Math Problem Statement

Simplify the expression \((x - 4)/5 \cdot 1/x + 4/(5x)\)

Solution

The provided mathematical expression in the image is:

B)x451x+45xB) \quad \frac{x - 4}{5} \cdot \frac{1}{x} + \frac{4}{5x}

Let's simplify this step by step:

Step 1: Multiply the first term

The first term is: x451x=(x4)15x=x45x\frac{x - 4}{5} \cdot \frac{1}{x} = \frac{(x - 4) \cdot 1}{5x} = \frac{x - 4}{5x}

So, the expression becomes: x45x+45x\frac{x - 4}{5x} + \frac{4}{5x}

Step 2: Combine the fractions

Since both fractions have the same denominator 5x5x, we can combine them directly: x45x+45x=(x4)+45x\frac{x - 4}{5x} + \frac{4}{5x} = \frac{(x - 4) + 4}{5x}

Simplify the numerator: (x4)+4=x(x - 4) + 4 = x

Thus, the combined fraction is: x5x\frac{x}{5x}

Step 3: Simplify further

Cancel xx in the numerator and denominator (provided x0x \neq 0): x5x=15\frac{x}{5x} = \frac{1}{5}

Final Answer:

15\boxed{\frac{1}{5}}

Let me know if you'd like further clarification or have additional questions!


Related Questions:

  1. How do you handle fractions with different denominators?
  2. What is the domain of this expression? Why must x0x \neq 0?
  3. How can we simplify more complex rational expressions?
  4. Can you explain how to factor expressions like x4x - 4 if needed?
  5. Why does xx cancel out when simplifying x5x\frac{x}{5x}?

Tip:

Always check for restrictions on the variable (e.g., division by zero) before simplifying rational expressions.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Simplification of rational expressions
Basic algebra

Formulas

(a/b) * (c/d) = (a * c) / (b * d)
Addition of fractions with the same denominator

Theorems

Properties of rational expressions

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10