Not canceling out the fraction

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 91 views

$Not canceling out the fraction$

Introduction

Equations with fractions can be intimidating, but with the right approach, they can be solved with ease. In this article, we will explore the equation $\frac{2}{5} y=20$ and determine whether each statement is True or False. We will also provide a step-by-step guide on how to solve equations with fractions.

Statement a: You can solve the equation by multiplying both sides by $\frac{5}{2}$

To determine whether this statement is True or False, let's analyze the equation $\frac{2}{5} y=20$ . If we multiply both sides by $\frac{5}{2}$ , we get:

\frac{2}{5} y \times \frac{5}{2} = 20 \times \frac{5}{2}

Simplifying the left-hand side, we get:

y = 20 \times \frac{5}{2}

Now, let's simplify the right-hand side:

y = 50

So, if we multiply both sides by $\frac{5}{2}$ , we get the correct solution, which is $y=50$ . Therefore, Statement a is True.

Why Does This Work?

Multiplying both sides of an equation by a fraction is a common technique used to solve equations with fractions. When we multiply both sides by a fraction, we are essentially canceling out the fraction on the left-hand side. In this case, multiplying both sides by $\frac{5}{2}$ cancels out the $\frac{2}{5}$ on the left-hand side, leaving us with the variable $y$ on the left-hand side and the constant $50$ on the right-hand side.

Statement b: You can solve the equation by dividing both sides by $\frac{2}{5}$

To determine whether this statement is True or False, let's analyze the equation $\frac{2}{5} y=20$ . If we divide both sides by $\frac{2}{5}$ , we get:

\frac{\frac{2}{5} y}{\frac{2}{5}} = \frac{20}{\frac{2}{5}}

Simplifying the left-hand side, we get:

y = \frac{20}{\frac{2}{5}}

Now, let's simplify the right-hand side:

y = 20 \times \frac{5}{2}

y = 50

So, if we divide both sides by $\frac{2}{5}$ , we get the correct solution, which is $y=50$ . Therefore, Statement b is True.

Why Does This Work?

Dividing both sides of an equation by a fraction is another common technique used to solve equations with fractions. When we divide both sides by a fraction, we are essentially canceling out the fraction on the left-hand side. In this case, dividing both sides by $\frac{2}{5}$ cancels out the $\frac{2}{5}$ on the left-hand side, leaving us with the variable $y$ on the left-hand side and the constant $50$ on the right-hand side.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we have shown that both statements a and b are True. We can solve the equation $\frac{2}{5} y=20$ by multiplying both sides by $\frac{5}{2}$ or dividing both sides by $\frac{2}{5}$ . These techniques are useful when solving equations with fractions, and they can be applied to a wide range of problems.

Step-by-Step Guide to Solving Equations with Fractions

Here is a step-by-step guide to solving equations with fractions:

Identify the fraction: Identify the fraction on the left-hand side of the equation.
Determine the operation: Determine whether you need to multiply or divide both sides by the fraction.
Cancel out the fraction: Cancel out the fraction on the left-hand side by multiplying or dividing both sides by the fraction.
Simplify the equation: Simplify the equation by combining like terms.
Check the solution: Check the solution by plugging it back into the original equation.

By following these steps, you can solve equations with fractions with ease.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When solving equations with fractions, there are several common mistakes to avoid:

Not canceling out the fraction: Failing to cancel out the fraction on the left-hand side can lead to incorrect solutions.
Not simplifying the equation: Failing to simplify the equation can lead to incorrect solutions.
Not checking the solution: Failing to check the solution can lead to incorrect solutions.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your solutions are accurate and reliable.

Conclusion

$In conclusion, solving equations with fractions is a straightforward process that requires a few simple steps. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common mistakes, you can solve equations with fractions with ease. Whether you are a student or a professional, understanding how to solve equations with fractions is an essential skill that can be applied to a wide range of problems.<br/> **Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Solving Equations with Fractions**$

Q: What is the first step in solving an equation with fractions?

A: The first step in solving an equation with fractions is to identify the fraction on the left-hand side of the equation.

Q: How do I determine whether to multiply or divide both sides by the fraction?

A: To determine whether to multiply or divide both sides by the fraction, you need to look at the fraction on the left-hand side of the equation. If the fraction is in the numerator, you need to multiply both sides by the reciprocal of the fraction. If the fraction is in the denominator, you need to divide both sides by the fraction.

Q: What is the reciprocal of a fraction?

A: The reciprocal of a fraction is obtained by swapping the numerator and the denominator. For example, the reciprocal of $\frac{2}{5}$ is $\frac{5}{2}$ .

Q: How do I cancel out the fraction on the left-hand side?

A: To cancel out the fraction on the left-hand side, you need to multiply or divide both sides by the fraction. This will eliminate the fraction on the left-hand side, leaving you with a simple equation.

Q: What is the next step after canceling out the fraction?

A: After canceling out the fraction, the next step is to simplify the equation by combining like terms.

Q: How do I simplify the equation?

A: To simplify the equation, you need to combine like terms. This involves adding or subtracting the coefficients of the variables.

Q: What is the final step in solving an equation with fractions?

A: The final step in solving an equation with fractions is to check the solution by plugging it back into the original equation.

Q: Why is it important to check the solution?

A: It is essential to check the solution to ensure that it is accurate and reliable. If the solution is not correct, it can lead to incorrect conclusions and decisions.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when solving equations with fractions?

A: Some common mistakes to avoid when solving equations with fractions include:

Not canceling out the fraction
Not simplifying the equation
Not checking the solution

Q: How can I practice solving equations with fractions?

A: You can practice solving equations with fractions by working through examples and exercises. You can also use online resources and practice tests to help you improve your skills.

Q: What are some real-world applications of solving equations with fractions?

A: Solving equations with fractions has many real-world applications, including:

Finance: Solving equations with fractions is used in finance to calculate interest rates and investment returns.
Science: Solving equations with fractions is used in science to calculate rates of change and motion.
Engineering: Solving equations with fractions is used in engineering to calculate stress and strain on materials.

Conclusion

In conclusion, solving equations with fractions is a fundamental skill that is used in many areas of mathematics and science. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common mistakes, you can solve equations with fractions with ease. Whether you are a student or a professional, understanding how to solve equations with fractions is an essential skill that can be applied to a wide range of problems.