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

What is the greatest common divisor (GCD) of 36 and 48?

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The sides of a triangle are 5 cm, 12 cm, and 13 cm. What type of triangle is it?

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A sum triples in 20 years at simple interest. What is the rate of interest per annum?

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What is the cube root of 729?

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The base of a triangle is 10 cm and its height is 6 cm. What is its area?

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If x = 2 and y = 3, what is the value of (x^2 + y^2)?

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If sin(A) = 3/5 and cos(B) = 5/13, where A and B are acute angles, what is sin(A+B)?

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If a square has a perimeter of 64 cm, what is its area?

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What is the LCM of 15 and 20?

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A rectangle has a length of 10 cm and a width of 5 cm. What is the diagonal of the rectangle?

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