Solving Rational Equations
Big Idea: A rational equation is an equation that contains one or more rational expressions — fractions where the numerator and/or denominator contain variables.
📐 What Is a Rational Equation?
A rational expression is a fraction whose numerator or denominator (or both) contain a variable. For example:
$\dfrac{3}{x}$, $\dfrac{x+1}{x-2}$, $\dfrac{5}{x^2 - 4}$
A rational equation is any equation that involves at least one rational expression. Here are some examples:
$$\frac{1}{x} + \frac{1}{3} = \frac{1}{2} \qquad \frac{x}{x-1} = \frac{3}{x+2} \qquad \frac{2}{x} + 3 = \frac{5}{x}$$