Simplifying 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

How do you simplify a rational expression?

Back

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

Front

What does it mean to factor a polynomial?

Back

Factoring a polynomial means expressing it as a product of its factors, which are polynomials of lower degrees.

Front

What is the first step in simplifying (x²+11x+24)/(x²+4x-32)?

Back

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

Front

What is the factored form of x²+11x+24?

Back

(x+3)(x+8)