Find lowest common denominator of these polynomials

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the lowest common denominator (LCD) of a set of rational expressions with polynomial denominators, specifically focusing on the expressions 3/(x^2 + 2x), -2/(x^2 + x - 2), and 4/(x^2(x - 1)).

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss factoring the denominators and identifying common factors. Some question how to handle remaining terms after factoring, while others provide hints about determining the LCD by considering all factors involved.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the problem. Some have suggested potential forms for the LCD, while others are seeking clarification on the approach to take with the denominators.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of confusion regarding the identification of the lowest common denominator versus other possible common denominators, indicating a need for clearer understanding of the concept.

Makman
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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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