10.1 Simplifying Rational Expressions Goal: to simplify a rational expression
Simplifying Rational Expressions A “rational expression” is the quotient of two polynomials. (division)
Simplifying Rational Expressions A “rational expression” is the quotient of two polynomials. (division) A rational expression is in simplest form when the numerator and denominator have no common factors (other than 1)
Simplifying Rational Expressions A “rational expression” is the quotient of two polynomials. (division) A rational expression is in simplest Form when the numerator and denominator have no common factors (other than 1)
How to get a rational expression in simplest form… Factor the numerator completely (factor out a common factor, difference of 2 squares, bottoms up) Factor the denominator completely (factor out a common factor, difference of 2 squares, bottoms up) Cancel out any common factors (not addends)
Difference between a factor and an addend A factor is in between a multiplication sign An addend is in between an addition or subtraction sign Example: x + 3 3x + 9 x – 9 6x + 3
Factor
Mrs. Rodriguez’s Shortcut a-b = -1 b-a
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