Adding and Subtracting Rational Expressions

Front

What is a rational expression?

Back

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

Front

How do you add rational expressions with different denominators?

Back

To add rational expressions with different denominators, find a common denominator, rewrite each expression with that denominator, and then add the numerators.

Front

What is the least common denominator (LCD)?

Back

The least common denominator (LCD) is the smallest expression that can be used as a common denominator for two or more rational expressions.

Front

How do you subtract rational expressions?

Back

To subtract rational expressions, find a common denominator, rewrite each expression with that denominator, and then subtract the numerators.

Front

What is the domain of a rational expression?

Back

The domain of a rational expression is the set of all real numbers except those that make the denominator zero.

Front

What is the range of a rational expression?

Back

The range of a rational expression is the set of all possible output values (y-values) that the expression can produce.

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 vary inversely?

Back

To vary inversely means that as one quantity increases, the other quantity decreases, and their product is constant.

Front

What is the process for finding the LCD of (x+2)/(x-3) and (x-1)/(x+2)?

Back

The LCD is (x+2)(x-3) because it includes all unique factors from both denominators.

Front

How do you find the value of x when y varies inversely as x?

Back

Use the formula y = k/x, where k is a constant. Rearrange to find x when y is given.