Elementary Algebra (Ch. 8) Radical Expressions and Equations

Elementary Algebra is an open textbook that is available to read for free on the flatworld knowledge website. Chapter 8 gives an introduction to radical expressions and equations.

8.1 Radicals
8.2 Simplifying Radical Expressions
8.3 Adding and Subtracting Radical Expressions
8.4 Multiplying and Dividing Radical Expressions
8.5 Rational Exponents
8.6 Solving Radical Equations

You will find a complete review exercise section and a practice test.

8.7 Review Exercises and Sample Exam

Feel free to copy and paste the links found here and post them in your LMS. Links to all of the chapters can be found by clicking the Elementary Algebra course button at the top of this page.

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Video Examples of Rational Expressions and Equations

All of the "Try This!" problems in the open textbook Elementary Algebra have been solved and are available for free on YouTube. Click on the problems below to view the videos found in chapter 7.

Rational Expressions and Equations

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For further updates please feel free to circle the Elementary Algebra Google+ page for this book.
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Adding and Subtracting Rational Expressions

To simplify a rational expression:
Step 1:  Factor all denominators as a means to easily determine the LCD.
Step 2:  Multiply by the appropriate factors to obtain equivalent terms with a common denominator. 
Step 3:  Add or subtract the numerators and place the result over the common denominator. 
Step 4:  Simplify the resulting algebraic fraction.



A more involved example follows:

It is always a good idea to state the restrictions.  Remember that the restrictions are the values that produce zero in the denominator.

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