Rational Equation: 9/se^2-4 = 4-5s/s-2

  • Context: MHB 
  • Thread starter Thread starter clotfelterjk
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Rational
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the rational equation 9/se² - 4 = 4 - 5s/s - 2, focusing on the interpretation of the equation, potential methods for solving it, and the clarification of terms used. The scope includes mathematical reasoning and problem-solving approaches.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants seek clarification on whether the goal is to solve for s and request the addition of parentheses for clarity.
  • One participant confirms that 'e' refers to an exponent rather than Euler's constant, addressing a potential misunderstanding.
  • Another participant suggests rewriting the rational equation with a common denominator and equating it to zero, encouraging the original poster to show their work.
  • A later reply notes the importance of identifying values for s that would make the denominators equal to zero, raising a question about the implications of these values.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the need for clarity in the equation and the importance of showing work. However, there is no consensus on the method of solving the equation or the interpretation of certain terms.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions regarding the notation used in the equation, particularly the meaning of 'e', and the implications of the denominators equaling zero have not been fully explored.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals interested in rational equations, problem-solving techniques in algebra, and those seeking clarification on mathematical notation.

clotfelterjk
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
9/se^{2}-4 = 4-5s/s-2
 
Mathematics news on Phys.org
Hello clotfelterjk and welcome to MHB! :D

clotfelterjk said:
9/se^{2}-4 = 4-5s/s-2
It's not clear from your question exactly what it is that you are trying to do. Do you want to solve for s?
Can you add parentheses where appropriate? E.g. 9/(se^2-4) = (4 - 5s)/(s - 2). Also, is 'e' Euler's
constant?

We ask that members show any work or thoughts on how to begin. Have you made any effort to
solve this problem yourself? If not, do you have any thoughts on where to begin? We ask this to avoid
duplication of effort on our part.
 
The example you gave is correct. As for the ''e'' that just stands for exponent. I hope that clears things up. Sorry for the vagueness.:)
 
Given that $s^2-4=(s-2)(s+2)$ can you get a common denominator and write the rational equation as
a single quadratic equalling $0$?

Please show your work (that's one of the rules here, for reasons already explained. We would also like
you to learn by doing).
 
To avoid violating the forum rules, I can't exactly give you the correct method prematurely.
At first, I thought the OP simply meant $$\frac{9}{se^2-4}=\frac{4-5s}{s-2}$$. To answer this one, s ≠ 4/e², 2.
So Greg as already given you how to factor the denominator, which gives us both (s - 2)(s + 2) & s - 2.
Can these 2 denominators equal to 0? Why or why not?
 

Similar threads

MHB What is the value of s in the equation 1/2 + 2/5s = s - 3/4?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
MHB Finding Distance with Constant Speed: Solving for m and b
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
MHB Rational Number: Proving $x+\dfrac{1}{x}$ is Rational
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
Undergrad The Fundamental Theorem of Arithmetic and Rational Numbers
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
MHB (Seemingly) Random Sequences
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
MHB Solving Quadratic Equations with Binary Operator $\otimes$
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Partial fractions with complex linear terms
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
1K
MHB Find Solutions to a+b+c+d=4, a^2+b^2+c^2+d^2=6, a^3+b^3+c^3+d^3=94/9 in [0,2]
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
MHB Solve the Puzzle: 4, 5, 14, 185, .... - Ray Salmon
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K
Can I obtain the inverse Laplace transform using complex analysis?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K