rational function

American  

noun

Mathematics.

1. a function that can be written as the quotient of two polynomials with integral coefficients.

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Etymology

Origin of rational function

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

The rational function will be represented by a quotient of polynomial functions.

From Textbooks • Dec. 21, 2021

Can a graph of a rational function have no x-intercepts?

From Textbooks • Sep. 23, 2020

Partial fraction decomposition is a technique used to break down a rational function into a sum of simple rational functions that can be integrated using previously learned techniques.

From Textbooks • Mar. 30, 2016

The trick is to convert the nonrational function to a rational function through a substitution.

From Textbooks • Mar. 30, 2016

We have then the theorem that every rational symmetrical function of the roots is a rational function of the coefficients.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 9, Slice 7 "Equation" to "Ethics" by Various