Bell Quiz

Objectives

• Learn to use the Distributive Property to simplify rational expressions.

Rational Expressions

• A rational expression is an expression with a variable in the denominator.

• Rational expressions can be treated just like fractions.

• As with fractions the denominator cannot be zero.

• Therefore, any value of the variable that makes the denominator equal to zero is not permitted.

Rational Expressions

• Variables stand for unknown real numbers.

• So, all properties that apply to real numbers also apply to rational expressions.

• The Distributive Property can be used to simplify rational expressions.

Example 1Distributing Over Addition

Lesson Practice

Example 2Distributing Over Subtraction

Lesson Practice

Example 3Simplifying with Negative Exponents

Lesson Practice

Example 4Simplifying with Negative Exponents

Lesson Practice

Example 5Distributing Over Multiple Operations

Lesson Practice

Example 6Distributing Over Multiple Operations

Lesson Practice