Multiplying and Dividing Rational Expressions

Front

What is a rational expression?

Back

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

Tags

CCSS.HSA.APR.D.7

Front

How do you multiply rational expressions?

Back

To multiply 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 a common factor?

Back

A common factor is a number or expression that divides two or more numbers or expressions evenly.

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 result of multiplying (x + 2)/(x + 3) by (x + 4)/(x + 5)?

Back

The result is (x + 2)(x + 4) / ((x + 3)(x + 5)).

Tags

CCSS.HSA.APR.D.7

Front

What is the result of dividing (3x + 12) by (x + 4)?

Back

The result is 3, since (3x + 12)/(x + 4) simplifies to 3.

Tags

CCSS.HSA.APR.D.6

Front

What is the formula for multiplying two binomials?

Back

(a + b)(c + d) = ac + ad + bc + bd.

Tags

CCSS.HSA.APR.A.1

Front

What is the importance of factoring in rational expressions?

Back

Factoring helps to simplify rational expressions by canceling out common factors.

Tags

CCSS.HSA.APR.D.6