Math Problem Statement

Solve the following expression: (1/2 + 2/5) / (1/3 - 3)

Solution

Let's solve the given problem step-by-step.

The problem is:

12+25133\frac{\frac{1}{2} + \frac{2}{5}}{\frac{1}{3} - 3}

First, we need to simplify the numerator and the denominator separately.

Simplifying the Numerator:

12+25\frac{1}{2} + \frac{2}{5}

To add these fractions, we need a common denominator. The least common multiple (LCM) of 2 and 5 is 10.

Convert each fraction to have a denominator of 10: 12=1×52×5=510\frac{1}{2} = \frac{1 \times 5}{2 \times 5} = \frac{5}{10} 25=2×25×2=410\frac{2}{5} = \frac{2 \times 2}{5 \times 2} = \frac{4}{10}

Now add the fractions: 510+410=910\frac{5}{10} + \frac{4}{10} = \frac{9}{10}

Simplifying the Denominator:

133\frac{1}{3} - 3

Convert 3 to a fraction with the same denominator: 3=3×31×3=933 = \frac{3 \times 3}{1 \times 3} = \frac{9}{3}

Now subtract the fractions: 1393=193=83\frac{1}{3} - \frac{9}{3} = \frac{1 - 9}{3} = \frac{-8}{3}

Putting it all together:

91083\frac{\frac{9}{10}}{\frac{-8}{3}}

To divide by a fraction, multiply by its reciprocal: 910×38=9×310×8=2780=2780\frac{9}{10} \times \frac{3}{-8} = \frac{9 \times 3}{10 \times -8} = \frac{27}{-80} = -\frac{27}{80}

So the simplified form of the expression is: 2780-\frac{27}{80}

Would you like any details or have any questions about this solution?

Here are five relative questions to further your understanding:

  1. How do you find the least common multiple (LCM) of two numbers?
  2. What is the process for converting a whole number to a fraction?
  3. How can you simplify a complex fraction?
  4. What are some common mistakes to avoid when adding or subtracting fractions?
  5. How do you multiply and divide fractions?

Tip: Always simplify fractions at each step to make calculations easier and avoid mistakes.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Fractions
Addition and Subtraction of Fractions
Division of Fractions

Formulas

Addition of fractions: (a/b + c/d) = (ad + bc) / bd
Subtraction of fractions: (a/b - c/d) = (ad - bc) / bd
Division of fractions: (a/b) / (c/d) = (a/b) * (d/c)

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 6-8