Simplifying Radicals

Front

What is a radical?

Back

A radical is an expression that includes a root, such as a square root (√) or cube root (∛).

Front

What does it mean to simplify a radical?

Back

To simplify a radical means to express it in its simplest form, removing any perfect square factors from under the radical sign.

Front

What is the square root of 16?

Back

4

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Front

What is the square root of 144?

Back

12

Front

Back

8

Front

What is a perfect square?

Back

A perfect square is a number that can be expressed as the square of an integer, such as 1, 4, 9, 16, etc.

Front

How do you identify perfect square factors in a radical?

Back

To identify perfect square factors, factor the number under the radical into its prime factors and look for pairs.