How do I simplify..

Question

4   +   5   = 13

y        2y

Answer 1

(4/y) + (5/2y) = 13

 

Put the two rational expressions on the left over a common denominator (2y) so you can add them:

 

(4/y)*(2/2) + (5/2y) = 13

 

8/2y + 5/2y = 13

 

13/2y = 13

 

13 = 13*2y                   [Multiplied both sides by 2y]

 

13/13 = 2y                    [Divided both sides by 13]

 

1 = 2y

 

1/2 = y                        [Divided both sides by 2]

 

CHECK:

(4/y) + (5/2y) = 13

4/(1/2) + 5/2(1/2) = 13

8 + 5 = 13

13 = 13