Rational Expressions

Multiplying and Dividing Rational Expressions

Multiplying Rational Expressions

To multiply two rational expressions, factor them. Then multiply their numerators and denominators, crossing out any factors that appear in both the numerator and the denominator of the answer.

Example 1: × = ?

= ×
=
= .

Example 2: × = ?

= ×
=
= .

Dividing Rational Expressions

To divide by a rational expression, multiply by its reciprocal.

Example 1: ÷ = ?

= ×3x ²-2xx ²-2x+4
= ×x(3x-2)x ²-2x+4
=
= .

Example 2: ÷ = ?

= ×
= ×
=
= .