Determine the values of the variable that cannot possibly be solutions of each equation. Do not solve. See Examples 1 and 2. 3/(x-2) + 1/(x+1) = 3/(x2-x-2)
Table of contents
- 0. Review of Algebra4h 18m
- 1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
- 2. Graphs of Equations1h 43m
- 3. Functions2h 17m
- 4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
- 5. Rational Functions1h 23m
- 6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
- 7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 5m
- 8. Conic Sections2h 23m
- 9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 22m
- 10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m
1. Equations & Inequalities
Rational Equations
Problem 18
Textbook Question
Solve each equation. See Example 1. (4x+3)/4 - 2x/(x+1) = x
Verified step by step guidance1
Start by writing down the given equation: \(\frac{4x+3}{4} - \frac{2x}{x+1} = x\).
Identify the denominators in the equation, which are 4 and \(x+1\). To eliminate the fractions, find the least common denominator (LCD), which is \$4(x+1)$.
Multiply every term in the equation by the LCD \$4(x+1)\( to clear the denominators: \)4(x+1) \times \frac{4x+3}{4} - 4(x+1) \times \frac{2x}{x+1} = 4(x+1) \times x$.
Simplify each term after multiplication: the first term becomes \((4x+3)(x+1)\), the second term becomes \$4 \times 2x = 8x\(, and the right side becomes \)4x(x+1)$.
Expand all products and simplify the resulting equation to form a polynomial equation. Then, collect like terms and solve for \(x\) using appropriate algebraic methods such as factoring or the quadratic formula.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Solving Rational Equations
Rational equations involve expressions with variables in the denominator. To solve them, find a common denominator to combine terms or clear denominators by multiplying both sides, ensuring to check for restrictions where denominators become zero.
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Finding the Least Common Denominator (LCD)
The LCD is the smallest expression that all denominators divide into evenly. Identifying the LCD allows you to eliminate fractions by multiplying through, simplifying the equation to a polynomial form that is easier to solve.
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Rationalizing Denominators Using Conjugates
Checking for Extraneous Solutions
When solving rational equations, some solutions may make denominators zero, which are invalid. After finding potential solutions, substitute them back into the original equation to ensure they do not cause division by zero.
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Restrictions on Rational Equations
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