Simplifying algebraic fractions and restrictions
Topic Notes
A rational expression is a fraction that its numerator and/or denominator are polynomials. In this lesson, we will first learn how to find the non-permissible values of the variable in a rational expression. Then, we will how to simplify rational expressions.
multiplication rule:
division rule:
division rule:
Basic Concepts
- Common factors of polynomials
- Factoring polynomials:
- Factoring perfect square trinomials: (a + b)^2 = a^2 + 2ab + b^2 or (a - b)^2 = a^2 - 2ab + b^2
- Find the difference of squares: (a - b)(a + b) = (a^2 - b^2)
- Solving polynomial equations