SOLUTION: Rational Equation 2/x^2-4=1/2x-4 Ok I have found the LCD, now what 2(x-4)

Algebra ->  Polynomials-and-rational-expressions -> SOLUTION: Rational Equation 2/x^2-4=1/2x-4 Ok I have found the LCD, now what 2(x-4)      Log On


   

Question 236909: Rational Equation
2/x^2-4=1/2x-4
Ok I have found the LCD, now what
2(x-4)
Answer by edjones(8007) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
good try but the LCM (least common multiple) is 2(x+2)(x-2)
2/(x^2-4)=1/(2x-4)
2/((x+2)(x-2))=1/2(x-2)
When you multiply the LCM by each side you get:
4=x+2
x=2
However, when you check the answer by replacing x with 2 in the original equation you have division by zero which is not allowed. There is no answer. x is undefined.
.
Ed