Lesson 8.3 Cont.--Subtracting Rational Expressions
and Complex Fractions
Subtract rational expressions.
Simplify complex fractions.
complex fraction
Example:
Example:
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Example:
Some rational expressions are complex fractions. A complex
fraction contains one or more fractions in its numerator, its
denominator, or both. Examples of complex fractions are
shown below.
Recall that the bar in a fraction represents division. Therefore,
you can rewrite a complex fraction as a division problem and then
simplify. You can also simplify complex fractions by using the LCD
of the fractions in the numerator and denominator.
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Example:
Simplify. Assume that all expressions are defined. .
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Lesson Quiz:
Subtract. Identify any x­values for which the expression is undefined. 1.
2. Simplify . Assume that all expressions are defined. HW p. 588 25­30, 37­41, 43­45, 50, 51, 53, 54, 56 = 19 problems
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