) = (x - p)2 is said to be b
obtained from the graph of y = x2 by a irrational number can be thought of
horizontal shift of p units left if p < 0 as a decimal number with an infinite
and p units right if p > 0. number of digits that never repeat.
improper fraction leading coefficient

A fraction that is larger than one Coefficient of the highest power of a
where the numerator is greater polynomial expression or equation.
than the denominator; some texts Example
also include 1 as being an improper
4 is the leading coefficient of
fraction.
4x3 - 2x + 3.
index of a radical
least common multiple (LCM)
The number n in the expression, n
a.
LCM of two or more polynomials
Example is the simplest polynomial that is
the index of the radical, 3
8 , is 3 a multiple of each of the original
polynomials.
infinite geometric series
A geometric series that has an linear function
unlimited number of terms. A function whose graph is an oblique
or horizontal line; its form is
infinite series f(x) = mx + b or y - y1 = m(x - x1) or
Any series that has an unlimited y = b.
number of terms.
lowest common denominator (LCD)
integer LCD of two or more fractions is the
A number that can be written without least common multiple (LCM) of the
a fractional or decimal part and may denominators of the fractions.
be written with a negative sign; it is a
number in the set {. . ., -3, -2, -1, 0, 1,
2, 3, . . .}.
Glossary 5
maximum value parabola
The largest value that a function The graph of a quadratic function,
attains over its domain. which has a U-shape.
Example perfect square trinomial
the function f(x) = -x2
+ 2 has a A quadratic expression that is the
maximum value of 2. square of a binomial.
minimum value Example

The smallest value that a function x2 + 6x + 9 is the square of (x + 3).
attains over its domain.
piece-wise function
Example Function defined by different formulas
the function f(x) = x2 + 5 has a in different parts of its domain.
minimum value of 5
point of intersection
mixed radical The location on a plane that two
The product of a real number and a functions have in common, written as
radical. an ordered pair, (x, y).
monomial polynomial
A polynomial with only one term, A mathematical expression with one or
where the variable has a whole more terms; an addition, subtraction,
number exponent. or multiplication of monomials.
multiple root power of a power law for exponents
The root of an equation that occurs When a power is raised to a power,
more than once. you can simplify the expression by
Example multiplying the exponents.
In the cubic equation (x - 3)2(x - 1) Example

= 0, the root of 3 occurs twice so 3 is a (23)4 = 23´4 = 212
multiple root.
principal square root
natural number The positive square root of a number.
Any number in the set of numbers,
N = {1, 2, 3, . . .}. product property of radicals
n
ab = n a ⋅ n b
nature of the roots where: a ³ 0
Describes how many and what type of
roots a quadratic equation has. b³0
non-permissible values n is a positive integer ³ 2
The numbers excluded from the If n is an odd number, a, b Î Â.
domain of a rational expression
and which make the value of the proper fraction
denominator equal zero. A fraction whose numerator is less
than its denominator.
oblique triangles
Triangles that do not have a right
angle.

quadrant radicand
One of four sections of a coordinate Everything included under the radical
grid separated by horizontal and symbol in a radical.
vertical axes; quadrants are numbered
counter-clockwise, beginning with the range
top right-hand quadrant, as 1st, 2nd, The set of all y-values for which a
3rd, and 4th (or I, II, III, and IV). The function is defined.
points on the axes are not included in rational exponent
any quadrant. The exponent of an expression that is
quadrantal angle a rational number; an expression with
An angle that has as its initial side a a rational exponent can be written in
ray from the origin along the positive radical form.
x-axis and its terminal side along one Example
of the axes. 2
2
64 3 can be written as ( 3 64 ) or as 3 64 2
quadratic equation
An equation that can be written in the
rational expression
general form ax2 + bx + c = 0, where a,
p
b, and c are real numbers, and a ¹ 0.
q is a rational expression if p and q are
quadratic formula polynomials, q ¹ 0 and q contains a
Quadratic formula is used to find the variable.
roots of a quadratic equation written in
the form ax2 + bx + c = 0; the formula rational number
2
−b ± b + 4 ac a
is x = is a rational number if a and b are
2a b
integers and b ¹ 0.
quadratic function
A polynomial function of degree 2 rationalized denominator
A denominator that does not contain
Example radicals.
y = x2 - 2x + 1 or y = (x - 3)(x - 2)
real number
quotient property of radicals A number which is either a rational
a n
a number or an irrational number.
n 
b n
b
reciprocal
where: a ³ 0 Obtained by interchanging the
b>0 numerator and the denominator.
n is a positive integer ³ 2 Example
If n is an odd number, then 1
the reciprocal of x is and the
a, b Î Â and b ¹ 0. x
1
radical reciprocal of a polynomial f(x) is
f (x)
Another name for a root, such as a
square root or cube root.
radical symbol
Glossary 7
recursive definition/recursive formula solution set
When, after the first term or the first The set of values or the interval of
few terms of a sequence, the remaining values that makes the equation or
terms are defined in terms of the inequality true.
value(s) of the preceding term(s).
square of a binomial
reference angle For (a + b)2 is a2 + 2ab + b2 and is a
The positive acute angle formed perfect square trinomial.
between the terminal arm of q and the
nearer portion of the x-axis, denoted standard position of an angle
by q r. n its first side, called the initial side,
is a ray from the origin along the
relation positive x-axis
A set of ordered pairs, (x, y). n its second side, called the terminal
restrictions for the value of the radicand side, is any ray from the origin
Values of a variable that ensure the n the angle is measured from the
radicand is not negative. initial to the terminal side in a
Example counter-clockwise direction and
has a positive value
the restrictions for the radical
expression x − 5 are x ≥ 5 sum of an arithmetic series
For any arithmetic series
roots t1 + t2 + t3 + . . . + tn its sum is
The solutions of an equation; also n t + t 
called the zeros of the function or Sn = ( 2t1 + (n − 1) d ) or Sn = 1 n (n) .
2  2 
the x-intercepts of the corresponding
graph. sum of infinite geometric series formula
t1
sigma notation S∞ = , r <1
n 1−r
The symbol ∑i=1 ti ; it represents the
sum of geometric series formula
sum t1 + t2 + t3 + . . . + tn.
t1 ( 1 − r n )
Sine Law Sn =
1−r
Used to solve oblique DABC
a b c symmetrical
  or
sin A sin B sin C Having symmetry; two sides of a
shape are balanced about a line or
sin A sin B sin C
  point; two sides of a shape are mirror
a b c
images; a shape may have one or more
lines of symmetry.
slope formula
rise y − y1 symmetry
m= = 2
run x 2 − x1 The property of having the same size
and shape across a dividing line or
solution region of an inequality around a point.
The set of all ordered pairs that make
the inequality true.

term x-intercept
A number or the product of a number The x-coordinate of the point where
and a variable(s). the graph of the function intersects the
Example x-axis; the y-coordinate of this point is
zero.
the expression 7x2 + 2x + 5 has three
terms. y-intercept
The y-coordinate of the point where
trinomial the graph of the function intersects the
A polynomial in the form ax2 + bx + c, y-axis; the x-coordinate of this point is
where a, b, and c are non-zero real zero.
numbers.
zero product property
vertex If ab = 0, then either a = 0 or b = 0
Turning point of a parabola. must be true; in other words, for the
vertex form of a quadratic function property to apply, the equation must
y = f(x) is f(x) = a(x - p)2 + q, where be equal to zero and the expression
a, p, and q are real numbers and the must be a product obtained by
vertex is (p, q). factoring.
vertical asymptote zeros

The line x = a is a vertical asymptote of The value(s) of x which make the
the graph of f if f(x) ® ¥ or f(x) ® -¥ function zero; these values of x also
as x ® a, either from the right or from are called the x-intercepts of the graph
the left side of a. and occur where the graph crosses or
touches the x-axis.
vertical compression
If 0 < a < 1 and a is a real number, the
graph of f(x) = ax2 can be obtained
from the graph of y = x2 by multiplying
each of the y-values by a; the resulting
parabola will be wider than the
parabola y = x2.
vertical shift
The graph of f(x) = ax2 + q is obtained
from the graph of y = ax2 by moving it
up q units if q > 0 and down q units if
q < 0.
vertical stretch
If a > 1, the graph of f(x) = ax2 can be
obtained from the graph of y = x2 by
multiplying the y-values by a; the
resulting parabola will be narrower
than the parabola y = x2.
Glossary 9
Graph Paper
Graph Paper 3
Graph Paper 5
Graph Paper 7
Midterm Practice Examination

G r a de 11 P r e- C a lc u lu s M at h em at ic s
Name:_ ___________________________________
For Marker’s Use Only
Student Number:____________________________ Date:________________________________
Attending q Non-Attending q Final Mark: _________ /100 =_________ %
Phone Number:_____________________________ Comments:
Address:_ _________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
Instructions
The midterm examination will be weighted as follows:
Modules 1–4 100%
The format of the examination will be as follows:
Module 1: Sequences and Series 24 marks
Module 2: Factoring and Rational Expressions 23 marks
Module 3: Quadratic Functions 25 marks
Module 4: Solving Rational and Quadratic Equations 28 marks
Time allowed: 2.5 hours
Note: You are allowed to bring the following to the examination: pencils (2 or 3
of each), blank paper, a ruler, a scientific or graphing calculator, and your Midterm
Exam Resource Sheet. Your Midterm Exam Resource Sheet must be handed in with
the examination. You will receive your Midterm Exam Resource Sheet back from
your tutor/marker with the next module work that is submitted for marking.
Show all calculations and formulas used. Include units where appropriate. Clearly
state your final answer.
Midterm Practice Examination 3 of 26

4 of 26 Grade 11 Pr e- C alculus Mathematic s
Name:
Answer all questions to the best of your ability. Show all your work.
Module 1: Sequences and Series (24 marks)
1. For each sequence below, indicate whether it is geometric, arithmetic, or neither. If it is
geometric, state the value of r (the common ratio). If it is arithmetic, state the value of d
(the common difference). (1 mark each, for a total of 3 marks)
1
a) 81, 9 , 1, ,...
9
b) 1, 6, 9, 10, . . .
c) 1, 4, 7, 10, . . .
2. Explain the relationship between arithmetic sequences and linear functions. (2 marks)

3. Write the defining linear function of the following arithmetic sequence. (2 marks)
3, 8, 13, . . .
4. Which term of the arithmetic sequence, -4, 2, 8, . . ., is the number 170? (3 marks)

Name:
5. Find the sum of the first 125 terms defined by t1 = 4, tn = tn-1 + 7. (3 marks)
6. Find the total distance travelled by a ball in coming to rest, if it is dropped from a
2
height of 12 m and it rebounds of its previous height every time it hits the ground
3
(4 marks)

7. Consider the geometric sequence -1, 2, -4, . . .
a) Write the function for the geometric sequence. (2 marks)
b) Using this function, find t14 of the sequence. (1 mark)
c) Which term of the geometric sequence is the number -4096? (2 marks)

Name:
∞  3 k−1
8. If possible, find the value of ∑ k=1  4  . (2 marks)
64

Module 2: Factoring and Rational Expressions (23 marks)
1. Factor the following expressions completely.
a) x2y - 7xy + 10y (2 marks)
b) 4x2 + 12x + 9 (2 marks)
c) 36x2 - 64y2 (1 mark)
d) 25(x - 4)2 - 49(y - 5)2 (3 marks)

Name:
2. Without factoring, determine whether the binomial (x - 1) is a factor of the following

polynomial. Explain. (2 marks)
2x2 - x - 1
3. Create an equivalent rational expression for the following rational expression. Explain
how you know the rational expression you created is equivalent to the original
rational expression. State the non-permissible values of your rational expression. Do
not simplify your answer. (2 marks)
x+2
x2

4. Perform the indicated operation and simplify your answer. State the non-permissible
values.
x+1 x2
a) + (4 marks)
x2 + x − 6 x2 − x − 2
x2 + x − 2 x 2 + x − 12
b) × (3 marks)
x 2 − x − 6 2 x 2 − 2 x − 40

Name:
2x2 − 8 x2 − x − 2 8x
c) 2
÷ 3 2
× 2 (3 marks)
4x x +x x −x−6
5. Create a rational expression with the following non-permissible values. Do not

simplify your answer. (1 mark)
-3 and -5

Module 3: Quadratic Functions (25 marks)
1. Given the graph below, answer the following questions.
y
2 2 x
 
2
 
a) What are the coordinates of the vertex? (1 mark)
b) What is the range? (1 mark)
c) What is the equation of the axis of symmetry? (1 mark)
d) State whether the graph has a maximum or a minimum value and what that value
is. (1 mark)
e) Write a quadratic function in vertex form to represent this graph. (2 marks)

Name:
2. Match each equation to its corresponding graph. Place (a), (b), (c), and (d) next to its
corresponding graph below. (1 mark each, for a total of 4 marks)
a) y = 2(x - 2)2 - 2
1
b) y = − (x − 2 )2 + 2
2
1 2
c) y = − ( x + 2 ) + 2
2
d) y = 2(x + 2)2 - 2
y y
2 2
0 2 x 2 0 x
______ _____
y y
0 2 x 2 0 x
2 2
______ ______
3. For what value of k is the expression x2 - 11x + k a perfect square trinomial? (1 mark)

4. Consider the parabola y = 3x2 + 12x - 36.
a) Write the function in vertex form by completing the square. (2 marks)
b) Find the coordinates of the vertex. (1 mark)
c) Find the y-intercept. (1 mark)
d) State the domain. (1 mark)
e) Write an equation for the axis of symmetry. (1 mark)

Name:
f) Sketch the graph. (2 marks)
g) Find the x-intercepts from the graph. (1 mark)

5. A projectile is shot straight up from a height of 40 m with an initial velocity of 30 m/s.
Its height in metres after t seconds is given by h(t) = 40 + 30t - 5t2. (1.5 marks each, for a
total of 3 marks)
a) After how many seconds does the projectile reach its maximum height?
b) Find the maximum height above the ground that the ball reaches.
6. Consider the following quadratic functions. Determine how many x-intercepts the
corresponding graph has by considering the values of a and q. (1 mark each, for a total of
2 marks)
a) y = -2(x + 3)2 - 15
b) y = 9(x + 2)2

Name:
Module 4: Solving Rational and Quadratic Equations (28 marks)

1. Find the roots of the following equations. Explain which method you used to solve
each equation and why.
a) x2 - 9x + 18 = 0 (2 marks)
b) x2 - 5x - 1 = 0 (3 marks)

2. Use the quadratic formula to find the roots of 2x2 + 6x - 1 = 0. (2 marks)
3. Solve x2 - x - 3 = 0 by completing the square. (3 marks)

Name:
4. Solve (x - 7)2 = 36 by taking square roots. (2 marks)
5. Solve (x - 2)2 - 1 = 0 by graphing. (2 marks)

6. Solve for x. State the non-permissible values of the rational equation. (4 marks)
x−2 4 ( x + 3)
−3=
x + 3 x−2

Name:
7. The discriminant of the quadratic equation 4x2 + 2x - k = 0 is 84. (1 mark each, for a
total of 2 marks)
a) Find the value of k.
b) State the nature of the roots without solving for the roots.

8. Tia can ride her bicycle 1 km/h faster than Denzel. They begin at the same spot and
at the same time, travelling in opposite directions. After travelling for the same length
of time, they stop and realize that Tia has travelled 21 km and Denzel has travelled
19 km. How fast was Denzel travelling? (4 marks)
Distance
Recall: Distance = Rate ´ Time, or Time =
Rate

Name:
9. Andrea can mow a lawn by herself in 4 hours. Samantha can mow the same lawn in
3 hours. If the girls work together, how long will it take to mow this lawn? (4 marks)


Answer Key

Answer Key
e y
Name:_ ___________________________________
r K
sw e
An
Address:_ _________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
Instructions
The midterm examination will be weighted as follows:
Modules 1–4 100%
Module 1: Sequences and Series 24 marks
Module 2: Factoring and Rational Expressions 23 marks
Module 3: Quadratic Functions 25 marks
Module 4: Solving Rational and Quadratic Equations 28 marks
Note: You are allowed to bring the following to the examination: pencils (2 or 3
of each), blank paper, a ruler, a scientific or graphing calculator, and your Midterm
Exam Resource Sheet. Your Midterm Exam Resource Sheet must be handed in with
the examination. You will receive your Midterm Exam Resource Sheet back from
your tutor/marker with the next module work that is submitted for marking.
state your final answer.
Midterm Practice Examination Answer Key 3 of 26

Name:
1. For each sequence below, indicate whether it is geometric, arithmetic, or neither. If it is
geometric, state the value of r (the common ratio). If it is arithmetic, state the value of d
(the common difference). (1 mark each, for a total of 3 marks) (Lesson 3)
1
a) 81, 9 , 1, ,...
9
Answer:
1
Geometric sequence with a common ratio of .
9
b) 1, 6, 9, 10, . . .
Answer:
Neither.
c) 1, 4, 7, 10, . . .
Answer:
Arithmetic sequence with a common difference of 3.
2. Explain the relationship between arithmetic sequences and linear functions. (2 marks)
(Lesson 1)
Answer:
If the domain of a linear function is the set of natural numbers (or positive integers),
the range is called an arithmetic sequence. Also, the common difference of an
arithmetic sequence is the same as the slope in the corresponding linear function.

(Lesson 1)
3, 8, 13, . . .
Answer:
One point on line: (1, 3)
Slope: d = 8 - 3 = 5
Defining linear function: y - y1 = m(x - x1)
y - 3 = 5(x - 1)
y = 5x - 5 + 3
y = 5x - 2
4. Which term of the arithmetic sequence, -4, 2, 8, . . ., is the number 170? (3 marks)
(Lesson 1)
Answer:
Method 1: Using the general term formula tn = t1 + (n - 1)d:
170 = -4 + (n - 1)(6)
170 + 4 = 6n - 6
174 + 6 = 6n
180 = 6n
30 = n
Therefore, the 30th term is 170.
Method 2: Using the defining linear equation:
m = 6 and points (1, -4) and (n, 170)
y - y1 = m(x - x1)
170 - (-4) = 6(n - 1)
174 = 6(n - 1)
29 = n - 1
30 = n
Therefore, the 30th term is 170.

Name:
5. Find the sum of the first 125 terms defined by t1 = 4, tn = tn-1 + 7. (3 marks) (Lesson 2)
Answer:
The arithmetic sequence is 4, 11, 18, . . .
n
To find t125, use the formula tn = t1 + (n - 1)d Or Sn = 
 2 t 1 + ( n − 1) d 

2
t125 = 4 + (125 - 1)7
125
t125 = 4 + 875 - 7 S125 = 2 ( 4 ) + (125 − 1)(7 )
 
2
t125 = 872 125
4 + 872 S125 = 8 + (124 )(7 )
 
Sum of the series: S125 = (125) = 54 750 2
2 S125 = 54 750
6. Find the total distance travelled by a ball in coming to rest, if it is dropped from a
2
height of 12 m and it rebounds of its previous height every time it hits the ground
3
(4 marks) (Lesson 5)
Answer:
2  2 2
down series: 12 + (12 ) +  (12 ) + . . .
3 3
12
down distance: = 36 m
2
1−
3
2  2 2  2 3
up series: (12 ) +  (12 ) +  (12 ) + . . .
3 3 3
up distance = down distance - 12 = 24 m

Total distance travelled = up distance + down distance = 24 m + 36 m = 60 m.

7. Consider the geometric sequence -1, 2, -4, . . . (Lesson 3)
a) Write the function for the geometric sequence. (2 marks)
Answer:
t1 = −1
2
r= = −2
−1
tn = t1r n−1
n−1
tn = −1 (−2 )
b) Using this function, find t14 of the sequence. (1 mark)

Answer:
t14 = -1(-2)14-1
t14 = -1(-2)13
t14 = -1(-8192)
t14 = 8192
c) Which term of the geometric sequence is the number -4096? (2 marks)

Answer:
tn = –1(-2)n-1
-4096 = -1(-2)n-1

4096 = (-2)n-1
(-2)12 = (-2)n-1
12 = n - 1
13 = n
Therefore, -4096 is the 13th term in this geometric sequence.

Name:
∞  3 k−1
8. If possible, find the value of ∑ k=1  4  . (2 marks) (Lesson 5)
64
Answer:
3
r= and r satisfies the condition: r < 1
4
t1 = 64
t1
S∞ = if r < 1
1−r
64
S∞ = = 256
3
1−
4

1. Factor the following expressions completely. (Lessons 1 and 2)
a) x2y - 7xy + 10y (2 marks)
Answer:
= y(x2 - 7x + 10)
= y(x - 2)(x - 5)
b) 4x2 + 12x + 9 (2 marks)

Answer:
= 4x2 + 6x + 6x + 9
= 2x(2x + 3) + 3(2x + 3)
= (2x + 3)(2x + 3)
= (2x + 3)2
c) 36x2 - 64y2 (1 mark)

Answer:
= 4(9x2 - 16y2)
= 4(3x - 4y)(3x + 4y)
d) 25(x - 4)2 - 49(y - 5)2 (3 marks)

Answer:
25(x - 4)2 - 49(y - 5)2
Let w = x - 4
t = y - 5
25w2 - 49t2
(5w - 7t)(5w + 7t)
[5(x - 4) - 7(y - 5)][5(x - 4) + 7(y - 5)]
[5x - 20 – 7y + 35][5x - 20 + 7y - 35]
(5x - 7y + 15)(5x + 7y - 55)

Name:
2. Without factoring, determine whether the binomial (x - 1) is a factor of the following

polynomial. Explain. (2 marks) (Lesson 2)
2x2 - x - 1
Answer:
If (x – 1) were a factor of this polynomial, then when x = 1 is substituted into the
polynomial, the polynomial would equal zero.
2(1)2 - 1 - 1 = 2 - 1 - 1 = 1 - 1 = 0
This polynomial equals zero when x = 1 is substituted in for x. Therefore, (x – 1) is a
factor of this polynomial.
3. Create an equivalent rational expression for the following rational expression. Explain
how you know the rational expression you created is equivalent to the original
rational expression. State the non-permissible values of your rational expression. Do
not simplify your answer. (2 marks) (Lesson 3)
x+2
x2
Answer:
Answers may vary. A sample answer is:
x + 2 (x + 2)(x − 2)
=
x2 x2 (x − 2)
The numerator and denominator are both multiplied by the same non-zero
polynomial. Because any polynomial divided by itself is one, you are essentially
multiplying the expression by 1. Anything multiplied by 1 is equal to itself.

4. Perform the indicated operation and simplify your answer. State the non-permissible
values.
x+1 x2
a) 2 + (4 marks) (Lesson 5)
x + x − 6 x2 − x − 2
Answer:
x+1 x2
+
x2 + x − 6 x2 − x − 2
x+1 x2
= +
( x − 2 ) ( x + 3 ) ( x − 2 ) ( x + 1)
LCD = ( x − 2 ) ( x + 3) ( x + 1)
( x + 1) ( x + 1) x 2 ( x + 3)
= +
( x − 2 ) ( x + 3 ) ( x + 1) ( x − 2 ) ( x + 1) ( x + 3 )
x 2 + 2 x + 1 + x 3 + 3x 2
=
( x − 2 ) ( x + 3 ) ( x + 1)
x 3 + 4x 2 + 2 x + 1
=
( x − 2 ) ( x + 3 ) ( x + 1)
Non-permissible values: x = 2, -3, -1
x2 + x − 2 x 2 + x − 12
b) × (3 marks) (Lesson 4)
x 2 − x − 6 2 x 2 − 2 x − 40
Answer:
x2 + x − 2 x 2 + x − 12
×
x 2 − x − 6 2 x 2 − 2 x − 40
( x + 2 ) ( x − 1) ( x + 4 ) ( x − 3 )
= ×
( x − 3) ( x + 2 ) 2 ( x 2 − x − 20 )
( x + 2 ) ( x − 1) ( x + 4 ) ( x − 3 )
= ×
( x − 3) ( x + 2 ) 2 ( x − 5) ( x + 4 )
x−1
=
2 ( x − 5)
Non-permissible values: x = 3, -2, 5, -4

Name:
2x2 − 8 x2 − x − 2 8x
c) 2
÷ 3 2
× 2 (3 marks) (Lesson 4)
4x x +x x −x−6
Answer:
2x2 − 8 x2 − x − 2 8x
2
÷ 3 2
× 2
4x x +x x −x−6
2 (x 2 − 4) x3 + x2 8x
= × × 2
4x 2 2
x −x−2 x −x−6
2 (x − 2)(x + 2) x 2 ( x + 1) 8x
= 2
× ×
4x ( x − 2 ) ( x + 1) ( x − 3 ) ( x + 2 )
4x
=
x−3
Non-permissible values: x = 0, -1, 2, 3, -2
5. Create a rational expression with the following non-permissible values. Do not

simplify your answer. (1 mark) (Lesson 3)
–3 and –5
Answer:
If -3 and -5 are non-permissible values, then (x + 3) and (x + 5) are factors of the
denominator of the rational expression. Answers may vary. However, (x + 3) and
(x + 5) have to be factors of the denominator. A sample answer is:
1
( x + 3) ( x + 5)

1. Given the graph below, answer the following questions. (Lessons 1 to 4)
y
2 2 x
 
2
 
a) What are the coordinates of the vertex? (1 mark)

Answer:
(1, -5)
b) What is the range? (1 mark)

Answer:
R: {y|y ³ -5} or [-5, ¥) or {y|y ³ -5, y Î Â}
c) What is the equation of the axis of symmetry? (1 mark)

Answer:
x=1
d) State whether the graph has a maximum or a minimum value and what that value
is. (1 mark)
Answer:
It has a minimum value when y = -5.
e) Write a quadratic function in vertex form to represent this graph. (2 marks)

Answer:
Since the graph is normal width, the value of a is 1.
y = (x - 1)2 - 5

Name:
2. Match each equation to its corresponding graph. Place (a), (b), (c), and (d) next to its
corresponding graph below. (1 mark each, for a total of 4 marks) (Lessons 1 to 4)
a) y = 2(x - 2)2 - 2
1
b) y = − (x − 2 )2 + 2
2
1 2
c) y = − ( x + 2 ) + 2
2
d) y = 2(x + 2)2 - 2
y y
2 2
0 2 x 2 0 x
(b)
______ (c)
_____
y y
0 2 x 2 0 x
2 2
(a)
______ (d)
______
3. For what value of k is the expression x2 - 11x + k a perfect square trinomial? (1 mark)
(Lesson 5)
Answer:
−11 2 121
  =
 2  4

4. Consider the parabola y = 3x2 + 12x - 36. (Lesson 5)
a) Write the function in vertex form by completing the square. (2 marks)
Answer:
y = 3(x2 + 4x) - 36
y = 3(x2 + 4x + 4) - 36 - 4(3)
y = 3(x + 2)2 - 48
b) Find the coordinates of the vertex. (1 mark)

Answer:
(-2, -48)
c) Find the y-intercept. (1 mark)

Answer:
Let x = 0
y = 3x2 + 12x - 36
y = 3(0)2 + 12(0) - 36
y = -36
d) State the domain. (1 mark)

Answer:
D: {x|x Î Â} or (-¥, ¥)
e) Write an equation for the axis of symmetry. (1 mark)

Answer:
x = -2

Name:
f) Sketch the graph. (2 marks)

Answer:
The vertex is (-2, -48). The curve opens up and has a narrow width. The y-values
are three times the normal ones.
y
10
 
6 4 2 2 x
10
20
30
40
 

50

g) Find the x-intercepts from the graph. (1 mark)

Answer:
The x-intercepts are located at x = -6 and x = 2.

5. A projectile is shot straight up from a height of 40 m with an initial velocity of 30 m/s.
Its height in metres after t seconds is given by h(t) = 40 + 30t - 5t2. (1.5 marks each, for a
total of 3 marks) (Lesson 7)
a) After how many seconds does the projectile reach its maximum height?
Answer:
h(t) = -5t2 + 30t + 40
b 30
Time at maximum height = − =− = 3 seconds
2a 2 (−5)
Note: This question could also be solved by completing the square to find the
vertex at (3, 85), where 3 seconds is the answer to (a) and 85 metres is the answer to
(b).
b) Find the maximum height above the ground that the ball reaches.
Answer:
Maximum height = h(3) = -5(3)2 + 30(3) + 40
= 85 metres
6. Consider the following quadratic functions. Determine how many x-intercepts the
corresponding graph has by considering the values of a and q. (1 mark each, for a total of
2 marks) (Lesson 6)
a) y = -2(x + 3)2 - 15
Answer:
In this equation, a = -2 < 0, and q = -15 < 0. Therefore, as both a and q are less than
zero, the corresponding graph has no x-intercepts.
Or
The graph opens down and the vertex is below the x-axis. There are no x-intercepts.
b) y = 9(x + 2)2
Answer:
In this equation, a = 9 > 0, and q = 0. Therefore, the corresponding graph has one (1)
x-intercept, as the vertex is on the x-axis.
Or
The graph opens up and the vertex is on the x-axis. There is one x-intercept.

Name:

1. Find the roots of the following equations. Explain which method you used to solve
each equation and why. (Lessons 1 to 4)
a) x2 - 9x + 18 = 0 (2 marks)
Answer:
This equation is easily factorable.
(x - 6)(x - 3) = 0
x = 6, 3
b) x2 - 5x - 1 = 0 (3 marks)
Answer:
This equation is not easily factorable. Also, if you were to complete the square,
there would be fractions. Therefore, the quadratic formula should be used.
Note: If you use the completing-the-square method, you should still arrive at the
correct answer.
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac
x=
2a
x 2 − 5x − 1 = 0
a = 1, b = −5 , c = −1
2
5 ± (−5) − 4 (1) (−1)
x=
2 ( 1)
5 ± 25 + 4
x=
2
5 ± 29
x=
2
5 + 29 5 − 29
x= ,
2 2
Note: Unless specifically mentioned, you may use any method to solve quadratic
equations.

2. Use the quadratic formula to find the roots of 2x2 + 6x - 1 = 0. (2 marks) (Lesson 4)
Answer:
−b ± b 2 − 4 ac
x=
2a
a = 2 , b = 6 , c = −1
−6 ± 6 2 − 4 ( 2 ) (−1)
x=
2 (2)
−6 ± 36 + 8
x=
4
−6 ± 44
x=
4
−6 ± 4 11
x=
4
−6 ± 2 11
x=
4
−3 ± 11
x=
2
−3 + 11 −3 − 11
x= ,
2 2

Name:
3. Solve x2 - x - 3 = 0 by completing the square. (3 marks) (Lesson 4)

Answer:
x2 − x − 3 = 0
x2 − x = 3
1 1
x2 − x + = 3+
4 4
2
 1 13
x −  =
 2 4
1 13
x− =±
2 4
1 13
x= ±
2 2
1 + 13 1 − 13
x= ,
2 2
4. Solve (x - 7)2 = 36 by taking square roots. (2 marks) (Lesson 2)

Answer:
(x - 7)2 = 36
x - 7 = ±6
x=7±6
x = 7 + 6, 7 - 6
x = 13, 1

5. Solve (x - 2)2 - 1 = 0 by graphing. (2 marks) (Lesson 1)
Answer:
Let y = (x - 2)2 - 1
Vertex is (2, -1); the curve opens up and its width is normal.
y
 
2
 
4 4 x

2
The x-intercepts (or zeros, or roots) of this quadratic equation are 3 and 1.

Name:
6. Solve for x. State the non-permissible values of the rational equation. (4 marks)
(Lesson 6)
x−2 4 ( x + 3)
−3=
x + 3 x−2
Answer:
x−2 4 ( x + 3)
−3=
x+3 x−2
LCD = ( x + 3) ( x − 2 )
Non-permissible values are x = −3 , 2.
x−2 4 ( x + 3)
( x + 3) ( x − 2 ) − 3 ( x + 3) ( x − 2 ) = ( x + 3) ( x − 2 )
x+3 x−2
( x − 2 ) ( x − 2 ) − 3 ( x 2 − 2 x + 3x − 6 ) = 4 ( x + 3 ) ( x + 3 )
( x 2 − 4x + 4) − 3 ( x 2 + x − 6) = 4 ( x 2 + 6x + 9)
x 2 − 4 x + 4 − 3x 2 − 3x + 18 = 4 x 2 + 24 x + 36
−2 x 2 − 7 x + 22 = 4 x 2 + 24 x + 36
0 = 6x 2 + 31x + 14
0 = 6 x 2 + 3x + 28x + 14
0 = 3x ( 2 x + 1) + 14 ( 2 x + 1)
0 = ( 3x + 14 ) ( 2 x + 1)
−14 −1
x= ,
3 2

7. The discriminant of the quadratic equation 4x2 + 2x - k = 0 is 84. (1 mark each, for a
a) Find the value of k.
Answer:
a = 4, b = 2, c = -k
The discriminant = b2 - 4ac
84 = (2)2 - 4(4)(-k)
84 = 4 + 16k
80 = 16k
5 = k
b) State the nature of the roots without solving for the roots.
Answer:
As the discriminant is positive and not a perfect square, there are 2 real, irrational,
unequal roots.

Name:
8. Tia can ride her bicycle 1 km/h faster than Denzel. They begin at the same spot and
at the same time, travelling in opposite directions. After travelling for the same length
of time, they stop and realize that Tia has travelled 21 km and Denzel has travelled
19 km. How fast was Denzel travelling? (4 marks) (Lesson 6)
Distance
Recall: Distance = Rate ´ Time, or Time =
Rate
Answer:
Let r = Denzel’s rate.

21
Tia r+1 21
r +1
19
Denzel r 19
r
Tia’s time of travel = Denzel’s time of travel

21 19
=
r +1 r
LCD = (r + 1)(r )
21 19
(r + 1)(r ) = (r + 1)(r )
r +1 r
21r = 19 (r + 1)
21r = 19r + 19
2 r = 19
r = 9.5
Therefore, Denzel was travelling at 9.5 km/h.

9. Andrea can mow a lawn by herself in 4 hours. Samantha can mow the same lawn in
3 hours. If the girls work together, how long will it take to mow this lawn? (4 marks)
(Lesson 6)
Answer:
The following equation can be used to solve this problem:
(per hour rate) ´ (hours worked) = portion of lawn mowed
1
In one hour, the Andrea can mow of the lawn. Therefore, Andrea has a per-hour
4
1
rate of .
4
1
In one hour, Samantha can mow of the lawn. Therefore, Samantha has a per-hour
3
1
rate of .
3
Per Hour Hours Portion of
Rate Worked Lawn Mowed
1 x
Andrea x
4 4
1 x
Samantha x
3 3
When both girls are working together, the portion of the lawn mowed in x hours is the
whole lawn, and is represented in the equation as 1. The equation becomes:
x x
+ =1
4 3
LCD = 12
3x 4 x
+ =1
12 12
7x
=1
12
7 x = 12
12
x= ≈ 1.7 hours
7
Therefore, both of these girls working together can mow the lawn in approximately
1.7 hours.

Final Practice Examination

Name:_ ___________________________________
Address:_ _________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
Instructions
The final examination will be weighted as follows:
Modules 1–8 100%
Module 1: 5 marks Module 5: 19 marks

Note: You are allowed to bring the following to the examination: pencils (2 or 3 of
each), blank paper, a ruler, a scientific or graphing calculator, and your Final Exam
Resource Sheet. Your Final Exam Resource Sheet must be handed in with the
examination.
state your final answer. Diagrams may not be drawn to scale.
Final Practice Examination 3 of 32

Name:
99, 103, 107, . . .
8  1 k−1
2. Use a formula to find the value of ∑ k=2  3  . (3 marks)
81

1. Simplify. Identify all non-permissible values. (5 marks)
5x 2 + 14 x − 19  3x − 12 2x − 2 
2
÷ 2 + 2 
2 x + 5x + 3  x − 2 x − 8 x + 4x − 5 

Name:

1. Given the following parabola in vertex form, complete the following questions. (1 mark
1
y= ( x − 3)2 + 2
2
a) Identify the range.
b) Identify the direction of the opening.
c) Identify the axis of symmetry.
d) Identify the y-intercept.

e) Sketch the graph of the parabola.

Name:

1. Solve the following quadratic equation using any method you wish. Explain why you
chose the method you used. (2 marks)
2x2 + 25 = 15x

2. Solve the following rational equation. Identify any non-permissible values. (3 marks)
3x + 1 x
=−
x x+1

Name:
Module 5: Radicals (19 marks)

1. Order the following radical expressions from least to greatest. Do not use a calculator.
(2 marks)
6 3 , 11 7 , 9 5 , 2 15
Assume all variables are non-negative.
a) 3 19 + 2 76 (1 mark)

b) ( 8xy − x 3 )( 4y 2 ) (2 marks)
5 8-2 5
c) (3 marks)
3 - 2 3

Name:
3. Identify the values for each of the variables for which each radical expression is
defined. (1 mark each, for a total of 2 marks)
a) 6 - 3x
b) 32 x 2

4. Find the solutions for each of the following equations. Check your solutions for
extraneous roots. Determine any restrictions on the variable.
a) 3 − x = 2 x − 3 (4 marks)

Name:
b) 2x + 4 + 3 = 9 (3 marks)

5. The period, P, measured in seconds, of a pendulum is the time it takes to complete one
L
full swing. The period can be found using the formula P = 2 π , where
9.8
L measures the length of the pendulum in metres. How long should a pendulum be
to complete one full swing in 4.3 seconds? Round your answer to four decimal places.
Check your answer for extraneous solutions. (2 marks)

Name:
Module 6: Systems of Equations and Inequalities (19 marks)

1. Solve the following system of equations algebraically and graphically. (6 marks)
2
y = ( x − 3)
2
y = −3 ( x + 1) + 12
Answer:
Algebraic Solution

Graphing Solution

Name:
2. The sum of two numbers is 22. Their product is 117.

a) Write a system of equations to represent this problem. (1 mark)
b) Solve the system of equations to find the two numbers. (3 marks)

3. Solve the following inequalities by graphing. (2 marks each, for a total of 6 marks)
a) y < 3x - 8
b) 0 £ x2 - 4

Name:
c) y > (x + 1)2 - 3

4. Use the sign analysis method to solve the following quadratic inequality. (3 marks)
0 £ 2x2 - 5x - 3

Name:
Module 7: Trigonometry (23 marks)

1. P(2, -3) is a point on the terminal side of angle q in standard position. Determine sin q,
cos q, and tan q for the following point. Also, determine the distance from the origin to
the point P(2, -3). Rationalize any denominators. (5 marks)

2. Given the following angles in standard position, determine the exact values of the sine,
cosine, and tangent ratios. Show how you determined the exact values. (2 marks each,
a) 240°
b) 45°

Name:
3. Sketch the angle 342° in standard position and find its reference angle. Determine the
other angles that have the same reference angle as the given angle for q in the interval
[0°, 360°]. (3 marks)

4. Determine the solution set for each of the following trigonometric equations over the
interval [0°, 360°]. Round to the nearest degree where necessary. (2 marks each, for a
total of 4 marks)
1
a) cos θ =
5
b) sin q - 1 = 0

Name:
5. In DABC, ÐC = 41°, c = 6, and a = 8. Find all possible values for b and ÐB. Draw a
diagram and round off answers to two decimal places. (5 marks)

6. Find the measure of ÐA in DABC (to the nearest degree). (2 marks)
C
4 6
A B
7

Name:
Module 8: Absolute Value and Reciprocal Functions (19 marks)

1. Evaluate. (1 mark each, for a total of 2 marks)
a) 4| 3(-7) + 4 | - 3
b) -2| -2(3) + 1 | + 5
2. Solve the following absolute value equation algebraically. (4 marks)

| x2 - x | = 6

3. Solve the following absolute value equation graphically. (4 marks)
|x + 4| = 5

Name:
4. Sketch the graph of the reciprocal of the given function. State the equation(s) of the
horizontal and vertical asymptote(s). (4 marks)
y = 2x - 6

1
5. Given the graph of y = , sketch the graph of y = f(x). (5 marks)
f (x)
1
 1,  
9

x
 
x = 2 x=4


Answer Key

Answer Key
e y
Name:_ ___________________________________
r K
sw e
An
Address:_ _________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
Instructions
The final examination will be weighted as follows:
Modules 1–8 100%

Note: You are allowed to bring the following to the examination: pencils (2 or 3 of
each), blank paper, a ruler, a scientific or graphing calculator, and your Final Exam
Resource Sheet. Your Final Exam Resource Sheet must be handed in with the
examination.
state your final answer. Diagrams may not be drawn to scale.
Final Practice Examination Answer Key 3 of 34

Name:
(Lesson 1)
99, 103, 107, . . .
Answer:
Points on line: (1, 99), (2, 103), (3, 107)
Slope: d = 4
Defining Linear Function:
y - y1 = m(x - x1)
y - 99 = 4(x - 1)
y = 4x - 4 + 99
y = 4x + 95
 1 k−1
8
2. Use a formula to find the value of ∑ 81  . (3 marks) (Lesson 4)
k=2 3
Answer:
Notice k’s initial value is 2. Thus, n is only 7, not 8.
 1 1  1 2  1 3
The first few terms are 81  , 81  , 81  , . . . .
3 3 3
1
Thus, t1 = 27 and r  .
3
t1 ( 1 − r n )
Sn =
1−r
  1 7 
27  2186 
 1 −
 3

  27 
   2187   2186  2  13
S7 = = = 27  = 40
1 2  2187  3  27
1−
3 3

1. Simplify. Identify all non-permissible values. (5 marks) (Lessons 4 and 5)
5x 2 + 14 x − 19  3x − 12 2x − 2 
2
÷ 2 + 2 
2 x + 5x + 3  x − 2 x − 8 x + 4x − 5 
Answer:
5x 2 + 14 x − 19  3x − 12 2x − 2 
÷
 2 + 

2 x 2 + 5x + 3 2
 x − 2 x − 8 x + 4x − 5 
( 5x + 19 ) ( x − 1)  3 ( x − 4 ) 2 ( x − 1) 
÷ + 
( 2 x + 3 ) ( x + 1)  ( x − 4 ) ( x + 2 ) ( x + 5 ) ( x − 1) 
( 5x + 19 ) ( x − 1)  3 2 
= ÷ + 
( 2 x + 3 ) ( x + 1)  ( x + 2 ) ( x + 5 ) 
( 5x + 19 ) ( x − 1)  3 ( x + 5) 2 (x + 2) 
= ÷ + 
( 2 x + 3 ) ( x + 1)  ( x + 2 ) ( x + 5 ) ( x + 5 ) ( x + 2 ) 
( 5x + 19 ) ( x − 1)  3x + 15 2x + 4 
= ÷ + 
( 2 x + 3 ) ( x + 1)  ( x + 2 ) ( x + 5 ) ( x + 5 ) ( x + 2 ) 
( 5x + 19 ) ( x − 1)  5x + 19 
= ÷ 
( 2 x + 3 ) ( x + 1)  ( x + 2 ) ( x + 5 ) 
( 5x + 19 ) ( x − 1)  ( x + 2 ) ( x + 5) 
= ⋅ 
( 2 x + 3) ( x + 1)  5x + 19 
( x − 1)  ( x + 2 ) ( x + 5) 
= ⋅ 
( 2 x + 3 ) ( x + 1)  1 
( x + 2 ) ( x + 5 ) ( x − 1)
=
( 2 x + 3 ) ( x + 1)
−3 −19
x≠ , − 1, 4 , − 2 , − 5 , 1,
2 5

Name:

1. Given the following parabola in vertex form, complete the following questions. (1 mark
1
y= ( x − 3)2 + 2 (Lessons 1 to 4)
2
a) Identify the range.

Answer:
R: {y|y ³ 2, y Î Â}
b) Identify the direction of the opening.

Answer:
The parabola opens upward
c) Identify the axis of symmetry.

Answer:
x=3
d) Identify the y-intercept.

Answer:
1
y= ( x − 3)2 + 2
2
let x = 0
1
y= (0 − 3)2 + 2
2
1
y= (9 ) + 2
2
13
y=
2

e) Sketch the graph of the parabola.
Answer:
1
The vertex is (3, 2), the curve opens up, and its size is wide. The y-values are of
2
the normal y-values.
y
1
y = (x  3)2 + 2
2
13
2
 
2 
3 x

Name:

1. Solve the following quadratic equation using any method you wish. Explain why you
chose the method you used. (2 marks) (Lessons 1 to 4)
2x2 + 25 = 15x
Answer:
2 x 2 + 25 = 15x
2 x 2 − 15x + 25 = 0
2 x 2 − 10x − 5x + 25 = 0
2 x ( x − 5) − 5 ( x − 5) = 0
( 2 x − 5) ( x − 5) = 0
5
x= or x = 5
2
You can use any method. As long as you complete the question correctly and explain
why you chose the method you did, you will get full marks.
A possible explanation is:
I chose to solve this quadratic equation by factoring because it is easily factorable.

2. Solve the following rational equation. Identify any non-permissible values. (3 marks)
3x + 1 x
=− (Lesson 6)
x x+1
Answer:
Non-permissible values: x = 0 or x = -1
LCD = x(x + 1)
3x + 1 −x
( x ) ( x + 1) = ( x ) ( x + 1)
x x+1
( 3x + 1) ( x + 1) = −x ( x )
3x 2 + 4 x + 1 = −x 2
4x 2 + 4x + 1 = 0
4x 2 + 2 x + 2 x + 1 = 0
2 x ( 2 x + 1) + 1 ( 2 x + 1) = 0
( 2 x + 1)2 = 0
1
x =−
2

Name:
Module 5: Radicals (19 marks)

1. Order the following radical expressions from least to greatest. Do not use a calculator.
(2 marks) (Lesson 1)
6 3 , 11 7 , 9 5 , 2 15
Answer:
6 3 = 36 3 = 108
11 7 = 121 7 = 847
9 5 = 81 5 = 405
2 15 = 4 15 = 60
Thus, 60 < 108 < 405 < 847 and 2 15 < 6 3 < 9 5 < 11 7 .
Assume all variables are non-negative. (Lesson 2)
a) 3 19 + 2 76 (1 mark)
Answer:
3 19 + 2 76
= 3 19 + 2 4 19
= 3 19 + 2 ( 2 ) 19
= 3 19 + 4 19
= 7 19

b) ( 8xy − x 3 )( 4y 2 ) (2 marks) (Lesson 3)
Answer:
( 8xy − x 3 )( 4y 2 )
= 4 2 x y 4 y y− x x x 4 y y
= 4 y 2 xy − 2 xy x
5 8-2 5
c) (3 marks) (Lesson 4)
3-2 3
Answer:
5 8−2 5
3−2 3
5 8 −2 5 3+2 3
= ⋅
3−2 3 3+2 3
15 8 + 10 24 − 6 5 − 4 15
=
9+6 3 −6 3 −4 9
15 4 2 + 10 4 6 − 6 5 − 4 15
=
9 − 4 ( 3)
30 2 + 20 6 − 6 5 − 4 15
=
−3
−30 2 − 20 6 + 6 5 + 4 15
=
3

Name:
3. Identify the values for each of the variables for which each radical expression is
defined. (1 mark each, for a total of 2 marks)
a) 6 - 3x (Lesson 1)
Answer:
In order for this radical expression to be defined, the radicand has to be greater
6 - 3x ³ 0
6 ³ 3x
2 ³ x
x £ 2
Thus, x £ 2 in order for this radical expression to be defined.
b) 32 x 2 (Lesson 1)
Answer:
Because the index is two, the radicand has to be greater than or equal to zero for
this expression to be defined. As any value squared will always be greater than or
equal to zero, x Î Â for this expression to be defined.

4. Find the solutions for each of the following equations. Check your solutions for
extraneous roots. Determine any restrictions on the variable.
a) 3 − x = 2 x − 3 (4 marks) (Lesson 5)
Answer:
Restrictions on the variable:
2x − 3 ≥ 0
2x ≥ 3
3
x≥
2
( 3 − x )2 = 2 x − 3
9 − 6x + x 2 = 2 x − 3
x 2 − 8x + 12 = 0
(x − 6) (x − 2 ) = 0
x = 6 or x = 2
Check x = 2 Check x = 6
LHS RHS LHS RHS
3-x 2x − 3 3-x 2x − 3
3-2 3-6
1 2 (2) − 3 -3 2 (6) − 3
1 9
1 3
LHS = RHS LHS ¹ RHS
Therefore, the only solution is x = 2.

Name:
b) 2x + 4 + 3 = 9 (3 marks) (Lesson 5)
Answer:
Restrictions on the variable:
2x + 4 ³ 0
2x ³ -4
x ³ -2

2x + 4 + 3 = 9
2x + 4 = 6
2 x + 4 = 62
2 x + 4 = 36
2 x = 32
x = 16
Check x = 16
LHS RHS
2x + 4 + 3 9
2 (16 ) + 4 + 3
6+3
9
LHS = RHS
\ The solution is x = 16.

5. The period, P, measured in seconds, of a pendulum is the time it takes to complete one
L
full swing. The period can be found using the formula P = 2 π , where
9.8
L measures the length of the pendulum in metres. How long should a pendulum be
to complete one full swing in 4.3 seconds? Round your answer to four decimal places.
Check your answer for extraneous solutions. (2 marks) (Lesson 5)
Answer:
L
P = 2π
9.8
Restrictions: L ³ 0 and P ³ 0
Note: P is positive or zero because it is equal to a positive number, 2p, multiplied
by the principal square root. Also, it would not make sense for either variable to be
negative.
L
P = 2π
9.8
L
4.3 = 2 π
9.8
2 L 
4.32 = ( 2 π )  
 9.8 
4π 2L
18.49 =
9.8
18.49 × 9.8
L=
4π 2
4.5899 = L
Check: L ³ 0
LHS RHS
P L
4.3 2π
9.8
 4.5899 
2 π
 
 9.8 
4.3
LHS = RHS
The pendulum should be 4.5899 m long.

Name:
Module 6: Systems of Equations and Inequalities (19 marks)

1. Solve the following system of equations algebraically and graphically. (6 marks)
2
y = ( x − 3)
(Lesson 2)
2
y = −3 ( x + 1) + 12
Answer:
Algebraic Solution
2 2
y = ( x − 3) y = −3 ( x + 1) + 12
y = x 2 − 6x + 9 y = −3 ( x 2 + 2 x + 1) + 12
y = −3x 2 − 6 x + 9
Substitute the expression for y in Equation (1) into the y-variable of Equation (2).
x 2 − 6 x + 9 = −3x 2 − 6 x + 9
4x 2 = 0
x=0
Solve for y:
2
y = ( x − 3)
2
y = ( 0 − 3)
y=9
Thus, the solution to this system of equations is (0, 9).

Graphing Solution
The parabola, y = (x - 3)2, has its vertex at (3, 0), it opens up, and has normal shape.
The parabola, y = -3(x + 1)2 + 12, has its vertex at (-1, 12), opens down, and its shape
is narrower. The y-coordinates are multiplied by 3.
y
y = (x  3)2
 16 
 12
9
y = 3(x  1)2  12
2
  
3 1 1 3 x
The solution to this system of equations is the point at which the two functions
intersect, or (0, 9).

Name:
2. The sum of two numbers is 22. Their product is 117.

a) Write a system of equations to represent this problem. (1 mark) (Lesson 1)
Answer:
Let the first number be represented by m and the second number be represented by
n. The system of equations is:
m + n = 22


mn = 117

b) Solve the system of equations to find the two numbers. (3 marks)

Answer:
Substitute m = 22 - n into nm = 117.
(22 - n)(n) = 117
22n - n2 - 117 = 0
n2 - 22n + 117 = 0
(n - 13)(n - 9) = 0
n = 13 or n = 9
Substituting into the equation m = 22 - n, you get:
n = 13 n=9
m = 22 - n m = 22 - n
m = 22 - 13 m = 22 - 9
m=9 m = 13
Therefore, the two numbers are 9 and 13.

3. Solve the following inequalities by graphing. (2 marks each for a total of 6 marks)
a) y < 3x - 8 (Lesson 3)
Answer:
The slope of the line is 3. The y-intercept is -8. The boundary line is dotted and the
shading is below the line.
y
2 x
 y < 3x  8
8 
b) 0 £ x2 - 4 (Lesson 4)
Answer:
You are interested in the domain where the expression is greater than or equal to 0.
Write x2 - 4 ³ 0 and write the corresponding function as y = x2 - 4. The parabola
has its vertex at (0, -4), opens up, and has normal shape.
y
y = x2  4
 
2 2 x
The parabola crosses the x-axis at

-2 and 2. The parabola lies on or
above the x-axis when x £ -2 and
4
 when x ³ 2. Therefore, the solution
set is {x|x £ -2 or x ³ 2, x Î Â}.


Name:
c) y > (x + 1)2 - 3 (Lesson 5)

Answer:
The parabola has its vertex at (-1, -3), opens up, and has normal shape. The
boundary line is dotted and the region above the parabola is shaded.
y
y > (x + 1)2  3
 
 
2 x
 
4

4. Use the sign analysis method to solve the following quadratic inequality. (3 marks)
0 £ 2x2 - 5x - 3 (Lesson 4)
Answer:
Write as 2x2 - 5x - 3 ³ 0.
You want to consider all values of the expression that are greater than or equal to zero.
2x2 - 5x - 3 = 0
2x2 - 6x + x - 3 = 0
2x(x - 3) + 1(x - 3) = 0
(2x + 1)(x - 3) = 0
2x + 1 = 0, x - 3 = 0
1
x =− or x = 3
2
1
The critical points are - and 3.
2
Factor Sign Diagram
 + +
2x + 1 x
1
2
  +
x3 x
3
+  +
(2x + 1)(x  3)
x
1 3
2
The solution set contains the points where 2x2 - 5x - 3 ³ 0 and is

 1 
x | x ≤ − or x ≥ 3 , x ∈ ℜ.
 2 

Name:
Module 7: Trigonometry (23 marks)

1. P(2, -3) is a point on the terminal side of angle q in standard position. Determine sin q,
cos q, and tan q for the following point. Also, determine the distance from the origin to
the point P(2, -3). Rationalize any denominators. (5 marks) (Lesson 1)
Answer:
2 y
r = 2 2 + (−3) = 13
y −3 −3 13 
sin θ = = = 2
r 13 13 x

x 2 2 13
cos θ = = = 3
r 13 13 r
y −3 3
tan θ = = =−
x 2 2  P(2, 3)

2. Given the following angles in standard position, determine the exact values of the sine,
cosine, and tangent ratios. Show how you determined the exact values. (2 marks each,
for a total of 4 marks) (Lesson 3)
a) 240°
Answer:
qr = 240° - 180° = 60°
y
− 3
sin 240° =
2
1
−1
60° x cos 240° =
 2
3
− 3
2 tan 240° = = 3
−1
b) 45°
Answer:
qr = 45°
y
1
sin 45° =
2
1
2
cos 45° =
1
2

45° tan 45° = 1

1 x

Name:
3. Sketch the angle 342° in standard position and find its reference angle. Determine the
other angles that have the same reference angle as the given angle for q in the interval
[0°, 360°]. (3 marks) (Lesson 2)
Answer:
y
 = 342°
x

The reference angle for 342° is 360° - 342° = 18°.

The other angles that have this same reference angle are:
18° in Quadrant I
180° - 18° = 162° in Quadrant II
180° + 18° = 198° in Quadrant III

4. Determine the solution set for each of the following trigonometric equations over the
interval [0°, 360°]. Round to the nearest degree where necessary. (2 marks each, for a
1
a) cos θ =
5
Answer:
1
θ r = cos−1 
5
θ r = 78°
As cos q > 0, q must be in Quadrants I or IV.

In Quadrant I, q = 78°.
In Quadrant IV, q = 360° - 78° = 282°.
b) sin q - 1 = 0
Answer:
sin q = 1
This is a quadrantal angle through the point (0, 1) and only occurs when q is 90°.

Name:
5. In DABC, ÐC = 41°, c = 6, and a = 8. Find all possible values for b and ÐB. Draw a
diagram and round off answers to two decimal places. (5 marks) (Lessons 4 and 6)
Answer:
Since AB < BC, find h: B
h = 8 sin 41° = 5.25
Since h < AB, there are two solutions. 8 6
h
Draw two triangles and solve.
41°
C A
B1 B2
8 6 8
6
41° 41°
C1 A1 C2 A2
b1 b2

6 8
=
sin 41° sin A
6 sin A = 8 sin 41°
8 sin 41°
sin A =
6
 8 sin 41° 
∠A = sin−1 
 6 
∠A related = 61.01° , with ∠A in Quadrants I and II.
∠A 1 = 61.01° ∠A 2 = 180° − 61.01°
∠B1 = 180° − ( 41° + 61.01° ) = 118.99°
= 77.99° ∠B 2 = 180° − ( 41° + 118.99° )

= 20.01°
6 b1
= 6 b2
sin 41° sin 77.99° =
sin 41° sin 20.01°
6 sin 77.99°
b1 = 6 sin 20.01°
sin 41° b2 =
sin 41°
b1 = 8.95 units
b2 = 3.13 units or 3.14 units

6. Find the measure of ÐA in DABC (to the nearest degree). (2 marks) (Lesson 5)
C
4 6
A B
7
Answer:
a2 = b 2 + c 2 − 2 bc cos A
6 2 = 4 2 + 7 2 − 2 ( 4 )(7 ) cos A
6 2 − 4 2 − 7 2 = −2 ( 4 )(7 ) cos A
−29 = −56 cos A
0.517857 = cos A
A = cos−1 (0.517857 )
∠A = 59°

Name:
Module 8: Absolute Value and Reciprocal Functions (19 marks)

1. Evaluate. (1 mark each, for a total of 2 marks) (Lesson 1)
a) 4| 3(-7) + 4 | - 3
Answer:
4| 3(-7) + 4 | - 3
= 4| -17 | - 3
= 4(17) - 3
= 65
b) -2| -2(3) + 1 | + 5
Answer:
-2| -2(3) + 1 | + 5
= –2| -5 | + 5
= –2(5) + 5
= -5
2. Solve the following absolute value equation algebraically. (4 marks) (Lesson 3)

| x2 - x | = 6
Answer:
Case 1: x2 - x = 6 and x2 - x ³ 0
x2 - x - 6 = 0 x(x - 1) = 0
(x - 3)(x + 2) = 0 x = 0, 1
x = 3, -2 +  +
 
0 1 x
x Î (-¥, 0] È [1, ¥)
Since x = 3 is in the interval [1, ¥) and x = -2 is in the interval (-¥, 0], both are
solutions.
Case 2: -(x2 - x) = 6 and x2 - x < 0
-x2 + x = 6
-x2 + x - 6 = 0
x2 - x + 6 = 0
b2 - 4ac = (–1)2 - 4(1)(6)
= 1 - 24
= -23

Therefore, the solutions to this absolute value equation are x = 3 and x = -2
3. Solve the following absolute value equation graphically. (4 marks)
| x + 4 | = 5 (Lesson 3)
Answer:
From the left side of the equation, graph y = |x + 4|. From the right side, graph y = 5.
The two graphs intersect at the points (-9, 5) and (1, 5). The solutions for the equation
are x = -9 and x = 1.
y
y = |x + 4|
 5
y=5
4

9 4 x

Name:
4. Sketch the graph of the reciprocal of the given function. State the equation(s) of the
horizontal and vertical asymptote(s). (4 marks) (Lesson 4)
y = 2x - 6
Answer:
1
The reciprocal function is: f ( x ) =
2x − 6
1 1 1
f (0) = = =−
2 (0) − 6 −6 6
Vertical asymptote:
2x - 6 = 0
2x = 6
x = 3
Invariant points:
Let 2 x − 6 = 1 or 2 x − 6 = −1
2x = 7 2x = 5
7 5
x= x=
2 2
7  5 
The invariant points are  , 1 and  , −1.
2  2 

Draw the curve:
y
1
y=
2x  6
1 
4 x
1 
x=3

Name:
1
5. Given the graph of y = , sketch the graph of y = f(x). (5 marks) (Lesson 5)
f (x)
1
 1,  
9

x
 
x = 2 x=4
Answer:
The vertical asymptotes of this reciprocal graph are at x = -2 and x = 4, and are thus
the x-intercepts in the graph of f(x). In other words, f(x) is of the form
f(x) = a(x + 2)(x - 4).
 1
The key point is  1, − . The corresponding point in the graph of the function, f(x), is
 9
(1, -9).
The invariant points can be read from the graph and are approximately (-2.2, 1),
(4.2, 1), (-1.8, -1), and (3.8, -1).

The parabola has its vertex at (1, -9) and opens up.
y
y = fx
 
 
2 1 4 x
 
9 

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Grade 11 Pre-Calculus

Field Validation Version

A Course for Independent Study

Field Validation Version

Grade 11 pre-calculus mathematics : a course for independent

1. Mathematics—Study and teaching (Secondary).

This resource was published in 2013 and updated in 2019.

Available in alternate formats upon request.

Module 1: Sequences and Series 1

Module 3: Quadratic Functions 1

Module 4: Solving Quadratic and Rational Equations 1

iv Grade 11 Pr e- C alculus Mathematic s

Module 6: Systems of Equations and Inequalities 1

vi Grade 11 Pr e- C alculus Mathematic s

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Welcome to Grade 11 Pre-Calculus Mathematics! This course is a continuation

What Will You Learn in This Course?

Problem solving, communication, reasoning, and mental math are some of

How Is This Course Organized?

The Grade 11 Pre-Calculus Mathematics course consists of the following eight

4 Grade 11 Pr e- C alculus Mathematic s

Taking an independent study course is different from taking a course in a

Your Learning Partner

6 Grade 11 Pr e- C alculus Mathematic s

8 Grade 11 Pr e- C alculus Mathematic s

Midterm and Final Examinations

Requesting Your Examinations

10 Grade 11 Pr e- C alculus Mathematic s

Learning through independent study has several advantages over learning

Module Completion Date

Module Completion Date

Chart C: Full School Year (Not Semestered)

Module Completion Date

12 Grade 11 Pr e- C alculus Mathematic s

When and How Will You Submit Completed Assignments?

When to Submit Assignments

1 Module 1: Sequences and Series

How to Submit Assignments

14 Grade 11 Pr e- C alculus Mathematic s

Submitting Your Assignments Electronically

Learning Activity: Complete a learning activity. This will help you

Mail or Electronic Submission: Mail or electronically submit your

Phone Your Tutor/Marker: Telephone your tutor/marker.

Resource Sheet: Indicates material that may be valuable to include on

Examination: Write your midterm or final examination at this time.

Note: Take note of and remember this important information or reminder.

16 Grade 11 Pr e- C alculus Mathematic s

In Module 1, the first learning activity involves you having a conversation

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18 Grade 11 Pr e- C alculus Mathematic s

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