Study Guide Rational Expressions

Front

Define a rational expression.

Back

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

Front

What is the first step in simplifying a rational expression?

Back

Factor both the numerator and the denominator completely.

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Back

Front

What does it mean to divide rational expressions?

Back

Dividing rational expressions involves multiplying by the reciprocal of the divisor.

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Back

Front

What is the product of two rational expressions?

Back

The product is found by multiplying the numerators together and the denominators together.

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Back

Front

What is the least common denominator (LCD) in adding rational expressions?

Back

The LCD is the smallest expression that can be used to combine the denominators of the rational expressions.

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Back

Front

What is a key principle when simplifying rational expressions?

Back

Cancel out any common factors in the numerator and denominator.