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

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

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 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?

Back

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

Front

What is the reciprocal of a fraction?

Back

The reciprocal of a fraction is obtained by flipping the numerator and denominator.

Front

How do you find excluded values in the expression (x+2)/(x-3)?

Back

Set the denominator (x-3) equal to zero and solve for x. The excluded value is x=3.

Front

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

Back

The result is (6/x^3) after multiplying the numerators and denominators.

Front

What is the result of dividing (4/x^2) by (2/x)?

Back

The result is (2/x) after multiplying by the reciprocal and simplifying.

Front

What does it mean to factor a polynomial?

Back

Factoring a polynomial means expressing it as a product of its factors.