Question

Find the least common denominator for the pair of rational numbers.

x+1 X-5
_______ ; ____
2x^2-5x-3 2x +1

Answer 1

the LCD is a) (2x+1)(x-3)

Explanation:

step 1.)

factorise: 2x²+1- 5x-3 becomes (2x+1)(x-3) when you factorise it and the 2x+1 stays (2x+1).

step 2.)

since 2x+1 are in both denominators you only write it once and don't forget to include x-3 as an LCD

therefore (2x+1)(x-3) is the LCD.