Add and Subtract Rational Expressions

Front

What is a rational expression?

Back

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

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What is the first step in adding or subtracting rational expressions?

Back

The first step is to find a common denominator.

Front

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

Back

To find the LCD, factor the denominators and take the highest power of each factor.

Front

What are excluded values in rational expressions?

Back

Excluded values are values of the variable that make the denominator equal to zero.

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Back

The excluded value is 11.

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Front

What is a common denominator?

Back

A common denominator is a shared multiple of the denominators of two or more fractions.

Front

How do you simplify a rational expression?

Back

To simplify, factor the numerator and denominator and cancel any common factors.

Front

What does it mean to 'simplify the expression'?

Back

It means to reduce the expression to its simplest form, removing any common factors.