`simplifyFraction`

Reduces a rational expression to lowest terms.

Category: Mathematics > Formula Manipulation and Simplification

Syntax

R = simplifyFraction(f)

Cancels the common factors of numerator and denominator.

Description

The function computes the greatest common divisor of the numerator and denominator polynomials and divides it out. It is cheaper and more predictable than simplify, which tries many rewriting rules.

Input arguments

f: Symbolic rational expression.

Output arguments

R: Equivalent fraction in which numerator and denominator share no factor.

Example

Cancel a common factor

syms x
simplifyFraction((x^2 - 1)/(x - 1))

Output

ans = x + 1

simplifyFraction