Find lowest common denominator of these polynomials

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The discussion focuses on finding the lowest common denominator (LCD) for the given polynomial fractions. The initial attempt involved factoring, but confusion arose regarding how to handle the remaining factors. Participants clarified that the LCD should include each factor the minimum number of times necessary. Ultimately, the correct LCD identified is x^2(x-1)(x+2). The conversation emphasizes understanding the concept of including all necessary factors for determining the lowest common denominator.
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Homework Statement


3/x^2+2x - 2/x^2+x-2 + 4/x^2(x-1)
Find the lowest common denominator and solve.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I factored x(x+2) - (x-1)(x+2) + x^2(x-1)

It looks like (x+2), (x-1) are common but what to do with the x & x^2 left over?
Thank you in advance.
 
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Hi Makman! :smile:
Makman said:
3/x^2+2x - 2/x^2+x-2 + 4/x^2(x-1)
Find the lowest common denominator and solve.

I factored x(x+2) - (x-1)(x+2) + x^2(x-1)

It looks like (x+2), (x-1) are common …

Nooo … you're looking at this the wrong way …

Hint: the LCD of, say, 1/2*3 and 1/3*5 would be 2*3*5 :wink:
 


If I take your example and it was 1/6 + 1/15 my answer would be 7/30. 30 being the common denominator. As I understand it, 90 could be a common denominator but it is not the lowest.
What should I do with the denominator in the original problem to make things more clear. I'm not cluing in. My apologies.
Please help.
Thank you.
 
Makman said:
If I take your example and it was 1/6 + 1/15 my answer would be 7/30. 30 being the common denominator. As I understand it, 90 could be a common denominator but it is not the lowest.
What should I do with the denominator in the original problem to make things more clear. I'm not cluing in. My apologies.
Please help.
Thank you.

ok … when you had 2*3 and 3*5, you needed to include everything the minimum number of times… that's 2*3*5.

so when you have x(x+2) (x-1)(x+2) and x2(x-1), again you could just multiply everything, to give x(x+2)(x-1)(x+2)x2(x-1), but you can cut that down to … ? :smile:
 


I believe I got it. The L.C.D. would be x^2(x-1)(x+2). Is this correct?
 
:biggrin: Woohoo! :biggrin:
 


Thank you for your time and patience.:approve:
 
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