(This quotient is called an algebraic fraction.) Then you actually carry out the division.
![]()
Reduce the coefficient 6/9 to lowest terms.
Notice that the − sign is put either in front of the result or in front of the numerator; never in front of the denominator.
![]()
The two − signs are replaced by a + sign which we don’t have to display. The coefficient reduces to (positive) ¼. The numerator contains other factors so the 1 in the numerator can be omitted.
The factors with base x are like factors. They are combined using the properties of exponents.
![]()
The coefficient reduces to −1/3. The identical factors of x 3 in the numerator and denominator cancel. The numerator contains no other factors so this time the 1 must remain.
Again the − sign is put in front.
![]()
After carrying out all the simplifications, the denominator equals 1, so we don’t have to display it. Thus the result is an ordinary expression, not an algebraic fraction.
Algebra Coach Exercises |
and then each of the resulting terms is simplified as in Case I above.
Note that the Algebra Coach does not divide a multinomial by a monomial when you click the Simplify button. You must use the Distribute button to do that. The reason is that the single fraction form of the expression is considered to be simpler than the multiple fraction form.
![]()
Divide each term of the multinomial by the monomial.
Simplify each term using the division property of exponents.
![]()
Divide each term of the multinomial by the monomial. Notice how the signs are reversed (just like when distributing a negative).
Simplify each term using the division property of exponents.
Warning: A common error is to try to simplify a monomial divided by a multinomial. However there is no simplification possible for this. |
Algebra Coach Exercises |
This step has shown that
This step has shown that: