1. Simplifying
Rational Expressions

2. Remember, denominators can not = 0.
Now,lets go through the steps to simplify a rational expression.

3. Step 1: Factor the numerator and the denominator completely looking for common factors.
Next

4. What is the common factor?
Step 2: Divide the numerator and denominator by the common factor.

5. Step 3: Multiply to get your answer.1
Step 3: Multiply to get your answer.

6. 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

7. How do I find the values that make an expression undefined?
Completely factor the original denominator.

8. Factor the denominator
The expression is undefined when: a= 0, 2, and -2 and b= 0.

9. Lets go through another example.
Factor out the GCF
Next

10. 1 1

12. Now try to do some on your own.
Also find the values that make each expression undefined?