How to solve an algebraic equation?

[QuestionSeeker]

Say x+4 / 2 + 4x-1 / 5 =3 Thanks in advance!

 

[lookagain]

Say x+4 / 2 + 4x-1 / 5 =3 Thanks in advance!

QuestionSeeker,

if you mean \(\displaystyle \ \dfrac{x + 4}{2} \ + \ \dfrac{4x - 1}{5} \ = \ 3\ \), then you need grouping symbols.


If that is the case, I suggest you type it as:


(x + 4)/2 + (4x - 1)/5 = 3


Suppose that is your question.

What is the least common denominator?


(It's 10.)


I would multiply all quantities on both sides to eliminate the fractions:


\(\displaystyle \bigg(\dfrac{10}{1}\bigg)\bigg( \dfrac{x + 4}{2}\bigg) \ + \ \bigg(\dfrac{10}{1}\bigg)\bigg(\dfrac{4x - 1}{5}\bigg) \ = \ (10)(3) \)


Can you continue from there?

 

[QuestionSeeker]

Yeah, that's what I mean, how do I do it?

 

[stapel]

Say x+4 / 2 + 4x-1 / 5 =3 Thanks in advance!

They were supposed to have covered this stuff in class before assigning homework on it! Since apparently they didn't, you'll need to attempt some self-study. Start with lessons from this listing.

After you have studied at least two lessons from the link, please attempt the exercise. If you get stuck, you can then reply with a clear listing of your work so far. Thank you!

 

[HallsofIvy]

Yeah, that's what I mean, how do I do it?

Look again told you that you should multiply the entire equation by \(\displaystyle 2(5)= 10\) to get
\(\displaystyle (10)\dfrac{x+ 4}{2}+ (10)\dfrac{4x- 1}{5}= 3(10)\)

Can you not do the arithmetic? What is \(\displaystyle \dfrac{10}{2}\)? What is \(\displaystyle \dfrac{10}{5}\)? What is 3(10)?

What equation does that leave?