Math Problem Statement

Simplify the expression 5x(x - y) / x^3(y - x).

Solution

The expression provided in the image is:

5x(xy)x3(yx)\frac{5x(x - y)}{x^3(y - x)}

Let's simplify this step by step.

Step 1: Factor out common terms

Notice that (yx)(y - x) can be rewritten as (xy)-(x - y). Using this, we rewrite the denominator:

5x(xy)x3((xy))=5x(xy)x3(xy)\frac{5x(x - y)}{x^3(-(x - y))} = \frac{5x(x - y)}{-x^3(x - y)}

Step 2: Cancel out the common factor (xy)(x - y)

Assuming xyx \neq y to avoid division by zero, we can cancel out (xy)(x - y) from the numerator and denominator:

5xx3\frac{5x}{-x^3}

Step 3: Simplify the remaining expression

Now simplify the fraction:

5xx3=5x2\frac{5x}{-x^3} = -\frac{5}{x^2}

Final Answer:

The simplified form of the given expression is:

5x2-\frac{5}{x^2}

Would you like more details or have any questions?


Here are five questions related to this expression:

  1. How does rewriting yxy - x as (xy)-(x - y) simplify the problem?
  2. Why is it important to specify that xyx \neq y?
  3. What happens if x=yx = y?
  4. How would the problem change if the denominator had an additional term like x4x^4?
  5. Can this simplified expression be used to find limits as x0x \to 0?

Tip: Always check for terms that can be factored or canceled to simplify expressions quickly!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Simplification of Rational Expressions
Factorization

Formulas

Rewriting y - x as -(x - y)
Simplification of fractions
Cancelling common factors

Theorems

Factorization and Cancellation

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12