3-23-11

12.1 Simplifying Rational Expressions Rational Expression: - A rational expression is an algebraic FRACTION whose numerator and denominator are polynomials. - To simplify a rational expression (a fraction), you factor the numerator and denominator and eliminate any common factors. Numerator and Denominator are Polynomials... ... and how do we factor polynomials? - Binomials - 1) GCF, 2) Difference of squares - Trinomials - 1) GCF, 2) Product-Sum (Box method) - 4 + terms - 1) GCF, 2) Factor by Grouping Assignment: P. 664 (#14-28) skip any two