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(A) x +1

(B) ...
(C) ...
(D) ...
(E) ...

*This question is included in Introduction to Nova GRE Math

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Lindsay B

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Posted: 03/16/2012 21:13

Can someone please refresh me on this

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Joel Brainer

Contributor

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Posted: 03/16/2012 22:10

Hi Lindsay. Thanks for using the app. Here's a refresher:
1) From algebra, we recognize the numerator is a square of (x-1), i.e., if you multiply x-1 by itself, you get x^2-x-x+1 = x^2 -2x +1. So the numerator can be rewritten as (x-1)(x-1)
2) (x-1) in the numerator and x-1 in the denominator cancel out, and you get the answer, which is ...
If you found this useful, please rate us nicely in the App Store. Thanks.

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Åsa Wihlbeck

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Posted: 02/09/2013 15:46

Hi Joel, I'll give you a good rating - the app is great in itself, then in addition to that: you guys; patient, personal and to the point. Thanks for making studying for the GRE even more fun.

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Ibiye Faka

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Posted: 07/02/2013 08:36

Please I do not understand how we arrive at x-1 as de answer. I got the answer because I only assumed which was a total guess work. If I can get an explanation of how the answer is obtained will be much appreciated. Thanks - Ibiye

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Admin

Reply 1 of 1
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Posted: 07/02/2013 12:19

Hi Iblye,

To factor the expression x^2 - 2x + 1, we have to find factors of 1 whose sum or difference is -2. Now, (-1) + (-1) = -2. So, the expression factors into (x - 1)(x - 1). One of these identical factors cancels with the x - 1 in the bottom of the fraction, which leaves just x - 1 on the top.

Nova Press

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