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
1. Equations & Inequalities
Linear Equations
3:47 minutes
Problem 75a
Textbook Question
Textbook QuestionExercises 73–75 will help you prepare for the material covered in the next section. Rationalize the denominator: (7 + 4√2)/(2 - 5√2).
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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 contains a square root, multiplying by the conjugate can help achieve this.
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Rationalizing Denominators
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 eliminates the square root in the denominator, making it easier to simplify the expression.
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Complex Conjugates
Simplifying Radicals
Simplifying radicals involves reducing a square root or other root to its simplest form. This can include factoring out perfect squares from under the radical sign or combining like terms. Understanding how to simplify radicals is essential when rationalizing denominators, as it allows for clearer and more manageable expressions.
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