Rational Equations

Recall that if a fraction $\displaystyle \frac{a}{b}$ ($b \neq 0$) is equal to zero, then its numerator must be equal to zero:

1. If $\displaystyle \frac{a}{b}=0$, then $a=0$. ($b\neq0$)

This is an important rule when solving rational equations. To solve a rational equation:

1. Combine all rational expressions into one fraction on the left side of the equation.
2. Set the numerator equal to zero and solve the resulting equation.