Question 428244
simplify the rational expression. state any restrictions on the variables.
(a^2-5a-6)/a+1

You need to factor out the numerator then cancel out the like term from the denominator.

a^2 - 5a -6 = (a -6)(a +1)
Rewrite the expression:
[(a-6)(a+1)]/(a+1) = (a-6)

To find the restricted values, you set the denominator to be zero and solve for a:
a + 1 =0 
a = -1

Since a = -1 makes the denominator to be zero, it is restricted.

Let me know if you need more clarification! john10.