Question

Simplify rational expressions

Answer 1

@wintersuntime

Have you factored x^2 + 7x + 12 yet ?

Answer 2

no, I don't know how to factor it

Answer 3

Can you think of two numbers that multiply to 12 and also add to 7?

Answer 4

What are 12's prime factors wintersuntime?

Answer 5

12 = 2*2*3
Can you see a combination of those numbers that adds to 7 but when multiplied together you get 12?

Answer 6

6*2 = 12
but 6+2=8 and 6-2=4
4*3=12
3+4=7

Answer 7

oh okay thank you so much!

Answer 8

So then it would be (x+3)(x+4)

Answer 9

Yeah. Now you need to check if X^2 + 5X + 6 will factor

Answer 10

6's prime factors are 2 and 3

Answer 11

Correct.

Can you factor the denominator: x^2 + 5x + 6 ?