Simplifying Rational Expressions

To simplify a rational expression:

  1. Completely factor numerators and denominators.
  2. Reduce common factors.

Example 1

Simplify

Example 2

Simplify

Whenever possible, try to write all polynomials in descending order with a positive leading coefficient. To have a positive leading coefficient, occasionally –1 has to be factored out of the polynomial.

Example 3

Simplify

Example 4

Simplify

This answer can be expressed in other ways.

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