SOLUTION: I don't understand how to come up with the answer to this equation: {{{5/(x+3)=10/(2-x)}}}. The answer is -20/15=-4/3. Can you explain this to me. Thanks

Algebra ->  Expressions-with-variables -> SOLUTION: I don't understand how to come up with the answer to this equation: {{{5/(x+3)=10/(2-x)}}}. The answer is -20/15=-4/3. Can you explain this to me. Thanks      Log On


   

Question 26878: I don't understand how to come up with the answer to this equation:
5%2F%28x%2B3%29=10%2F%282-x%29. The answer is -20/15=-4/3. Can you explain this to me.
Thanks
Answer by bmauger(101) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
To solve this type of problem you must cross multiply. That means that you take the denominator from one side of the equation and multiply it by the numerator of the other equation, and set it equal to the product of the remaining denominator and numerator:
5%2F%28x%2B3%29=10%2F%282-x%29
Cross multiply:
5%282-x%29=10%28x%2B3%29
Distribute:
10-5x=10x%2B30
Rearrange:
-15x=20
Solve:
x=20%2F%28-15%29=-4%2F3