SSAT Upper Level Math : How to multiply complex fractions

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for SSAT Upper Level Math

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Example Questions

Example Question #11 : How To Multiply Complex Fractions

Solve for .

Possible Answers:

Both  and 

Correct answer:

Both  and 

Explanation:

Lets just cross multiply and then square both sides.

 Creates the quadratic equation.

 Now factor out .

Set up two different equations.

These are the correct answers and don't violate the radical. 

 

Example Question #121 : Number Concepts And Operations

Solve for .

Possible Answers:

Both   and 

Both  and 

Correct answer:

Both   and 

Explanation:

Lets factor as this is an easier approach especially with the absolute value present. Remember, we need to find two terms that are factors of the c term that add up to the b term. We get:

The  cancels and now with the absolute vaue present, we need to split into two different equations. Remember, absolute value means there is a positive value and a negative value. So for the first equation:

 

Now the second equation:

 

Double check that these answers don't create undefined answers. In this case, it doesn't so  and  are the answers to this question. 

Example Question #13 : How To Multiply Complex Fractions

Multiply:  

Possible Answers:

Correct answer:

Explanation:

Multiply the numerator and denominator.   

Rewrite the complex fraction using a division sign.

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