Doublecheck reduction of rational expressions

In summary, the original problem involved simplifying the expression ##\frac{(\frac{1}{a})^2*b^{-3}}{ab^3}##, while the teacher's solution resulted in the expression ##\frac{1}{a^2b^6}## due to a possible typo or calculation error. It is important to double check calculations and make sure to start with the same expression when comparing solutions.
  • #1
late347
301
15

Homework Statement


teacher gave me the correct solution which said that the result from him was as follows
##\frac{1}{a^2b^6}##

Homework Equations



original problem was as follows
##\frac{ (\frac{1}{a})^2*b^{-3}}{ ab^3 }##

The Attempt at a Solution



[/B]##\frac{\frac{1}{(a^2)b^3}}{ab^3}##

##= (\frac{1}{a^2b^3}) / (\frac{ab^3}{1})##

##= (\frac{1}{a^2b^3}) * \frac{1}{ab^3}##

##=\frac{1}{a^2b^3} ~~* ~~\frac{1}{a^1b^3}##

##=\frac{1}{a^3b^6}##

notice how there is the denominator ##a^3b^6##
 
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  • #2
late347 said:

Homework Statement


teacher gave me the correct solution which said that the result from him was as follows
##\frac{1}{a^2b^6}##

Homework Equations



original problem was as follows
##\frac{ (\frac{1}{a})^2*b^{-3}}{ ab^3 }##

The Attempt at a Solution



[/B]##\frac{\frac{1}{(a^2)b^3}}{ab^3}##

##= (\frac{1}{a^2b^3}) / (\frac{ab^3}{1})##

##= (\frac{1}{a^2b^3}) * \frac{1}{ab^3}##

##=\frac{1}{a^2b^3} ~~* ~~\frac{1}{a^1b^3}##

##=\frac{1}{a^3b^6}##

notice how there is the denominator ##a^3b^6##
I agree with your answer, not your teacher's. Make sure that you and the teacher are both starting with the same expression.
 
  • #3
Mark44 said:
I agree with your answer, not your teacher's. Make sure that you and the teacher are both starting with the same expression.
yep on closer inspection... it looks like my teacher simply used rushed calculation, doing several things at the same time... and he made a typo because of that.

it look like he had a correct mid-result from an earlier calculation but forgot about it.
 

Related to Doublecheck reduction of rational expressions

1. What is "doublecheck reduction" of rational expressions?

The doublecheck reduction of rational expressions is a method used to simplify or reduce a rational expression to its simplest form. It involves factoring both the numerator and denominator of the rational expression and then canceling out any common factors.

2. Why is doublecheck reduction important in mathematics?

Doublecheck reduction is important in mathematics because it helps to simplify complex rational expressions, making them easier to work with and understand. It also allows us to identify any potential errors or mistakes in our calculations.

3. What are the steps involved in doublecheck reduction?

The first step in doublecheck reduction is to factor both the numerator and denominator of the rational expression. Next, identify and cancel out any common factors between the numerator and denominator. Finally, check your work by multiplying the remaining factors to ensure the original expression is obtained.

4. Can doublecheck reduction be applied to all rational expressions?

No, doublecheck reduction cannot be applied to all rational expressions. It can only be applied to expressions where both the numerator and denominator can be factored. If the expression cannot be factored, then it cannot be reduced using this method.

5. Are there any common mistakes to watch out for when using doublecheck reduction?

Yes, there are common mistakes to watch out for when using doublecheck reduction. These include forgetting to factor the expression, missing common factors, or making a mistake in the factoring process. It is important to double check your work to avoid these errors.

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