Multiplying and Dividing 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 multiply two rational expressions?

Back

To multiply two rational expressions, multiply the numerators together and the denominators together, then simplify if possible.

Tags

CCSS.HSA.APR.D.7

Front

What is the first step in dividing rational expressions?

Back

The first step is to multiply by the reciprocal of the divisor.

Tags

CCSS.HSA.APR.D.6

Front

What does it mean to simplify a rational expression?

Back

Simplifying a rational expression means reducing it to its lowest terms by canceling common factors in the numerator and denominator.

Tags

CCSS.HSA.APR.D.6

Front

What is the formula for multiplying rational expressions?

Back

If A/B and C/D are rational expressions, then (A/B) * (C/D) = (A*C)/(B*D).

Tags

CCSS.HSA.APR.D.7

Front

What is the formula for dividing rational expressions?

Back

If A/B and C/D are rational expressions, then (A/B) ÷ (C/D) = (A/B) * (D/C).

Tags

CCSS.HSA.APR.D.6

Front

What is a common factor in rational expressions?

Back

A common factor is a number or variable that divides evenly into both the numerator and the denominator.

Tags

CCSS.HSA.APR.D.6

Front

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

Back

The least common denominator is the smallest expression that is a multiple of the denominators of the rational expressions.

Tags

CCSS.HSA.APR.D.7

Front

What is the importance of factoring in multiplying and dividing rational expressions?

Back

Factoring helps to identify and cancel common factors, making it easier to simplify the expressions.

Tags

CCSS.HSA.APR.D.6

Front

What is an example of a rational expression?

Back

An example of a rational expression is (2x + 3)/(x^2 - 1).

Tags

CCSS.6.EE.B.5