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

What does it mean to simplify a rational expression?

Back

To simplify a rational expression means to reduce it to its lowest terms by factoring and canceling common factors.

Front

Back

Front

Back

Front

Back

Front

What is the importance of finding common factors in rational expressions?

Back

Finding common factors allows you to cancel them out, simplifying the expression.

Front

Back

Front

Back

Front

What is a polynomial?

Back

A polynomial is an expression consisting of variables raised to whole number powers and coefficients.

Front

What does it mean for a rational expression to be undefined?

Back

A rational expression is undefined when its denominator equals zero.