Simplifying compound fractions

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on simplifying the expression [1/(1+x+h) - 1/(1+x)] / h by finding a common denominator for the fractions 1/(1+x+h) and 1/(1+x). The recommended approach involves using the formula for the difference of fractions, specifically $\frac{1}{a}-\frac{1}{b}=\frac{b-a}{ab}$. The common denominator is identified as (1+x+h)(1+x), leading to the simplified form of the expression.

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datafiend
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Hi all,
I'm having a problem simplifying this:

[1/(1+x+h) - 1/(1+x)] / h

How do you get the common denominators for the top 2 fractions?

Thanks
 
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Maybe try to find a common denominator for 1+x+h and 1+x.

$(1+x+h)\times(1+h) = x^2+x(2+h)+1+h$
 
Last edited:
In the numerator, I would use:

$$\frac{1}{a}-\frac{1}{b}=\frac{b-a}{ab}$$
 
mark,
thanks again!
 

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