Learning Objectives
Introduction
In this tutorial we will look at adding, subtracting and multiplying radical expressions. If you need a review on what radicals are, feel free to go to Tutorial 37: Radicals. If it is simplifying radical expressions that you need a refresher on, go to Tutorial 39: Simplifying Radical Expressions. Ok, I think you are ready to begin this tutorial.
Tutorial
The following are two examples of two different pairs of like radicals:
Adding and Subtracting
Radical Expressions
You add or subtract them in the same fashion that you do like terms
shown in Tutorial 25: Polynomials
and Polynomial Functions. Combine the numbers that are in front
of the like radicals and write that number in front of the like radical
part.
Can you think of what that factor is?
Let's see what we get when we simplify the first radical:
Can you think of what that factor is?
Let's see what we get when we simplify the second radical:
*Cube root of 8 is 2
Can you think of what that factor is?
Let's see what we get when we simplify the third radical:
*Cube root of 27 b cubed is 3b
*Combine like radicals
*Fourth root of 16 is 2
*Combine like radicals
Multiplying Radical Expressions
AND
Step 2: Simplify
the radicals.
AND
Step 2: Simplify
the radicals.
AND
Step 2: Simplify
the radicals.
Practice Problems
To get the most out of these, you should work the problem out on your own and then check your answer by clicking on the link for the answer/discussion for that problem. At the link you will find the answer as well as any steps that went into finding that answer.
Practice Problems 1a - 1b: Add or subtract.
Practice Problems 2a - 2b: Multiply and simplify.
Need Extra Help on these Topics?
Go to Get Help Outside the Classroom found in Tutorial 1: How to Succeed in a Math Class for some more suggestions.
Last revised on July 21, 2011 by Kim Seward.
All contents copyright (C) 2001 - 2011, WTAMU and Kim Seward. All rights reserved.