Simplifying Rational Expressions

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What is a rational expression?

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

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What does it mean to simplify a rational expression?

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Simplifying a rational expression means to reduce it to its simplest form by factoring and canceling common factors.

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What is factoring in algebra?

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

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What is the difference of squares?

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

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What is a polynomial?

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A polynomial is an expression made up of variables, coefficients, and exponents, combined using addition, subtraction, and multiplication.

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What is a common factor?

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A common factor is a number or expression that divides two or more numbers or expressions evenly.