University:
California State University, Northridge
Course:
MATH 102 | Pre-Calculus I
Academic year:

2024
Views:

183

Pages:

2
Author:

spisevane4x8

Lecture : Rational Expressions What is a rational expression? Note that the word rational contains the word ratio. We associate the word ratio with fractions. So, a rational expression is a fraction in which both the numerator and the denominator are polynomials. Do you recall what a polynomial is? Write down an example. In addition to rational expressions, in future chapters we will study rational equations. It is important to note the difference between a rational expression and a rational equation, because we work with them differently. A rational equation has an = symbol, in it we try to solve for a variable, a rational expression does not have an equal sign, with it we simplify perform the indicated operation, addition, subtraction, multiplication or division. Here is an example of a rational expression: Determine whether each of the following is a rational expression or a rational equation. a) b) c) d) e) Solutions: a. Rational expression b. Rational equation c. Rational expression d. Rational equation e. Rational expression