Math Problem Statement

solve

Simplify the complex fraction: (x - 6) / 3 divided by (4x - 24) / (x - 3)

Solution

The image asks to simplify the following expression:

x634x24x3\frac{\frac{x - 6}{3}}{\frac{4x - 24}{x - 3}}

Let's work through the simplification step by step:

Step 1: Simplify the numerator and denominator separately

  • The numerator is x63\frac{x - 6}{3}.
  • The denominator is 4x24x3\frac{4x - 24}{x - 3}.

Step 2: Factor where possible

  • The numerator x6x - 6 cannot be factored further, but leave it as is.
  • The denominator 4x244x - 24 can be factored as 4(x6)4(x - 6).

This gives:

x634(x6)x3\frac{\frac{x - 6}{3}}{\frac{4(x - 6)}{x - 3}}

Step 3: Simplify the complex fraction

  • To simplify, multiply by the reciprocal of the denominator: x63×x34(x6)\frac{x - 6}{3} \times \frac{x - 3}{4(x - 6)}

Step 4: Cancel common factors

  • The x6x - 6 terms cancel out, leaving: x312\frac{x - 3}{12}

Final Answer:

The simplified form of the expression is:

x312\frac{x - 3}{12}

Do you have any questions or would you like further details?

Here are five related questions you might consider:

  1. What is a complex fraction and how is it simplified?
  2. Why can we cancel out x6x - 6 in this problem?
  3. How can you factor a polynomial expression like 4x244x - 24?
  4. When is it allowed to multiply by the reciprocal in a fraction?
  5. What happens if x=6x = 6 in this expression?

Tip: Always check for restrictions on variable values (like when a factor becomes zero). For instance, x=6x = 6 would make the original denominator zero.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Rational Expressions
Simplifying Complex Fractions

Formulas

Reciprocal of a fraction: (a/b) / (c/d) = (a/b) * (d/c)

Theorems

Factoring Polynomials

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10