partial fraction

American  

noun

Algebra.

1. one of the fractions into which a given fraction can be resolved, the sum of such simpler fractions being equal to the given fraction.

   Partial fractions of 5/(x2−x) are 5/(x−1) and −5/x.

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partial fraction British  

noun

1. maths one of a set of fractions into which a more complicated fraction can be resolved

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Etymology

Origin of partial fraction

First recorded in 1810–20

Example Sentences

If not, we need to perform long division before attempting partial fraction decomposition.

From Textbooks • Mar. 30, 2016

When applying partial fraction decomposition, we must make sure that the degree of the numerator is less than the degree of the denominator.

From Textbooks • Mar. 30, 2016

As we see in the next example, it may be possible to apply the technique of partial fraction decomposition to a nonrational function.

From Textbooks • Mar. 30, 2016

For the following exercises, find the decomposition of the partial fraction for the irreducible repeating quadratic factor.

From Textbooks • Feb. 13, 2015

For the following exercises, perform the operation and then find the partial fraction decomposition.

From Textbooks • Feb. 13, 2015