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Algebra/exponential equations

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Expert: - 2/22/2010


Question

squareroots004
Hello

This is a theory question. I have attached a photo of an example problem along with notes relating to the trouble I'm having.
I have NO PROBLEM solving this type of equation using the technique described in the book. The problem I have is that I feel the book is wrong.
What I'm hoping is that you can either tell me that I am right, or set me straight and help me understand where I'm going wrong.
The attached photo should have all the information you need to understand the troubles I'm having.

Thanks in advance

Ernie

Answer
Where it says, "This is where my problem is..." the problem is that is not corrrect.
Example: It is known that √16 = 4 abd √9=3.  This would say that √16 - √9 = √(16-9) = √7.
However, it is known that √16 - √9 = 4 - 3 = 1.

The book is right.
The √38 is rougly 5.83 and the √2 = 1.41, so the difference is 4.72.
Now 4 and 3/4 is 4.75, so those are fairly close.

Scott A Wilson

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