Add and Subtract 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 is the first step to add or subtract rational expressions?

Back

The first step is to find a common denominator.

Front

What does it mean to simplify a rational expression?

Back

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

Front

Back

The excluded value is 11, as it makes the denominator zero.

Front

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

Back

The least common denominator is found by determining the least common multiple of the denominators of the rational expressions.

Front

What is the formula for adding two rational expressions with the same denominator?

Back

Front

What is the formula for subtracting two rational expressions with the same denominator?

Back

Front

What happens if the denominators of two rational expressions are different?

Back

If the denominators are different, you must first find a common denominator before adding or subtracting.

Front

What is a polynomial?

Back

A polynomial is an expression made up of variables, coefficients, and exponents, combined using addition, subtraction, and multiplication.

Front

What is the process of factoring a polynomial?

Back

Factoring a polynomial involves rewriting it as a product of its factors.