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

What does it mean for a rational expression to be undefined?

Back

A rational expression is undefined when its denominator equals zero.

Front

How do you find values that make a rational expression undefined?

Back

Set the denominator equal to zero and solve for the variable.

Front

Simplify the expression: (x^2 - 9)/(x + 3)

Back

x - 3

Front

What is the first step in simplifying a rational expression?

Back

Factor the numerator and the denominator if possible.

Front

Simplify the expression: (2x^2 + 8x)/(2x)

Back

x + 4

Front

What is the result of simplifying (x^2 - 4)/(x - 2)?

Back

x + 2

Front

How do you simplify (x + 5)/(x + 5)?

Back

1, as long as x + 5 is not equal to 0.

Front

What is the simplified form of (3x^2)/(6x)?

Back

x/2

Front

What happens to the expression (x^2 - 1)/(x - 1) when simplified?

Back

It simplifies to x + 1.