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 P and 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 
, then 
is called rational function.
Examples of Rational Equation
- The following are examples of rational equation.
, 
, 
Solved Example on Rational Equation
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.
Related Terms for Rational Equation
- Rational Expression
- Equation
- Rational Function
- Polynomials
Additional Links for Rational Equation
