Operations with Rational Expressions

Front

What is a restriction in rational expressions?

Back

A value of a variable that makes the expression mathematically illegal.

Front

How do we find the restrictions of a rational expression?

Back

We set the denominator equal to zero and solve for the variable.

Front

What is a rational expression?

Back

A fraction where the numerator and the denominator are both polynomials.

Front

What is the domain of a rational expression?

Back

The set of all real numbers except those that make the denominator zero.

Front

What does it mean to simplify a rational expression?

Back

To reduce the expression to its simplest form by canceling common factors.

Front

What is a vertical asymptote?

Back

A vertical line that represents a value of x where the function approaches infinity.

Front

What is a hole in the graph of a rational expression?

Back

A point where the function is not defined due to a common factor in the numerator and denominator.

Front

How do you add rational expressions with different denominators?

Back

Find a common denominator, rewrite each expression, and then combine the numerators.

Front

What is the process for multiplying rational expressions?

Back

Multiply the numerators together and the denominators together, then simplify.

Front

What is the process for dividing rational expressions?

Back

Multiply by the reciprocal of the divisor and simplify.