Simplifying Rational Expressions Review

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What is a rational expression?

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

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How do you simplify a rational expression?

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

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

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What does it mean to cancel common factors in a rational expression?

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Canceling common factors means removing the same factor from both the numerator and the denominator.

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What is the importance of identifying restrictions in rational expressions?

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Identifying restrictions is important to avoid division by zero, which makes the expression undefined.