Simplifying Algebraic fraction

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around simplifying an algebraic fraction presented in a specific format. Participants explore the expression and clarify its structure, aiming to assist in the simplification process.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks clarification on how to simplify the fraction 3/90 * (36x+54).
  • Another participant asks for clarification on the intended mathematical expression, presenting two possible interpretations.
  • A participant provides a mathematical equivalence to illustrate the simplification process, suggesting that the expression can be rewritten in a different form.
  • Another example is shared to demonstrate a similar simplification technique, showing how to factor and reduce an algebraic fraction.
  • A later reply indicates that the original poster has gained understanding from the provided examples and explanations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the equivalence of the forms presented and the approach to simplification, but the initial expression's clarity remains a point of discussion.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes assumptions about the format of the algebraic expression and the potential for different interpretations, which may affect the simplification process.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in algebraic simplification techniques, particularly those encountering non-standard formats in algebraic expressions.

Spencer23
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Hello,

Wondering how to simplify this fraction...

3/90 * (36x+54)
 
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Hi Spencer23, welcome to MHB!:)

Can you be a little bit more clear about the math expression that you've there, do you mean

1. $\dfrac{3}{90(36x+54)}$ or

2. $\dfrac{3(36x+54)}{90}$?
 
Its neither of those, I've attatched a picture of a screenshot of the question I've been given. This is why I am having trouble with this one because it isn't in a format I've seen before when working with algebriac fractions.
 

Attachments

  • fraction.png
    fraction.png
    1.4 KB · Views: 118
The form in your attached image is equivalent to the second form given by anemone. This is because the following are equivalent:

$$\frac{a}{b}\cdot c=\frac{ac}{b}$$

For example, consider:

$$\frac{1}{2}\cdot4=\frac{1\cdot4}{2}=\frac{4}{2}=\frac{2\cdot\cancel{2}}{\cancel{2}}=2$$

Can you factor anything from the expression in parentheses?
 
Also, another example that might be helpful to be used as guidance would be the following:

$\dfrac{6+9}{12}$, it could be simplified further down by rewriting it as $\dfrac{2(3)+3(3)}{3(4)}=\dfrac{3(2+3)}{3(4)}=\dfrac{\cancel{3}(5)}{\cancel{3}(4)}=\dfrac{5}{4}$.
 
Thanks guys , didnt realize it was the same as the example you gave... understand how its done now! Thank you both!
 

Attachments

  • question.png
    question.png
    1.2 KB · Views: 102

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