Algebra 2 M 7.2 Day Two
Write Radicals in Simplest Form w/o a Calculator
Steps: 1. Use exponent rules to simplify if you can.
2. Factor out perfect nth's (squares, cubes, etc..) within the radical. 3. Split into two radicals, simplify.
4. Repeat if necessary.
Examples:
a) ∛54
b) (641/3 81/3 )2
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Adding and Subtracting Roots/Radicals
First, how would you evaluate 3x ­ 4x?
How about 2t ­ 4 + 3t?
Think "like terms". Treat the radicals as you would a variable like x. Remember to simplify your rads first.
a) 7(61/5) + 2(61/5)
b) ∛16 ­ ∛2
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Rationalizing Denominators
You may remember that radicals in denominators are a big NO­NO in mathematics.
1 √2
Expressions with rational exponents are still radicals. Here's how to rationalize denominators with rational exponents.
2 31/3
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