Background Check: ·Tell in words what is involved in simplifying a fraction. ·Tell in words what is involved in the operation of multiplication of fractions. ·Tell in words what is involved in the operation of division of fractions.

Identify Rational Expressions.

For which values of x is the rational expression undefined? When the value of the denominator is zero the fraction becomes undefined. Identify the values for which a given rational expression is undefined.

For which values of x is the rational expression undefined? How about These?

This is the most important principle to remember when working with fractions. Notice the fact that this is true only when K is a factor, not a term. Do you know the difference between a factor and a term? Reduce rational expressions to lowest terms.

Use the fundamental principle to reduce each expression to lowest terms. State any restrictions on the variable by using the fact that no denominator can be 0. This restriction applies to denominators before and after a rational expression is reduced.

How about this one?

Perform the indicated operation of multiplication or division on the rational expressions and simplify.

Seat Work: For which values of x is the rational expression undefined? Reduce the rational expression to lowest terms. Perform the indicated operation of multiplication or division on the rational expressions and simplify.