Question

Wally knows that in order to add or subtract rational expressions, he has to find the least common denominator first. Unfortunately, he can not remember how to do that. Using complete sentences, explain to Wally how to find least common denominators. Make sure you clearly explain any important items to consider.

Answer 1

math student wait im sorry

Answer 2

First, factor every denominator.
Then list each denominator as a product of its factors using exponents when necessary.
The LCD is the product of all factors with the highest exponent.

Answer 3

thats not the one i meant to ask

Answer 4

this is the one

Answer 5

Wally is very thankful for your help, but he is still stuck. Describe to Wally how adding and subtracting rational expressions is similar to adding and subtracting simple fractions, and how they are different

Answer 6

Then ask the one you meant to ask, and in the meantime you have the answer to the one you didn't mean to ask.

Answer 7

i already answered that one tho lol

Answer 8

someone else helped

Answer 9

Adding and subtracting rational expressions is similar to adding and subtracting simple fractions in that you must first have a common denominator. Then you write a new fraction with the common denominator, and the numerator is the sum or the difference of the numerators of the two rational expressions.
When you add or subtract fractions, you may need to reduce the fraction by factoring out a common factor out of the numerator and denominator.

After you add or subtract rational expressions, you must first simplify the numerator by combining like terms, and then factor it out if possible. You may then be able to simplify the result if there are common factors in the factored out numerator and denominator.

Answer 10

i see i see ok i get it now. thanks man!

Answer 11

wait how about how are they different?