What does it mean to simplify a rational expression

The video tutorial covers the multiplication of fractions and polynomials, emphasizing the importance of multiplying straight across for fractions and factoring for polynomials. It highlights common mistakes, such as incorrect cross multiplication, and demonstrates simplification techniques by identifying common factors. The tutorial concludes with an example problem to reinforce the concepts discussed.

Describe how to identify common factors in a polynomial expression.

What is the importance of factoring when multiplying or dividing polynomials?

What is the final simplified answer for the expression discussed in the lesson?