Math Problem Statement

Simplify the given algebraic expression involving fractions.

Solution

The expression shown in the image is:

12+b412+b3\frac{\frac{1}{2} + \frac{b}{4}}{\frac{1}{2} + \frac{b}{3}}

To simplify this expression, follow these steps:

1. Simplify the Numerator and Denominator:

  • Numerator: 12+b4\frac{1}{2} + \frac{b}{4}

    • Find a common denominator for the terms. The common denominator for 22 and 44 is 44.
    • Rewrite 12\frac{1}{2} as 24\frac{2}{4}.
    • So, the numerator becomes 24+b4=2+b4\frac{2}{4} + \frac{b}{4} = \frac{2 + b}{4}.
  • Denominator: 12+b3\frac{1}{2} + \frac{b}{3}

    • Find a common denominator for the terms. The common denominator for 22 and 33 is 66.
    • Rewrite 12\frac{1}{2} as 36\frac{3}{6} and b3\frac{b}{3} as 2b6\frac{2b}{6}.
    • So, the denominator becomes 36+2b6=3+2b6\frac{3}{6} + \frac{2b}{6} = \frac{3 + 2b}{6}.

2. Substitute Back:

Now the expression becomes:

2+b43+2b6\frac{\frac{2 + b}{4}}{\frac{3 + 2b}{6}}

3. Simplify the Fraction:

To simplify this complex fraction, multiply by the reciprocal of the denominator:

2+b4×63+2b=(2+b)×64×(3+2b)=6(2+b)4(3+2b)\frac{2 + b}{4} \times \frac{6}{3 + 2b} = \frac{(2 + b) \times 6}{4 \times (3 + 2b)} = \frac{6(2 + b)}{4(3 + 2b)}

4. Simplify Further:

Simplify the coefficients:

6(2+b)4(3+2b)=3(2+b)2(3+2b)\frac{6(2 + b)}{4(3 + 2b)} = \frac{3(2 + b)}{2(3 + 2b)}

This is the simplified form of the expression.

Would you like any further details or have any questions?

Here are some related questions you might find helpful:

  1. How do you simplify complex fractions in general?
  2. What are the rules for finding a common denominator?
  3. How do you multiply and divide fractions?
  4. Can this expression be simplified further under certain conditions?
  5. What happens if b=0b = 0 in this expression?

Tip: When simplifying fractions, always look for opportunities to factor and cancel common terms to achieve the simplest form.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Fractions
Simplification

Formulas

Common denominator: a/b + c/d = (ad + bc)/bd
Simplification of complex fractions: (a/b) / (c/d) = (a * d) / (b * c)

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12