Add and Subtract Rational Expressions

Front

What is a rational expression?

Back

A rational expression is a fraction where both the numerator and the denominator are polynomials.

Front

How do you find a common denominator for adding rational expressions?

Back

To find a common denominator, identify the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators of the rational expressions.

Front

What is the first step in adding or subtracting rational expressions?

Back

The first step is to ensure that the rational expressions have a common denominator.

Front

Simplify: (2/x) + (3/x)

Back

(2 + 3)/x = 5/x.

Front

What is the process for subtracting rational expressions?

Back

Similar to addition, ensure a common denominator, then subtract the numerators.

Front

Simplify: (5/x) - (2/x)

Back

(5 - 2)/x = 3/x.

Front

What happens if the denominators are different when adding rational expressions?

Back

You must find a common denominator before you can combine the numerators.

Front

Define 'like terms' in the context of rational expressions.

Back

Like terms are terms that have the same variable raised to the same power, allowing them to be combined.

Front

Simplify: (1/x) + (1/y)

Back

(y + x) / (xy).

Front

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

Back

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