How to simplify a rational expression using factoring

The video tutorial covers simplifying fractions by factoring both the numerator and denominator. It explains how to factor trinomials where A equals 1, using the example of X^2 + 3X - 18, and demonstrates the difference of squares method with X^2 - 36. The division property is applied to simplify expressions when terms are identical in the numerator and denominator. The final simplified expression is X - 3 / X - 6. The lesson concludes with a recap of the key points discussed.

What is the first step in simplifying an algebraic expression?

• Subtract the terms

• Multiply the terms

• Factor both the numerator and the denominator

• Add the terms together

When factoring a trinomial where the leading coefficient is 1, what should you look for?

• Two numbers that subtract to the middle coefficient

• Two numbers that multiply to the constant term and add to the middle coefficient

• Two numbers that multiply to the leading coefficient

• Two numbers that add to the constant term

What is the factored form of X^2 - 36?

• (X + 6)(X - 6)

• (X + 6)(X + 6)

• (X - 6)(X - 6)

• (X - 6)(X + 6)

What happens when you have the same term in both the numerator and the denominator?

• They add together

• They multiply together

• They cancel each other out

• They remain unchanged

Which of the following is a correct application of the division property?

• Dividing X + 6 by X + 6

• Dividing X - 6 by X - 6

• Dividing X - 6 by X + 6

• Dividing X + 6 by X - 6