Simplifying Rational Expressions
Remember, denominators can not = 0. Now,lets go through the steps to simplify a rational expression.
Step 1: Factor the numerator and the denominator completely looking for common factors. Next
What is the common factor? Step 2: Divide the numerator and denominator by the common factor.
Step 3: Multiply to get your answer. 1 Step 3: Multiply to get your answer.
Looking at the answer from the previous example, what value of x would make the denominator 0? The expression is undefined when the values make the denominator equal to 0
How do I find the values that make an expression undefined? Completely factor the original denominator.
Factor the denominator The expression is undefined when: a= 0, 2, and -2 and b= 0.
Lets go through another example. Factor out the GCF Next
1 1
Now try to do some on your own. Also find the values that make each expression undefined?