Multiplication

Dividing Rational Expressions

The review of dividing fractions is useful because dividing rational expressions works the same way. You will also need to use the steps from simplifying rational expressions.

Example

Divide and simplify the following rational expression.

Step 1.Multiply the expression in the numerator by the reciprocal of the expression in the denominator.

$frac2$

Step 2. Factor completely.

Step 3. Cancel common factors.

Step 4. Rewrite.

(Answer)