# Math Help - Solving an equation.

1. ## Solving an equation.

Can someone explain to me step-by-step how to complete this problem?

2x/2x+5 = 2/3 - 5/4x+10

I tested into discrete math at my college but the problem is I haven't taken a math course since high school (7 years ago). I am really struggling. Does anyone know of any tips/resources that could help me pass this course?

2. This looks like an algebra problem, in which case it belongs to the pre-algebra and algebra forum.

I'm very confused by the lack of parentheses. Exactly what quantities are in denominators?

3. Originally Posted by tfs985
Can someone explain to me step-by-step how to complete this problem?

2x/2x+5 = 2/3 - 5/4x+10

I tested into discrete math at my college but the problem is I haven't taken a math course since high school (7 years ago). I am really struggling. Does anyone know of any tips/resources that could help me pass this course?
What do you mean "complete this problem"? That is an equation. It isn't a "problem" until you are asked to do something with it! What were you asked to do? Solve the equation?

If so, there is still an ambiguity about the way you wrote that. Strictly speaking, what you wrote is (2x/2x)+ 5= 2/3- (5/4)x- 10 which is probably not what you mean. I suspect you meant
2x/(2x+ 5)= 2/3- 4/(4x+10). Actually that may not be what you mean since it would make more sense to write 4/(4x+10) as 2/(2x+ 5), canceling a "2" in numerator and denominator.

Assuming that is the correct equaton, and that you want to solve the equation, the first thing I would do is multiply both sides by 3(2x+ 5)(4x+ 10) (the "common denominator")
to get 6x= 2(2x+ 5)(4x+ 10)- 4(2x+ 5). Multiply that out and you will have a quadratic equation to solve.