How do I simplify function composition with fractions within fractions?

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The discussion focuses on simplifying function composition involving fractions within fractions, specifically F o G(x) where F(x) = 1/(x+1) and g(x) = (2x - x)/(x + 3). Participants emphasize the importance of correctly handling fractions in the denominator and provide a rule for simplifying such expressions: the denominator's numerator moves to the top and vice versa. They illustrate this with algebraic examples, clarifying that dividing by a fraction is equivalent to multiplying by its reciprocal. The conversation highlights the necessity of using parentheses to avoid ambiguity in complex fraction expressions.
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Homework Statement



F o G(x)
F(x)=1/x+1
g(x)=2x-x/x+3
Simplify

Homework Equations



F o G=f(g(x))

The Attempt at a Solution


Here is the order of things I did.

F(2x-1/x+3)
to
1/(2x-1/x+3)+1
Ok, this sounds stupid but, I can solve these, but when I get stuff like this that has fractions in fraction I don't know how to do it, I am sad to admit that I don't know how to solve it when there is a fraction in a fraction. Please, don't skip any steps, if someone could show me how to do this step by step not skiping anything or leaving anything out, I will forever be gratful, and yes, I mispelled gratful, I am bad at spelling.
 
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THE RULE (in words): Let's say you have a fraction in the denominator. If something is in the denominator of the fraction in the denominator (i.e. on the bottom of the bottom), it ends up on top. If something is in the numerator of the fraction in the denominator (i.e. top of the bottom), it ends up on the bottom.

THE REASON FOR THE RULE (in words): Because dividing by something is the same thing as multiplying by its reciprocal! Dividing by 2 is the same thing as multiplying by 1/2. Dividing by 1/2 is the same thing as multiplying by 2.

Hence: a / (1/2) = a*(2) / 1

Notice that the thing on the bottom of the bottom ended up on the top (with a).

THE RULE (algebraically):

\frac{\frac{a}{b}}{\frac{c}{d}} = \frac {ad}{bc}

THE REASON (algebraically):

\frac{\frac{a}{b}}{\frac{c}{d}} = \frac{a}{b} \left(\frac{c}{d}\right)^{-1} = \frac{a}{b} \left(\frac{d}{c}\right)

= \frac{ad}{bc}
 
Last edited:
Do the rules change if its just...

x+1/(x-1/x+2)?

Would it be (x+1)(x+2)/x-1?

And what if its (x+1/x+2)/x-1 to being with?
 
You need to use parantheses, x+1/(x-1/x+2) means x + 1/(x - (1/x) + 2) which I doubt you meant, I would rewrite it as (x+1)/[(x-1)/(x+2)]. And yes that would be (x+1)(x+2)/(x-1) once again use parantheses.

If you have (x+1)/(x+2) / (x-1) just note that that's the same as (x+1)/(x+2) * 1/(x-1) and you know that (a/b)*(c/d) = (a*c)/(b*d).
 

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