You are here:

Algebra/simplifying

Advertisement

Expert: - 8/3/2005


Question
Simplify:
3/5- sqrt 2
The / means that the 3 is ove the rest of the problem, Not just the 5. Thank you

Answer
Hi Carla,

To remove the square root from the denominator, you multiply the top and bottom by (5 + SQRT(2)).  This is called rationalizing the denominator.

(3/(5 - SQRT(2))*(5 + SQRT(2))/(5 + SQRT(2))

= (3*(5 + SQRT(2))/(25 - 2)

= (15 + 3SQRT(2))/23

Let me know if you have any questions

Bobby

Algebra

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Bobby Soltani

Expertise

I can help with all types of questions in algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus. I can answer general physics questions. I can also help simplify and solve word problems.

Experience

I have been a math and physics tutor in college for 3 years.

Education/Credentials
Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Electrical Engineering.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.