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

4530 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

How can I find the correct list of solutions whilst solving a trigonometry equation?


Why do I have to add +c when I integrate?


Find the coordinates of the point of intersection of the lines y = 5x - 2 and x + 3y = 8.


A school has 1200 pupils. 575 of these pupils are girls. 2/5 of the girls like sports. 3/5 of the boys like sport. Work out the total number of pupils in the school who like sport.


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