Rewriting Expressions Math Example 2

Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.

Example 2

medium
Rewrite x2โˆ’4xโˆ’2\frac{x^2 - 4}{x - 2} in simplified form.

Solution

  1. 1
    Factor the numerator: x2โˆ’4=(x+2)(xโˆ’2)x^2 - 4 = (x+2)(x-2).
  2. 2
    Cancel the common factor (xโˆ’2)(x-2): (x+2)(xโˆ’2)xโˆ’2=x+2\frac{(x+2)(x-2)}{x-2} = x + 2 (for xโ‰ 2x \neq 2).
  3. 3
    The simplified form is x+2x + 2.

Answer

x+2(xโ‰ 2)x + 2 \quad (x \neq 2)
Rewriting often involves factoring first, then canceling common factors. Always note domain restrictions where canceled factors would make the original undefined.

About Rewriting Expressions

Transforming an algebraic expression into a different but mathematically equivalent form to reveal new information.

Learn more about Rewriting Expressions โ†’

More Rewriting Expressions Examples

Example 1 easy

Rewrite [formula] in factored form.

Example 3 easy

Rewrite [formula] in expanded form.

Example 4 medium

Rewrite [formula] in factored form.

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