4.3&4.4 Flashcard Review - Add, Sub., Mul & Div. Rational Expressions

Front

What is a rational expression?

Back

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

Front

What are the restrictions on the variable in a rational expression?

Back

Restrictions are values that make the denominator zero, as these values are not allowed.

Front

How do you simplify a rational expression?

Back

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

Front

What is the process for subtracting rational expressions?

Back

Find a common denominator, rewrite each expression, subtract the numerators, and simplify.

Front

What is the formula for adding rational expressions?

Back

To add, find a common denominator, combine the numerators, and simplify.

Front

How do you multiply rational expressions?

Back

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

Front

What is the method for dividing rational expressions?

Back

Multiply by the reciprocal of the divisor and simplify.

Front

What does it mean to reduce a rational expression?

Back

Reducing means simplifying the expression to its lowest terms by canceling common factors.

Front

What is the significance of factoring in rational expressions?

Back

Factoring helps identify common factors that can be canceled to simplify the expression.

Front

How do you identify the domain of a rational expression?

Back

The domain includes all real numbers except those that make the denominator zero.