Simplifying Rational Expressions

Front

What is a rational expression?

Back

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

Front

How do you simplify a rational expression?

Back

To simplify a rational expression, factor both the numerator and the denominator and then cancel any common factors.

Front

What does it mean to reduce a fraction?

Back

Reducing a fraction means to simplify it to its lowest terms by dividing the numerator and denominator by their greatest common factor.

Front

What is the greatest common factor (GCF)?

Back

The greatest common factor is the largest factor that two or more numbers share.

Front

Simplify: 4x³/(x+2)

Back

4x³/(x+2) is already in its simplest form.

Front

Simplify: 1/(n-7)

Back

1/(n-7) is already in its simplest form.

Front

Simplify: (x-9)/(x+9)

Back

1/(x-9) is the simplified form.

Front

What is the difference between a proper and improper fraction?

Back

A proper fraction has a numerator smaller than the denominator, while an improper fraction has a numerator larger than or equal to the denominator.

Front

Simplify: (x+6)/(x+4)

Back

(x+6)/(x-5) is the simplified form.

Front

What is a polynomial?

Back

A polynomial is a mathematical expression that consists of variables, coefficients, and non-negative integer exponents.