Table of contents

0. Review of Algebra4h 18m
1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
2. Graphs of Equations43m
3. Functions2h 17m
4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
5. Rational Functions1h 23m
6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 6m
8. Conic Sections2h 23m
9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 22m
10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m

0. Review of Algebra

Radical Expressions

College Algebra

0. Review of Algebra

Radical Expressions

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1:05 minutes

Problem 55

Textbook Question

Use the rules for radicals to perform the indicated operations. Assume all variable expressions represent positive real numbers. √14 • √3pqr

Verified step by step guidance

Recognize that the expression involves multiplying two square roots: \( \sqrt{14} \) and \( \sqrt{3pqr} \).

Use the property of radicals that states \( \sqrt{a} \cdot \sqrt{b} = \sqrt{a \cdot b} \).

Apply this property to combine the radicals: \( \sqrt{14} \cdot \sqrt{3pqr} = \sqrt{14 \cdot 3pqr} \).

Multiply the numbers and variables under the radical: \( 14 \cdot 3pqr = 42pqr \).

Express the result as a single radical: \( \sqrt{42pqr} \).

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Properties of Radicals

The properties of radicals include rules for simplifying and combining radical expressions. Key rules state that the product of two square roots can be expressed as the square root of the product of the radicands, i.e., √a • √b = √(a*b). This property is essential for performing operations involving square roots.

Simplifying Radicals

Simplifying radicals involves reducing the expression under the square root to its simplest form. This often includes factoring out perfect squares from the radicand. For example, √(a*b) can be simplified if 'a' or 'b' is a perfect square, making calculations easier and clearer.

Assumption of Positive Real Numbers

In this context, assuming all variable expressions represent positive real numbers is crucial for ensuring that the operations performed on radicals yield valid results. This assumption avoids complications that arise from taking square roots of negative numbers, which are not defined in the set of real numbers.