Simplifying Rational Expressions

Front

What is a domain restriction in rational expressions?

Back

A domain restriction specifies the values of the variable that cannot be used in the expression, often due to division by zero.

Front

Simplify: (x² + 6x + 8)/(x² - x - 6)

Back

(x + 4)/(x - 3)

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 canceling common factors in the numerator and denominator.

Front

State the domain restriction for the expression (x² + 6x + 8)/(x² - x - 6).

Back

x ≠ -6, 3

Front

Simplify: (x - 9)/(x + 9)

Back

1/(x - 9)

Front

What is the first step in simplifying a rational expression?

Back

Factor both the numerator and the denominator if possible.

Front

Simplify: 2p²/p

Back

2p

Front

What is a common factor in algebra?

Back

A common factor is a number or variable that divides two or more terms evenly.

Front

Simplify: (x² + 11x + 24)/(x² + 4x - 32)

Back

(x + 3)/(x - 4)

Front

What is the importance of identifying domain restrictions?

Back

Identifying domain restrictions is important to avoid undefined expressions, especially when the variable leads to division by zero.