Rational expressions and equations play a significant role in mathematics, as well as in various real-life situations. They are essential for solving problems involving rates, proportions, work, mixture, and many more. Understanding rational expressions and equations is crucial for developing strong mathematical skills.

A rational expression is a fraction in which both the numerator and denominator are polynomials. It can be represented as (P(x) / Q(x)), where P(x) and Q(x) are polynomials. On the other hand, a rational equation is an equation that contains one or more rational expressions.

To better grasp the concept, let's consider a practical example: determining the speed of a moving object. By expressing the distance traveled as a function of time and simplifying the expression, we can obtain the rate of the object's speed. This is just one of the many scenarios where rational expressions and equations come into play.

As we continue with this series of articles, we will explore different aspects of rational expressions and equations, including simplifying, solving, and performing operations with them. Get ready to dive in, learn new concepts, and enhance your math skills!