Simplifying Radical Expressions

Front

What is a radical expression?

Back

A radical expression is an expression that includes a root, such as a square root, cube root, etc.

Front

What does the index of a radical indicate?

Back

The index of a radical indicates the degree of the root being taken. For example, a square root has an index of 2.

Front

Simplify: √(a^2)

Back

a

Front

What is the radicand in a radical expression?

Back

The radicand is the number or expression inside the radical sign.

Front

Simplify: √(18)

Back

3√2

Front

What is the product property of square roots?

Back

The product property states that √(a * b) = √a * √b.

Front

Simplify: 4√(12)

Back

4 * 2√3 = 8√3

Front

What is the quotient property of square roots?

Back

The quotient property states that √(a/b) = √a / √b.

Front

Simplify: 2√(50)

Back

2 * 5√2 = 10√2

Front

What does it mean to simplify a radical expression?

Back

To simplify a radical expression means to rewrite it in its simplest form, removing any perfect squares from under the radical.