Overview

Part 1

The purpose of this unit is to become familiar with rational functions. Specifically, in this unit you will learn:

To add, subtract, multiply, divide, and simplify rational expressions

To solve rational equations

To analyze the graphs of rational functions

Rational functions are seen in many areas of study such as science, engineering, business, and economics. They are as varied as the volume of a cardboard box, the fuel efficiency of a car, and the cost per meal served at a restaurant. An understanding of rational functions is therefore important not only for further study of mathematics, but for understanding the world in which we live.