# Math Help - Algebra -w. Fractions

1. ## Algebra -w. Fractions

I've been working on this question for about an hour now, there's probably a really simple solution... I just can't find it.

here it is,

b + 3 = b - 1
_____ _____
4 2

thank you, KATrandom

EDIT: ok so for some reason when I post this the 2 comes to connect to the 4 when it should be under b - 1, sorry 'bout that, they just don't want to be seperated

2. b + 3 = b - 1
_____ _____
4 2

k first cross multiply
n then take all d terms to one side n simplify
n then u can find 'b'
2b+6=4b-4
2b-10=0
b=5

3. It is slightly simpler just to multiply on both sides by 4. Since 2 divides 4, that clears both fractions.

4. ya ur correct....could do that either

5. Originally Posted by KATrandom
I've been working on this question for about an hour now, there's probably a really simple solution... I just can't find it.

here it is,

b + 3 = b - 1
_____ _____
4 2

thank you, KATrandom

EDIT: ok so for some reason when I post this the 2 comes to connect to the 4 when it should be under b - 1, sorry 'bout that, they just don't want to be seperated
Another alternative is the get a common denominator:

$\frac{b + 3}{4} = \frac{b - 1}{2}$

$\frac{b + 3}{4} = \frac{2(b - 1)}{4}$.

Now since the denominators are equal, so must be the numerators.

$b + 3 = 2(b - 1)$

$b + 3 = 2b - 2$

$b + 5 = 2b$

$b = 5$.

6. ## thanks :D

thanks guys, helps a lot, a little confusing but thanks