Simplify, Multiply & Divide Rational Expressions

Front

What are rational expressions?

Back

Rational expressions are fractions where the numerator and the denominator are both 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 excluded values in a rational expression?

Back

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

Front

What is the excluded value for the expression 1/(x-8)?

Back

The excluded value is x = 8.

Front

What is the process for multiplying rational expressions?

Back

Multiply the numerators together and the denominators together, then simplify.

Front

What is the result of multiplying (2/x) * (3/y)?

Back

The result is (6)/(xy).

Front

How do you divide rational expressions?

Back

Multiply by the reciprocal of the divisor.

Front

What is the result of dividing (4/x) by (2/y)?

Back

The result is (4y)/(2x) or (2y)/(x) after simplification.

Front

What is the first step in simplifying a rational expression?

Back

Factor both the numerator and the denominator.

Front

What is the simplified form of (x^2 - 9)/(x + 3)?

Back

The simplified form is (x - 3) after factoring the numerator.