Factoring and Solving the Equation (5x-3)(2x+1) = (2x+1)(x-4)
This problem involves factoring and solving an equation. Let's break it down step by step:
1. Factoring the Equation
We have:
(5x-3)(2x+1) = (2x+1)(x-4)
Notice that both sides of the equation share a common factor of (2x+1). We can simplify by dividing both sides by (2x+1), but we need to be careful about the case where (2x+1) = 0.
Important Note: Dividing by (2x+1) is valid only if (2x+1) ≠ 0.
2. Solving for x
Case 1: (2x+1) ≠ 0
Dividing both sides by (2x+1), we get:
5x - 3 = x - 4
Solving for x:
4x = -1
x = -1/4
Case 2: (2x+1) = 0
If (2x+1) = 0, then x = -1/2.
This value of x makes the original equation true, even though we divided by zero. It's a special case that needs to be considered.
3. Solutions
Therefore, the solutions to the equation (5x-3)(2x+1) = (2x+1)(x-4) are:
- x = -1/4
- x = -1/2
In conclusion, we found two solutions for the given equation by factoring and carefully considering the cases where the common factor might be zero.