10.6 Solving Rational Equations
Rational Equation An equation containing one or more rational expressions
Steps to solve Rational Equations 1.Find the LCD 2.Multiply every term on both sides of the equation by the LCD over 1 3.Cross Cancel 4.Solve for the variable a. Linear equation: get variables on one side and constants on the other b. Quadratic: set your equation = 0 and factor.
Extraneous Solutions When both sides of the equation are mult by a variable, the equation is transformed into a new equation and may have an extra solution. Check each solution in the original rational equation Make sure that your answer does not make the denominator 0
Solving Rational Equations Multiply both sides of the equation by the LCM of the denominators. Least Common Multiple: Each factor raised to the greatest exponent.
Solve for x: LCM =
Solve for x: LCM = (x + 1)(x)
Solve for x: LCM = 2x
Solve for x: x x
-2 is an extraneous solution.
Solve for x: -2 is an extraneous solution.
Cross products Short cut: extraneous solution?
Cross products:
Assignment: Page 453 # (2-24) even