SOLUTION: How do you solve for a when it is in both the numerator and denominator on the same side of a rational equation? And what are the restrictions for a? This is the problem: a-2

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Question 81645This question is from textbook Algebra I
: How do you solve for a when it is in both the numerator and denominator on the same side of a rational equation? And what are the restrictions for a? This is the problem:
a-2/a+3 = 3/8 This question is from textbook Algebra I

Answer by tutor_paul(519) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
%28a-2%29%2F%28a%2B3%29=3%2F8
Multiply each side of the equation by (a+3):
a-2=%283%2F8%29%28a%2B3%29
Simplify right side:
a-2=3a%2F8%2B9%2F8
Get the 'a' terms alone on one side of the equation and simplify:
a-2-3a%2F8=9%2F8
a-3a%2F8=2%2B9%2F8
5a%2F8=25%2F8
Solve for a:
5a=25
highlight%28a=5%29
Good Luck,
tutor_paul@yahoo.com