Multiplying 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 simplest form by canceling common factors in the numerator and denominator.

Front

What is the first step in multiplying rational expressions?

Back

The first step is to multiply the numerators together and the denominators together.

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 multiply rational expressions?

Back

To multiply rational expressions means to find the product of two or more rational expressions.

Front

What is a common factor in rational expressions?

Back

A common factor is a number or variable that appears in both the numerator and the denominator.

Front

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

Back

The least common denominator is the smallest expression that can be used as a denominator for all rational expressions involved.

Front

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

Back

The result is (6/xy).

Front

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

Back

The result is (2y/x).

Front

What does it mean to factor a polynomial?

Back

Factoring a polynomial means to express it as a product of its factors.