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Submitted by: Karin

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In order to simplify this expression, you will need to factor the numerator and the denominator. You can simplify the numerator by using the <a href="http://www.algebra-class.com/factoring-polynomials.html"> greatest common factor</a>. 2x + 8 - the common factor is 2 so if you factor out 2, you would get: 2(x+4) (This is your new numerator) Then factor the denominator. To factor the denominator you are essentially <a href = "http://www.algebra-class.com/factoring-trinomials.html"> factoring a trinomial </a> that has 0x as it's middle term. When you factor the denominator you get: (x + 4) (x - 4) So, now we have: <u>2(x+4)</u> (x+4)(x-4) Since (x+4) is in the numerator and the denominator, they equal 1 so we can cross them out and we are left with: <u>2</u> x-4 I do not have a complete lesson on simplifying rational expressions yet; however, I do have a few lessons on <a href="http://www.algebra-class.com/factoring-polynomials.html"> factoring </a> that may help you. I hope this explanation helps you. All the best, Karin

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