Question from Chris:
Algebra 1 chapter 11 lesson 2 problem 5h:
I see that you can cross out the (x + 7) in the numerator & denominator to get 3 /(x +3). Why can’t you simplify further by cancelling 3/3 so that the final answer is 1/x? Thanks
Answer from Dr. Callahan:
Chris,
You must handle everything added together as one.
Because when you divide 3 by x+ 3 = you cannot simplify
For instance, simplifying is all about making a simpler form, but the answer is still the same.
If you have 3/3x and you let x=1, the answer is just 3
If you simply 3/3x tp 1/x and let x = 1, you still get one.
Simplifying does not change the problem.
Now in your case, try to set x=1.
3/(x+3) when x =1 is 3/4
but if we change to 1/x and let x=1, you get 1. So you know it is wrong.
Hope this helps.
dwc
