Multiplying Each Term by 12

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 109 views

What can each term of the equation be multiplied by to eliminate the fractions before solving?

Understanding the Problem

To eliminate the fractions in the given equation, we need to find the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators. The equation is $${\frac{1}{2}x - \frac{5}{4} + 2x = \frac{5}{6} + x}$$. The denominators are 2, 4, and 6. The LCM of these denominators is 12.

Finding the LCM

The LCM of 2, 4, and 6 is 12. This means that we can multiply each term in the equation by 12 to eliminate the fractions.

Multiplying Each Term by 12

To eliminate the fractions, we multiply each term in the equation by 12.

{\frac{1}{2}x \times 12 - \frac{5}{4} \times 12 + 2x \times 12 = \frac{5}{6} \times 12 + x \times 12}

This simplifies to:

{6x - 15 + 24x = 10 + 12x}

Simplifying the Equation

Now that we have eliminated the fractions, we can simplify the equation by combining like terms.

{6x + 24x - 15 = 10 + 12x}

This simplifies to:

{30x - 15 = 10 + 12x}

Solving for x

To solve for x, we need to isolate the variable x on one side of the equation.

{30x - 12x = 10 + 15}

This simplifies to:

{18x = 25}

Final Solution

To find the value of x, we divide both sides of the equation by 18.

{x = \frac{25}{18}}

Conclusion

In conclusion, to eliminate the fractions in the given equation, we need to multiply each term by the LCM of the denominators, which is 12. This simplifies the equation and allows us to solve for x.

Answer

The correct answer is D. 12.

Discussion

This problem requires the student to understand the concept of least common multiple (LCM) and how to eliminate fractions in an equation. The student must also be able to simplify the equation and solve for the variable x.

Tips and Tricks

To eliminate fractions in an equation, find the LCM of the denominators and multiply each term by that number.
Simplify the equation by combining like terms.
Isolate the variable x on one side of the equation to solve for x.

Understanding the Concept

Eliminating fractions in equations is a crucial step in solving algebraic problems. In the previous article, we discussed how to eliminate fractions by finding the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators and multiplying each term by that number. In this article, we will answer some frequently asked questions about eliminating fractions in equations.

Q: What is the least common multiple (LCM)?

A: The least common multiple (LCM) is the smallest number that is a multiple of two or more numbers. In the context of eliminating fractions, the LCM is the smallest number that is a multiple of all the denominators in the equation.

Q: How do I find the LCM of two or more numbers?

A: To find the LCM of two or more numbers, you can list the multiples of each number and find the smallest number that appears in all the lists. Alternatively, you can use the following formula:

LCM(a, b) = (a × b) / GCD(a, b)

where GCD(a, b) is the greatest common divisor of a and b.

Q: What is the greatest common divisor (GCD)?

A: The greatest common divisor (GCD) is the largest number that divides two or more numbers without leaving a remainder. In the context of eliminating fractions, the GCD is used to find the LCM.

Q: How do I eliminate fractions in an equation?

A: To eliminate fractions in an equation, follow these steps:

Find the LCM of the denominators in the equation.
Multiply each term in the equation by the LCM.
Simplify the equation by combining like terms.
Isolate the variable x on one side of the equation to solve for x.

Q: What if the LCM is not a whole number?

A: If the LCM is not a whole number, you can multiply each term in the equation by the smallest whole number that is a multiple of the LCM. This will eliminate the fractions and allow you to solve the equation.

Q: Can I eliminate fractions in an equation by multiplying each term by a different number?

A: No, you cannot eliminate fractions in an equation by multiplying each term by a different number. The LCM must be the same for all terms in the equation.

Q: How do I know if I have eliminated all the fractions in an equation?

A: To check if you have eliminated all the fractions in an equation, look for any remaining fractions in the equation. If you find any, you may need to multiply each term by a larger multiple of the LCM.

Q: What if I make a mistake and eliminate the wrong fractions in an equation?

A: If you make a mistake and eliminate the wrong fractions in an equation, you may end up with an incorrect solution. To avoid this, make sure to carefully follow the steps for eliminating fractions and double-check your work.

Conclusion

Eliminating fractions in equations is a crucial step in solving algebraic problems. By understanding the concept of least common multiple (LCM) and following the steps for eliminating fractions, you can solve equations with ease. Remember to carefully follow the steps and double-check your work to avoid making mistakes.

Tips and Tricks

Make sure to find the LCM of the denominators in the equation.
Multiply each term in the equation by the LCM.
Simplify the equation by combining like terms.
Isolate the variable x on one side of the equation to solve for x.
Double-check your work to avoid making mistakes.