Math Problem Statement

Simplify the mathematical expression \(\frac{9}{1 + \sqrt[3]{2}}\) and rationalize the denominator.

Solution

The given mathematical expression is:

91+23\frac{9}{1 + \sqrt[3]{2}}

To simplify this, we rationalize the denominator by multiplying both numerator and denominator by the conjugate of 1+231 + \sqrt[3]{2}, which is 123+(23)21 - \sqrt[3]{2} + (\sqrt[3]{2})^2. This approach leverages the fact that the cube of a binomial will simplify due to the formula:

(a+b)(a2ab+b2)=a3+b3(a + b)(a^2 - ab + b^2) = a^3 + b^3

Here are the steps:

  1. Multiply numerator and denominator by 123+(23)21 - \sqrt[3]{2} + (\sqrt[3]{2})^2: [ \frac{9}{1 + \sqrt[3]{2}} \cdot \frac{1 - \sqrt[3]{2} + (\sqrt[3]{2})^2}{1 - \sqrt[3]{2} + (\sqrt[3]{2})^2} ]

  2. The denominator becomes: [ (1 + \sqrt[3]{2})(1 - \sqrt[3]{2} + (\sqrt[3]{2})^2) = 1^3 - (\sqrt[3]{2})^3 = 1 - 2 = -1 ]

  3. The numerator becomes: [ 9 \cdot (1 - \sqrt[3]{2} + (\sqrt[3]{2})^2) = 9 - 9\sqrt[3]{2} + 9(\sqrt[3]{2})^2 ]

Thus, the expression simplifies to: [

  • (9 - 9\sqrt[3]{2} + 9(\sqrt[3]{2})^2) ]

Or equivalently: [ -9 + 9\sqrt[3]{2} - 9(\sqrt[3]{2})^2 ]

Let me know if you'd like further breakdowns or explanations!

Related Questions

  1. What are the advantages of rationalizing cube roots?
  2. How does the cube expansion formula work in other scenarios?
  3. Can you provide examples with higher-order roots?
  4. How is this approach similar or different from rationalizing square roots?
  5. How does the expression change if the denominator was 1231 - \sqrt[3]{2}?

Tip

Rationalizing denominators simplifies expressions and helps avoid approximations, especially when solving equations or working symbolically!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Rationalization
Cube Roots

Formulas

Rationalization formula: \((a + b)(a^2 - ab + b^2) = a^3 + b^3\)
Simplification techniques for cube roots

Theorems

Properties of Cube Roots

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12