Math Problem Statement

Simplify the algebraic expression: (x - 4) / (4x - 16)

Solution

The expression provided in the image is:

x44x16\frac{x - 4}{4x - 16}

Simplification:

We can factor the denominator to simplify the expression. Notice that 4x164x - 16 has a common factor of 4:

4x16=4(x4)4x - 16 = 4(x - 4)

Now, the expression becomes:

x44(x4)\frac{x - 4}{4(x - 4)}

Next, we can cancel the common factor x4x - 4 from both the numerator and denominator, assuming x4x \neq 4 (because division by zero is undefined):

14\frac{1}{4}

Thus, the simplified expression is:

14\frac{1}{4}

Final Answer:

x44x16=14, provided x4.\frac{x - 4}{4x - 16} = \frac{1}{4}, \text{ provided } x \neq 4.

Would you like more details on this simplification or have any questions?


Here are 5 related questions for further exploration:

  1. What is the importance of factoring in algebraic expressions?
  2. How do you handle expressions where division by zero might occur?
  3. What are some common strategies for simplifying algebraic fractions?
  4. How can you determine if two expressions are equivalent?
  5. Why is it necessary to state restrictions on variable values, such as x4x \neq 4?

Tip: Always look for common factors in the numerator and denominator of a fraction before attempting more complex operations.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Factoring
Simplifying Rational Expressions

Formulas

a - b / a(b - c) = 1 / b

Theorems

Common Factor Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10