SOLUTION: How do I solve a ration expression like this. I need to learn how to do it step by step so I can pass my quiz. Please help x^2 + x - 2 ----------- x^2 -x

Algebra ->  Polynomials-and-rational-expressions -> SOLUTION: How do I solve a ration expression like this. I need to learn how to do it step by step so I can pass my quiz. Please help x^2 + x - 2 ----------- x^2 -x      Log On


   

Question 207808: How do I solve a ration expression like this. I need to learn how to do it step by step so I can pass my quiz. Please help
x^2 + x - 2
-----------
x^2 -x
Answer by jim_thompson5910(35256) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!

%28x%5E2%2Bx-2%29%2F%28x%5E2-x%29 Start with the given expression.


%28%28x%2B2%29%28x-1%29%29%2F%28x%5E2-x%29 Factor x%5E2%2Bx-2 to get %28x%2B2%29%28x-1%29.


%28%28x%2B2%29%28x-1%29%29%2F%28x%28x-1%29%29 Factor x%5E2-x to get x%28x-1%29.


%28%28x%2B2%29highlight%28%28x-1%29%29%29%2F%28x%2Ahighlight%28%28x-1%29%29%29 Highlight the common terms.


%28%28x%2B2%29cross%28%28x-1%29%29%29%2F%28x%2Across%28%28x-1%29%29%29 Cancel out the common terms.


%28x%2B2%29%2Fx Simplify.


So %28x%5E2%2Bx-2%29%2F%28x%5E2-x%29 simplifies to %28x%2B2%29%2Fx.


In other words, %28x%5E2%2Bx-2%29%2F%28x%5E2-x%29=%28x%2B2%29%2Fx