Dividing Rational Expressions
Dividing rational expressions is like dividing fractions.
Procedure —
To Divide Rational Expressions
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.
Note:
Here’s an example of dividing fractions:
Divide and write the answer in lowest
terms:
![](./articles_imgs/368/dividi19.gif)
Step 1 Invert the second fraction and
change the division symbol,
÷, to
the multiplication symbol,
·. |
![](./articles_imgs/368/dividi20.gif) |
Step 2 Factor the numerators and
denominators. |
![](./articles_imgs/368/dividi21.gif) |
Step 3 Cancel all pairs of factors common
to the numerators and
denominators. |
![](./articles_imgs/368/dividi22.gif) |
Step 4 Multiply the numerators.
Multiply the denominators. |
![](./articles_imgs/368/dividi23.gif) |
Thus,
![](./articles_imgs/368/dividi24.gif) |