Math Problem Statement

Simplify the expression: (x + 2) / (x - 6) * (3x^2) / (x^2 + 4x + 4)

Solution

The expression shown in the image is:

x+2x63x2x2+4x+4\frac{x+2}{x-6} \cdot \frac{3x^2}{x^2 + 4x + 4}

Let's simplify this step by step:

Step 1: Factor the quadratic denominator

The second denominator is x2+4x+4x^2 + 4x + 4, which can be factored as a perfect square trinomial:

x2+4x+4=(x+2)2x^2 + 4x + 4 = (x+2)^2

Step 2: Rewrite the expression

Now, the expression becomes:

x+2x63x2(x+2)2\frac{x+2}{x-6} \cdot \frac{3x^2}{(x+2)^2}

Step 3: Simplify the common terms

We can cancel one factor of x+2x+2 from both the numerator and denominator:

1x63x2x+2=3x2(x6)(x+2)\frac{1}{x-6} \cdot \frac{3x^2}{x+2} = \frac{3x^2}{(x-6)(x+2)}

Final Expression:

Thus, the simplified form of the expression is:

3x2(x6)(x+2)\frac{3x^2}{(x-6)(x+2)}

Let me know if you would like further details or explanations on this!

Here are 5 questions for practice:

  1. What would happen if x=2x = -2 in the original expression?
  2. What is the domain of the simplified expression?
  3. How do you factor quadratic expressions like x2+4x+4x^2 + 4x + 4?
  4. What are the possible restrictions on xx due to the denominators?
  5. How would the result change if the expression included subtraction instead of multiplication?

Tip: Always check for factoring opportunities in both the numerator and the denominator when simplifying rational expressions.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Simplification of Rational Expressions
Factoring Quadratics

Formulas

Factoring of quadratic expressions
Simplification of fractions

Theorems

Factoring theorem
Multiplication of fractions theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11