Multiplying & Dividing 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 multiply rational expressions?

Back

To multiply rational expressions, multiply the numerators together and the denominators together, then simplify if possible.

Front

What is the first step in dividing rational expressions?

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The first step is to multiply by the reciprocal of the divisor.

Front

What does it mean to simplify a rational expression?

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Simplifying a rational expression means reducing it to its lowest terms by canceling common factors in the numerator and denominator.

Front

What is the formula for multiplying two rational expressions?

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If A/B and C/D are two rational expressions, then (A/B) * (C/D) = (A*C)/(B*D).

Front

What is the formula for dividing two rational expressions?

Back

If A/B and C/D are two rational expressions, then (A/B) ÷ (C/D) = (A/B) * (D/C) = (A*D)/(B*C).

Front

What is a common factor in rational expressions?

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A common factor is a number or variable that divides both the numerator and the denominator of a rational expression.

Front

How do you find the least common denominator (LCD) of rational expressions?

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The least common denominator is the smallest expression that can be divided by each denominator in the set of rational expressions.

Front

What is the importance of factoring in multiplying and dividing rational expressions?

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Factoring helps to identify and cancel common factors, making it easier to simplify the expressions.

Front

What is an example of a rational expression?

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An example of a rational expression is (x^2 - 1)/(x + 1).