Rational Expressions and Equations Module 7 Rational Expressions and Equations
Simplifying Rational Expressions Video Links Simplifying Rational Expressions Adding and Subtracting Rational Expressions Multiplying and Dividing Rational Expressions Solving Rational Expressions
Simplifying Rational Expressions Find the common factors from the numerator and denominator, then cancel like factors. You may have to factor a binomial or trinomial in order for something to cancel out.
Another example & Video Link
Multiplying Rational Expressions Factor the numerator and denominator of both rational expressions. Find what will cancel in the cross products or in each rational expression.
Dividing Rational Expressions Keep Change Flip Keep the first fraction Change to multiplication Flip the second fraction Factor the numerator and denominator of both rational expressions. Find what will cancel in the cross products or in each rational expression.
Adding and Subtracting Expressions
Another Example (unlike Denominators) & Video Link
Complex Fractions Complex fractions can be rewritten as a division problem (with the top fraction first and the bottom fraction second. Follow the rules for dividing rational expressions and solve.
Solving Rational Expressions When two rational expressions are equal, use cross products to get rid of the denominators. Then solve like a regular equation.
Another Example The first step is to get the LCD (least common denominator). Once everything has a common denominator, follow the operations so that the denominators will cancel out. Finally, rewrite the equation so it is set to zero and find the solution(s).