# Can't see how this equation simplifies

I can't identify how line 1 has simplified to line 2 in this equation. I've been staring at this for quite a while, but nothing has come to me yet. I think it's just the numerator that is confusing me, since the denominator's powers cancel nicely. I think they have divided by 3 and multiplied by something similar to $2(5x+3)^{-1}$. I just can't see what!

Can anyone give me any hints? Many thanks!

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If you expand the parentheses in the second line using the distributive law, what do you get? – Alon Amit Apr 14 '11 at 7:26
Ah thank you! They have taken a factor of $3(5x+3)^{-\frac{1}{2}}$ out! Right? – Danny King Apr 14 '11 at 7:29
Right. (filler) – Alon Amit Apr 14 '11 at 7:34

## 1 Answer

They have taken a factor of $3(5x+3)^{-\frac{1}{2}}$ out of the numerator, and simplified the denominator.

If you find yourself at a situation like line 1, think to yourself:

• What can be simplified in the numerator and/or denominator?
• What is common to the numerator & denominator?
• What factors can I take out from numerator?
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