The strategy for adding rational numbers also works for adding and subtracting rational expressions.
One example of the addition of rational expressions is:
a) \(\Large \frac{2}{x^2+6x+8}+\frac{3x}{x^2+7x+10}=\) Factor denominators
b) \(\Large \frac{2}{(x+2)(x+4)}+\frac{3x}{(x+2)(x+5)}=\) Find common denominator
c) \(\Large \frac{2(x+5)+3x(x+4)}{(x+2)(x+5)(x+4)}=\frac{3x^2+14x+10}{x^3+11x^2+38x+40}\)
Write equivalent fractions with like denominators, add numerators, and simplify.
For additional examples, please watch the video linked below:
Adding rational expression: unlike denominators (video) – Khan Academy
Go to Practice (Adding Rational Expressions)