Simplifying Rational Expressions and Factors

The video tutorial explains how to simplify rational expressions by factoring numerators and denominators to cancel out common factors. It emphasizes the importance of not simplifying terms connected by addition or subtraction. Two examples are provided to illustrate the process, including factoring trinomials and recognizing differences of squares. The tutorial concludes with a reminder to ensure the final product is in its simplest form.

What is the first step in simplifying rational expressions?

• Multiply the expressions directly

• Factor all numerators and denominators

• Add the numerators and denominators

• Subtract the numerators from the denominators

Why can't you simplify terms connected by addition or subtraction?

• Because they are connected by operations that don't allow simplification

• Because they are already in simplest form

• Because they are not like terms

• Because they are not in the same expression

What is the greatest common factor of 2x - 10?

• x

• 5

• 2

• 10

Which pair of numbers are factors of -20 that add up to -1?

• 5 and -4

• 4 and -5

• -4 and 5

• -5 and 4

What is the result of simplifying X + 4 divided by X + 4?

• X

• 4

• 1

• 0

What is the simplified form of 2x divided by X - 4?

• 2

• 2x

• X - 4

• 2/(X - 4)

What are the factors of X squared - 25?

• X + 5 and X + 5

• X + 5 and X - 5

• X - 5 and X - 5

• X + 25 and X - 25

Which factors of -30 add up to 7?

• -5 and 6

• 5 and -6

• -10 and 3

• 10 and -3

What is the simplified form of X + 10 divided by X + 10?

• 1

• 10

• X

• 0

Why can't you simplify the X's in the expression X - 5 divided by X + 3?

• Because they are in different expressions

• Because they are already simplified

• Because they are connected by addition or subtraction

• Because they are not like terms