# How to you solve this simple algebra?

1. Feb 13, 2010

### EdLeafs

This isn't a homework question...just something I picked up on a finance book about dividends. Say you have something like this.

$30.85 = X/$1.15 + X/($1.15)^2 How do I solve for x step by step? They give me an answer of$18.98 and if I sub that # into x I get 30.85. How do I do it the other way...algebraically?

Thanks.

Last edited: Feb 13, 2010
2. Feb 13, 2010

### tiny-tim

Welcome to PF!

Hi EdLeafs ! Welcome to PF!

(try using the X2 tag just above the Reply box )
Easy … use brackets

30.85 = X(1/1.15 + 1/1.152) … take it from there.

3. Feb 13, 2010

### HallsofIvy

The first thing I would do is multiply both sides by 1.15 to get rid of the fractions!

(1.15)2(30.85)2= (1.15)X+ X= 2.15X

Now divide both sides by 2.15.

I'm wondering what X represents that dividing by "dollars" results in "dollars"! It has units of "dollars squared"?

Last edited by a moderator: Feb 14, 2010
4. Feb 13, 2010

### tiny-tim

(erm)2

5. Feb 13, 2010

### EdLeafs

Ahh...I see. thanks a lot.

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