Simplifying Rational Expressions

The video tutorial explains rational expressions, which are fractions with variables in the denominator. It covers the process of simplifying these expressions by factoring and canceling terms, similar to simplifying numerical fractions. An example is provided where a quadratic expression is factored and simplified by canceling common terms in the numerator and denominator, resulting in a simplified expression.

What is a rational expression?

• A fraction with numbers only

• A fraction with no variables

• A fraction with variables in the denominator

• A fraction with variables in the numerator

Why is having variables in the denominator significant in rational expressions?

• It has no significance

• It simplifies the expression automatically

• It defines the expression as rational

• It makes the expression irrational

What is the first step in simplifying a rational expression?

• Dividing the numerator by the denominator

• Factoring the numerator

• Adding the numerator and denominator

• Multiplying the numerator and denominator

In the expression 2x/x, what can be canceled out?

• The number 2

• The entire expression

• Nothing can be canceled

• The variable x

What is the result of simplifying 2x/x?

• 0

• 1

• x

• 2

What is the key to simplifying a rational expression?

• Adding terms

• Factoring and canceling

• Multiplying terms

• Dividing terms

What does the expression x^2 - 3x + 2 factor into?

• (x - 2)(x - 1)

• (x - 2)(x + 1)

• (x + 2)(x + 1)

• (x - 1)(x + 2)

Which numbers multiply to 2 and add to 3?

• 2 and 2

• 3 and 0

• 2 and 1

• 1 and 1

What happens to the expression when you cancel out common factors?

• It becomes undefined

• It simplifies

• It remains the same

• It becomes more complex

What is the simplified form of the expression (x^2 - 3x + 2)/(x - 2)?

• x + 2

• x + 1

• x - 2

• x - 1