Solving Radical Equations

Front

What is a radical equation?

Back

An equation that involves a variable within a radical (square root, cube root, etc.).

Tags

CCSS.HSA.REI.A.2

Front

How do you isolate a radical in an equation?

Back

To isolate a radical, you can move all other terms to the opposite side of the equation.

Tags

CCSS.HSA.REI.A.2

Front

What is the first step in solving a radical equation?

Back

Square both sides of the equation to eliminate the radical.

Tags

CCSS.HSA.REI.A.2

Front

What should you do after squaring both sides of a radical equation?

Back

Simplify the equation and solve for the variable.

Tags

CCSS.HSA.REI.A.2

Front

What is a common mistake when solving radical equations?

Back

Forgetting to check for extraneous solutions after solving.

Tags

CCSS.HSA.REI.A.2

Front

What is an extraneous solution?

Back

A solution that does not satisfy the original equation.

Tags

CCSS.HSA.REI.A.2

Front

How can you check if a solution is extraneous?

Back

Substitute the solution back into the original equation to see if it holds true.

Tags

CCSS.HSA.REI.A.2

Front

What is the square root property?

Back

If x^2 = a, then x = ±√a.

Tags

CCSS.HSA-REI.B.4B

Front

What is the importance of checking solutions in radical equations?

Back

To ensure that the solutions are valid and not extraneous.

Tags

CCSS.HSA.REI.A.2

Front

What does it mean to simplify a radical?

Back

To express the radical in its simplest form, removing any perfect squares from under the radical.