key term - Radical Expressions

Definition

Radical expressions are mathematical expressions that contain square roots or other roots. They represent the process of finding the value that, when raised to a certain power, gives the original number. Radical expressions are commonly encountered in the context of dividing them, as outlined in the topic 8.5 Divide Radical Expressions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Radical expressions can be divided by using the power rule, which states that $\sqrt{a} \div \sqrt{b} = \sqrt{a/b}$.
2. When dividing radical expressions, it is important to first simplify each radical expression by removing any perfect squares from the radicand.
3. Rational exponents can be used to represent roots, where the denominator of the exponent indicates the root and the numerator indicates the power.
4. Dividing radical expressions with different radicands may require finding a common radicand by factoring or using the product rule for radicals.
5. The quotient of two radical expressions can be simplified by applying the power rule and simplifying the resulting radical expression.

Review Questions

• Explain the process of dividing two radical expressions.
  • To divide two radical expressions, first simplify each expression by removing any perfect squares from the radicand. Then, apply the power rule, which states that $\sqrt{a} \div \sqrt{b} = \sqrt{a/b}$. This allows you to divide the radicands and simplify the resulting radical expression. If the radicands are different, you may need to find a common radicand by factoring or using the product rule for radicals.
• Describe how rational exponents can be used to represent roots in radical expressions.
  • Rational exponents can be used to represent roots in radical expressions. The denominator of the exponent indicates the root, and the numerator indicates the power. For example, $\sqrt{a} = a^{1/2}$, and $\sqrt[3]{a} = a^{1/3}$. This allows for more compact and flexible representation of radical expressions, which can be useful when dividing or simplifying them.
• Analyze the relationship between simplifying radical expressions and dividing them.
  • Simplifying radical expressions is a crucial step before dividing them. By removing any perfect squares from the radicand, you can reduce the complexity of the radical expression and make the division process more straightforward. Additionally, simplifying the radical expressions can help you identify common factors in the numerator and denominator, which can then be canceled out when dividing. The ability to effectively simplify radical expressions is essential for successfully dividing them.

Related terms

Radicand:

The number or expression under the radical sign, which is the value being square rooted or otherwise rooted.

Rational Exponent:

An exponent that can be expressed as a fraction, which can be used to represent a root of a number.

Simplifying Radicals:

The process of rewriting a radical expression in its simplest form, often by removing perfect squares from the radicand.