[b] U6D2 Simplifying Rational Expressions

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What is a rational expression?

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

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How do you simplify a rational expression?

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

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What does it mean to factor a polynomial?

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Factoring a polynomial means expressing it as a product of its factors, which are polynomials of lower degrees.

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What is the degree of a polynomial?

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The degree of a polynomial is the highest power of the variable in the polynomial.

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What is the rule for dividing powers with the same base?

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What happens when you divide a variable with a negative exponent?

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How do you handle variables with different exponents in a rational expression?

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What is the significance of the greatest common factor (GCF) in simplifying expressions?

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The GCF helps to factor out common terms in the numerator and denominator, making simplification easier.

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