Question

solve: 4/n - 1/2 = -6/(3n)

Answer 1

I'd first identify the LCD (lowest common denominator) of this equation involving fractions.
Then I'd multiply every term by this LCD.
The resulting equation would then have no fractions and thus be easier to solve.
Solve this equation.

Answer 2

Your LCD is ... ?

Answer 3

I thought of that too, but how can i find this LCD?

Answer 4

oh i see, if i find the lcm and simplify 6/3n i get 2/n. Then i can find a lcd

Answer 5

how? N is a factor, but i 2 and 3? "6"?

Answer 6

Not sure you need an "lcm."
Look at the denominators of the several fractions in your equation.
They are n, 2 and 3n, or, in factored form, n, 2 and (3)(n).
As you say, n is one factor of the LCD. 2 is also, and 3 is also. Simply multiply these three together, and then you've got your LCD.

Answer 7

alright, ill try it.

Answer 8

(n)(2)(3) = ?
This is your LCD.

Now multiply each term of your original equation by this LCD. Reduce the resulting equation. It will no longer have fractions.
Solve this new equation.

Answer 9

i think i did this wrong...
17-n=12?

(3)(2)(n)*4/n - 1/2*(3)(2)(n) = 6/3n*(3)(2)(n)?
12+8 - 3 - n = 12

Answer 10

Why?
If 17-n=12, add n to both sides to force n to be positive, and then subtract 12 from both sides. Result? n= ??

Now test this n value by substituting it back into the orginal equation. Is the eq'n now true or false?

Answer 11

false. it doesn't work. n must equal to 12.

Answer 12

Hold a moment. It's most likely an arithmetic error.

Answer 13

I've done the problem myself and find that n does indeed equal 12. What could I do at this point to make this problem solution clearer for you?

Answer 14

\[6n \left( 4/n - 1/2 =-6/(3n) \right)=>?\]

Answer 15

I get
\[24-3n=-12.\]