how do i simplify a radical expression?

Question

What are the steps?

Answer 1

Try this link and it has given all the different sample problems with explanation.  There are at least 7 problems with different scenario.

http://hotmath.com/hotmath_help/topics/simplifying-radical-expressions.html

I hope this helps.

Answer 2

1. Break down the expression under the radical to it's simplest factors (ex. 45 would break down to be 5 x 9, then to 5 x 3 x 3)

2. Bring any pairs of numbers inside the radical outside (ex. √45 would become 3√5). Each pair of numbers that "come out" act as one unit. Even though we had a pair of 3's under the radical, we only write one 3 outside the radical. Any number that does not have a pair is left under the radical.

    *If there is already a number outside the radical, the number "coming out" is multiplied to that number (ex. we know that 45 breaks down to two 3's and one 5 so the 3's "come out" therefore, 2√45 would become 6√5. The 3 that "comes out" is multiplied to the 2 that is already there)

    *If there is more than one number that "comes out" of the radical, they are multiplied to each other (ex. if we use √48, 48 breaks down to 6 x 8 or 3 x 2 x 4 x 2 or 3 x 2 x 2 x 2 x 2. You have two pairs of 2's that "come out" so you end up with 2 x 2√3 or 4√3)