Chapter 2: Problem 41
Simplify the expression. $$8 x^{2} \div\left(-\frac{4}{5}\right)$$
Short Answer
Expert verified
-10 x^{2}
Step by step solution
01
Understand the Problem
We're asked to simplify the expression \(8 x^{2} \div (-\frac{4}{5})\). To do this, remember that dividing by a fraction is the same as multiplying by its reciprocal.
02
Rewrite the Division as Multiplication
We rewrite the expression as \(8 x^{2}*(-\frac{5}{4})\). This is done by dividing by \(-\frac{4}{5}\), which is equivalent to multiplying by its reciprocal, \(-\frac{5}{4}\).
03
Simplify the Expression
Now, we multiply \(8 x^{2}\) by \(-\frac{5}{4}\). This gives us \(-10 x^{2}\).
Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!
-
Full Textbook Solutions
Get detailed explanations and key concepts
-
Unlimited Al creation
Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...
-
Ads-free access
To over 500 millions flashcards
-
Money-back guarantee
We refund you if you fail your exam.
Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with 91Ó°ÊÓ!
Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Division of Polynomials
Dividing polynomials might sound a bit intimidating, but it's quite straightforward once you get the hang of it. To divide a polynomial by a number or another polynomial, you just need to apply some basic arithmetic principles.
The main idea here is similar to dividing regular numbers. For example, when you see a polynomial expression like \(8x^{2} \div -\frac{4}{5}\), you can interpret this as asking how many times \(-\frac{4}{5}\) can be taken out from \(8x^{2}\).
However, in algebra, especially with complex polynomials, it’s common to see fractions involved. This is where dividing by a fraction becomes more like a puzzle. The key rule to remember is that dividing by a fraction is the same as multiplying by its reciprocal. This makes the division process a lot easier as you transform the problem into a multiplication problem.
The main idea here is similar to dividing regular numbers. For example, when you see a polynomial expression like \(8x^{2} \div -\frac{4}{5}\), you can interpret this as asking how many times \(-\frac{4}{5}\) can be taken out from \(8x^{2}\).
However, in algebra, especially with complex polynomials, it’s common to see fractions involved. This is where dividing by a fraction becomes more like a puzzle. The key rule to remember is that dividing by a fraction is the same as multiplying by its reciprocal. This makes the division process a lot easier as you transform the problem into a multiplication problem.
Fractions in Algebra
Fractions often play a critical role in algebra, especially when dealing with expressions and equations. Understanding how fractions work within algebraic expressions is crucial.
When you see a fraction in algebra like \(-\frac{4}{5}\), remember that it represents division: the numerator \(-4\) divided by the denominator \(5\).
When you see a fraction in algebra like \(-\frac{4}{5}\), remember that it represents division: the numerator \(-4\) divided by the denominator \(5\).
- To make computations involving fractions more manageable, converting division into multiplication by using the reciprocal can simplify the problem.
- For example, instead of dividing by \(-\frac{4}{5}\), you multiply by its reciprocal \(-\frac{5}{4}\).
Simplification Techniques
Simplifying algebraic expressions is a fundamental skill that enhances your ability to solve equations efficiently. The goal of simplification is to express the algebraic equation or term in the simplest form possible.
Here's a simple step to effectively simplify the given polynomial division:
Here's a simple step to effectively simplify the given polynomial division:
- After rewriting the division as multiplication (i.e., \(8x^{2} * -\frac{5}{4}\)), you can directly multiply the terms.
- First, multiply the coefficients: \(8\) and \(-\frac{5}{4}\), giving \(-10\).
- Next, multiply the variable part: \(x^{2}\). As there are no other variable terms in this multiplication, you simply retain \(x^{2}\).