Simplifying Radicals Math Example 3
Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.
Example 3
mediumSimplify .
Solution
- 1 Step 1: Factor inside the radical: ; ; .
- 2 Step 2: Rewrite: .
- 3 Step 3: Extract perfect squares: .
- 4 Check: โ
Answer
Factor the radicand into perfect squares and remaining factors. Extract each perfect square from under the radical: for non-negative .
About Simplifying Radicals
Simplifying a radical means rewriting it so no perfect-square factor remains under the root sign. For example, โ50 = โ(25ยท2) = 5โ2. The result โ called simplified radical form โ has the smallest possible number under the radical.
Learn more about Simplifying Radicals โ