Rational Expressions

Front

What is a rational expression?

Back

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

Front

How do you multiply two rational expressions?

Back

To multiply two rational expressions, multiply the numerators together and the denominators together, then simplify if possible.

Front

What is the first step in simplifying a rational expression?

Back

The first step is to factor both the numerator and the denominator completely.

Front

What does it mean to simplify a rational expression?

Back

Simplifying a rational expression means reducing it to its lowest terms by canceling common factors in the numerator and denominator.

Front

What is the formula for adding rational expressions?

Back

To add rational expressions, find a common denominator, rewrite each expression with that denominator, and then combine the numerators.

Front

What is the formula for subtracting rational expressions?

Back

To subtract rational expressions, find a common denominator, rewrite each expression with that denominator, and then subtract the numerators.

Front

How do you find the least common denominator (LCD) of two rational expressions?

Back

The least common denominator is the least common multiple of the denominators of the rational expressions.

Front

What is the significance of restrictions in rational expressions?

Back

Restrictions are values that make the denominator zero; they must be excluded from the domain of the rational expression.

Front

How do you divide rational expressions?

Back

To divide rational expressions, multiply by the reciprocal of the divisor and then simplify.

Front

Back