Adding and Subtracting 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

How do you add rational expressions with the same denominator?

Back

To add rational expressions with the same denominator, combine the numerators and keep the denominator the same: \( \frac{a}{c} + \frac{b}{c} = \frac{a + b}{c} \).

Front

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

Back

The first step is to find a common denominator for the rational expressions.

Front

How do you subtract rational expressions with the same denominator?

Back

To subtract rational expressions with the same denominator, subtract the numerators and keep the denominator the same: \( \frac{a}{c} - \frac{b}{c} = \frac{a - b}{c} \).

Front

What is a common denominator?

Back

A common denominator is a shared multiple of the denominators of two or more fractions.

Front

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

Back

The least common denominator (LCD) is the smallest multiple that is common to both denominators.

Front

What is the process of simplifying a rational expression?

Back

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

Front

What is the formula for adding two rational expressions?

Back

The formula for adding two rational expressions is: \( \frac{a}{b} + \frac{c}{d} = \frac{ad + bc}{bd} \).

Front

What does it mean to 'combine like terms' in rational expressions?

Back

Combining like terms means to add or subtract terms that have the same variable and exponent.

Front

What is the importance of factoring in adding and subtracting rational expressions?

Back

Factoring helps to simplify expressions and find common denominators more easily.