Adding and Subtracting 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 add rational expressions with the same denominator?

Back

To add rational expressions with the same denominator, combine the numerators and keep the denominator the same.

Front

How do you subtract rational expressions with the same denominator?

Back

To subtract rational expressions with the same denominator, subtract the numerators and keep the denominator the same.

Front

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

Back

The first step is to find a common denominator.

Front

What is a common denominator?

Back

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

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 factor a polynomial?

Back

Factoring a polynomial means rewriting it as a product of its factors.

Front

What is the difference between a proper and improper rational expression?

Back

A proper rational expression has a numerator of lower degree than the denominator, while an improper rational expression has a numerator of equal or higher degree.

Front

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

Back

The least common denominator is found by determining the least common multiple of the denominators.

Front

What is the process for adding rational expressions?

Back

1. Find the LCD. 2. Rewrite each expression with the LCD. 3. Add the numerators. 4. Simplify if possible.