SOLUTION: hello, how do i solve this please: (1/a + 1/b)x=1 for x I would like to learn the steps as well. Thanks.

Algebra ->  Equations -> SOLUTION: hello, how do i solve this please: (1/a + 1/b)x=1 for x I would like to learn the steps as well. Thanks.      Log On


   

Question 845057: hello, how do i solve this please:
(1/a + 1/b)x=1 for x
I would like to learn the steps as well.
Thanks.
Found 2 solutions by richard1234, richwmiller:
Answer by richard1234(7193) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Multiply both sides by (1/a + 1/b):



The denominator can be simplified by using the GCD:


Answer by richwmiller(17219) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
you want to leave just x on one side.
Divide both sides by (1/a + 1/b)
x=1/(1/a + 1/b)
or
(1/a + 1/b)x=1
x/a+x/b=1
get common denominator
xb/ab+xa/ab=1
(xb+xa)/ab=1
x(a+b)/ab=1
1/x=(a+b)/ab
x=ab/(a+b)




(ab)/(a+b) = x