Algebra 2 9.

1 Name:__________

A rational expression is a quotient of two polynomials. The

following are examples of rational expressions. Remember,
the denominator can never be zero.

Simplifying Rational Expressions

In arithmetic, we simplify fractions by removing factors equal

to 1. In the example shown below, nine is a common factor

to both the numerator and the denominator. Any number

divided by itself names the number 1 and can be removed

without changing the value of the original number.

This rule also holds true for rational expressions.

Example 1:

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Algebra 2 9.1 Name:__________

Example 2:

A WORD OF CAUTION HERE!

Many times students misunderstand this rule and try to

simplify problems like example #2 by removing the x's. If
you think about arithmetic and follow the two examples
below, it might help you see how this does not work with
numbers and will not work with variables either

CORRECT INCORRECT

Multiplying Rational Expressions

In arithmetic, to multiply two fractions, we multiply

numerators and denominators. We do the same with

rational expressions. The general rule appears below and

assumes that b and d are never zero.

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 Algebra 2 9.1 Name:__________

Example
3:

Example
4:

Dividing Rational Expressions

In arithmetic, we can divide two fractions by multiplying by

the reciprocal. We can show that the same is true for
rational expressions. The general rule for division is shown
below, again assuming that the second expression is
nonzero.

3
Algebra 2 9.1 Name:__________

Exampl
e 5:

Exampl
e 6:

8 x 3 −2 x 2
Example 7: Simplify 4 x 2 −x

Example 8: Perform the indicated operations.

8 x 3 14 y 4
a. ⋅
26 xy 12 x 2

2 x 2 −x −3 x 2 +x
b. x 2 +x
⋅
2 x +3

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Algebra 2 9.1 Name:__________

3 x −1 x
c. ÷ 3
2 x −2 x 2 x −2 x 2
3

x 2 +4 x +4
d. x +3
÷( x +2)

x −1
e. (x2 – 1) ÷
x +5

x 2 +12 x +35
f. (x2 + 10x + 25) ÷
x 2 −8 x −105

x 2 −11 x +30 x −6
g. (x2 + x – 30) ÷
x 2
+7 x +12
⋅
x +6

A complex fraction is a fraction that contains a fraction in

its numerator or denominator. Complex fractions may have
numerators or denominators that are the sum or difference
of fractions.

To simplify a complex fraction, write its numerator and its

denominator as single fractions. Then divide by multiplying
by the reciprocal of the denominator.

Example 7: Simplify each complex fraction.

x2 1
9 x2 − 4 y 2 x +2
a. x3
b. 4
6+
2 y − 3x x

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Algebra 2 9.1 Name:__________

Another way to simplify complex fractions is to multiply the

numerator and denominator by the LCD of every fraction in
the numerator and denominator.
2
x +2
Example 8: Use this method to simplify 1 2 .
+
x +2 x