Description

Combining the skills learned from operations with fractions and with factoring, we learn how to reduce, multiply, divide, add and subtract rational expressions. Further we learn how to simplify complex rational expressions; solving rational equations; and applying these skills to real world applications.

Sections of this topic include:

1. Reducing and Building Rational Expressions

   As with fractions, we first explore how to reduce or build rational expressions. Groups within this section include: reducing rational expressions; comparing rational expressions; determining restrictions on rational expressions; finding missing numerators or denominators; and evaluating rational expressions.

2. Multiplying and Dividing Rational Expressions

   Next, we explore multiplying and dividing rational expressions. Groups within this section include: multiplying rational expressions; dividing rational expressions; multiplying and dividing rational expressions; evaluating rational functions.

3. Adding and Subtracting Rational Expressions

   In this section, we explore how to add and subtraction rational expressions with both common and unlike denominators. Groups within this section include: adding rational expressions with common denominators; adding or subtracting rational expressions with unlike denominators.

4. Simplifying Complex Rational Expressions

   A useful skill developed for future mathematics is the notion of simplifying complex rational expressions (fractions contained within fractions).

5. Solving Rational Equations

   Combining our skills of solving equations with rational expressions, we investigate how to solve rational equations. Groups within this section include: solving rational equations; solving rational literal equations; solving rational equations with interchanging x and y.

6. More Applications

   This section investigates real world scenarios that can be solved using rational equations and rational expressions.