Multiply each expression by the necessary factor

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 109 views

Introduction

Rational expressions are a fundamental concept in algebra, and they play a crucial role in solving various mathematical problems. In this article, we will explore the sum of rational expressions, which is a critical operation in algebraic manipulations. We will examine the given rational expressions, $\frac{x}{2} + \frac{7}{9x}$ , and determine their sum.

Understanding Rational Expressions

A rational expression is a fraction that contains variables and/or constants in the numerator and/or denominator. Rational expressions can be added, subtracted, multiplied, and divided, just like regular fractions. However, when adding or subtracting rational expressions, we must have a common denominator.

Finding the Sum of Rational Expressions

To find the sum of the given rational expressions, $\frac{x}{2} + \frac{7}{9x}$ , we need to follow the steps below:

Identify the denominators: The denominators of the given rational expressions are 2 and 9x.
Find the least common multiple (LCM): The LCM of 2 and 9x is 18x.
Multiply each expression by the necessary factor: To make the denominators of both expressions equal to 18x, we need to multiply the first expression by $\frac{9x}{9x}$ and the second expression by $\frac{2}{2}$ .
Add the expressions: Now that the denominators are the same, we can add the numerators: $\frac{x \cdot 9x}{2 \cdot 9x} + \frac{7 \cdot 2}{9x \cdot 2} = \frac{9x^2}{18x} + \frac{14}{18x}$ .
Combine the fractions: Since the denominators are the same, we can combine the fractions by adding the numerators: $\frac{9x^2 + 14}{18x}$ .

Conclusion

The sum of the rational expressions $\frac{x}{2} + \frac{7}{9x}$ is $\frac{9x^2 + 14}{18x}$ . This result is obtained by following the steps of finding the least common multiple, multiplying each expression by the necessary factor, adding the expressions, and combining the fractions.

Comparison with Other Options

Let's compare our result with the other options:

A. $\frac{x-7}{9x+2}$ : This expression is not the sum of the given rational expressions.
B. $\frac{x+7}{18x}$ : This expression is not the sum of the given rational expressions.
C. $\frac{9x^2+14}{9x+2}$ : This expression is not the sum of the given rational expressions.
D. $\frac{9x^2+14}{18x}$ : This expression is the sum of the given rational expressions.

Final Answer

The final answer is $\boxed{\frac{9x^2+14}{18x}}$ .

Introduction

Rational expressions are a fundamental concept in algebra, and they play a crucial role in solving various mathematical problems. In this article, we will address some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about rational expressions, including their definition, properties, and operations.

Q: What is a rational expression?

A: A rational expression is a fraction that contains variables and/or constants in the numerator and/or denominator. Rational expressions can be added, subtracted, multiplied, and divided, just like regular fractions.

Q: What are the properties of rational expressions?

A: Rational expressions have several properties, including:

Closure property: Rational expressions are closed under addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
Commutative property: Rational expressions can be added or multiplied in any order.
Associative property: Rational expressions can be added or multiplied in any order.
Distributive property: Rational expressions can be multiplied by a single term.

Q: How do I add rational expressions?

A: To add rational expressions, you need to follow these steps:

Identify the denominators: The denominators of the given rational expressions.
Find the least common multiple (LCM): The LCM of the denominators.
Multiply each expression by the necessary factor: To make the denominators of both expressions equal to the LCM.
Add the expressions: Now that the denominators are the same, you can add the numerators.
Combine the fractions: Since the denominators are the same, you can combine the fractions by adding the numerators.

Q: How do I subtract rational expressions?

A: To subtract rational expressions, you need to follow these steps:

Identify the denominators: The denominators of the given rational expressions.
Find the least common multiple (LCM): The LCM of the denominators.
Multiply each expression by the necessary factor: To make the denominators of both expressions equal to the LCM.
Subtract the expressions: Now that the denominators are the same, you can subtract the numerators.
Combine the fractions: Since the denominators are the same, you can combine the fractions by subtracting the numerators.

Q: How do I multiply rational expressions?

A: To multiply rational expressions, you need to follow these steps:

Multiply the numerators: The numerators of the given rational expressions.
Multiply the denominators: The denominators of the given rational expressions.
Simplify the expression: Simplify the resulting expression by canceling out any common factors.

Q: How do I divide rational expressions?

A: To divide rational expressions, you need to follow these steps:

Invert the divisor: Invert the second rational expression.
Multiply the numerators: The numerators of the given rational expressions.
Multiply the denominators: The denominators of the given rational expressions.
Simplify the expression: Simplify the resulting expression by canceling out any common factors.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when working with rational expressions?

A: Some common mistakes to avoid when working with rational expressions include:

Not finding the least common multiple (LCM): Failing to find the LCM can lead to incorrect results.
Not multiplying each expression by the necessary factor: Failing to multiply each expression by the necessary factor can lead to incorrect results.
Not simplifying the expression: Failing to simplify the expression can lead to incorrect results.

Conclusion

Rational expressions are a fundamental concept in algebra, and they play a crucial role in solving various mathematical problems. By understanding the properties and operations of rational expressions, you can solve a wide range of mathematical problems. Remember to avoid common mistakes and follow the steps outlined in this article to ensure accurate results.

Final Answer

The final answer is $\boxed{0}$ , as this article is a Q&A and does not have a numerical answer.