11.8 Solving Rational Equations
• To solve rational equations (x=?), there
are 2 basic techniques used to solve.
1. Multiplying by a least common
denominator (LCD)
2. Cross Multiply
Steps to solve with LCD
1. Find the LCD
2. Multiply each term by the LCD
3. Simplify each term. There will be a
polynomial equation left.
4. Solve the remaining polynomial to see
what the variable equals.
Examples
Cool Photo of the Day
Look how much sugar!
4
Cool Photo of the Day
Look how much sugar!
5
Cool Photo of the Day
Look how much sugar!
6
Cool Photo of the Day
Look how much sugar!
7
Cool Photo of the Day
Look how much sugar!
8
Cross Multiplying
• Can also be used, but ONLY for
equations in which each side is a single
fraction.
• Examples
Practice
Practice
• Solve the equations by multiplying both
sides by the LCD
Homework
• Pg. 610 #7-43 odd