Educator

Solving Rational Equations and Inequalities

• To solve a rational equation, multiply each term on both sides by the LCD of all the denominators in the equation. Then solve the resulting equation, which has no fractions.

• Always check for extraneous solutions – values that make one or more of the denominators equal to 0. Exclude such values from the solution set. Better yet, before solving the equation, determine the values that must be excluded by setting each denominator equal to 0 and solving. Then you will recognize an extraneous solution as soon as it appears.