Question 215674
{{{(x - 7) / (x^2 -16)  + (x - 1) / (16 - x^2)}}}
As you know, to add fractions we need common denominators. And we prefer the Lowest Common Denominator (LCD).<br>
The key to finding the LCD of {{{(x^2 - 16)}}} and {{{(16 - x^2)}}} is to recognize that they are negatives of each other! So we'll start by multiplying the numerator and denominator of the second fraction (or the first, it doesn't matter) by -1:
{{{(x - 7) / (x^2 - 16)  + ((-1)/(-1))((x - 1) / (16 - x^2))}}}
{{{(x - 7) / (x^2 - 16)  + (-x + 1) / (x^2 - 16)}}}
And with this simple step we have our common denominators! So we're ready to add. The x's in the numerators cancel out and we end up with:
{{{(-6)/(x^2 - 16)}}}
This will not reduce so we are finished.<br>
P.S. I don't know what you are using for minus signs but they really mess with Algebra.com's formula rendering software. Please use "normal" minus signs. On a PC keyboard it is right next to zero. Thanks.