In mathematics, a radical is any number that includes the root sign (√). The number under the root sign is a square root if no superscript precedes the root sign, a cube root is a superscript 3 precedes it (3√), a fourth root if a 4 precedes it (4√) and so on. Many radicals cannot be simplified, so dividing by one requires special algebraic techniques. To make use of them, remember these algebraic equalities:
Numerical Square Root in the Denominator
In general, an expression with a numerical square root in the denominator looks like this:
To simplify this fraction, you rationalize the denominator by multiplying the entire fraction by √b/√b.
Because
the expression becomes
Examples:
1. Rationalize the denominator of the fraction
Solution: Multiply the fraction by √6/√6
2. Simplify the fraction
Solution: In this case, you can simplify by dividing the numbers outside the radical sign and those inside it in two separate operations:
The expression reduces to
Dividing by Cube Roots
The same general procedure applies when the radical in the denominator is a cube, fourth or higher root. To rationalize a denominator with a cube root, you have to look for a number, that when multiplied by the number under the radical sign, produces a third power number that can be taken out. In general, rationalize the number
Example:
1. Rationalize
Multiply numerator and denominator by 3√25.
The numbers outside the radical sign cancel, and the answer is
Variables with Two Terms in the Denominator
When a radical in the denominator includes two terms, you can usually simplify it by multiplying by its conjugate. The conjugate includes the same two terms, but you reverse the sign between them For example, the conjugate of
When you multiply these together, you get
Example:
1. Rationalize the denominator of
Solution: Multiply top and bottom by x − √3
Simplify:
References
About the Author
Chris Deziel holds a Bachelor's degree in physics and a Master's degree in Humanities, He has taught science, math and English at the university level, both in his native Canada and in Japan. He began writing online in 2010, offering information in scientific, cultural and practical topics. His writing covers science, math and home improvement and design, as well as religion and the oriental healing arts.