Math Problem Statement

√-16/√-48

Solution

The given expression is:

1648\frac{\sqrt{-16}}{\sqrt{-48}}

Since square roots of negative numbers are involved, we can express them using imaginary numbers. Recall that 1=i\sqrt{-1} = i, where ii is the imaginary unit.

Step 1: Simplify the square roots

16=16×1=4i\sqrt{-16} = \sqrt{16} \times \sqrt{-1} = 4i 48=48×1=16×3×i=43i\sqrt{-48} = \sqrt{48} \times \sqrt{-1} = \sqrt{16 \times 3} \times i = 4\sqrt{3}i

Step 2: Simplify the fraction

Now the expression becomes: 4i43i\frac{4i}{4\sqrt{3}i}

Step 3: Cancel the common terms

The 4i4i cancels out, leaving: 13\frac{1}{\sqrt{3}}

Step 4: Rationalize the denominator

To eliminate the square root in the denominator, multiply both the numerator and denominator by 3\sqrt{3}: 13×33=33\frac{1}{\sqrt{3}} \times \frac{\sqrt{3}}{\sqrt{3}} = \frac{\sqrt{3}}{3}

Thus, the simplified result is: 33\frac{\sqrt{3}}{3}

Would you like more details or have any questions?

Here are 5 related questions you might explore:

  1. What is the meaning of imaginary numbers?
  2. How do you simplify expressions involving square roots?
  3. How do you rationalize a denominator?
  4. What are complex numbers and how are they used in math?
  5. How do you perform arithmetic with complex numbers?

Tip: Always check for opportunities to simplify or cancel terms when dealing with fractions.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Imaginary Numbers
Simplification of Radicals
Rationalizing Denominators

Formulas

√(-1) = i (Imaginary Unit Definition)
Simplification of Radicals: √(a × b) = √a × √b
Rationalizing the Denominator: 1/√b × √b/√b = √b/b

Theorems

Properties of Imaginary Numbers
Simplification of Fractions

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12