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RATIONAL EXPRESSIONS
Definition
A rational expression has the form P/Q, where P
and Q are polynomials and Q ≠ 0. |
Property
If P/Q is a rational expression and if R is a
polynomial such that R ≠ 0, then
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Example 1 Simplify the rational expression:

Solution

Procedure
Multiplying Rational Expressions
The product of the rational expressions

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Example 2 Multiply the following rational
expressions:

Simplify your answer.
Solution

Procedure
Dividing Rational Expressions
The quotient of the rational expressions

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Example 3 Divide the following rational expressions

Simplify your answer.
Solution

Procedure
Adding Rational Expressions
If P/Q and R/Q are rational expressions, then

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Example 4 Add the following rational expressions:

Simplify your answer.
Solution

Procedure
Subtracting Rational Expressions
If P/Q and R/Q are rational expressions, then

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Example 5 Subtract the following rational
expressions:

Solution

§2-3 PROBLEM SET
Simplify each expression.

Perform the indicated operation and simplify the
result.

§2-3 PROBLEM SOLUTIONS

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