1. Bell Quiz

2. Objectives Learn to use the Distributive Property to simplify rational expressions.

3. Rational Expressions A rational expression is an expression with a variable in the denominator. Rational expressions can be treated just like fractions. As with fractions the denominator cannot be zero. Therefore, any value of the variable that makes the denominator equal to zero is not permitted.

4. Rational Expressions Variables stand for unknown real numbers. So, all properties that apply to real numbers also apply to rational expressions. The Distributive Property can be used to simplify rational expressions.

5. Example 1 Distributing Over Addition

6. Lesson Practice

7. Example 2 Distributing Over Subtraction

8. Lesson Practice

9. Example 3 Simplifying with Negative Exponents

10. Lesson Practice

11. Example 4 Simplifying with Negative Exponents

12. Lesson Practice

13. Example 5 Distributing Over Multiple Operations

14. Lesson Practice

15. Example 6 Distributing Over Multiple Operations

16. Lesson Practice