Sullivan Algebra and Trigonometry: Section R.7 Rational Expressions Objectives of this Section Reduce a Rational Expression to Lowest Terms Multiply and Divide Rational Expressions Add and Subtract Rational Expressions Use the Least Common Multiple Method Simplify Mixed Quotients
The quotient of two polynomials is called a rational expression.
Simplify: The number 1 Simplify: The number 1
Rules for Multiplying and Dividing Rational Expressions
Perform the indicated operation and simplify
Rules for Adding and Subtracting Rational Expressions, Denominators Equal
Perform the indicated operation and simplify the result.
STEP 1: Find least common multiple
Simplifying a Mixed Quotient First, treat the numerator and denominator separately, performing the indicated operation. Then, simplify the numerator and denominator.
Finally, simplify the resulting fraction