Intermediate Algebra for College Students (7th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0-13417-894-7
ISBN 13: 978-0-13417-894-3

Chapter 11 - Cumulative Review Exercises - Page 872: 5

Answer

There is no solution to the given equation.

Work Step by Step

Factor the denominators. $\frac{2}{x-3}-\frac{3}{x+3}=\frac{12}{\left( x-3 \right)\left( x+3 \right)}$ The variable \[x\] has a restriction, $x\ne 3$ and$x\ne -3$. The LCD is$\left( x-3 \right)\left( x+3 \right)$. Multiply both sides by the LCD to clear the fractions. \[\begin{align} & \left( x-3 \right)\left( x+3 \right)\left( \frac{2}{x-3}-\frac{3}{x+3} \right)=\left( x-3 \right)\left( x+3 \right)\left( \frac{12}{\left( x-3 \right)\left( x+3 \right)} \right) \\ & \left( x+3 \right)2-\left( x-3 \right)3=12 \\ & 2x+6-3x+9=12 \\ & -x+15=12 \end{align}\] Subtracting $15$ from both sides: $\begin{align} & -x+15-15=12-15 \\ & -x=-3 \\ & x=3 \end{align}$ which is not possible as it contradicts to our restriction value. So, there is no solution exist for given equation.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.