Simplifying Rational Expressions
Simplifying rational expressions is like reducing rational numbers. First fully factor the numerator and denominator and then cancel all the common factors. The process is illustrated step by step.
Rational Expressions that Equal - 1
Rational expressions that equal -1 are recognizable: the terms in the numerator are identical to the terms in the denominator except for their signs, which are opposite.
Rules for Working with Rational Expressions
Most of the rules for working with rational expressions are the same as the rules for working with rational numbers.
Rational Numbers Review
In a rational number, the numerator can be any integer and the denominator can be any integer except zero. A rational expression is like a rational number. In a rational expression, the numerator and denominator can be any monomial or polynomial.
Multiplying Rational Expressions
Demonstration of the procedure for multiplying rational expressions.
Denominator of a Simplified Expression Never Has Radicals, The
A guideline is presented: a simplified radical expression never has radicals in the denominator. An expression with a radical in the denominator, but not in the numerator, is simplified using the identity property of multiplication and the process o...
Dividing Rational Expressions
The procedure for dividing rational expressions is demonstrated.
Multiplying then Simplifying Two Radicals
The procedure for simplifying radicals by beginning with multiplication is demonstrated.