Simplifying Rational Expressions

Front

What is a rational expression?

Back

A rational expression is a fraction where both the numerator and the denominator are polynomials.

Front

How do you simplify a rational expression?

Back

To simplify a rational expression, factor both the numerator and the denominator and then cancel any common factors.

Front

What does it mean to cancel in rational expressions?

Back

Canceling means removing common factors from the numerator and denominator.

Front

What is the first step in simplifying (x²+11x+24)/(x²+4x-32)?

Back

Factor both the numerator and the denominator.

Front

What is the factored form of x²+11x+24?

Back

(x+3)(x+8)