SOLUTION: 18x/x^2-5x-36 + 2x/x+4 I am not sure how to add rational equations. I was told to take the number that is largest and use it as the common denominator. Does the largest number h

Algebra ->  Equations -> SOLUTION: 18x/x^2-5x-36 + 2x/x+4 I am not sure how to add rational equations. I was told to take the number that is largest and use it as the common denominator. Does the largest number h      Log On


   

Question 158074: 18x/x^2-5x-36 + 2x/x+4
I am not sure how to add rational equations. I was told to take the number that is largest and use it as the common denominator. Does the largest number have to have a variable with it? Please show me how to work this out. Thanks so much!
Answer by Earlsdon(6294) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Simplify:
%2818x%2F%28x%5E2-5x-36%29%29%2B%282x%2F%28x%2B4%29%29 Did I get this right? If so, then factor the denominator of the first fraction.
%2818x%2F%28x%2B4%29%28x-9%29%29%2B%282x%2F%28x%2B4%29%29 The common denominator is %28%28x%2B4%29%29%28%28x-9%29%29 so multiply the second fraction by:%28x-9%29%2F%28x-9%29 to get:
%2818x%2F%28x%2B4%29%28x-9%29%29%2B%282x%28x-9%29%2F%28x%2B4%29%28x-9%29%29 Perform the indicated addition.
%2818x%2B2x%28x-9%29%29%2F%28x%2B4%29%28x-9%29 Simplify.
highlight%282x%5E2%2F%28x%5E2-5x-36%29%29