Simplify the following algebraic fraction; (3x^2 - x - 2) / ((1/2)x + (1/3)).

First we need to factorise the numerator into two expressions. We can see one expression must start (3x + ?) and the other therefore must hold (x + ?), we know this because the two brackets must multiply together to generate 3x2. Now we need to consider two numbers that will multiply together to give -2, this can be either +1 and -2 or -1 and +2. To gain the required -x in the original expression we see our factorisation must read: (3x +2)(x-1).Now we want to remove the fractional coefficients in the demonimator. We can do this by multiplying the top and bottom by 2x3=6 to get: (6(3x+2)(x-1))/(3x+2).The final step is to cancel terms in the demoninator and numerator that are equal. Cancelling (3x+2) leaves us with the simplified expression; 6(x-1).

BL
Answered by Bobbi L. Maths tutor

4213 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

The curve C has equation y = x^3 - 2x^2 - x + 9, x > 0. The point P has coordinates (2, 7). Show that P lies on C.


Use integration by parts to find the value of the indefinite integral (1/x^3)lnx ; integration with respect to dx


If we have a vector 4x + 6y + z and another vector 3x +11y + 2z then what is the angle between the two?Give the answer in radians


How do I do this question: A small stone is projected vertically upwards from the point A with speed 11.2 m/s. Find the maximum height above A reached by the stone.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning