How to Solve Fractional Equations with Squared Variables?

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  • Thread starter Thread starter homegrown898
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving fractional equations involving squared variables. Participants explore the manipulation of fractions, common denominators, and the steps required to simplify and solve the equation presented.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a fractional equation and seeks guidance on the next steps after finding a common denominator.
  • Several participants attempt to clarify the equation using LaTeX notation, with some expressing uncertainty about the initial formulation.
  • Corrections are made regarding the interpretation of the equation, with one participant noting a small error in the quoted expression.
  • Another participant outlines steps to solve the equation, suggesting multiplication by the common denominator and expansion.
  • A participant shares their calculations and asks for verification of their work, expressing concern about potential mistakes.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the interpretation of the equation and the steps to take, but there is some uncertainty regarding the correctness of the calculations presented. No consensus is reached on whether the final steps are accurate.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express a lack of familiarity with LaTeX, which may affect the clarity of their mathematical expressions. There are also indications of minor errors in the transcription of the equation that could impact the solution process.

Who May Find This Useful

Students or individuals seeking assistance with solving fractional equations, particularly those involving squared variables, may find this discussion helpful.

homegrown898
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Because I can't write squared, if x is squared, I will just write it like this: xsquared

x/x +2 MINUS x/xsquared - 4 = x+3/x+2

I get an LCD for each fracton and then I subtract getting this:

xsquared - 2x MINUS x/xsquared - 4 = (x+3)(x-2)/xsquared - 4

What do I do now?

If you don't understand this just ask me to scan it
 
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I suppose you mean

[tex]\frac{x}{x+2} - \frac{x}{x^2-4} = \frac{x+3}{x+2} \Longrightarrow \frac{x^2 - 3x}{x^2 - 4} = \frac{(x+3)(x-2)}{x^2 - 4}[/tex]

which is fine.
 
Last edited:
homegrown898 said:
If you don't understand this just ask me to scan it
Or just learn LaTeX.

I'm not quite sure what you mean. I surmise it is something like this:

[tex] \frac{x}{x+2}-\frac{x}{x^2-4}=\frac{x+3}{x+2}[/tex]

If it's not right, let me know.

EDIT: Yarr, Data got there before I did...
 
Data said:
I suppose you mean

[tex]\frac{x}{x+2} - \frac{x}{x^2-4} = \frac{x+3}{x+2} \Longrightarrow \frac{x^2 - x}{x^2 - 4} = \frac{(x+3)(x-2)}{x^2 - 4}[/tex]

which is fine.

Moo, that was right what you posted

And that is where I got but the instructions are to solve

Is that a solution to it?
 
Note that there is a small error in the thing you quoted, which I've corrected now.

To solve, multiply [itex]x^2-4[/itex] through both sides, expand on the right, and see what you get.
 
Data said:
Note that there is a small error in the thing you quoted, which I've corrected now.

To solve, multiply [itex]x^2-4[/itex] through both sides, expand on the right, and see what you get.

I don't want to learn Latex right now because it will take too long but I'll learn it for the future.

This is what I'm getting:

xsquared - 2x - x = xsquared + x - 6

I subtract xsquared on each side to cancel them out getting:

-2x - x = x - 6

I then subract x from each side getting

-3x - x = -6

Then I subract the x

-4x = -6

Did I mess up?
 
homegrown898 said:
Did I mess up?
Looks right to me.
 

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