To simplify the expression \( \frac{4}{-2m - 4} \), follow these steps:

### Step 1: Factor the denominator
The denominator is \( -2m - 4 \). We can factor out a \(-2\) from both terms:

\[
-2m - 4 = -2(m + 2)
\]

### Step 2: Rewrite the expression
Now, rewrite the expression using the factored form of the denominator:

\[
\frac{4}{-2(m + 2)}
\]

### Step 3: Simplify the fraction
Now simplify the fraction by dividing the numerator and denominator by 2:

\[
\frac{4}{-2(m + 2)} = \frac{4 \div 2}{-2 \div 2(m + 2)} = \frac{2}{-(m + 2)}
\]

This simplifies to:

\[
\frac{2}{-(m + 2)} = \frac{-2}{m + 2}
\]

### Final Answer:
\[
\frac{4}{-2m - 4} = \frac{-2}{m + 2}
\]

Would you like more details or have any questions?

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Here are 5 related questions:
1. How do you simplify expressions with variables in the denominator?
2. What happens if you have a negative in the numerator instead?
3. How do you factor more complicated quadratic expressions?
4. How can you check if your simplification is correct?
5. How do you deal with expressions where both numerator and denominator contain variables?

**Tip:** Always look for common factors in the numerator and denominator to simplify fractions easily!

Learn how to simplify the rational expression 4/(-2m - 4) by factoring and reducing common terms. This detailed step-by-step guide demonstrates key algebraic techniques like factoring and fraction simplification, ideal for students in Grades 8-10.

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