Solving Radical Equations

Front

What is a radical equation?

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A radical equation is an equation in which a variable is contained within a radical (square root, cube root, etc.).

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How do you solve a radical equation?

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To solve a radical equation, isolate the radical on one side of the equation and then square both sides to eliminate the radical. Check for extraneous solutions afterward.

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What does it mean to check your answers in radical equations?

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Checking your answers means substituting the solutions back into the original equation to ensure they satisfy the equation.

Front

Back

The first step is to isolate the radical, if there is one, or to simplify the equation as much as possible.