SOLUTION: it says to " subtract. simplify, if possible" 7/x+8 - 3/x-8 i know the answer is 4(x-20)/(x-8)(x+8), but i have no idea where to start.

Algebra ->  Customizable Word Problem Solvers  -> Misc -> SOLUTION: it says to " subtract. simplify, if possible" 7/x+8 - 3/x-8 i know the answer is 4(x-20)/(x-8)(x+8), but i have no idea where to start.      Log On

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Question 447914: it says to " subtract. simplify, if possible" 7/x+8 - 3/x-8

i know the answer is 4(x-20)/(x-8)(x+8), but i have no idea where to start.
Answer by ewatrrr(24785) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
 

Hi,

One needs Like terms in order to combine the terms:

that is: fractions must have a common denominator.

Giving them one... is the place to start:

7/(x+8) - 3/(x-8) 

7(x-8)/(x+8)(x-8) - 3(x+8)/(x-8)(x+8) 

( 7x-56 - 3x -24)/(x-8)(x+8) 

( 7x-56 - 3x -24)/(x-8)(x+8) 

 (4x-80)/(x-8)(x+8) 

or

 4(x-20)/(x-8)(x+8)