What is the discontinuity of the function f(x) = the quantity of x squared minus 4 x minus 12, all over x plus 2?

(−6, 0)
(6, 0)
(−2, −8)
(2, −4)

Question

What is the discontinuity of the function f(x) = the quantity of x squared minus 4 x minus 12, all over x plus 2?

 (−6, 0)
 (6, 0)
 (−2, −8)
 (2, −4)

mathmale · Answer

Please translate that statement into a mathematical equation.  This is an important basic skill.

$$f(x)=\frac{ x^2-4x-12 }{ x-2 }$$

mathmale · Answer

Now look carefully at the denominator.  Which x value would make the denom. = 0?

mathmale · Answer

Question for you:  How do you specify a "discontinuity?"

anonymous · Answer

x+2 would make the denom = 0

mathmale · Answer

So, you're saying, "If we add together x+2, that would make the denom. = 0"    Is that true?
Aren't you supposed to be finding the value of x that makes the denom. = 0?

anonymous · Answer

my teacher didnt explain how to do this type of problem very well

anonymous · Answer

so i have little knowledge on how to do this

mathmale · Answer

To answer the question, just let the whole denom. = 0.  Solve for x.  

If x-2=0, adding 2 to both sides of the eq'n will give you a value for x.  What is that value?  It is there that your function has a discontinuity, since division by zero is not allowed.

mathmale · Answer

sorry you're not happy with your teacher.  You could, however, ask questions here on OpenStudy, and thus possibly learn what you did not learn in class.