Alg III P6(a) – Rational Expressions Homework: p odd

Rational Expression: quotient of 2 polynomials (fractions involving algebraic expressions!) Cool Fact: since a rational expression indicates division, and the world explodes if we divide by zero, then we, as mathematicians, must exclude numbers that will make the denominator zero! Math Statement: Your mission is to eliminate numbers from the domain that make the rational expression’s denominator undefined (or equal to zero)

Guided Practice: Simplifying Rational Expressions: 1.Factor the numerator and denominator completely 2.“cancel out” any common factors

Guided Practice:

Multiplying Rational Expressions: 1.Factor numerator and denominator completely 2.Cancel out common factors 3.Manage remaining factors 4.Restrictions to the domain Dividing Rational Expressions: 1.Flip, or invert the second fraction or the divisor 2.Factor numerator and denominator completely 3.Cancel out common factors 4.Manage remaining factors 5.Restrictions to the domain

Guided Practice:

Whiteboard Problems: Simplify; list exclusions from the domain.