Simplifying Rational Expressions Concepts

The video tutorial explains how to simplify rational expressions, emphasizing that simplification cannot occur across addition or subtraction. It provides examples to illustrate when simplification is possible, such as when terms are connected by multiplication, and when it is not, such as when terms are connected by addition. The tutorial concludes with a final example to reinforce the key points.

What is the key rule to remember when simplifying rational expressions?

• You can simplify any expression.

• You cannot simplify across addition or subtraction.

• You can simplify across addition.

• You can simplify across subtraction.

In the expression 3x^2 / x^2, why can it be simplified?

• Because the terms are connected by addition.

• Because the terms are connected by multiplication.

• Because the terms are different.

• Because the terms are connected by subtraction.

What is the result of simplifying x^2 / x^2?

• x

• 1

• x^2

• 0

Why can't the expression with x^2 + 4 be simplified?

• Because the terms are connected by multiplication.

• Because the terms are connected by addition.

• Because the terms are connected by subtraction.

• Because the terms are identical.

What allows the expression 3(x + 2) / (x + 2) to be simplified?

• The terms are connected by subtraction.

• The terms are different.

• The terms are connected by addition.

• The terms are connected by multiplication.

Why can't the expression with 2x + 2 be simplified?

• Because the terms are identical.

• Because the terms are connected by addition.

• Because the terms are connected by subtraction.

• Because the terms are connected by multiplication.