Chapter 9: Rational Expressions Section 9-1: Multiplying and Dividing Rationals 1.A Rational Expression is a ratio of two polynomial expressions. (fraction) 2.To Simplify a rational expression, look for common factors. EXAMPLE: Simplify - Factor apart what you can. (numerator has a GCF of 5 Denominator is a Difference of Squares) - Cancel common factors of (x – 1) to get your simplified polynomial

3. Remember: When Multiplying fractions, multiply straight across. ** Factor apart what you can, reduce, and multiply across. EXAMPLE: - Factor apart any factorable polynomial. - Reduce - Multiply Across to get your final result.

4.Remember: Dividing by a fraction is the same as Multiplying by its Reciprocal EXAMPLE: - Multiply by the reciprocal - Factor what you can - Reduce -Multiply across to get the final answer of 