Math Problem Statement

x2-x-12 x-4 --------- x ----------- 3x-9 12

Solution

The given expression is:

x2x123x9×x412\frac{x^2 - x - 12}{3x - 9} \times \frac{x - 4}{12}

Let's simplify it step by step.

Step 1: Factorize where possible

  1. Factor the numerator x2x12x^2 - x - 12: x2x12=(x4)(x+3)x^2 - x - 12 = (x - 4)(x + 3)

  2. Factor the denominator 3x93x - 9: 3x9=3(x3)3x - 9 = 3(x - 3)

Now, substitute these factors back into the expression:

(x4)(x+3)3(x3)×x412\frac{(x - 4)(x + 3)}{3(x - 3)} \times \frac{x - 4}{12}

Step 2: Combine the expressions

Now, multiply the two fractions:

(x4)(x+3)3(x3)×x412=(x4)(x+3)(x4)3×12×(x3)\frac{(x - 4)(x + 3)}{3(x - 3)} \times \frac{x - 4}{12} = \frac{(x - 4)(x + 3)(x - 4)}{3 \times 12 \times (x - 3)}

Step 3: Simplify the expression

Multiply the constants in the denominator:

3×12=363 \times 12 = 36

So, the expression becomes:

(x4)2(x+3)36(x3)\frac{(x - 4)^2(x + 3)}{36(x - 3)}

This is the simplified form of the expression.

Would you like further details or have any questions?

Here are 5 related questions:

  1. How do you factor quadratic expressions in general?
  2. What is the difference between simplifying and factoring?
  3. How do you handle expressions with multiple fractions?
  4. Can this expression be further simplified if given a specific value for xx?
  5. What are the common mistakes to avoid when simplifying algebraic fractions?

Tip: Always check for common factors in the numerator and denominator before multiplying fractions to simplify the process.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Factoring
Simplification of Algebraic Fractions

Formulas

Factoring quadratics: ax^2 + bx + c = (mx + n)(px + q)
Simplification of fractions

Theorems

Factor Theorem
Multiplication of Fractions

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10