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Rational Equation

Definition Of Rational Equation

A rational equation is an equation containing rational expressions.

More About Rational Equation

Rational Expression: A rational expression is an expression of the form  where Pand Q are nonzero polynomials.
Rational Function: A function written, as a quotient of polynomials is a rational function.
That is, if p(x) and q(x) are polynomial functions and q(x) ≠ 0, then  is called rational function.

Video Examples: Solving Rational Equations

Examples of Rational Equation

The following are examples of rational equation.

Solved Example on Rational Equation

Ques: Solve the rational equation

Choices:

A. 
B. b = -5
C. b = 2
D. b = 3
Correct Answer: D

Solution:

Step 1:  [Rational equation.]
Step 2: If b = - 5 and b = 2, then the denominators value becomes zero. So, the replacement set is all real numbers except - 5, 2. [Simplify.]
Step 3:  [Simplify.]
Step 4:
Step 5: b + 5 = 8b - 16
Step 6: b = 3 [Solve for b.]
Step 7: So, the solution is b = 3.