what steps assist with multiplying, dividing, adding, and subtracting rational expressions including complex fractions and how can you use those steps to solve rational equations?

Multiplying and Dividing Rational Expressions

Multiplying rational expressions is basically two simplifying problems put together.

When multiplying rationals, factor both numerators and denominators and identify equivalents of one to cancel.

Dividing rational expressions is the same as multiplying with one additional step: we take the reciprocal of the second fraction and change the division to multiplication.

Adding and Subtracting Rational Expressions

Adding and subtracting rational expressions is similar to adding fractions. When adding and subtracting rational expressions, we find a common denominator and then add the numerators. To find a common denominator, factor each first. This strategy is especially important when the denominators are trinomials.

Source: Online Math Learning