Dividing Rational Expressions
Example 1
Find:

Solution |
 |
Step 1 Invert the second
fraction and change
the division symbol,
÷, to the multiplication
symbol, ·. |
 |
Step 2 Factor the numerators
and denominators.
|
 |
Step 3 Cancel all pairs of
factors common to the
numerators and
denominators. |
 |
Step 4 Multiply the
numerators. Multiply
the denominators. |
 |
Thus,

Example 2
Find:

Solution |
 |
Step 1 Invert the second fraction
and change the division
symbol, ÷, to the
multiplication symbol, ·. |
 |
Step 2 Factor the numerators and
denominators.
|
 |
Step 3 Cancel all pairs of factors
common to the numerators
and denominators.
|
 |
Step 4 Multiply the numerators.
Multiply the denominators. |
 |
Thus,

Notice that
is in lowest terms.
|