Simplifying Rational Expressions Advanced Math Topics Mrs Mongold

Simplifying Rational Expressions Advanced Math Topics Mrs. Mongold

Rational Expression o Def: a ratio of two polynomial expressions

To Simplify A Rational Expression o o 1. Make sure both the numerator and denominator are factored completely!!! 2. Look for common factors and cancel n o Remember factors are things that are being multiplied you can NEVER cancel things that are being added or subtracted!!! 3. Find out what conditions make the expression undefined and state them.

Examples o 1. Simplify and state the values for x that result in the expression being undefined

Examples Cont… o 2. Simplify and state the values for x that result in the expression being undefined

Examples Cont… o 3. Simplify and state the values for x that result in the expression being undefined

Examples Cont… o 4. Simplify and state the values for x that result in the expression being undefined

Examples Cont… o 5. Simplify

Examples Cont… o 6. Simplify

Examples Cont… o 7. Simplify

Examples Cont… o 8. Simplify

Operations with Rational Expressions

Examples o 9.

Examples Cont… o 10.

Examples Cont… o 11.

Examples Cont… o 12.

Examples Cont… o 13.

Examples Cont… o 14.

Polynomials in Numerator and Denominator o Rules are the same as before… n n n 1. Make sure everything is factored completely 2. Cancel common factors 3. Simplify and define x values for which the expression is undefined.

Examples: o 1.

Examples: o 2.

Examples: o 3.

Examples: o 4.

Examples: o 5.

Examples: o 6.