Algebraic Fractions

In Core 3 we are required to perform the four rules of fractions and cancel down by factors on
algebraic expressions as well as making appropriate substitutions. The nature of the work is
continuation from GCSE.

Addition/Subtraction



Here we are required to combine the two fractions over a common denominator and simplify if
possible.

()()

Here we are required to combine the two fractions over a common denominator and simplify if
possible.

()()()
()()

()()

()()

()()
()()






Here we are required to factorise and cancel out factors.

()()
()()

()
()


Example 1
Simplify the following

Example 2
Simplify the following

Example 3
Simplify the following fraction

(a) Writing each over a common denominator
()
()

()
()

()

()

(b) Complete the square on the numerator
(

Hence

(c) Having shown the numerator to be positive,
The denominator is ( )

where . This is positive for all given values. Hence,

()

() .





Factorise where necessary
()
()()

()()
which simplifies to

()

()()

()
()()

()()

()()
()()

()
()


Example 4

Example 5

Multiplication/Division
Here the key point is to factorise where possible and cancel common factors.
Multiplying out brackets should be avoided




Here we factorise the respective terms and spot factors to cancel.
Remember to cancel out, the factor must appear on top and on the bottom.

()()
()

()
()


()()
()

()
()
( )





Turning the calculation into a multiplication first before identifying factors to cancel.

()()
()()

()
()()

()
()()


You may also be required to use the Remainder Theorem (Core 2) to express an algebraic long
division in terms of an exact division and its remainder.
Example 6
Simplify the following

Example 7
Simplify the following

Hence,

Example 8
Express

Example 9
Express