Simplify Equations: 3(x-1)/(x+1)(x-2) + 2(x-1)/(x-2)(x-4) - Tips & Tricks

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the simplification of the algebraic expression 3(x-1)/(x+1)(x-2) + 2(x-1)/(x-2)(x-4). Participants explore methods for simplification, the concept of common denominators, and implications for finding asymptotes, while addressing the nature of the question as potentially homework-related.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests help with simplifying the expression, indicating they are unsure where to start.
  • Another participant emphasizes the need for effort and suggests that the original poster should show their work for better assistance.
  • A participant mentions they are in 8th grade and expresses a desire to find asymptotes after simplification.
  • There is a suggestion to move the discussion to a homework forum, with some participants debating whether the question qualifies as homework.
  • One participant offers a hint about finding a common denominator when adding fractions.
  • Another participant clarifies the interpretation of the expression, suggesting that the notation may lead to confusion regarding the order of operations.
  • A later reply provides a potential simplification of the expression, presenting a combined fraction format.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on whether the question is homework or how to best assist the original poster. Multiple views on the nature of the question and the appropriate level of help are present.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the original poster's understanding of the problem and the notation used, which may affect the simplification process. The discussion also reflects varying levels of mathematical knowledge among participants.

Who May Find This Useful

Students seeking assistance with algebraic simplification, particularly those grappling with the concepts of common denominators and asymptotes.

sabanation12
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How would I go about simplifying this:


3(x-1) / (x+1)(x-2) + 2(x-1) / (x-2)(x-4)

Thanks!
 
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Sorry, we don't do somebody else's work just like that...we help. You need to show a bit of effort, so what you have done and tried and we may indicate what it is you are doing wrong, etc.
 
gsal said:
Sorry, we don't do somebody else's work just like that...we help. You need to show a bit of effort, so what you have done and tried and we may indicate what it is you are doing wrong, etc.

Im working with Asymptotes. I am currently in 8th grade algebra so I have no idea how to simplify that. Like ZIP.

I know what to do once I have figured that out though, I would need to find if that simplified function has a vertical, horizontal, or oblique asymptote.
 
If you tell me how to simplify that, I can come up with an answer for all the asymptotes for that and THEN you could check my work
 
hhhmmm...maybe you should port over in the Homework forum
 
Its not homework though...
 
Read the sticky. It's a "homework-style" question. Whether it was assigned is irrelevant.
 
And by the way, my phrasing "How would I go about simplifying this" doesn't ask for POOF HERE'S THE ANSWER. It shows that I don't know where to even GET STARTED working the problem. Now that I have shown that this is just part of my problem and that I will show my work for the full problem once someone helps me, and that this is NOT HOMEWORK, can someone please help me? A push in the right direction? Anything?
 
Touche, this does seem to fit those guidelines.
 
  • #10
How do I move this?
 
  • #11
Err you know what, Ill go work on this somewhere else. Thanks for your guys time. I guess. -Topic Closed (essentially)
 
  • #12
When adding fractions, you must have a common denominator.. hope that helps..
 
  • #13
sabanation12 said:
How would I go about simplifying this: 3(x-1) / (x+1)(x-2) + 2(x-1) / (x-2)(x-4)

Thanks!

Are you sure this isn't your homework ? But this is textbook style question only. Mods kindly transfer it to homework and coursework questions section...

Use this hint : Try taking the LCM of the denominator... Let's see what do you get.

By the way , I am in 10th grade..
 
Last edited:
  • #14
sabanation12 said:
How would I go about simplifying this:


3(x-1) / (x+1)(x-2) + 2(x-1) / (x-2)(x-4)

Thanks!

You should start by disambiguating 3(x-1) / (x+1)(x-2). As written, it should be interpreted as

[3(x-1) / (x+1)] * (x-2)

because / and times have equal precedence, so you evaluate them left to right.

But I have the feeling that's not what you meant. So the first thing is to be very clear in your mind and in your notation exactly what the question is.

Same remark for the second term as well.
 
  • #15
Maybe this will help

\frac{3(x-1)}{(x+1)(x-2)} + \frac{2(x-1)}{(x-2)(x-4)} = \frac{3(x-1)(x-4) + 2(x-1)(x+1)}{(x+1)(x-4)(x-2)}
 

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