SOLUTION: In a certain fraction, the numerator is 4 less than the denominator. If 2 is subtracted both to the numerator and the denominator, the resulting fraction is equal to 1/2. Find the

Algebra ->  Real-numbers -> SOLUTION: In a certain fraction, the numerator is 4 less than the denominator. If 2 is subtracted both to the numerator and the denominator, the resulting fraction is equal to 1/2. Find the       Log On


   

Question 582271: In a certain fraction, the numerator is 4 less than the denominator. If 2 is subtracted both to the numerator and the denominator, the resulting fraction is equal to 1/2. Find the original fraction in lowest terms........PLEASE HELP
Answer by mananth(16946) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
let the fraction be x/y
x=y-4
(x-2)/(y-2) =1/2

cross multiply
2(x-2)= y-2
2x-4 = y-2
2x-y = -2+4
2x-y = 2

the two equations are x-y = -4
2x-y =2
subtract the first equation from the second
2x-y -(x-y) = 2-(-4)
x= 6
y =10
The fraction is 6/10 = 3/5