Least Common Denominator (Rational Expressions)

Michigan State University - Diagnostic Exam

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4.14

Which of the following is equivalent to $3 2 1 --- --2 + -3- a a a$ ?

a) $-----2----- a - a2 + a3$ b) $-2- a3$ c) $2 3a----2a-+-1- a3$

d) $2 3a - 2a + 1$ e) $3a2---2a-+-1- a - a2 + a3$

Solution:

Since the LCM is $a3$ we have $2 = 3-a--- 2--a+ 1-- a a2 a2 a a3$

Diagnostic:

See 4.8: Rational Expressions .

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July 15, 2008