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Basic Math/re solving equations involving radicals
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Question
i am completely lost at how to solve these type of problems
ex: (sq.root x-5) - (sq.root x-8)=3
Hello Lauren,
We need to eliminate the square root signs...
so, square both sides:
[sqrt(x-5)-sqrt(x-8)]^2=3^2
(x-5)-2sqrt((x-5)(x-8))+(x-8)=9
2x-13-9=2sqrt(x^2-13x+40)
x-11=sqrt(x^2-13x+40), now square both sides again
x^2-22x+121=x^2-13x+40
-9x=-81
x=9
ok?
Abe
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Basic Math
Answers by Expert:
Abe Mantell
Expertise
Hello, I am a college professor of mathematics and regularly teach all levels from elementary mathematics through differential equations, and would be happy to assist anyone with such questions!
Experience
Over 15 years teaching at the college level.
Organizations belong to
NCTM, NYSMATYC, AMATYC, MAA, NYSUT, AFT.
Education/Credentials
B.S. in Mathematics from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
M.S. (and A.B.D.) in Applied Mathematics from SUNY @ Stony Brook
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