Math Problem Statement
rationalize the denominator
Solution
We are tasked with rationalizing the denominator of:
Step 1: Multiply by the conjugate
To rationalize the denominator, we multiply both the numerator and the denominator by the conjugate of the denominator. The conjugate of is . This works because the product of a binomial and its conjugate is a difference of squares.
Thus, multiply the expression by:
This gives:
Step 2: Simplify the denominator
The denominator becomes the difference of squares:
Step 3: Simplify the numerator
Distribute in the numerator:
Step 4: Write the final expression
Now, the expression becomes:
This can be simplified further as:
Since there is no further simplification, this is the rationalized form.
Final Answer:
Would you like more details on any step or do you have questions?
Here are 5 related questions you might find helpful:
- How do you rationalize more complex expressions with multiple square roots?
- What is the benefit of rationalizing the denominator in mathematical expressions?
- How do difference of squares formulas help in simplifying radicals?
- Can you apply this technique to rationalize complex fractions?
- How would this change if the denominator involved cube roots?
Tip: Always check if a binomial has a conjugate; multiplying by it simplifies many radical denominators.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Radicals
Rationalization
Conjugates
Difference of Squares
Formulas
Conjugate of a binomial: (a - b)(a + b) = a^2 - b^2
Difference of squares: a^2 - b^2 = (a - b)(a + b)
Theorems
Difference of Squares Theorem
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 9-12