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 simplify a rational expression?

Back

To simplify a rational expression, factor both the numerator and the denominator and then cancel any common factors.

Front

What is the first step in adding rational expressions with the same denominator?

Back

The first step is to add the numerators while keeping the denominator the same.

Front

What is the first step in adding rational expressions with different denominators?

Back

The first step is to find a common denominator.

Front

How do you subtract rational expressions?

Back

To subtract rational expressions, find a common denominator, rewrite each expression, and then subtract the numerators.

Front

What is the formula for multiplying rational expressions?

Back

To multiply rational expressions, multiply the numerators together and the denominators together.

Front

What is the formula for dividing rational expressions?

Back

To divide rational expressions, multiply by the reciprocal of the second expression.

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Back

Front

Back

The result is 1, provided that a and b are not zero.

Front

What does it mean for a rational expression to be undefined?

Back

A rational expression is undefined when its denominator equals zero.