Expressions

how do you rewrite expressions into simpler form?

You can:

- combine like terms (by

- multiply out any constants and variables (use the Distributive Property)

and with polynomials: 

-factoring / polynomial long division

and with radicals:

- rationalizing the denominator

If you have any specific example, I can explain:)

Hi Kitty,

I like most of your answer but factorising is the opposite of simplifying. Opposite is not really the correct word but I think you will understand what i mean. 

Simplify

$$(x+3)(x-2)=x^2+x-6$$

factorise

$$x^2+x-6=(x+3)(x-2)$$

Hmm! It's a moot point which is the simpler of your two equations Melody.  Here's what the computer algebra system built into Mathcad thinks:

It should be noted that there isn't a mathematical definition of "simplify" or "simpler" and computer algebra systems often produce "simplified" expressions that don't match our human expectations.  Also, people often differ on what is simpler! 

okay Alan,  I guess there is the right way and the Australian (NSW) way and the two don't always converge.  

It must be a matter of semantics.....in the US , we call this

(x+2) (x-1)  = x² + x - 2

"expanding" or an "expansion"

This

x² + x - 2  = (x+2) (x-1)

is called "factoring" an expression

You say, "to-ma-to,"   I say, "to-mah-to"

Here is a unique view of semantics Expression(s)

www.youtube.com/watch?v=LOILZ_D3aRg#t=36

~~D~~