1. 31. Solving Rational Equations

2. To solve:
Multiply all pieces by the least common denominator (LCD)
This will get rid of all the fractions!
Then solve as normal
You must always check your answer to make sure there are not extraneous solutions (solutions that don’t work)!

3. Multiply each fraction through by the LCD
Example: Solve.
LCD: 2x
Multiply each fraction through by the LCD
Check your solution!

4. Solve.
LCD: ?
LCD: (x+1) ?
Check your solution!
No Solution!

5. Solve.
Factor 1st!
LCD: (x+2)(x-2)
Check your solutions!

6. Example: Solve.
Check your solutions!

7. Last Example: Solve.
Check your solutions!