Dividing Rational Expressions
More Lessons for Algebra
Math Worksheets
How to divide rational expressions?
A rational expression is a fraction in which either the numerator, or the denominator, or both the numerator and the denominator are algebraic expressions.
To divide a fraction by another fraction, we multiply the first fraction by the reciprocal of the second fraction. In other words, when you change the operation from ÷ to ×, you need to change the second fraction to its reciprocal by reversing the numerator and the denominator. Similarly, when we divide rational expressions, we “flip” the second expression and then we multiply the two expressions.
The following diagram shows how to divide rational expressions. Scroll down the page for more examples and solutions.
Example:
Simplify the following expressions:
Solution:
Rotate to landscape screen format on a mobile phone or small tablet to use the Mathway widget, a free math problem solver that answers your questions with step-by-step explanations.
You can use the free Mathway calculator and problem solver below to practice Algebra or other math topics. Try the given examples, or type in your own problem and check your answer with the step-by-step explanations.
We welcome your feedback, comments and questions about this site or page. Please submit your feedback or enquiries via our Feedback page.
