Solve the following expression:
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Solve the following expression:
According to the order of operations rules, we will first address the expression in parentheses.
The common denominator between the fractions is 6, so we will multiply each numerator by the number needed to make its denominator reach 6.
We will multiply the first fraction's numerator by 2 and the second fraction's numerator by 3:
Now we have the expression:
We will use the distributive property and get the result:
\( \frac{2}{4}+\frac{1}{4}= \)\( \)
While mathematically correct, it makes the problem much harder! You'd get , which requires finding a common denominator with variables. Following order of operations keeps it simple.
List the multiples of each: 3: 3, 6, 9, 12... and 2: 2, 4, 6, 8... The smallest number that appears in both lists is 6.
Distribution means multiplying x by the entire result in parentheses. Once you get inside the parentheses, you multiply:
The expression asks for , not just what's in parentheses. You must keep the x as part of your final answer:
Absolutely! Both and mean exactly the same thing. Choose whichever format your teacher prefers.
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