Subtracting Rational Expressions

Subtracting Rational Expressions

We follow the same rules for adding rational expressions except...

• The signs in the numerator of the second expression will change.

• We have to focus oncombining like terms and not just adding and subtracking.

Let's look at an example of subtraction!

Take note of what Sal does in the video!

https://www.khanacademy.org/math/algebra2/x2ec2f6f830c9fb89:rational/x2ec2f6f830c9fb89:rational-add-sub-intro/v/subtracting-rational-expressions-w-unlike-denominators

Multiple Choice

In oreder to subtract the rational expressions we must have a...

• extensive denominator

• uncommon denominator

• common denminator

Multiple Choice

If the binomials of the denominators of rational expressions have no common factor in order to find the common denominator it's best to just...

• add the two binmials

• subtract the two binomials

• multiply the two binomials

• divide the two binomials

Open Ended

What does Sal make the 6x^3 negative? What would be the alternative?

Now it's your turn!

Try solving the problem on your own!

Let's look at the solution.