Adding, Subtracting, Multiplying, Dividing 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 multiply rational expressions?

Back

To multiply rational expressions, multiply the numerators together and the denominators together, then simplify if possible.

Front

What is the first step in adding rational expressions?

Back

The first step is to find a common denominator for the expressions being added.

Front

What is the formula for adding two rational expressions with different denominators?

Back

Front

What does it mean to simplify a rational expression?

Back

Simplifying a rational expression means reducing it to its lowest terms by canceling common factors in the numerator and denominator.

Front

What is the process for subtracting rational expressions?

Back

Similar to addition, find a common denominator, then subtract the numerators and simplify.

Front

What is a common mistake when adding rational expressions?

Back

A common mistake is to add the numerators directly without finding a common denominator.

Front

How do you divide rational expressions?

Back

To divide rational expressions, multiply by the reciprocal of the divisor.

Front

What is the reciprocal of a rational expression?

Back

Front

What is the importance of factoring in rational expressions?

Back

Factoring helps to simplify expressions and find common factors that can be canceled.