Simplifying Rational Expressions

[AvaHamilton]

the problem : 6x^2/(12x^2-3x)

When I simplified it I came up with the answer : 2x/(4x-1)
I factored out the bottom portion of the original problem to : 3x(4x-1) and then simplified the whole thing.
My teacher graded my paper and said it was wrong and that the top of the problem should be 3x.
I DON'T UNDERSTAND WHY! & I've tried working it several times.

Thanks.

 

[galactus]

Your teacher is incorrect. Last I looked, 6/3=2

\(\displaystyle \frac{6x^{2}}{12x^{2}-3x}\)

\(\displaystyle \frac{6x^{2}}{3x(4x-1)}\)

\(\displaystyle \frac{2x}{4x-1}\)

 

[AvaHamilton]

alright, thanks. I guess even math teachers are human !

 

[galactus]

Yes, it certainly happens. Just bring it to your teachers attention. I am sure you are not the only one in the class wondering the same thing.

 

[mmm4444bot]

I guess even math teachers are human !

In the past, this statement was always true; not any more.