Math Problem Statement

15 / sqrt(5) - sqrt(20)

Solution

The expression provided in the image is:

15520\frac{15}{\sqrt{5}} - \sqrt{20}

Let's simplify this expression step by step.

Step 1: Simplify 155\frac{15}{\sqrt{5}}

We rationalize the denominator by multiplying both the numerator and denominator by 5\sqrt{5}:

155×55=1555=35\frac{15}{\sqrt{5}} \times \frac{\sqrt{5}}{\sqrt{5}} = \frac{15\sqrt{5}}{5} = 3\sqrt{5}

Step 2: Simplify 20\sqrt{20}

The square root of 20 can be broken down as:

20=4×5=4×5=25\sqrt{20} = \sqrt{4 \times 5} = \sqrt{4} \times \sqrt{5} = 2\sqrt{5}

Step 3: Combine the terms

Now, substitute the simplified terms:

3525=53\sqrt{5} - 2\sqrt{5} = \sqrt{5}

Final Answer:

The simplified expression is:

5\boxed{\sqrt{5}}

Would you like further clarification on any steps? Feel free to ask!

Here are 5 related questions to deepen your understanding:

  1. How do you rationalize a denominator with a square root?
  2. Why does 20\sqrt{20} simplify to 252\sqrt{5}?
  3. How do you add and subtract radical expressions like 35253\sqrt{5} - 2\sqrt{5}?
  4. What are other ways to simplify square roots of larger numbers?
  5. Can all radical expressions be simplified in a similar way?

Tip: Always look for perfect square factors when simplifying square roots, as it makes the process easier.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Simplification of Radicals
Rationalizing Denominators
Basic Algebra

Formulas

sqrt(a * b) = sqrt(a) * sqrt(b)
Rationalizing Denominators: (a / sqrt(b)) * (sqrt(b) / sqrt(b))

Theorems

Square root simplification theorem
Rationalization of denominators

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10