Problem

Write each rational expression in lowest terms. See Example.EXAMPLE Writing Rational Expre...

Write each rational expression in lowest terms. See Example.

EXAMPLE Writing Rational Expressions in lowest Terms

Write each rational expression in lowest terms.

(a)
(b)

Solution

(a)
To determine the domain, we find values of x that make the original denominator 5x2 + 20x equal to 0, and exclude them.
The domain is {x|x ≠ 0, −4}. From now on, we will assume such restrictions when writing rational expressions in lowest terms.
(b)
Working in an alternative way would lead to the equivalent result