Simplifying Rational Functions

Front

What is a rational function?

Back

A rational function is a function that can be expressed as the quotient of two polynomials.

Front

What does it mean to simplify a rational function?

Back

To simplify a rational function means to reduce it to its simplest form by canceling common factors in the numerator and denominator.

Front

What is the first step in simplifying a rational function?

Back

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

Front

If a rational function has a common factor in the numerator and denominator, what can you do?

Back

You can cancel the common factor to simplify the function.

Front

What is the simplified form of (n^2 - 49)/(n - 7)?

Back

The simplified form is n + 7.

Front

How do you simplify 9(x + 10)/9?

Back

The simplified form is x + 10.

Front

What is the simplified form of (n - 2)/(n + 2)?

Back

The simplified form is (n - 2)/(n + 2) (no further simplification possible).

Front

What is the simplified form of 2p/4p?

Back

The simplified form is 1/2.

Front

What is the simplified form of (x + 6)/(x + 4)?

Back

The simplified form is (x + 6)/(x + 4) (no further simplification possible).

Front

What is the importance of identifying restrictions in rational functions?

Back

Identifying restrictions is important because it helps determine the values for which the function is undefined.