Multiplying rational expressions

Why is it important to simplify rational expressions before performing operations?

• To make the expressions more complex

• To save time and effort

• To avoid using factoring techniques

• To increase the number of terms

What is the first step in factoring a trinomial?

• Identify numbers that add to a specific sum

• Multiply all terms together

• Divide by the greatest common factor

• Simplify the expression

Which of the following is a correct factorization of X^2 - 4?

• (X - 1)(X + 1)

• (X - 2)(X + 2)

• (X + 2)(X + 2)

• (X - 4)(X + 4)

How do you determine which terms in the numerator and denominator can be canceled?

• By subtracting them

• By finding terms that multiply to zero

• By adding them together

• By identifying terms that equal one when divided

What is the final simplified form of a rational expression when all terms cancel out?

• Zero

• The original expression

• One

• A trinomial