Topic Details (Notes format)

How to Simplify Rational Expressions

Subject: Mathematics

Book: Maths Mastery

Rational expressions are fractions with polynomials in numerator and denominator, like (x² – 9)/(x² – x – 6). Simplify by factoring both numerator and denominator, then canceling common factors. In this example, x² – 9 factors to (x – 3)(x + 3), and x² – x – 6 factors to (x – 3)(x + 2), simplifying to (x + 3)/(x + 2) if x ≠ 3. Rational expression simplification appears in advanced algebra, calculus, and real-life modeling of rates or proportions. Mastery of factoring and cautious domain considerations ensures robust, accurate algebraic manipulation.

Practice Questions

If 2x - 3 = 7, what is the value of x?

View Question

The sum of the squares of two consecutive integers is 145. What are the integers?

View Question

If a = 5 and b = 12, what is the length of the hypotenuse of a right triangle?

View Question

A rectangle has an area of 48 cm² and a length of 8 cm. What is its width?

View Question

If a = 4 and b = 5, what is the value of (a+b)^2?

View Question

If the probability of an event is 1/4, what is the probability of its complement?

View Question

If 2a + b = 10 and a - b = 4, what is the value of a?

View Question

If the perimeter of a square is 40 cm, what is the area of the square?

View Question

What is the probability of drawing a king from a standard deck of 52 playing cards?

View Question

The sides of a triangle are 13 cm, 14 cm, and 15 cm. What is its area?

View Question