Question

Need help with subtracting rational expression with unlike denominators.

Answer 1

Please post your question

Answer 2

\[\frac{ 4a-2 }{ 3a+12 } - \frac{ a-2 }{ a+4 }\]

Answer 3

Hi, do I multiple the denominators to the opposite fraction of the numerator and denominator?

Answer 4

Since you need a common denominator, you would have to multiply the first term (top and bottom ) by a+4...With this in mind what do you think you will then need to multiply the second term by (top and bottom)?

Answer 5

\[\frac{ (a+4)(4a-2) }{ (a+4)(3a+12) } - \frac{ (3a+12)(a-2) }{ (3a+12)(a+4) }\]

Answer 6

Great now you can simplify. Do you know how?

Answer 7

\[\frac{ (a+4)(4a-2) - (3a+12)(a-2) }{ (3a+12)(a+4) }\]

Answer 8

Do I distribute by foiling?

Answer 9

u bet.

Answer 10

:D

Answer 11

Does the denominator stay that way (3a+12)(a+4)

Answer 12

yes

Answer 13

Thank you

Answer 14

you are welcome!

Answer 15

above is correct but whenever you can work with the lowest terms