- #1
Help finding a common denominator
- Thread starter Femme_physics
- Start date
Click For Summary
Homework Help Overview
The discussion revolves around the challenge of finding a common denominator in a mathematical equation involving fractions. The original poster expresses difficulty in determining the common denominator and shares their attempts for feedback.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation
Approaches and Questions Raised
- Participants discuss the process of finding common denominators for fractions on both sides of an equation, with suggestions to factor denominators and compare expressions. Questions arise regarding the necessity of comparison and the rationale behind certain approaches.
Discussion Status
The discussion includes various attempts to clarify the problem, with some participants offering guidance on factoring and comparing expressions. While the original poster indicates they found an answer, the conversation reflects ongoing exploration of methods and reasoning.
Contextual Notes
There is mention of specific denominators and the need to factor them, but the overall context of the problem remains somewhat unclear, with assumptions about the equation structure and the nature of the fractions involved being questioned.
- #2
SteamKing
Staff Emeritus
Science Advisor
Homework Helper
- 12,828
- 1,673
Find the common denominators on each side of the equals sign independently so that you can add the two fractions on each side together: you have A+B = C+D. You want to get E=F. Once you get E=F, you are able to cross multiply. On the left side of the original equation, factor the denominator (x^2-1) first.
- #3
Borek
Mentor
- 29,204
- 4,626
- #4
Femme_physics
Gold Member
- 2,548
- 1
Why do I need to compare them?
But nevermind, I got the answer by indeed factoring the first denominator to (x+1)(x-1)
Thanks a bunch :)!
But nevermind, I got the answer by indeed factoring the first denominator to (x+1)(x-1)
Thanks a bunch :)!
- #5
Borek
Mentor
- 29,204
- 4,626
If you would look at them it will become obvious by what do you have to multiply one to get the other. x is not the correct idea.