ACT Math · Linear equations and inequalities

How many real solutions does x+2/x-3 = 4/x-3 + 1 have?

How many real solutions does x+2x−3=4x−3+1\dfrac{x+2}{x-3} = \dfrac{4}{x-3} + 1 have?

Answer and explanation

Answer: F: 0

Multiply every term by x−3x-3, noting that x≠3x\ne3: x+2=4+(x−3)x+2=4+(x-3). The right side simplifies to x+1x+1, so the equation becomes x+2=x+1x+2=x+1, which reduces to 2=12=1. That is never true, so there are no real solutions, choice F. Choice G assumes the equation still yields exactly one value, but the variable terms cancel and leave a contradiction. Choice H assumes a quadratic, which this is not, since the xx terms cancel. Choice J would require a true statement like 0=00=0, but here the result 2=12=1 is false for every xx.

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