5. Cross multiplication method

  

The cross multiplication method is one of the methods to solve an equation. If the given equation is not in a linear polynomial form, we use the cross multiplication method of solving.

 

Let's understand this concept with an example.

 

 

The given equation is $\frac{2x+4}{2}=\frac{x+4}{10}$. This is not in linear polynomial form and also the equation contains variable on both sides. Now apply the cross multiplication rule in this equation.

 

 

Multiply the numerator in LHS \((2x+4)\) by the denominator in RHS \((10)\).

 

That is $10(2x+4)$.

 

 

Multiply the RHS numerator \(x+4\) by the LHS denominator \(2\).

 

That is $2(x+4)$.

 

These steps are explained in the figure given below.

 

 

 

Simplify both the sides of the equation.

 

 

 

Now transpose the \(40\) to \(RHS\) side and transpose the variable \(2x\) in \(RHS\) to \(LHS\).

 

 

 

Now use the linear equation rule. That is divide by 18 on both sides of the equation.

 

Therefore the solution for the equation $\frac{2x+4}{2}=\frac{x+4}{10}$ is \(x = -2\).