Simplifying Rational Expressions

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What is a rational expression?

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A rational expression is a fraction where the numerator and the denominator are both 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 and then cancel any common factors.

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What does it mean to cancel in a rational expression?

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Canceling means removing common factors from the numerator and denominator.

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The first step is to check if the numerator and denominator can be factored.

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The expression is already in its simplest form.

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What is the standard form of a rational expression?

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The standard form of a rational expression is when the numerator and denominator are polynomials with no common factors.

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What is the importance of identifying restrictions in rational expressions?

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Identifying restrictions is important because it helps to determine values that make the denominator zero, which are not allowed.

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What does it mean for a rational expression to be undefined?

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A rational expression is undefined when its denominator equals zero.