The discussion revolves around the definition and simplification of algebraic fractions, particularly focusing on the characteristics of the numerator and denominator. Participants are exploring examples and textbook references to clarify their understanding.
The discussion is ongoing, with participants sharing their interpretations and attempting to clarify the steps involved in simplifying algebraic fractions. Some guidance has been offered regarding the need to factor expressions, but there is no explicit consensus on the methods or outcomes.
Participants are working within the constraints of homework assignments, which may limit the information they can access or the methods they can use. There is also mention of textbook examples that may not be clear to all participants.
ramstin said:O.k. I am trying to figure out what defines an algebraic fraction. I know it has something to do with the denominator but for the life of me I can not make any sense out of my textbook examples. Like 3/2x = 0 I guess 3/x*x = 3 divided by no actual number which would be zero but that is the best I can work out after 4 hours of trying to do this section of my homework.
ramstin said:O.k. if I have a^2-10a+21/a^2-11a+28 I then get 21/-1a+28 and then 3/-a+4 but my book says I should get a-3/a-4 How did that happen?
ramstin said:even with simplifying how do you get an a on both sides when their is an odd number of them to begin with?