A number less it reciprocal is 8/3. What is the number?

Question

directrix · Answer

Let n be the number.
The reciprocal of n is 1/n provided n is not zero.

So, solve this equation for n:

n - (1/n) = (8/3)

anonymous · Answer

n-(1/n)-(8/3)=0

I can't factor it so what will i do next?

directrix · Answer

Take the equation:

n - (1/n) = (8/3)  --> multiply each member by (3n)

That will clear the fractions.

Post what you get, okay?

directrix · Answer

@danielle02   How is the equation solving coming along?

anonymous · Answer

3x^2-8x-3=0

anonymous · Answer

@Directrix  is that correct?

directrix · Answer

Yes. N is now x.

Next step: Factor   3x^2-8x-3=0

directrix · Answer

What are two numbers that multiply to -9 and add to -8?

anonymous · Answer

(x-3)(3x+1)

anonymous · Answer

x1=3 and x2=-1/3

directrix · Answer

I think there will be two sets of solutions. Let's see.

anonymous · Answer

anonymous · Answer

If u need help we will explain

anonymous · Answer

Thanks!

directrix · Answer

>> A number less it reciprocal is 8/3.

If x = 3, then 3 -1/3 has to be 8/3.

If x = -1/3, then -1/3 - 3/1 has to be 8/3.

directrix · Answer

Now, I think there is only one solution because this is not true:
If x = -1/3, then -1/3 - 3/1 has to be 8/3.

directrix · Answer

So, the number would just be 3.