How can we simplify the rational expression \( \frac{t^2}{6t^2 + 9} \) and what restrictions should we consider for the variable t?

To simplify the rational expression \( \frac{t^2}{6t^2 + 9} \), we’ll start by factoring the denominator.

The expression in the denominator, \( 6t^2 + 9 \), can be factored by taking out the greatest common factor:

  • Factoring out a 3: \( 6t^2 + 9 = 3(2t^2 + 3) \)

Now the original expression can be rewritten as:

\( \frac{t^2}{3(2t^2 + 3)} \)

Next, let’s discuss any restrictions on the variable \( t \). For a rational expression, we need to ensure that the denominator does not equal zero, as division by zero is undefined.

Setting the denominator equal to zero:

  • \( 3(2t^2 + 3) = 0 \)
  • Solving for \( t \):\
  1. \( 2t^2 + 3 = 0 \)
  2. \( 2t^2 = -3 \)
  3. Since \( 2t^2 \) is always non-negative for real values of \( t \), this equation does not yield any real solutions.

Thus, the denominator will never be zero for any real number value of \( t \). Therefore, there are no restrictions on the variable \( t \) for this expression.

In summary, the simplified form of the rational expression is:

\( \frac{t^2}{3(2t^2 + 3)} \)

And there are no restrictions on the variable \( t \).

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