This week in math we learned about equivalent rational expressions. Rational numbers are quotients of two integers. So, two polynomials are known as rational expressions.

As well we learned to simplify a rational expression the first thing you must do is find the non-permissible values. A non-permissible value is a number which makes the denominator zero because, you can not have a fraction with a zero as the denominator.

To find this value you must find the zeros meaning figure out what numbers would create the equation to become zero. You can do this by inspection or factoring.

After you you have figured out the non-permissible values you can then cancel out common factors. These factors must be the exact same in order to cancel out.