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 process for dividing rational expressions?

Back

To divide rational expressions, multiply by the reciprocal of the divisor and then simplify.

Front

What does it mean to simplify a rational expression?

Back

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

Front

What are excluded values in rational expressions?

Back

Excluded values are values of the variable that make the denominator zero, which are not allowed in rational expressions.

Front

How do you find excluded values in a rational expression?

Back

Set the denominator equal to zero and solve for the variable to find excluded values.

Front

What is the first step in simplifying (x-9)/(x+9)?

Back

Factor the numerator and denominator if possible, then look for common factors.

Front

What is the result of multiplying (x+2)/(x+3) by (x+3)/(x+4)?

Back

The result is (x+2)/(x+4) after canceling the common factor (x+3).

Front

What is the result of dividing (x^2-1)/(x+1) by (x-1)/(x^2+1)?

Back

The result is (x^2-1)(x^2+1)/(x+1)(x-1) after multiplying by the reciprocal.

Front

What is the simplified form of (x^2-4)/(x^2-2x)?

Back

The simplified form is (x+2)/x after factoring and canceling common factors.