Operations with algebraic fractions

Question

How do i simplify this:  3 / b + 2 x b^2 +2b / 6a-3

 

The / is a fraction by the way.

 

 

Answer 1

Hi Isaiah,

 

To simplify the problem, you have to remember the rules for adding and subtracting fractions. Since each fraction is already in its simplest form, start by find your least common denominator (LCD). To identify your LCD, look at the denominators of your three fractions. The first denominator is b, the second is 1, and the third is (6a-3). They don't share any factors so you have to multiply all the denominators so the LCD = b(6a-3).

 

From here, you must convert the fractions so they have common denominators by multiplying each fraction by what is missing from the denominator. For example, the 3/b is missing (6a-3) so you must multiply 3 by (6a-3). This gives you [3(6a-3)]/[b(6a-3)]. Do not reduce otherwise you will end up back where you started.

 

Once you have converted the fractions, you can add the numerators together and simplify. Afterwards, put your simplified numerator over the LCD and simplify further if possible.