AI generatedAlgebraGCSE Higher / IGCSE Extended

Finding excluded values before cancelling algebraic factors

Set each original denominator equal to zero to find excluded values.

  • Set each original denominator equal to zero to find excluded values.
  • Factorise, then cancel common factors to simplify the expression.
  • The simplified expression agrees only on the original domain. A cancelled denominator still excludes its zero.

Example 1

Simplify. State any excluded values.

This makes the original denominator zero.Factorise the numerator.Cancel only for allowed values.

Example 2

Simplify. State any excluded values.

This makes the original denominator zero.Factorise the numerator.Cancel only for allowed values.

Remember
Use the worked steps to check your method, not just the final answer.

Your turn

Question 1

Simplify. State any excluded values.

Check answer
This makes the original denominator zero.Factorise the numerator.Cancel only for allowed values.

Restrictions from the original expression: .

Question 2

Simplify. State any excluded values.

Check answer
This makes the original denominator zero.Factorise the numerator.Cancel only for allowed values.

Restrictions from the original expression: .

Question 3

Simplify. State any excluded values.

Check answer
This makes the original denominator zero.Factorise the numerator.Cancel only for allowed values.

Restrictions from the original expression: .

Question 4

Simplify. State any excluded values.

Check answer
This makes the original denominator zero.Factorise the numerator.Cancel only for allowed values.

Restrictions from the original expression: .

Question 5

Simplify. State any excluded values.

Check answer
This makes the original denominator zero.Factorise the numerator.Cancel only for allowed values.

Restrictions from the original expression: .

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