Lesson 2

In the Launch section of this lesson, you reviewed how to multiply rational numbers. In the general case, recall that

 

 

Notice that the numerators are multiplied together and that the denominators are multiplied together. The result is then reduced to lowest terms, where possible.

 

Retrieve your results from Try This 1. The answers to questions 4.a. and 4.b. should have been the same. That result leads to the conclusion that rational expressions are multiplied and divided in the same way as rational numbers. In other words, numerators are multiplied together and denominators are multiplied together. The resulting expression is then simplified, where possible.

 

In Try This 2 you will multiply each set of rational expressions. Remember to include the non-permissible values!

 

Try This 2

 

Multiply the rational expressions as you would rational numbers. Reduce to lowest terms, where possible. Include the non-permissible values with your final answer.

1. 
   
   
2. 
   
   
3. 
   
   
4. 

Save your responses in your course folder.

 

Share 1

 

Compare your answers and strategies from Try This 2 with a partner. Discuss the following questions with your partner.

1. What do all of the expressions in Try This 2 have in common?
   
   
2. How are the expressions in Try This 2 different from the following expression?
   
   
    
   
   
   
3. How could you simplify the multiplication process in order to obtain the product of the expression in question 2?

Save your responses in your course folder.