A rational expression is the ratio of two polynomials, where the numerator and/or the denominator are polynomials. It can be written in the form p/q, where p and q are polynomials. Rational expressions can be used to solve a variety of problems that involve rates, times, and work, and they can help answer questions about how to combine workers or machines to complete a job on schedule.
Key points about rational expressions include:
- They are simply a quotient of two polynomials, or in other words, a fraction whose numerator and denominator are polynomials.
- The basic arithmetic operations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, can be performed on rational expressions, and the result is always another rational expression.
- Rational expressions and equations can be used to solve problems involving rates, times, and work.
- The polynomial in the denominator of a rational expression cannot be zero.
Rational expressions are an important concept in mathematics and are widely used in various fields, including algebra and calculus. They are fundamental in understanding and solving mathematical problems involving ratios and proportions.
