Adding and Subtracting 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 does LCD stand for in mathematics?

Back

LCD stands for Least Common Denominator, which is the smallest multiple that can be used as a common denominator for two or more fractions.

Front

How do you find the LCD of two fractions?

Back

To find the LCD, factor the denominators and take the highest power of each factor present in any of the denominators.

Front

What is the first step in adding or subtracting rational expressions?

Back

The first step is to find a common denominator for the expressions.

Front

If the denominators are 6xy and 3xy, what is the LCD?

Back

The LCD is 6xy.

Front

What is the process of simplifying a rational expression?

Back

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

Front

What is the result of simplifying (12n^2 + 28n + 4) / (2n-5)(n+2)?

Back

The result is (12n^2 - 28n + 4) / (2n-5)(n+2).

Front

How do you simplify the expression (-17x - 12y) / 15x?

Back

The expression is already in its simplest form.

Front

What is the simplified form of n / 2m?

Back

The simplified form is n / 2m.

Front

What is the importance of finding the LCD when adding or subtracting rational expressions?

Back

Finding the LCD allows you to combine the fractions into a single expression.