Math Problem Statement

Rationalize the denominator of the following fraction: \(\frac{\sqrt{5} + 2\sqrt{2}}{\sqrt{6}}\).

Solution

The problem asks us to rationalize the denominator of the given fraction:

5+226\frac{\sqrt{5} + 2\sqrt{2}}{\sqrt{6}}

Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Multiply numerator and denominator by 6\sqrt{6}

To rationalize the denominator, we eliminate the square root from the denominator by multiplying both numerator and denominator by 6\sqrt{6}:

5+22666\frac{\sqrt{5} + 2\sqrt{2}}{\sqrt{6}} \cdot \frac{\sqrt{6}}{\sqrt{6}}

This results in:

(5+22)66\frac{(\sqrt{5} + 2\sqrt{2}) \cdot \sqrt{6}}{6}

Step 2: Distribute 6\sqrt{6} in the numerator

Now, expand the numerator:

(5+22)6=56+226(\sqrt{5} + 2\sqrt{2}) \cdot \sqrt{6} = \sqrt{5} \cdot \sqrt{6} + 2\sqrt{2} \cdot \sqrt{6}

Using the property ab=ab\sqrt{a} \cdot \sqrt{b} = \sqrt{ab}, simplify each term:

56=30,226=212.\sqrt{5} \cdot \sqrt{6} = \sqrt{30}, \quad 2\sqrt{2} \cdot \sqrt{6} = 2\sqrt{12}.

So the numerator becomes:

30+212.\sqrt{30} + 2\sqrt{12}.

Step 3: Simplify 12\sqrt{12}

Since 12=43=23\sqrt{12} = \sqrt{4 \cdot 3} = 2\sqrt{3}, substitute this back:

212=223=43.2\sqrt{12} = 2 \cdot 2\sqrt{3} = 4\sqrt{3}.

Thus, the numerator becomes:

30+43.\sqrt{30} + 4\sqrt{3}.

Step 4: Write the final expression

Now, the fraction is:

30+436.\frac{\sqrt{30} + 4\sqrt{3}}{6}.

Final Answer:

30+436\boxed{\frac{\sqrt{30} + 4\sqrt{3}}{6}}

Would you like further clarification or additional examples? Let me know!


Here are 5 related questions to explore:

  1. How do you rationalize a denominator involving sums or differences, such as (a+b)(\sqrt{a} + b)?
  2. Can you explain why multiplying by 6/6\sqrt{6} / \sqrt{6} preserves the value of the fraction?
  3. What are the general rules for simplifying square roots like 12\sqrt{12}?
  4. How would you rationalize a denominator with a binomial, such as (53)(\sqrt{5} - \sqrt{3})?
  5. How can you verify the final answer is equivalent to the original expression?

Tip: Always simplify square roots as much as possible (e.g., 12=23\sqrt{12} = 2\sqrt{3}) before writing your final answer.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Rationalizing denominators
Simplifying square roots
Properties of radicals

Formulas

\(\sqrt{a} \cdot \sqrt{b} = \sqrt{ab}\)
\(\frac{a}{\sqrt{b}} \cdot \frac{\sqrt{b}}{\sqrt{b}} = \frac{a\sqrt{b}}{b}\)

Theorems

Properties of square roots
Simplification of radicals

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11