Algebra · Linear equations
Chapter 1 · 3
The idea
Equations with fractions
Why multiplying EVERY term by a common denominator clears the fractions, where cross-multiplication comes from (and its bracket discipline), and how one clearing move turns any fractional equation into an ordinary one.
A full journey — read it, play with it, work it, then earn real exam marks. Everything stays on the timeline below.
In this lesson — start anywhere
Algebra · Linear equations
Equations with fractions
Why multiplying EVERY term by a common denominator clears the fractions, where cross-multiplication comes from (and its bracket discipline), and how one clearing move turns any fractional equation into an ordinary one.
Why it works
Cleared, not fought
Fractions in an equation are cleared, not fought. Multiply both sides by a common denominator and every fraction cancels away — because multiplying is done to the whole of each side, the balance survives. , multiplied through by 5:Watch the 3: EVERY term gets multiplied, including the ones that weren't fractions. ( is the classic wreck — the 3 escaped.)
Keep reading — free
The rest of the explanation, plus 2 worked examples you step through move by move.
Start freeTakes a minute — no card.