Simplify 3(x-5)/x^2-3x-10

The question is asking us to simplify; in particular, we have to simplify a fraction. We simplify a fraction by cancelling a factor from both the numerator and the denominator. We can apply this algebraically through factorisation. In our example, we see that the numerator is already factorised so we may leave this. The denominator is a quadratic expression, we may factorise by finding out what multiplies to make our last term (-10) and adds to make our x term (-3). By computation we find this to be -5 and +2. Our factorised form for the denominator is therefore given by:

 x^2-3x-10 = (x-5)(x+2). Combining our results, we find a common factor of (x-5), thus we can cancel (x-5) giving us the simplification: 3(x-5)/x^2-3x-10=3/(x-2)

Answered by Nathan B. Maths tutor

4684 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Solve the simultaneous equation: 2x + y = 5, 3x + 4y = 10


Given that f(x ) = 4x^3 + 12, evaluate f ( −2) .


How do I solve a quadratic equation by factorising?


What is £23 increased by 4%?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences