Master Simplifying Rational Expressions

The video tutorial explains how to simplify rational expressions by using the division property and multiplication identity. It emphasizes the importance of factoring expressions to apply these properties effectively. The tutorial provides examples, including working with trinomials, to demonstrate the process of simplifying rational expressions. The video concludes with a discussion on constraints related to rational expressions.

What does the division property state about an expression divided by itself?

• It equals the reciprocal of the expression.

• It equals zero.

• It equals one.

• It equals the expression itself.

What happens when you divide a term by itself in a rational expression?

• The term becomes one.

• The term doubles.

• The term is eliminated.

• The term becomes zero.

Why is it important to separate terms by multiplication when simplifying rational expressions?

• To change the expression's value.

• To make the expression more complex.

• To apply the division property.

• To apply the multiplication identity.

What is the first step in simplifying a rational expression with terms not separated by multiplication?

• Subtract the terms.

• Multiply the terms.

• Factor the terms.

• Add the terms together.

In the context of rational expressions, what is factoring used for?

• To simplify the expression by division.

• To change the expression's value.

• To separate terms by multiplication.

• To add terms together.

When factoring trinomials, what are you looking for in terms of multiplication and addition?

• Two numbers that multiply to the constant term and add to the coefficient of the middle term.

• Two numbers that multiply to the coefficient of the middle term and add to the constant term.

• Two numbers that multiply to the leading coefficient and add to the constant term.

• Two numbers that multiply to the constant term and add to the leading coefficient.

How can you simplify an expression with a perfect square binomial in the denominator?

• By multiplying the terms in the denominator.

• By factoring the numerator.

• By recognizing and canceling the common terms.

• By adding the terms in the numerator.