Table of contents
- 0. Review of Algebra4h 16m
- 1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
- 2. Graphs of Equations43m
- 3. Functions2h 17m
- 4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
- 5. Rational Functions1h 23m
- 6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
- 7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 6m
- 8. Conic Sections2h 23m
- 9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 19m
- 10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m
0. Review of Algebra
Radical Expressions
2:32 minutes
Problem 80
Textbook Question
Textbook QuestionIn Exercises 75–92, rationalize each denominator. Simplify, if possible. 12 ------------ √7 + √3
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Rationalizing the Denominator
Rationalizing the denominator involves eliminating any irrational numbers from the denominator of a fraction. This is typically achieved by multiplying both the numerator and the denominator by a suitable expression that will result in a rational number in the denominator. For example, if the denominator is a sum of square roots, you can multiply by the conjugate of that expression.
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Conjugates
The conjugate of a binomial expression is formed by changing the sign between the two terms. For instance, the conjugate of (a + b) is (a - b). When multiplying a binomial by its conjugate, the result is a difference of squares, which simplifies the expression and is particularly useful in rationalizing denominators that contain square roots.
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Simplifying Radicals
Simplifying radicals involves reducing a square root expression to its simplest form. This includes factoring out perfect squares from under the radical sign and rewriting the expression. For example, √12 can be simplified to 2√3, making calculations easier and clearer when working with expressions that include square roots.
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