Math Problem Statement

Simplify the expression (2a + 3b) / (1/a + 2/b).

Solution

The expression shown in the image is:

2a+3b1a+2b\frac{2a + 3b}{\frac{1}{a} + \frac{2}{b}}

Let's simplify this step by step.

Step 1: Simplify the denominator

The denominator is the sum of two fractions: 1a+2b\frac{1}{a} + \frac{2}{b}. To add them, we need a common denominator.

1a+2b=bab+2aab=b+2aab\frac{1}{a} + \frac{2}{b} = \frac{b}{ab} + \frac{2a}{ab} = \frac{b + 2a}{ab}

So, the expression now becomes:

2a+3bb+2aab\frac{2a + 3b}{\frac{b + 2a}{ab}}

Step 2: Simplify the entire expression

When dividing by a fraction, we multiply by its reciprocal. So we have:

2a+3bb+2aab=(2a+3b)×abb+2a\frac{2a + 3b}{\frac{b + 2a}{ab}} = (2a + 3b) \times \frac{ab}{b + 2a}

Now, notice that b+2ab + 2a in the denominator is the same as 2a+b2a + b in the numerator (just the terms in a different order). Therefore, the two terms cancel out:

(2a+3b)×abb+2a=3bab=3ab(2a + 3b) \times \frac{ab}{b + 2a} = 3b \cdot ab = 3ab

Thus, the simplified expression is:

3ab3ab

Let me know if you need further details or have any questions!


Here are 5 related questions that you may find helpful:

  1. How do you add fractions with different denominators?
  2. What is the difference between simplifying an expression and solving an equation?
  3. How do you multiply and divide algebraic expressions?
  4. What is the process for finding the reciprocal of a fraction?
  5. Can this technique be applied to more complex rational expressions?

Tip: Always look for common factors in both the numerator and the denominator when simplifying algebraic fractions. This helps to reduce the expression faster!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Rational Expressions
Fraction Operations

Formulas

Addition of fractions with different denominators: (1/a + 2/b) = (b + 2a) / ab
Reciprocal of a fraction
Multiplication of fractions

Theorems

Properties of Fractions
Simplification of Rational Expressions

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-10