Problem 77 - Introductory Algebra for College Students

Question

Explain how to multiply rational expressions.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

To multiply rational expressions, simplify each expression by factoring and cancelling common factors, multiply the numerators and denominators together, and then simplify the resulting expression if necessary.

Step 1: Simplify

The first step involves simplifying each rational expression. This can be done by factoring the numerator and denominator of each fraction, then identifying and cancelling out common factors.

Step 2: Multiply Numerators and Denominators

After simplifying, the next step is to multiply the numerators together to get the new numerator and do the same for the denominators to get the new denominator. This will result in a new rational expression which is the product of the original expressions.

Step 3: Simplify the Resulting Expression

The last step is to simplify the resulting rational expression if possible. This includes factoring the expressions again and cancelling out any common factors found in the numerator and denominator. The resulting expression is the final product.