Question

How does the method for solving equations with fractional or decimal coefficients and constants compare with the method for solving equations with integer coefficients and constants?

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

Overall, there is no difference in the steps that must be taken to solve the equation. However, to help make the equation easier to solve, we can convert the equation to get rid of the fractions or decimals.

If we have an equation with fractional coefficients, we can multiply the equation by the denominator of each fraction (one at a time) to make the coefficients whole numbers. For example, in the equation 2/3x+4=8, we can multiply the equation by 3, making it 2x+12=24. This is easier for some people to solve than an equation with fractions.

If we have an equation with decimal coefficients, we can multiply the equation by a power of 10 to make the coefficients whole numbers. For example, in the equation 0.34x+2 = 12, we can multiply the equation by 100, making it 34x+200=1200. This is easier for some people to solve than an equation with decimals.

Answer 2

Solving equations with fractional or decimal coefficients involves an extra step. To make the equation easier to solve, the first thing you want to do is turn the fractions or decimals into whole numbers. To do so, you either multiply or divide accordingly. When solving equations with integer coefficients and constants, this extra step is not necessary.