8.1 Multiply & Divide 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 two rational expressions?

Back

To multiply two 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 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 is the formula for multiplying rational expressions?

Back

Front

What is the formula for dividing rational expressions?

Back

Front

How do you find the least common denominator (LCD) of rational expressions?

Back

The LCD is found by determining the least common multiple of the denominators of the rational expressions.

Front

What is a common mistake when multiplying rational expressions?

Back

A common mistake is forgetting to simplify before multiplying, which can lead to more complex expressions.

Front

What is the importance of factoring in rational expressions?

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Factoring helps to identify and cancel common factors, making it easier to simplify the expression.

Front

How do you check if your answer is in simplest form?

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An answer is in simplest form if there are no common factors between the numerator and denominator other than 1.