Simplifying Fractions Chapter 6 Section 6.1

Objective Students will simplify algebraic fractions

Concept To simplify a fraction, first you must factor the numerator and the denominator completely.

Example 3a + 6b 2 – 2y

Example y2 – 16 6x2 + 7x – 3

Concept Once the numerator and denominator are factored completely, you simplify top to bottom (cross off like terms). Multiplication signs & plus and minus signs different When the numerator and denominator of an algebraic fraction have no common factor other than 1 and -1, the fraction is said to be in simplest form.

Example 54 72 12y3 4xy

32a2bc3 20abc

Are (2x + 3) and (3 + 2x) the same? Are (x – 1) and (1 – x) the same? Concept Are (2x + 3) and (3 + 2x) the same? Are (x – 1) and (1 – x) the same?

Example Simplify 3a + 6 3a + 3b

Example Simplify x2 – 9 (1 + 2x)(3 + x)

Example Simplify 2x2 + x – 3 2 – x – x2

Simplify 2x2 – 5x – 12 12x – 3x2

Questions

Assignment Worksheet