Simplifying Rational Expressions

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Define a rational expression.

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A rational expression is a fraction where both the numerator and the denominator are polynomials.

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What is the first step in simplifying a rational expression?

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The first step is to factor both the numerator and the denominator completely.

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What does it mean to cancel common factors in a rational expression?

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It means to remove the same factor from both the numerator and the denominator.

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What is the difference between a polynomial and a rational expression?

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A polynomial is an expression made up of variables and coefficients, while a rational expression is a ratio of two polynomials.

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What is a common mistake when simplifying rational expressions?

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A common mistake is to cancel terms that are not factors.

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Define a polynomial function.

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