Another fraction problem

[alaska33355]

Can anyone help with this one as well?

x/ [2(x - 5)] - [3x + 1]/ [x - 5]

How do you combine the denominators? ( 2x - 10) minus (x-5) ?

Thanks for any help.

 

[alohacharlie]

Same as your other problem, it just looks a little more complicated.

The idea is the same.

You need to have common denominators.

How can you make [x - 5] into 2x - 10 ?

Remember : whatever you multiply the denominator by, you have to multiply the numerator by the same amount.

Do you already have the answer (like in the other problem)?

If not, repost your answer and I will let you know if you got it.

 

[alaska33355]

Hello Aloha Charlie,
Yes, I have the answer key, as I am working with my son on his algebra.....but I don't always get the steps to get to the answer!

The answer to the aforementioned problem is:

[-5x + (-2)] / [2x - 10]

So you see why I was going for the 2x - 10.......so should I divide both top and bottom by 2 to get rid of the 2?

 

[alohacharlie]

Here is how I would work out the problem

[attachment=0:39gff2x9]fractions003.jpg[/attachment:39gff2x9]

 

[alohacharlie]

sorry the image is so large. That was my first attempt at inserting an image. Hope you still make it out

 

[alaska33355]

Thanks again, Alohacharlie!
I appreciate your explanations.
Have a good day!