2.1.6
Algebraic Fractions
Algebraic Fractions
Algebraic Fractions
Simplify algebraic fractions by factorising where possible and then cancelling terms on the top and bottom.


Multiplication
Multiplication
- To multiply two algebraic fractions together, multiply the tops and bottoms separately.


Division
Division
- To divide by an algebraic fraction, turn it upside down and then multiply as usual.
Algebraic Fractions - Addition and Subtraction
Algebraic Fractions - Addition and Subtraction
To add (or subtract) algebraic fractions together, work out the common denominator and rewrite each so they all share the denominator. Then add (or subtract) the numerators.


Example
Example
- The common denominator here is x(1 + x).


Step 1
Step 1
- Multiply the top and bottom of middle term by (1 + x).
- Multiply the top and bottom of the last term by x.
- The denominators (bottom parts) are now all the same.


Step 2
Step 2
- Add the numerators (top parts) together and keep the common denominator (bottom part).
1Numbers
1.1Integers
1.3Decimals
1.4Powers & Roots
1.5Set Language & Notation
1.6Percentages
1.7Ratio & Proportion
2Equations, Formulae & Identities
2.1Algebraic Manipulation
2.2Expressions & Formulae
2.3Linear Equations
2.4Quadratic Equations
2.5Proportion
3Sequences, Functions & Graphs
3.1Sequences
3.3Graphs
3.4Common Graphs
4Geometry
4.1Angles, Lines & Triangles
4.2Polygons
4.5Circle Properties
4.6Trigonometry & Pythagoras’ theorem
4.7Mensuration of 2D Shapes
4.83D Shapes & Volume
5Vectors & Transformation Geometry
6Statistics & Probability
6.1Statistical Measures
6.2Graphical Representation of Data
Jump to other topics
1Numbers
1.1Integers
1.3Decimals
1.4Powers & Roots
1.5Set Language & Notation
1.6Percentages
1.7Ratio & Proportion
2Equations, Formulae & Identities
2.1Algebraic Manipulation
2.2Expressions & Formulae
2.3Linear Equations
2.4Quadratic Equations
2.5Proportion
3Sequences, Functions & Graphs
3.1Sequences
3.3Graphs
3.4Common Graphs
4Geometry
4.1Angles, Lines & Triangles
4.2Polygons
4.5Circle Properties
4.6Trigonometry & Pythagoras’ theorem
4.7Mensuration of 2D Shapes
4.83D Shapes & Volume
5Vectors & Transformation Geometry
6Statistics & Probability
6.1Statistical Measures
6.2Graphical Representation of Data
Unlock your full potential with Seneca Premium
Unlimited access to 10,000+ open-ended exam questions
Mini-mock exams based on your study history
Unlock 800+ premium courses & e-books