Simplifying 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 simplify a rational expression?

Back

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

Front

Back

The first step is to check if the numerator and denominator can be factored.

Front

What does it mean to 'reduce' a rational expression?

Back

To reduce a rational expression means to simplify it to its lowest terms by canceling common factors.

Front

Back

Front

What is the significance of identifying common factors in rational expressions?

Back

Identifying common factors allows you to simplify the expression, making calculations easier.

Front

Back

Front

Back

The expression cannot be simplified further as there are no common factors.

Front

What is the process of factoring a polynomial?

Back

Factoring a polynomial involves expressing it as a product of its factors, which can be numbers, variables, or both.

Front

Back