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11.5. Simplify Rational Expressions. Rational Expression: a fraction whose numerators and denominators are polynomials. Examples: 3 , 2x , and 6 . x + 4 x 2 – 9 x 2 + 1.
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11.5 Simplify Rational Expressions
Rational Expression: a fraction whose numerators and denominators are polynomials. Examples: 3 , 2x , and 6 . x + 4 x2 – 9 x2 + 1
Domain: the set of all real numbers except those for which the denominator is zero. For example: The domain of 3 is x + 4 all real numbers except -4.
Simplify Rational Expression the same way that you reduce a fraction. Divide the numerator and denominator by “x” 25 = Divide the numerator and denominator by “2” 2x + 4 =
Domain:x can be any real number except a number that would make the denominator 0! Find the domain of each expression below.
How do you know when your rational expression is reduced? Reduced Form: when the numerator and denominators have no common factors except for ±1.
The RULE: To simplify fractions, divide out common factors. REMEMBER you can’t cancel out +(adding) and –(subtracting)
For a,b,c any non-zero real numbers, Remember you can only cancel out FACTORS!!!
Simplify the expression. x2 + 4x +4 Factor each polynomial. x2 - 4 (x + 2)(x + 2)(x + 2)(x – 2) What does the numerator and denominator have in common? Factor out (x + 2) The answer is: x + 2 x - 2
Simplify the expression. Factor each polynomial. x2 - 7x + 12x2 +3x - 18 (x - 4)(x – 3)(x + 6)(x - 3) What does the numerator and denominator have in common? Factor out (x – 3) The answer is: x - 4 x + 6