Operations with Rational Expressions

Front

What is a rational expression?

Back

A rational expression is a fraction where the numerator and the denominator are both polynomials.

Front

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

Back

A rational expression is undefined when its denominator equals zero.

Front

How do you find the values that make a rational expression undefined?

Back

Set the denominator equal to zero and solve for the variable.

Front

What is the process for adding rational expressions with different denominators?

Back

Find a common denominator, rewrite each expression, and then combine the numerators.

Front

What is the process for subtracting rational expressions?

Back

Similar to addition, find a common denominator, rewrite each expression, and then subtract the numerators.

Front

How do you simplify a rational expression?

Back

Factor the numerator and denominator, then cancel any common factors.

Front

What is the least common denominator (LCD)?

Back

The least common denominator is the smallest expression that can be used as a common denominator for two or more rational expressions.

Front

What is the first step in adding or subtracting rational expressions?

Back

Identify the least common denominator (LCD) of the expressions.

Front

What is a polynomial?

Back

A polynomial is an expression consisting of variables raised to non-negative integer powers and coefficients.

Front

What is the difference between a proper and improper rational expression?

Back

A proper rational expression has a degree of the numerator less than the degree of the denominator; an improper one has a degree of the numerator greater than or equal to the degree of the denominator.