1. Lesson 2

1.12. Explore 8

Mathematics 30-2 Module 5

Module 5: Rational Expressions

 

You have now learned how to multiply and divide rational expressions. In the final section of this lesson you will be introduced to the application of rational expressions. This application will be explored more in later lessons.

 

This is a photo of a girl holding a lacrosse stick.

© Jim/15182266/Fotolia

Lacrosse is a sport where players pass or shoot a game ball using sticks with baskets on the ends and attempt to score a goal against an opposing team. Lacrosse has origins in Aboriginal culture. In Self-Check 4 you will analyze the dimensions of a lacrosse field using rational expressions.

 

Self-Check 4

 

The diagram shows the layout of a lacrosse field. The area outlined in white is called the goal area. The location of the goal is marked by the circle in the goal area.

 

This diagram shows a lacrosse field. The goal area is labelled 1200 x plus 3600 all divided by x, and one side of the goal area is labelled 48 x minus 144 all divided by x.

  1. Write an expression for the area in factored form. Answer
  2. Write an expression for the width of the goal area in factored form. Answer
  3. Use the two expressions to determine the length of the goal area. Answer
  4. If x = 18, determine the dimensions of the goal area. Report the dimensions in yards. Answer