RATIONAL ALGEBRAIC EXPRESSIONS

U
N
I
T
The Quirino Bridge in Santa, Ilocos Sur is composed of metal
members, strategically and equally placed to hold the weight and stabilize
the whole bridge.

Thus, to be able to put up this architectural design, mathematical

skills in solving the exact distance and location of each structural member
3wl wl 2
I
V
are necessary. Rational algebraic expressions such as and , where w
8 8
is width and l is length are considered in the construction of this bridge.

In this unit, you will learn to simplify and perform operations on

rational algebraic expressions. Each lesson has been provided with
examples. The solution to each example is explained in detail so as to give
you a deeper understanding of each lesson.
 RATIONAL ALGEBRAIC EXPRESSIONS

The figure above was designed a + b 8 x 3 − 3x 2 + 2 x + 6 1

applying rational algebraic expressions.
You will see that the figure shows a
geometric pattern which uses repeated
shapes to cover the plane without gaps or
overlaps. This geometric pattern is called
tessellation. Tessellations are made up of
regular polygons often used in architecture.
Not all regular polygons tessellate the plane.
, and 5 .
a −b 4 x + 5x
2
k
You can simplify rational algebraic
expressions by dividing both numerator and
denominator by their greatest common
factor (GCF). The GCF of two numbers is
the product of their common prime factors.
Examples:

2n 1. The GCF of 24 and 72.

In the expression , n represents
n−2
the number of sides of a regular polygon. If The factors are shown below.
the value of the expression is a whole for n, 24 = 2 · 2 · 2 · 3
an integer > 3, then the regular polygon with
n sides will tessellate the plane. 72 = 2 · 2 · 2 · 3
Try finding three values of n that The GCF is 24
will make the expression a whole number.
2. The GCF of 34x2 and 42x5.
Rational Algebraic Expressions
The factors are shown below.
Algebraic expressions containing variables
34x2 = 2· 17· x2
p
that are written the form , p and q are
q 42x5 = 2· 3 ·7 ·x2· x3
polynomial expressions, q ≠ 0, are called
rational algebraic expressions. The GCF is 2x2
Examples of rational expressions are:
3. The GCF of 2x2 + 8x and x2 + x -12
 2x2 + 8x = 2(x + 4)
Factor the numerator and denominator
x2 + x – 12 = (x +4)(x -3) 1
24 (2 ⋅ 2 ⋅ 2) ⋅ 3
= GCF is 24
The GCF is x +4 72 (2 ⋅ 2 ⋅ 2) ⋅ 3 ⋅ 3

Activity 1: 24 1
= is the lowest terms
72 3
Find the GCF of the following.
34 x 2
1. 16 and 8 2. Reduce in its lowest terms.
42 x 5
2. 48 and 12
3. 42y and 18xy Factor completely the numerator and
4. m + 5 and 2m + 10 denominator.
5. y2 + 4y + 4 and 3y2 + 5y – 2
34x2 = 2· 17· x2
Test 1:
42x5 = 2· 3 ·7 ·x2· x3
Find the GCF of the following.
The GCF is 2x2
1. 21 and 35
2. 6xy and 15y3 Divide the numerator and denominator by
3. x2 – 2x + 1 and x2 - 1 the GCF, 2x2
4. x2 – 25 and 6x2 + 29x - 5
5. 5x – 10 and x2 – 6x + 8 34 x 2 17
= is the lowest term
Instructions: 42 x 5 21x 3

* After answering the test, check your 3x − 12

3. Write in lowest terms.
answers with those on the answer key. 5 x − 20

* If your score is 3 or higher, you may Factor the numerator and denominator,
proceed to the next topic; otherwise, read GCF is x - 4.
the lesson once more and do the Test again.
3x − 12 3( x − 4) 3
= =
Simplifying Rational Expressions 5 x − 20 5( x − 4) 5

Rational expression is in the lowest Divide numerator and denominator by x – 4.

terms if the numerator and denominators
have no common factor other than 1 or –1. 3x − 12 3
= is in lowest terms
5 x − 20 5
Examples:
x 2 + 2x − 8
24 4. Write in lowest terms.
1. Write in lowest term or simplest 2x 2 − x − 6
72
form.
Divide both numerator and denominator by 2n − 6
x – 2 and cancel common factors. 1.
5n − 15
12 x 2 y 5
x2 + 2x – 8 = (x + 4)(x – 2) 2.
− 48 x 2 y 2
2x2 – x – 6 = (2x + 3)(x –2) x2 − 4
3. 2
x + 4x + 4
x 2 + 2x − 8 ( x + 4)( x − 2) x2 − x − 6
= 4. 2
2x − x − 6
2
(2 x + 3)( x − 2) x + x − 12
a 2 + 3a − 4
x 2 + 2x − 8 x+4 5.
= is in lowest a2 −1
2x − x − 6
2
2x + 3
terms. a2 + b2
B. Explain why does not
( a + b) 2
8a 2 + 6a − 9
5. Express in lowest terms simplify to 1.
16a 2 − 9
Test 2:
Factor the numerator and denominator,
and canceling the GCF we have, A. Simplify the following rational
expressions and express your answer
8a 2 + 6a − 9 (2a + 3)(4a − 3) in lowest terms.
=
16a − 9
2
(4a + 3)(4a − 3)
a 2 − 4a
1.
8a 2 + 6a − 9 2a + 3 4a − a 2
= in lowest
16a − 9
2
4a + 3
terms 4a 2 − 20a
2.
a 2 − 4a − 5
k 3 + p3
6. Write in lowest terms
k 2 − p2 4x
3.
Factoring, we have 12 x 2

k 3 + p3 (k + p )(k 2 − kp + p 2 ) x+5
= 4.
k 2 − p2 (k − p )(k + p ) x + 3x − 10
2

Cancelling common factors yield y 2 + 8 y − 20

5.
k 2 − kp + p 2 y2 − 4
k−p Instructions:

Activity 2: * After answering the test, check your

answers with those on the answer key.

A. Write in lowest terms.

* If your score is 3 or higher, you may
proceed to the next topic; otherwise, read 9x2y2 = 3 . x · x y·y·3
the lesson once more and do the Test again.
LCD = 3 · 2 · x · x · x · x · x · y · y · 3

Least common denominator = 18x5y2

The least common denominator (LCD) of 7 9

3. The LCD of and .
two or more rational expressions is the 6w − 12 9w − 18
smallest positive common multiple of the 6w – 12 = 6(w – 2)
denominators of the rational expressions. 9w – 18 = 9(w – 2)

Let us recall the process of finding least LCD = 6 · 9(w – 2) = 54(w – 2)

common multiple (LCM) of two or more
numbers. The LCM is the smallest nonzero 4. The LCD of the rational expressions
multiple which the numbers have in
common. 2 1 3
; ; 2
Examples: a − 9 3a + 3a − 18 a − 4a + 4
2 2

1. Find the LCM of 6 and 8. a2 – 9 = (a + 3)(a – 3)

Multiples of 6: 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, 3a2 + 3a + 8 = 3(a2 + a – 6)

42, 48 ….
= 3(a + 3)(a – 2)
Multiples of 8: 8, 16, 24, 32, 40, 48,
56, 64… a2 – 4a + 4 = (a – 2)(a – 2)

The LCM of 6 and 8 is 24. = (a – 2)2

The least common denominator Thus, the LCD is

(LCD) of two or more fractions is the least 3(a + 3)(a – 3)(a – 2 )2
number that is divisible by all
denominators. It is found by multiplying the
different prime factors of each denominator, Activity 3:
taking the greatest number of times it
appears in any denominator. A. The LCD of the following pairs of
rational expressions.

2. The LCD of the rational 2 8

1. and
2 3x 15k 4k
expressions 5 and .
6x y 9x 2 y
5 2
2. 3
and
Find the complete factorization of all the 5y 15 y 5
denominators.
6x5y = 3 . 2 . x · x · x · x · x ·y
 7 1 8x x 2x
3. and x
5 y − 30 6 y − 36 15 15 5
x x 7x
x
1 9 5 3 15
4. 2 and
k + 4k − 12 k + k − 90
2
4x 3x 2x
x
15 5 15
8 10
5. and
2d − 11d + 14
2
2d − d − 21
2
x x x x x

Now it’s your turn:

Test 3:
Complete the entries to form a magic
A. Find the LCD of the following pairs square whose entries in each row, each
of rational expressions. column and each diagonal sum up to
6 1 numbers written outside the grid.
1. and
18 36
3 5 11x
2. and
4ab 2
6ab 3
1 3 10
3. and
4a − 8b 3a − 6b 3
b 3b
4. and
2b − b − 3
2
3b + 5b + 2
2
3x 2x 5x 4x
2x 1 Adding Rational Expressions
5. and 2
x − 2x − 8
2
x − 6x + 8
To add two or more rational expressions,
Instructions: use a procedure similar to that of adding two
numerical fractions.
* After answering the test, check your
answers with those on the answer key. Adding Similar Rational Expression

* If your score is 3 or higher, you may p r

proceed to the next topic; otherwise, read Ifand are rational expressions,
q q
the lesson once more and do the Test again.
p r p+r
then + = .
q q q
Before you proceed to the next concept
TAKE A BREAK and do the magic Addition of two similar fractions
square below.
Examples:
Below is an example of a 3 x 3 magic
square. Notice that when you add every 7 3
row, column, and diagonal the sum is x. 1. +
12 12
 Since the denominators are the same,
the sum is found by adding the two Rewrite the rational expressions as
numerators and keeping the same fractions denominator 60
(common) denominator.
1 2 1(5) 2(4)
+ = +
7 3 7+3 10 5 ⋅ 2 12 15 12(5) 15( 4)
+ = = =
12 12 12 12 6 ⋅ 2
5 8
by canceling common factors. = +
60 60
7 3 5 Since the fractions are now having
+ =
12 12 6 common denominators, add the
numerators copy the same denominator
3y 4y and write in lowest terms if necessary.
2. Add : and
y −5 y −5
5+8
=
Since the denominators are the same, 60
the sum is found by adding the two
numerators and keeping the same 13
(common) denominator. =
60

3y + 4 y 2 3
= 2. Find: +
y −5 2x 6x
7y
=
y −5 Find the LCD of the fractions

Addition of Dissimilar Rational 2x = 2 · x

Algebraic Expressions 6x = 2 · 3 · x

To add dissimilar rational algebraic LCD = 2 · x · 3 = 6x

expressions, use the same steps that are
used to add dissimilar fractions. Rewrite the rational expressions as
fractions with LCD, 6x.
Examples:
2 3 2(3) 3(1)
+ = +
1 2 2x 6x 2 x(3) 6 x(1)
1. Add: +
12 15
6 3
= +
Find the least common denominator 6x 6x
(LCD) .
6+3
12 = 2 · 2 · 3 =
6x
15 = 3 · 5 9 3⋅3
= =
LCD = 2 · 2 · 3· 5 = 60 6x 3⋅ 2⋅ x
 3 The LCD is (x + 2)(x + 3)(x - 1)
=
2x
Rewrite the rational expressions as
x x fractions with (x + 1)(x – 1 )(x + 3) as
3. Find: + denominator.
x −1
2
x +1
2 x( x − 1)
Rewrite the fractions and find the = +
LCD ( x + 2)( x + 3)( x − 1)

x x ( x + 1)( x + 2)
+
( x + 1)( x − 1) x +1 ( x + 3)( x − 1)( x + 2)

The LCD is (x + 1)(x - 1) Now that the two rational expressions

have the same denominator, simplify the
Rewrite the rational expressions as numerator.
fractions with LCD (x + 1)(x – 1 )
2 x( x − 1) + ( x + 1)( x + 2)
x x( x − 1) =
+ ( x + 2)( x + 3)( x − 1)
( x + 1)( x − 1) ( x + 1)( x − 1)
2 x 2 − 2 x + x 2 + 3x + 2
Multiply the numerator and denominator =
( x + 2)( x + 3)( x − 1)
of the second fraction by (x - 1). Add the
numerators.
3x 2 + x + 2
=
x + x( x − 1) ( x + 2)( x + 3)( x − 1)
( x + 1)( x − 1) .
Activity 4:
Simplify the numerator
A. Find the sum and express your
x+x −x2 answer in the lowest terms.
=
( x + 1)( x − 1)
3 2
1. +
s s
x2 x 2x
= 2. +
( x + 1)( x − 1) p −5 p −5
2n + 3 n−4
2x x +1 3. + 2
4. Add and 2 n − 4n + 4
2
n +n−6
x + 5x + 6
2
x + 2x − 3 3 −2
4. + 2
Begin by factoring the denominators a − 5a + 6
2
a −a−2
r +1 r −1
5. + 2
2x x +1 r − 3r − 10
2
r + r − 30
+
( x + 2)( x + 3) ( x + 3)( x − 1)
 Find the length of the missing side.
Test 4:
(Use the formula, P = s1 + s2 + s3), where
Find the sum and express your answer in s1, s2, and s3 are the lengths of the sides
lowest terms. of the triangle.

3a 5a
1. +
9a − 8 9a − 8 x 2 − 5x − 9 x2 − 6
x−6 x−6
2x 1
2. +
2x + 7x + 3
2
2x + 7x + 3
2

2x 3x Problem solving applying addition of

3. +
x+ y 2x + 2 y rational algebraic expressions

5 4 Examples:
4. + 1. When a number is subtracted from
t −6 t+6
the numerator and added to the
3a 4a − 1 17 5
5. + 2 denominator of , the result is .
a + ab − 2b
2 2
a − b2 22 8
What is the number?
Instructions:

* After answering the test, check your

answers with those on the answer key.

* If your score is 3 or higher, you may

proceed to the next topic; otherwise, read
the lesson once more and do the Test again.

Try more:

Solve the following problems:

1. Johnny, a farm caretaker, was asked

to fence the farm he is working. The
y+4
farm has a length of m and
5
Solution:
y−2
width of m. Find the Let x = the number to be added and
5 subtracted.
perimeter of the farm.
Original fraction New fraction
(Use formula: P = 2l + 2w). 17 17 − x
22 22 + x
2. The perimeter of the figure is (2x + 5)cm.
 x x
+ =1
17 − x 5 2 4
Equation: =
22 + x 8 LCD = 4
x x
LCD = 8(22 + x) 4( ) + 4( ) = 4(1)
2 4

17 − x 5 2x + x = 4
8(22 + x) = 8(22 + x)
22 + x 8
3x = 4
8(17- x) = (22 + x) 5
1
136 – 8x = 110 + 5x x= 1 hrs.
3

136 -110 = 8x + 5x 1
Thus, Ed and his brother can finish it in 1
3
26 = 13x
hours.
2=x
Activity 5:
or x = 2
Solve the following problems.
Check:
17 − 2 5
= 1. What number must be added to both
22 + 2 8 numerator and denominator of the fraction
15 5 5 3
= equal to ?
24 8 8 4

Therefore, the required number is 2. 2. Margie weeds the farm in 3 hours.

Mae in 5 hours, Mia in 8 hours. If all three
2. Ed can build a fence in 2 hours. His work together, how long will it take them to
brother can do it in 4 hours. How long weed the farm?
would it take them working together?

Solution: Test 5:
Let x = number of hours for both to
work together. 1. What number can be subtracted from
both the numerator and denominator of the
x 7 1
= part of the job Ed can finish in 1 fraction to make a fraction equal to ?
2 12 2
hour
2. Ken can paint a room in 4 hours. His
x brother Nikki can do it in 5 hours.
= part of the job brother can finish in
4 How long would it take them
1 hour working together?

Equation:
Instructions: 11 7
3. Find: -
12 15
* After answering the test, check your
answers with those on the answer key. Notice that their denominators are
different. Thus, we find the LCD.
* If your score is 1 or higher, you may
proceed to the next topic; otherwise, read 12 = 2 · 2 · 3
the lesson once more and do the Test again.
15 = 3 · 5

Subtracting Rational Expressions LCD = 2 · 2 · 3 · 5 = 60

To subtract two rational expressions, you Rewrite the rational expressions as

use the rule similar to subtracting numerical fractions with 60 as the denominator
fractions.
11 7 11(5) 7 ( 4)
- = -
Subtracting Rational Expressions 12 15 12(5) 15(4)
p r 55 28
If and are rational similar = -
q q 60 60
p r p−r
expressions then, - = .
q q q Since the fractions are now similar, you
have to subtract the numerators and copy
Examples: the denominator. Write the result in
18 6 lowest terms.
1. Find : -
30 30
55 − 28
=
Notice that their denominators are the 60
same, Thus, the difference is found by 27 3⋅9
= =
subtracting the two numerators and 60 3 ⋅ 20
copying the common denominator. 9
=
20
18 6 12 2
- = or in lowest terms.
30 30 30 5 2 2
4. Find : -
3b 7b
10 x 5x
2.. Find: - 2
x − 12 x − 12
2
Find the LCD.

10 x − 5 x 3b = 3 · b
=
x 2 − 12
7b = 7 · b
Simplifying
LCD = 3 · 7 · b = 21b
5x
= 2
x − 12 Rewrite the rational expressions as
fractions with 21b as the denominator
 p + 1 − ( p − 1)
=
2 2 2(7) 2(3) ( p − 1)( p + 1)
- = -
3b 7b 3b(7) 7b(3)
14 6 p +1− p +1
= - =
21b 21b ( p − 1)( p + 1)

Since the fractions are now similar, 2

subtract the numerator, copy the same =
( p − 1)( p + 1)
denominator and write the difference in
7. Perform the indicated operation.
lowest terms.
14 − 6
= x 3
21b -
x − 4 x − 5 2 x − 13x + 15
2 2
8
=
21b Rewrite each fraction
3 9
5. Subtract from x 3
x x−2 = -
( x − 5)( x + 1) ( x − 5)(2 x − 3)
The LCD is (x - 2)(x)
The LCD is (x - 5)(x + 1)(2x – 3).
9 3 9( x) 3( x − 2)
- = - Rewrite each rational expression with
x−2 x ( x − 2)( x) x( x − 2)
(x - 5) (x + 1)(2x – 3) as denominator.
9( x) 3x − 6
= - x(2 x − 3)
x( x − 2) x( x − 2) = -
( x − 5)( x + 1)(2 x − 3)
9 x − 3x + 6
= 3( x + 1)
x( x − 2)
( x − 5)(2 x − 3)( x + 1)
6x + 6
= 2 x 2 − 3x
x( x − 2) = -
( x − 5)( x + 1)(2 x − 3)
1 1 3x + 3
6. Find : - ( x − 5)(2 x − 3)( x + 1)
p −1 p +1

The LCD is (p - 1)(p + 1) Since the fractions are now similar,

subtract the numerators, copy the
Rewrite the rational expressions as denominator and write the result in
fractions with (p – 1)(p + 1) as the lowest terms.
denominator
2 x 2 − 3 x − (3 x + 3)
=
1 1 1( p + 1) 1( p − 1) ( x − 5)( x + 1)(2 x − 3)
- = -
p − 1 p + 1 p − 1( p + 1) p + 1( p − 1)
 2 x 2 − 3x − 3x − 3 15 3 6− x
= 6. - T
( x − 5)( x + 1)(2 x − 3) 4k 2
k+2 3( x + 3)( x − 3)

1 1 15 + 30 − 12k 2
2x 2 − 6x − 3 7. - S
= x 2 − 9 3x + 9 4k 2 (k + 2)
( x − 5)( x + 1)(2 x − 3)
___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___
1 2 3 4 5 2 6 7
Activity 6:
Test 6
A. Perform the indicated operation and
write the answer in lowest terms. Subtract the rational expressions and
express your answer in lowest terms.
1 1
1. - 2 3 2
b − 1 b + 3b + 2
2
1. -
p p
8 2
2. -
3− 7y 7y − 3 x 2x
2. -
2y +1 2 1 k −5 k −5
3. - + -
9− y 2
y −3 y +3 15 3
3. -
−1 3 4k 2
k +2
4. - 2
m + mn − 2m
2 2
m − 3mn + 2n 2
m 3
4.. - 2
4m − 3n 4m − n m + 3m − 18 m + 3m − 18
2
5. -
16m − n
2 2
16m + 8mn + n 2
2

x 3x
B. Subtract the rational expressions. 5. - 2
x + xy − 2 y
2 2
x − 3xy + 2 y 2
decode the word by writing the letter
that corresponds to the correct
number in the blank provided. Instructions:

2x 3x * After answering the test, check your

1. - O x answers with those on the answer key.
x + y 2x + 2 y

4m + 5 m + 2 ( x − 3)( x + 3) * If your score is 3 or higher, you may

2. - N proceed to the next topic; otherwise, read
3 6 3x
1 a 7m + 8 the lesson once more and do the Test again
3. - E
a − b 4a − 4b 6
Multiplying Rational Expressions
6x 3x x
4. - B
3 3 2( x + y ) When you multiply two rational
x 3 expressions, adopts the same procedure in
5. - H 4(a- b) multiplying two rational numbers.
3 x
Rule for Multiplying Fractions Dividing both numerator and
denominator by (x –2)(2x + 1).
If p, q, r and s are real numbers with q ≠ 0
and s ≠ 0 , then x+2
3( x − 3)
p r pr
· =
q s qs x 2 − 3 x − 18 3x + 3
5. Find: · 2
x −x−2
2
x − 2 x − 15
The same rule applies to multiplication of
rational expressions. Factoring the numerator and
denominator will yield
Examples:
( x − 6)( x + 3) 3( x + 1)
Find: ·
( x − 2)( x + 1) ( x − 5( x + 3)
3 4 3 ⋅ 4 12
1. · = =
7 5 7⋅5 35
Dividing both numerator and
denominator by (x+3)(x+1) will result in
2x 9 2 x·9 18 x 3x
2. · = = or
3y 8y 3 y.8 y 24 y 4y 3( x − 6)
( x − 2)( x − 5)
4m 3 m−5
3. Multiply: ·
m − 5m
2
12 Activity 7:

factor m2 – 5m A. Multiply as indicated and express

each product in simplest form.
4m 3 ·(m − 5)
= 3 12
m(m − 5)12 1. ·
8 15

Divide both numerator and denominator 2ab c

2. 2
· 2
by (m- 5) and simplify. 3c a

4m 3 m2 9 − x2 x
= . 3. ·
12m 3 x +3 3− x

x2 − 4 2x + 1 a 2 + 5a a 2 − 4a
4. Multiply: · 4. ·
x − 5x + 6 6 x + 3
2
a 2 − 16 a 2 − 25

Factoring the numerator and the 6x − 3y 2x + y

denominator 5. · 2
4 x + 4 xy + y 4 x − 4 xy + y 2
2 2

( x − 2)( x + 2)(2 x + 1)
Take a break:
( x − 2)( x − 3)[3(2 x + 1)] Solve this problem.
 If p, q, r and s are real numbers, with
Find two different pairs of rational
expressions whose product is q ≠ 0 and r ≠ 0 and s ≠ 0, then

8a 2 + 16a − 24 p r p s ps
÷ = · =
a 2 + 13a + 40 q s q r qr

Test 7: Examples:

A. Multiply and express each product in 5 4

the simplest form. 1. Divide by
9 15
12 21 5
1. · Multiply by the multiplicative
7 54 9
4a 2 8b 2 c 4 15
2. · inverse or reciprocal of which is .
3bc 6a 2 15 4
5 15
= ·
t 2 + 5t t +1 9 4
3. · 2
5 + t t − 25
Factor the numerator and the
x + 8 x + 16 x − 3
2 denominator and cancel common factors
4. ·
x2 − 9 x+4 5 15 5 5⋅3 25
· = · =
9 4 3 ⋅ 3 2 ⋅ 2 12
x 2 − 6x + 5 x − 1
5. ·
x −1 x−5 5y 15 y 3
2. Find: ÷
Instructions: 9 xz 2 18 x 2 z 2

* After answering the test, check your 5y

Multiplying by the reciprocal of
answers with those on the answer key. 9 xz 2

* If your score is 3 or higher, you may 15 y 3 18 x 2 z 2

proceed to the next topic; otherwise, read which is , we get
18 x 2 z 2 15 y 3
the lesson once more and do the Test again
5y 18 x 2 z 2
Dividing Rational Expressions ·
9 xz 2 15 y 3
Dividing rational expressions is the same
as multiplying the dividend by the Factor the numerators and denominators
multiplicative inverse or reciprocal of the and cancel common factors.
divisor. 5y 9 ⋅ 2x 2 z 2
= ·
9 xz 2 5 ⋅ 3y3
Rule for Dividing Fractions
 2x 4 − x2
=
3y 2 2
2−x
x2 x 5
3. Find: ÷
x − 25x
2 2
x+5
4 − x2
x2 2 4 − x2 2 − x
Multiply by the reciprocal of Rewrite as ÷
x 2 − 25x 2 2−x 2 5
5
x x+5 By definition of division of fractions, we
which is proceed as follows:
x+5 x

x2 x+5 4 − x2 5
= · = ·
x − 25x
2 2
x 2 2− x

Factor the numerators and denominators. Factor the numerator and denominator.
x⋅x x+5 Cancel the common factor.
= ·
( x + 5 x)( x − 5 x) x
(2 − x)(2 + x) 5
x = ·
= 2 2− x
x−5
5(2 + x)
=
Complex Rational Expressions 2

Activity 8:
A complex rational expression is a
rational expression whose numerator or A. State the multiplicative inverse or
denominator contains one or more reciprocal of each expression
rational expressions. below..
Examples: 3
1.
3 1 1 2 8
+ a− 1
x ; m n : 2a − 3 2.
5 2 2 8 x− y
+ 2a − 1 − 7x
x 2
3m 3n 2a − 3 3.
9y
To simplify a complex rational x+ y
4.
expression, consider the example below: 2
18x
Simplify complex fraction 5.
7
 B. Perform each indicated division Instructions:
and write the answer in simplest
form. * After answering the test, check your
21 3 answers with those on the answer key.
1. ÷
7 14
* If your score is 3 or higher, you may
7 14 proceed to the next topic; otherwise, read
2. ÷ the lesson once more and do the Test again
a a2

5 10
3. ÷ Summary:
m−3 m−3
• To simplify a rational algebraic
3x − 21 3x
4. 2 ÷ 2 expression, divide both numerator and
x − 49 x + 7 x denominator by their greatest common
factor (GCF).
x2 − y2
5. 2 • The GCF is the greatest factor that a set
x− y of terms has in common.
4
• The LCM of two or more numbers is
the smallest nonzero multiple which
numbers have in common.
Test: 8
• Addition and Subtraction of Rational
Perform each indicated division and Expressions
write the answer in simplest form.
1. Similar rational expressions
2
3d c 6dc
1. 4
÷- 5 p p
a a If and are rational expressions
q q
a2 − b2 a+b p r p+r
2. 2 ÷ then, + = and
x −y 2
x+ y q q q
p r p−r
- =
x − y 5x 2 − 5 y 2 q q q
3. ÷
x+ y 3x − 3 y
2. Dissimilar rational expressions
5a 2 − 5ab 5a 2 + 5b 2
4. ÷
ab + b 2 b To add or subtract rational
expressions with dissimilar
3x denominators, write them as
y equivalent expressions with a least
5 common denominator.
5y2
2x3 • Multiplication of Rational Expressions
 −7 −7
b. d.
p r x+2 x−2
If and are rational expressions,
q s
p r p⋅r 7 3
then, · = 4. The difference of - 2 is
q s q⋅s x − x x −1
2

• Division of Rational Expressions 4x − 7 4x + 7

a. c.
x( x − 1)( x + 1) x( x − 1)( x + 1)
p r p
If is divided by , multiply by
q s q 4x − 7 4x − 7
c. d.
r ( x − 1)( x + 1) x( x − 1)
the multiplicative inverse of , for r ≠ 0
s
p r p s 5. What is the reciprocal of
÷ = · 6x − 9
q s q r ?
25
6x + 9 25
a. c.
CHAPTER TEST: 25 6x + 9
25
b. d. none of these
1. The simplified form of 6x − 9
m 2 n − mn 2
is 6. The least common denominator
m 2 − mn
2 5
2 2
and is
a. m c. mn 8x y 12 xy 3
m
b. n d.
n a. 24xy c. 24x2y3
b. 24x3y2 d. 24xy3
5y 15
2. Which is the sum of and ? 7. The greatest common factor of 24x and
10 10
14x2 is
y+3 5y
a. c. a.2x c. 4x
2 10
b. 2x2 d. 24x2
y+3 y+2
b. d.
10 5 3 5 4
8. When simplified, 2
+ -
x 2 xy 3 y 2
7 x − 21
3. When simplified, is equal to is equal to
x2 − x − 6

7 7 18 y 2 + 15 xy − 8 x 2
a. c. a.
x+2 x−2 6x 2 y 2
18 y + 15 xy − 8 x 2
b.
6x 2 y 2
 18 y 2 + 15 xy − 8 x
c.
6x 2 y 2 a 2 − ab a − b
16. -
18 y 2 + 15 xy + 8 x 2 3a 15b 2
d.
6x 2 y 2
x 2 − 2x + 1 x −1
17. ÷ 2
y −5 y − 25
a+b 3
9. The simplest form of - is
ab 2a
c 2 + 3c c
18. +
2a + b 2a − b c + 2c − 3
2
c +1
a. b.
2ab 2ab
a 2 − 49 3a − 21
19. +
a−b 2a − b ( a + 7) 2
2a + 14
c. d.
2ab ab
a2 − b2 a −b
20. -
x −y
2 2
x+ y
6a 2 b 3ac
10. The quotient of ÷ is
5c 5b 8 2
equal to 21. -
3− 7y 7y − 3
2ab 2a 2 b
a. c.
c2 c2 p+q q− p
22. -
3 p + 2 pq − q
2 2
6 p − 5 pq + q 2
2

2ab 2 ab
b. d.
c2 c2 m−n m+n
23. - 2
Perform the indicated operation and m + 2mn + n
2 2
m − mn − 2n 2
write each answer in simplest form.
1 1
24. - 2
7ab 81c 2 b − 1 b + 3b + 2
2

11. ·
9c 91a 2 b 2t − 1 2t + 1
25. -
t +1 t −1
x2 − y2 a + b
12. ·
a2 − b2 x − y

y + 6 4y2
13. ·
2y y+6

x 2 − 2x + 1 a 2 − 3a
14. · 2
y −5 a + a − 12

a −1 a +1
15. ·
a + 2 a −1
 a 2 + 3a − 4 (a + 4)(a − 1)
5. =
a2 −1 (a + 1)(a − 1)
Answer Key
(a + 4)
=
Activity 1 (a + 1)

Find the (GCF) of the following numbers. a2 + b2

B. Explain why does not simplify
( a + b) 2
1. 16 and 8 GCF = 8
to 1.
2. 48 and 12 GCF = 12
3. 42y and 18xy GCF = 6y
This expression will not be equal to 1.
4. n+5 and 2m + 10 GCF = m +5
2 2 Because see the solution:
5. y +4y + 4 and 3 + 5y -2
GCF = (y + 2) a2 + b2
since (a + b)2 is same
Test: 1 (a + b)(a + b)
as (a + b)(a + b)
Find the greatest (GCF) of the following a +b
2 2

numbers. the result is not equal to 1

a + 2ab + b 2
2
1. 21 and 35 GCF = 7
3
2. 6xy and 15y GCF = 3y
Test 2:
3. x2 - 2x +1 and x2 -1 GCF = (x - 1)
Simplify the following rational expressions
4. x2 – 25 and 6x2 + 29 -5 GCF = (x + 5)
and express your answer in lowest terms.
5. 5x – 10 and x2 -6x +8 GCF = (x - 2)
a 2 − 4a a(a − 4) a−4
1. = =
Activity 2: 4a − a 2
a(4 − a) 4−a
A. Simplify the following rational
expressions and express your answer in (4 − a)
lowest terms. = - = -1
(4 − a)
2n − 6 2(n − 3) 2
1. = =
5n − 15 5(n − 3) 5 4a 2 − 20a 4a(a − 5)
2. =
2
12 x y 5
3⋅ 4⋅ x ⋅ x ⋅ y ⋅ y ⋅ y ⋅ y ⋅ y a − 4a − 5
2
(a − 5)(a + 1)
2. =
− 48 x y
2 2
− 3·4 ⋅ 4 ⋅ x ⋅ x ⋅ y ⋅ y 4a
=
− y3 a +1
=
4 4x 1
3. =
x −4
2
( x − 2)( x + 2) 12 x 2 3x
3. 2 =
x + 4x + 4 ( x + 2)( x + 2)
x+5 x+5
( x − 2) 4. =
= x + 3x − 10
2
( x + 5)( x − 2)
( x + 2)
1
x2 − x − 6 ( x − 3)( x + 2) =
4. = x−2
x + x − 12
2
( x − 3)( x + 4)
y + 8 y − 20
2
( y + 10)( y − 2)
( x + 2) 5. =
= y −4
2
( y + 2)( y − 2)
( x + 4)
 y + 10 6ab = 2 · 3 · a · b
=
y+2
LCD = 2 · 3 · 2 · a · b · b = 12ab2
1 3
3. ;
Activity 3 (4a − 8b) (3a − 6b)
Find the LCD of the following rational
expressions. 4a – 8b = 4(a – 2b)
2 8 3a – 6b = 3(a – 2b)
1. ; LCD =60k
15k 4k
5 2 LCD = 12(a – 2b)
2. 3
; 5
LCD = 15y5
5y 15 y
b 3b
7 1 4. ; 2
3. ; LCD= 30(y - 6) 2b − b − 3 3b + 5b + 2
2

5 y − 30 6 y − 36
4. 2
1
; 2
9 2b2 – b – 3 = (2b - 3)(b + 1)
k + 4k − 12 k + k − 90 3b2 + 5b + 2 = (3b + 2)(b + 1)

k2 + 4k – 12 = (k + 6)(k - 2) LCD = (2b - 3)(3b + 2)(b + 1)

k2 + k – 90 = (k + 10)(k - 9) 2x 1
5. 2 ; 2
x − 2x − 8 x − 6x + 8
LCD = (k + 6)(k - 2)(k + 10)(k - 9)
x2 – 2x – 8 = (x - 4)(x + 2)
5.
8
;
10 x2 – 6x + 8 = (x - 4)(x - 2)
2d − 11d − 14 2d − d − 21
2 2

LCD = (x - 4)(x + 2)(x - 2)

2
2d – 11d + 14 = (2d - 7)(d - 2)
2d2 – d – 21 = (2d - 7)(d + 3) Activity 4
A. Find the sum and express your answer
LCD = (2d - 7)(d - 2)(d + 3) in lowest terms.
3 2 5
1. + =
Test 3 s s s
Find the LCD of the following rational
expressions. x 2x 3x
6 1 2. + =
1. ; p −5 p −5 p −5
18 36 2n + 3 n−4
3. 2 + 2
n − 4n + 4 n +n−6
18 = 2 · 3 · 3
36 = 2 · 3 · 3 · 2
n2 – 4n + 4 = (n - 2)(n - 2)
LCD = 2 · 3 · 3 · 2 = 36
n2 + n – 6 = (n + 3)(n - 2)
3 5
2. 2
; LCD = (n - 2)(n - 2)(n + 3)
4ab 6ab

4ab2 = 2 · 2 · a · b · b
 (2n + 3)(n + 3) + (n − 4)(n − 2) 2 r 2 + 8r + 4
= =
(n − 2)(n + 3)(n − 2) (r − 5)(r + 2)(r + 6)
= 2n + 6n + 3n + 9 + n2 – 2n – 4n + 8
2

(n - 2)(n + 3)(n - 2) Test 4

Add and express your answer in lowest
= 3n2 + 9n – 6n +17 terms if necessary.
(n - 2)(n + 3)(n - 2) 3a 5a 8a
1. + =
9a − 8 9a − 8 9a − 8
3n 2 + 3n + 17
=
(n − 2)(n + 3)(n − 2) 2x 1
2. +
2x + 7 x + 3
2
2x + 7x + 3
2

3 −2
4. + 2
a − 5a + 6
2
a −a−2 2x + 1 2x + 1
= or
2x + 7x + 3
2
(2 x + 1)( x + 3)
a2 – 5a + 6 = (a - 3)(a - 2)
a2 – a – 2 = (a + 1)(a - 2) 2x 3x
3. +
x+ y 2x + 2 y
LCD = (a - 2)(a - 3)(a + 1)

3(a + 1) + (−2)(a − 3) x+y=x+y

= 2x + 2y = 2(x + y)
(a − 2)(a − 3)(a + 1)
LCD = 2(x + y)
3a + 3 − 2a + 6
=
(a − 2)(a − 3)(a + 1) 2 x(2) 3x 4 x + 3x
= + =
2( x + y ) 2( x + y ) 2( x + y )
a+9
=
(a − 2)(a − 3)(a + 1) 5 4
4. +
t −6 t+6
r +1 r −1
5. + 2
r − 3r − 10
2
r + r − 30 LCD = (t - 6)(t + 6)

r2 – 3r – 10 = (r - 5)(r + 2) 5(t + 6) 4(t − 6)

= +
r2 + r – 30 = (r - 5)(r + 6) (t − 6)(t + 6) (t − 6)(t + 6)

LCD = (r - 5)(r + 2)(r + 6) 5t + 30 + 4t − 24

(r + 1)(r + 6) + (r − 1)(r + 2) =
= (t − 6)(t + 6)
(r − 5)(r + 2)(r + 6)
9t + 6
r 2 + 6r + r + 6 + r 2 + 2r − r − 2 =
= (t − 6)(t + 6)
(r − 5)(r + 2)(r + 6)
3a 4a − 1
5. + 2
a + ab − 2b
2 2
a − b2
 3a 4a − 1 2. Let x = number of hours for the three
= + to work together.
(a + 2b)(a − b) (a − b)(a + b)

x
3a(a + b) = part of the job Margie can finish
= + 3
(a + 2b)(a + b)(a − b)
in 1 hour.
x
(4a − 1)(a + 2b) = part of the job Mae can finish in
5
(a + 2b)(a + b)(a − b) 1 hour.
x
3a 2 + 3ab + 4a 2 + 8ab − a − 2b = part of the job Mia can finish in
= 8
(a + 2b)(a + b)(a − b) 1 hour

7a 2 + 11ab − 2b − a Equation:
= x x x
(a + 2b)(a + b)(a − b) + + =1
3 5 8
Activity 5:
1. Let x = the number to be added to LCD = 120
both numerator and denominator .
Original fraction New fraction x x x
120( ) +120( ) + 120( ) = 1(120)
5 5 x 3 5 8
+
8 8 x
Equation: 40x + 24x + 15x = 120
5 x 3
+ = 79x = 120
8 x 4
41
LCD = 4(8 + x) x = 1
5 x 3 79
4(8 + x)( + ) = 4(8 + x) ( Thus, Margie, Mae, Mia can finish it in
8 x 4 41
1 hours.
20 + 4x = 24 + 3x 79

4x – 3x = 24 – 20 Test 5:
1. Let x = the number to be subtracted from
x=4 both numerator and denominator.
Check: Original fraction New fraction
5 4 3 7 7 x
+ = -
8 4 4 12 12 x
Equation:
9 3 7 x 1
= - =
12 4 12 x 2

Therefore, the required number is 4. LCD = 2(12 –x)

  7−x  1
2( 12-x)   = 2( 12-x) 1(b + 2)
 12 − x  2 = -
(b + 1)(b − 1)(b + 2)
2(7 –x) = 12 –x
1(b − 1)
14 –2x = 12 –x (b + 2)(b + 1)(b − 1)

14 – 12 = 2x – x (b + 2) − (b − 1)
=
2 = x or x = 2 (b + 1)(b − 1)(b + 2)

Therefore, the required number is 2. 3

=
(b + 1)(b − 1)(b + 2)
2. Let x = number of hours for both to work
together. 8 2
2. -
3− 7y 7y − 3
x
= part of the job Ken can finish
4 8 2
in 1 hour. = -
− (3 − 7 y ) 7 y − 3
x
= part of the job Nikki can 8 − (−2)
5 =
finish in 1 hour. − (7 y − 3)
Equation: 10
=
− (7 y − 3)
x x 10
+ =1 =
4 5 3− 7y
LCD = 20
2y +1 2 1
x x 3. + -
20( ) + 20( ) = 1(20) 9− y 2
y −3 y +3
4 5
5x + 4x = 20
2y +1 2 1
9x = 20 + -
2 9− y 2
y −3 y +3
x=2
9 2y +1 2 1
= + -
Thus, Ken and Nikki can finish it in (3 − y )(3 + y ) y −3 y +3
2 2y +1 2 1
2 hrs = + -
9 − ( y + 3)( y − 3) y −3 y +3
2y +1 2 y+3
Activity 6:: = + ·
− ( y + 3)( y − 3) y − 3 y + 3
Perform the indicated operation and express
the answer in the lowest terms. 1 y −3
- ·
1 1 y +3 y −3
1. 2 - 2
b − 1 b + 3b + 2 − (2 y + 1) + 2( y + 3) − 1( y − 3)
=
( y + 3)( y − 3)
 − 2y −1+ 2y + 6 − y + 3 Test 6:
=
( y + 3)( y − 3)
8− y 3 2 1
= 1. - =
( y + 3)( y − 3) p p p

−1 3 x 2x x − 2x −x
4. - 2 2. - = =
m + mn − 2n
2 2
m − 3mn + 2n 2 x−5 x−5 x−5 x−5

−1 3 15 3 15(k + 2) − 3(4k 2 )
= - 3. - =
(m + 2n)(m − n) (m − 2n)(m − n) 4k 2 k + 2 4k 2 (k + 2)

− 1(m − 2n) − 3(m + 2n) 15k + 30 − 12k 2

= =
(m + 2n)(m − n)(m − 2n) 4k 2 (k + 2)

− m + 2n − 3m − 6n m 3
= 4. - 2
(m + 2n)(m − n)(m − 2n) m + 3m − 18 m + 3m − 18
2

− 4m − 4n m−3
= =
(m + 2n)(m − n) m + 3m − 18
2

4m − 3n 4m − n x 3x
5. - 5. - 2
16m − n
2 2
16m + 8mn + n 2
2 x + xy − 2 y
2 2
x − 3xy + 2 y 2

4m − 3n x 3x
= - = -
(4m + n)(4m − n) ( x + 2 y )( x − y ) ( x − 2 y )( x − y )
4m − n x( x − 2 y ) − 3 x( x + 2 y )
=
(4m + n)(4m + n) ( x + 2 y )( x − y )( x − 2 y )

(4m − 3n)(4m + n) − (4m − n)(4m − n) x 2 − 2 xy − 3 x 2 − 6 xy

= =
(4m + n)(4m − n)(4m + n) ( x + 2 y )( x − y )( x − 2 y )

16m 2 − 8mn − 3m 2 − 16m 2 + 8mn − n 2 − 2 x 2 − 8 xy

= =
(4m + n)(4m − n)(4m + n) ( x + 2 y )( x − y )( x − 2 y )

− 4n 2 Activity 7
= Multiply as indicated and express each
(4m + n)(4m − n)(4m + n)
product in simplest form.
Activity B: 3 12 36 3
1. · = =
8 15 120 10
BE HONEST
 2ab c 2abc 2b 4a 2 8b 2 c
2. 2
· 2 = 2 2 = 2. ·
3c a 3c a 3ca 3bc 6a 2

9 − x2 x 2⋅2⋅a ⋅a ⋅2⋅2⋅2⋅b⋅b⋅c
3. · =
x +3 3− x 3⋅b ⋅c ⋅3⋅ 2⋅ a ⋅ a

(3 − x)(3 + x) ⋅ x 16b
= =
( x + 3)(3 − x) 9

=x t 2 + 5t t +1
3. · 2
5+t t − 25
a 2 + 5a a 2 − 4a
4. ·
a 2 − 16 a 2 − 25 t (t + 5) ⋅ (t + 1)
=
(5 + t )(t − 5)(t + 5)
a(a + 5) ⋅ a(a − 4)
=
(a − 4)(a + 4)(a − 5)(a + 5) t (t + 1)
=
(t + 5)(t − 5)
a2
=
(a + 4)(a − 5) t2 +1
=
t 2 − 25
a2
=
a 2 − a − 20 x 2 + 8 x + 16 x − 3
4. ·
x2 − 9 x+4
6x − 3 y 2x + y
5. ·
4 x + 4 xy + y
2 2
4 x − 4 xy + y 2
2 ( x + 4)( x + 4) ( x − 3)
= ·
( x − 3)( x + 3) ( x + 4)
3(2 x − y ) ⋅ 2 x + y
=
(2 x + y )(2 x + y )(2 x − y )(2 x − y ) x+4
=
x+3
3
=
(2 x + y )(2 x − y ) x 2 − 6x + 5 x − 1
5. ·
x −1 x−5
3
= ( x − 5)( x − 1)
4x − y 2
2
=
x−5
Test 7
Multiply and express each product in =x–1
simplest form.
12 21 2 Activity 8
1. · = A. State the multiplicative inverse or
7 54 3 reciprocal of each expression below.
 3 8 Test 8
1. reciprocal is Perform the indicated division and write the
8 3
1 answer in simplest form.
2. reciprocal is x − y 3d 2 c − 6dc
x− y 1. ÷
7x 9y a4 a5
3. reciprocal is
9y 7x
3d 2 c a5
x+ y 2 = ·
4. reciprocal is a4 − 6dc
2 x+ y
18 x 7
5. reciprocal is 3⋅ d ⋅ d ⋅ c ⋅ a4 ⋅ a
7 18 x =
3⋅ 2 ⋅ d ⋅ c ⋅ a4
B. Perform the indicated division and write
− dca
the answer in simplified form. =
21 3 21 14 2c
1. ÷ = · = 14
7 14 7 3
a2 − b2 a+b
2. ÷
7 14 7 a2 a x −y
2 2
x+ y
2. ÷ 2 = · =
a a a 14 2
a2 − b2 x + y
= ·
5 10 5 m−3 1 x2 − y2 a + b
3. ÷ = · =
m−3 m−3 m−3 10 2 (a − b)(a + b) x + y
3x − 21 3x = ·
4. 2 ÷ 2 ( x − y )( x + y ) a + b
x − 49 x + 7 x
a−b
3x − 21 x 2 + 7 x =
= 2 · x− y
x − 49 3x
x − y 5x 2 − 5 y 2
3( x − 7) x ( x + 7) 3. ÷
= · x+ y 3x − 3 y
( x + 7)( x − 7) 3x
x− y 3x − 3 y
3x = ·
= =1 x + y 5x 2 − 5 y 2
3x
x− y 3( x − y )
x2 − y2 = ·
x2 − y2 4 x + y 5( x 2 − y 2 )
5. 2 = ·
x− y 2 x− y
3( x − y )( x − y )
4 =
5( x 2 − y 2 )( x + y )
( x − y )( x + y ) 2 ⋅ 2
= ·
2 x− y 3( x − y )
=
5( x + y ) 2
= 2(x + y)
 5a 2 − 5ab 5a 2 − 5b 2 7ab 81c 2 9c
4. ÷ 11. · =
ab + b 2 b 9c 2
91a b 13a

5a 2 − 5ab b x2 − y2 a + b
= · 12. ·
ab + b 2
5a − 5b 2
2
a2 − b2 x − y

5a (a − b) b ( x + y )( x − y ) ⋅ (a + b)
= · =
b(a + b) 5(a − b 2 )
2
(a + b)(a − b)( x − y )
x+ y
5a(a − b)(b) =
= a −b
5b(a + b)(a − b)(a + b) y + 6 4y2
13. · = 2y
2y y+6
a
=
( a + b) 2 a2 − 9 a 2 − 3a
14. ·
a2 a 2 + a − 12
3x
y 3x 2 x 2 6x 3 (a − 3)(a + 3) a (a − 3)
5. = · = = ·
5y2 y 5y2 5y3 a (a + 4)(a − 3)
2x 2 (a − 3)(a + 3)
=
a(a + 4)
Chapter Test
a −1 a +1
15. . ·
1. b a + 2 a −1

2. a a +1
=
a+2
3. a
a 2 − ab a − b
4. c 16. ÷
3a 15b 2
5. .b
a 2 − ab 15b 2
= ·
6. c 3a a−b

7. a a(a − b) 15b 2
= ·
3a a −b
8. a
= 5b2
9. b
x 2 − 2x + 1 x −1
10. c 17. ÷ 2
y −5 y − 25
 x 2 − 2 x + 1 y 2 − 25 a+b
= · =
y −5 x −1 x+ y

( x − 1)( x − 1) ( y − 5)( y + 5) 8 2
= · 21. -
y −5 x −1 3− 7y 7y − 3
8 2
= -
= (x - 1)(y + 5) − (7 y − 3) 7 y − 3
8 − (−2)
c 2 + 3c c =
18. 2 ÷ − (7 y − 3)
c + 2c − 3 c + 1
10
c 2 + 3c c +1 =
= 2 · − (7 y − 3)
c + 2c − 3 c
p+q q− p
c(c + 3) c +1 22. -
= · 3 p + 2 pq − q
2 2
6 p − 5qp + q 2
2

(c − 1)(c + 3) c
p+q q− p
c +1 = -
= (3 p − q)( p + q) (3 p − q)(2 p − q)
c −1
( p + q)(2 p − q) − (q − p)( p + q)
a 2 − 49 3a − 21 =
19. . ÷ (3 p − q )( p + q)(2 p − q)
(a + 7) 2 2a + 14
2 p 2 + pq − q 2 − (q 2 − p 2 )
a − 49 2a + 14
2 =
= · (3 p − q )( p + q )(2 p − q )
(a + 7) 2 3a − 21
2 p 2 + pq − q 2 − q 2 + p 2
(a + 7)(a − 7) 2(a + 7) =
= · (3 p − q )( p + q )(2 p − q )
(a + 7)(a + 7) 3(a − 7)
3 p 2 + pq − 2q 2
2(a + 7) 2 =
= = (3 p − q )( p + q )(2 p − q )
3(a + 7) 3
m−n m+n
a2 − b2 a−b 23. - 2
20. 2 ÷ m + 2mn + n
2 2
m − mn − 2n 2
x −y 2
x− y
m−n m+n
= -
a −b
2 2
x− y (m + n)(m + n) (m − 2n)(m + n)
= ·
x −y
2 2
a−b
(m − n)(m − 2n) − (m + n)(m + n)
=
(a − b)(a + b) x − y (m + n)(m + n)(m − 2n)
= ·
( x − y )( x + y ) a − b
 m 2 − 3mn + 2n 2 − (m 2 + 2mn + n 2 )
=
(m + n)(m + n)(m − 2n)

m 2 − 3mn + 2n 2 − m 2 − 2mn − n 2
=
(m + n)(m + n)(m − 2n)
− 5mn + n 2
=
(m + n)(m + n)(m − 2n)

1 1
24. - 2
b − 1 b + 3b + 2
2

1 1
= -
(b + 1)(b − 1) (b + 2)(b − 1)

(b + 2) − (b − 1)
=
(b + 1)(b − 1)(b + 2)

b + 2 − b +1
=
(b + 1)(b − 1)(b + 2)

3
=
(b + 1)(b − 1)(b + 2)

2t − 1 2t + 1
25. -
t +1 t −1

(2t − 1)(t − 1) − (2t + 1)(t + 1)

=
(t + 1)(t − 1)

(2t 2 − 3t + 1) − (2t 2 + 3t + 1)
=
(t + 1)(t − 1)

2t 2 − 3t + 1 − 2t 2 − 3t − 1
=
(t + 1)(t − 1)

− 6t
=
(t + 1)(t − 1)
Common Errors / Misconceptions in
Unit IV

5y 15
1. What is the sum of and ?
10 10

20 y
Student’s answer: or 2y
10
This answer is wrong because 5y and 15
cannot be added since they are dissimilar
fractions.

11x 7 x
2. Find - .
15 12

4x
Student’s answer:
3
This answer is wrong. Notice that their
denominators are different. Thus, we
find the LCD and the LCD is 60.
Rewrite the rational expression as
fraction with 60 as the denominator.

11 7 11(4) 7(5)
- = -
15 12 15(4) 12(5)

44 35
= -
60 60

9 3
= or
60 20

( x + 3)
3. Simplify the expression .
( x + 3) + 2

1
Student’s answer:
3

This answer is wrong. You cannot

cancel (x + 3) in the numerator and
denominator, since the denominator is
taken as a single expression.