How can I reduce this expression to e^{mx}?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around simplifying the expression A = (e^(mx) - e^(2ml - mx)) / (1 - e^(2ml)) to the form A = e^(mx). The problem is situated within the context of exponential functions and algebraic manipulation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore various algebraic manipulations, including factoring and rearranging terms in both the numerator and denominator. There is also a suggestion that a sign error may exist in the original expression, prompting a reevaluation of the terms involved.

Discussion Status

Some participants have offered alternative forms of the expression and pointed out potential errors in the original setup. The conversation reflects a mix of interpretations and approaches, with no explicit consensus reached on the correct simplification method.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the assumption that the expression for A is correct, but there is uncertainty regarding the signs and terms involved. The original poster has indicated a need for clarification on the simplification process.

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Homework Statement



I at a point in a derivation where I have the expression:

[tex]A = \frac{e^{mx} - e^{2ml - mx}}{1-e^{2ml}}[/tex]

I have double checked my work leading up to this point, so i am confident my expression for 'A' is correct. I am supposed to reduce it to

[tex]A = e^{mx}[/tex]

but I am not seeing the trick here. I have tried numerous approaches from factoring the denominator and various arrangements of the numerator. I have a feeling it is one of those random tricks i need. Any thoughts?
 
Last edited:
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Saladsamurai said:

Homework Statement



I at a point in a derivation where I have the expression:

[tex]A = \frac{e^{mx} - e^{2ml - mx}}{1-e^{2ml}}[/tex]
I think you might have a sign error in the exponent on the first term in the numerator.

Assuming this is the case for the moment, you have
[tex]A = \frac{e^{-mx} - e^{2ml - mx}}{1-e^{2ml}}[/tex]
[tex]= \frac{e^{-mx} - e^{2ml}\cdot e^{ -mx}}{1-e^{2ml}}[/tex]
[tex]= \frac{e^{-mx}(1 - e^{2ml})}{1-e^{2ml}} = e^{-mx}[/tex]
Saladsamurai said:
I have double checked my work leading up to this point, so i am confident my expression for 'A' is correct. I am supposed to reduce it to

[tex]A = e^{-mx}[/tex]

but I am not seeing the trick here. I have tried numerous approaches from factoring the denominator and various arrangements of the numerator. I have a feeling it is one of those random tricks i need. Any thoughts?
 
Saladsamurai said:

Homework Statement



I at a point in a derivation where I have the expression:

[tex]A = \frac{e^{mx} - e^{2ml - mx}}{1-e^{2ml}}[/tex]

I have double checked my work leading up to this point, so i am confident my expression for 'A' is correct. I am supposed to reduce it to

[tex]A = e^{-mx}[/tex]

but I am not seeing the trick here. I have tried numerous approaches from factoring the denominator and various arrangements of the numerator. I have a feeling it is one of those random tricks i need. Any thoughts?



I'm sorry it's supposed to come out to be a positive exponent. That is,

[tex]A = e^{mx}[/tex]

I have edited OP.
 
In that case, I think your error is in the second term in the numerator.
[tex]A = \frac{e^{mx} - e^{2ml + mx}}{1-e^{2ml}}[/tex]

[tex]= \frac{e^{mx} - e^{2ml}\cdot e^{ mx}}{1-e^{2ml}}[/tex]

[tex]= \frac{e^{mx}(1 - e^{2ml})}{1-e^{2ml}} = e^{mx}[/tex]
 

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