SOLUTION: if 1/3 = 1/A + 1/B where A and B are different whole numbers, find the value of A and the value of B?

Algebra ->  Numeric Fractions Calculators, Lesson and Practice -> SOLUTION: if 1/3 = 1/A + 1/B where A and B are different whole numbers, find the value of A and the value of B?      Log On


   



Question 210341: if 1/3 = 1/A + 1/B where A and B are different whole numbers, find the value of A and the value of B?
Answer by ankor@dixie-net.com(22740) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
if 1/3 = 1/A + 1/B where A and B are different whole numbers, find the value of A and the value of B?
:
Multiply (each term) equation by 3AB, results
AB = 3B + 3A
:
Subtract 3B from both sides
AB - 3B = 3A
:
Factor out B
B(A - 3) = 3A
:
Divide both sides by (A-3)
B = %283A%29%2F%28A-3%29
:
Choose a value for A which will result in an integer
A = 4 is easy
B = %283%2A4%29%2F%284-3%29
then
B = 12
;
:
Check solution in original equation
1/3 = 1/4 + 1/12
4/12 = 3/12 + 1/12