SOLUTION: when multiplying the equation, to eliminate a fraction, I multiplied both sides by the denominator in the fraction. do i also need to multiply the whole number. For example:

Algebra ->  Coordinate Systems and Linear Equations  -> Lessons -> SOLUTION: when multiplying the equation, to eliminate a fraction, I multiplied both sides by the denominator in the fraction. do i also need to multiply the whole number. For example:       Log On


   

Question 370880: when multiplying the equation, to eliminate a fraction, I multiplied both sides by the denominator in the fraction. do i also need to multiply the whole number.
For example: 2/9x = 4/3x + 5
When multiplying both sides by 3, do i also need to multiply 5 by three as well?
Answer by ankor@dixie-net.com(22740) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
For example: 2/9x = 4/3x + 5
You want to multiply each term (including 5), but I think you want to multiply by 9
Assuming the problem is:
2%2F9x = 4%2F3x + 5
multiply by 9
9*2%2F9x = 9*4%2F3x + 9(5)
cancel the denominators
2x = 3(4x) + 45
2x = 12x + 45
2x - 12x = 45
-10x = 45
x = 45%2F%28-10%29
x = -4.5
:
:
Check this in the original problem
2%2F9(-4.5) = 4%2F3(-4.5) + 5
9 and 3 will cancel into 4.5, using decimals
2(-.5) = 4(-1.5) + 5
-1 = -6 + 5
-1 = -1