What expression is equivalent to the complex fraction (-frac{2}{x} + …

Mathematics Questions

Which expression is equivalent to the following complex fraction? -2/x+5/y/3/y-2/x

Short Answer

To simplify a complex fraction, first identify the Least Common Denominator (LCD), which for denominators x and y is xy. Multiply each term in the fraction by the LCD to eliminate complexity, and then simplify the resulting expression to get -2(y-2)(3xy)/(x^2 + 5xy).

Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Identify the LCD

To simplify the complex fraction, we first need to determine the Least Common Denominator (LCD) of the fractions involved. In this case, the individual denominators are x and y. The LCD for these terms is xy, as it incorporates both variables.

Step 2: Multiply by the LCD

Next, we multiply every term in both the numerator and the denominator by the LCD (xy). This step is crucial because it will help eliminate the complex formatting of the fraction. The expression will look like this after multiplication:

  • -2 * (y-2)/x * (3/y) * xy/(x+5y)

Doing this allows us to simplify the expression further.

Step 3: Simplify the Expression

Finally, once the multiplication is complete, we can simplify the expression. After all calculations are done, you arrive at the simplified equivalent fraction:

  • -2(y-2)(3xy)/(x^2 + 5xy)

This is now the simplified form of the original complex fraction.

Related Concepts

Least Common Denominator (Lcd)

The smallest number or expression that can be a common denominator for a set of fractions, allowing them to be combined or simplified.

Complex Fraction

A fraction where the numerator, the denominator, or both contain fractions themselves, making them more complicated to simplify.

Simplification

The process of reducing a mathematical expression to its most straightforward or usable form, often by eliminating complex components like fractions or combining like terms.

Scroll to Top