MCC9-12.A.APR.

6: Rewrite simple rational expressions in different forms

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Date: ________________

5.1 Simplifying Rational Expressions

Rational Expression:
You can simplify rational expressions the same way you can simplify fractions.
Recall that to write a fraction in simplest form, you can divide out common factors
in the numerator and denominator.

Example 1: Simplifying

Rational Expressions

Simplify. Identify any x-values for which the expression is undefined.

1.

3 x2
2 x4

3.

3 x+ 4
3 x 2 + x4

2.

4.

x 22 x3
x 2 +5 x+ 4

16 x 11
8 x2

You Try:
1.

6 x 2+7 x +2
2
6 x 5 x6

2.

10 x 8
4
6x

MCC9-12.A.APR.6: Rewrite simple rational expressions in different forms

Example 2: Simplifying by Factoring -1

Simplify. Identify any x-values for which the expression is undefined.
1.

2 xx 2
x 2x2

2.

102 x
x5

You Try:
1.

3 xx 2
2
2 x 7 x+ 3

2.

4 x x2
2
x 2 x8

Example 3: Multiplying Rational Expressions

Multiply. Assume that all expressions are defined.
1.

2 x 4 y 5 15 x 2
2 2
2
3x 8x y

2.

x +2
x+ 4

3 x +12 x 24

MCC9-12.A.APR.6: Rewrite simple rational expressions in different forms

You Try:
2

1.

x x 20

15 2 x x 4

2.

10 x 40
x+3

2
x 6 x +8 5 x+15

Example 4: Dividing Rational Expressions

Divide. Assume that all expressions are defined.
1.

4 x2
16
5
2
9x y 9 y

2.

x 54 x 3 x 5x 4 2 x 2

x 2x2
x 21

You Try:
1.

x2 x2 y

4 12 y 2

2.

2 x 27 x4
4 x 21

x29
8 x2 28 x +12

MCC9-12.A.APR.6: Rewrite simple rational expressions in different forms