Aim : How do we simplify complex fractions ?
Argh.. ugly math again :(
but lets get started :
lets say one of your teachers gave you this problem :
So when dealing with complex fractions we have to solve it with parts.
First Step : Re-state your problem into parts.
4+
1
x
Second Step : In order to add fractions we need a common denominator.
For Example:
4+
1
1 x = the common denominator would be x.
When you find the common denominator,you have to multiply the common denominator to the fraction that does not have it.
For example:
4 * x =
4x
1 * x = x
Then, combine them
like this :
4x+ 1
x
Third Step : After you have done one part of the expression you go on to the second part.
3+
2
x
2
Do the same steps as before, find a common denominator and multiply it to the fraction that does not have it.
So... x
2 is the common denominator.
So....
3 * x
2 = 3x
2
1 * x
2 = x
2
Unit them :
3x2 +2
x
2
Fourth Step : combine the whole expression.
4x+ 1 (÷) 3x2 +2
x x
2
Fifth Step : If a Expression has a diving symbol always use KFC, to change it to a multiplication.
K : keep
F : flip
C : change the bottom to the top
K F C
4x+ 1 (÷) 3x2 +2
x x
2
Therefore :
4x+ 1 *
x2
x 3x
2+2
Sixth Step: Foil ALL possible pieces.
4x+1 =
4x+1
x = x
X2 = (x) (x)
3x
2+2 = 3x
2+2
so :
4x+ 1 *
(x)(x)
x 3x
2+2
Seventh Step : Cross out what is repeated.
4x+ 1 *
(x)(x)
x 3x
2+2
P.s multiply x to 4x+1
Eight Step : Combine it all together for a final answer.
4x2+x
3x2+2
A Problem :
Works Cited:
Example Problem:
http://www.purplemath.com/modules/compfrac.htm
A Problem :
http://www.regentsprep.org/Regents/math/algtrig/ATV2/simpcomplex.htm