Intermediate Algebra (6th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321785045
ISBN 13: 978-0-32178-504-6

Chapter 6 - Section 6.6 - Rational Equations and Problem Solving - Exercise Set - Page 389: 50

Answer

$\dfrac{6}{10} \text{ or } \dfrac{3}{5}$

Work Step by Step

Let $x$ be the denominator. Then the numerator is $x-4.$ The conditions of the problem translate to \begin{array}{l}\require{cancel} \dfrac{x-4+2}{x+2}=\dfrac{2}{3} \\\\ \dfrac{x-2}{x+2}=\dfrac{2}{3} .\end{array} By cross-multiplication and by using the properties of equality, then \begin{array}{l}\require{cancel} 3(x-2)=2(x+2) \\\\ 3x-6=2x+4 \\\\ 3x-2x=4+6 \\\\ x=10 .\end{array} Hence, the numerator, $x-4,$ is $6$ and the denominator, $x,$ is $10.$ Hence, the fraction is $ \dfrac{6}{10} \text{ or } $\dfrac{3}{5} .$
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