Math Problem Statement

Simplify the expression 2/(x+2) + 3/(x+4).

Solution

The problem shown is:

2x+2+3x+4\frac{2}{x+2} + \frac{3}{x+4}

To solve this, we need to add the two fractions by finding a common denominator.

Step 1: Find the common denominator

The denominators are x+2x+2 and x+4x+4, so the least common denominator (LCD) is (x+2)(x+4)(x+2)(x+4).

Step 2: Rewrite the fractions with the common denominator

2x+2+3x+4=2(x+4)(x+2)(x+4)+3(x+2)(x+2)(x+4)\frac{2}{x+2} + \frac{3}{x+4} = \frac{2(x+4)}{(x+2)(x+4)} + \frac{3(x+2)}{(x+2)(x+4)}

Step 3: Simplify the numerators

Expand the numerators:

2(x+4)=2x+82(x+4) = 2x + 8 3(x+2)=3x+63(x+2) = 3x + 6

Now, the expression becomes:

2x+8(x+2)(x+4)+3x+6(x+2)(x+4)\frac{2x + 8}{(x+2)(x+4)} + \frac{3x + 6}{(x+2)(x+4)}

Step 4: Combine the fractions

Now that the denominators are the same, we can combine the numerators:

(2x+8)+(3x+6)(x+2)(x+4)=5x+14(x+2)(x+4)\frac{(2x + 8) + (3x + 6)}{(x+2)(x+4)} = \frac{5x + 14}{(x+2)(x+4)}

Final Answer:

5x+14(x+2)(x+4)\frac{5x + 14}{(x+2)(x+4)}

Would you like further details on any step or additional explanations? Here are some related questions to explore:

  1. How do you find the least common denominator of two rational expressions?
  2. What is the process of expanding binomials like 2(x+4)2(x+4)?
  3. How do you simplify complex fractions involving polynomials?
  4. What is the importance of factoring in algebraic expressions?
  5. How do restrictions on variables arise in rational expressions?

Tip: When adding fractions with different denominators, always find the least common denominator and rewrite both fractions before combining them.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Rational Expressions
Adding Fractions

Formulas

Least Common Denominator (LCD) of two fractions
Simplifying and combining rational expressions

Theorems

Common denominator for adding fractions
Simplification of rational expressions

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10