Adding and Subtracting Rational Expressions

Front

Define rational expressions.

Back

Rational expressions are fractions where the numerator and the denominator are both polynomials.

Front

What is the first step in adding or subtracting rational expressions with different denominators?

Back

Find the least common denominator (LCD) of the expressions.

Front

How do you find the least common denominator (LCD) of two rational expressions?

Back

The LCD is the least common multiple of the denominators of the rational expressions.

Front

What is the process to add rational expressions with the same denominator?

Back

Add the numerators and keep the same denominator.

Front

What is the process to subtract rational expressions with the same denominator?

Back

Subtract the numerators and keep the same denominator.

Front

How do you simplify a rational expression?

Back

Factor the numerator and denominator and cancel any common factors.

Front

What is the formula for adding two rational expressions?

Back

Front

What is the formula for subtracting two rational expressions?

Back

Front

What does it mean to have a common denominator?

Back

A common denominator is a shared multiple of the denominators of two or more fractions.

Front

How do you convert a fraction to have a common denominator?

Back

Multiply the numerator and denominator by the necessary factor to achieve the common denominator.