AA C&C Unit 7 FLASHCARD 2: Add/Sub & Solve Rational Equations

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

Back

To find the LCD, factor each denominator into its prime factors and take the highest power of each factor present.

Front

What is the process of simplifying 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 combine like terms in algebra?

Back

Combining like terms involves adding or subtracting terms that have the same variable raised to the same power.

Front

What is the significance of distributing in algebra?

Back

Distributing involves multiplying a term by each term inside a parenthesis, which is essential for simplifying expressions.

Front

How do you solve a rational equation?

Back

To solve a rational equation, find a common denominator, eliminate the denominators, and then solve the resulting polynomial equation.

Front

What is the difference between a proper and improper fraction?

Back

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

Front

What is the formula for finding the quotient of two rational expressions?

Back

Front

What is factoring in algebra?

Back

Factoring is the process of breaking down an expression into simpler components (factors) that, when multiplied together, give the original expression.

Front

What is a common mistake when distributing in algebra?

Back

A common mistake is to only distribute to the first term inside the parentheses instead of all terms.