SOLVING+RATIONAL+EQUATIONS

media type="google" key="-1558392479512220339&hl=en" width="400" height="326" Steps to Solving Rational Equations:
 * 1) Determine the least common denominator of all the fractions in the equation.
 * 2) Eliminate the fraction(s) by multiplying ALL terms by the least common denominator.
 * 3) Simplify the terms.
 * 4) Solve the resulting equation.
 * 5) Check your answers to make sure the solution does not make the fraction undefined.

[|Information on Rational Equations] [|Examples of Rational Equations] A rational expression can be expressed as a quotient of polynomials. You simplify by factoring. Ex. x^2 - 3x ...........x (x-3) ..............x -- ......--- .........-- x^2 - 9 ...........(x-3) (x-3) .........(x-3)

For example: Multiply equation by 12//x// || || Distribute the 12//x,// and simplify || || Re-write the equation and solve || || Check the answer by substitution This answer CHECKS! || || The check is //very important// in rational equations, as you can get answers that do not check in the original equation.
 * Identify the LCD. || [[image:http://www.regentsprep.org/Regents/math/algtrig/ATE11/Ration10.gif]] ||