Rational expressions are fractions that have variables in them. They are written like P(x)/Q(x), where P(x) and Q(x) are expressions with variables and coefficients. The denominator cannot be zero.
Rational equations are equations that have these fractions in them. To solve a rational equation, you find the values of the variable that make the equation true.
Rational expressions and equations involve fractions with variables. We use them in algebra to solve problems related to rates, proportions, and ratios in real-life situations.
Lesson 1: Basics
Adding or subtracting rational functions is somewhat similar to adding or subtracting fractions. The key steps involve finding a common denominator, rewriting each rational function with that common denominator, and then adding or subtracting the numerators.
Lesson 2: Adding and Subtracting
Multiplying and dividing rational functions is more straightforward than adding or subtracting them because you don't need a common denominator to begin.
Lesson 3: Multiplying and Dividing
Solving equations that involve rational functions can be a bit more intricate due to the presence of variables in the denominators. The process generally involves finding a common denominator, eliminating the denominators, and then solving the resulting equation.