PrerequisitesPrerequisite

Fractional indices and roots

Translate between fractional indices and surd notation.

  • For positive , : the denominator gives the root and the numerator gives the power.
  • For a negative exponent, take the reciprocal after finding the root and power.

Example 1

Read the denominator first

Simplify the expression. Assume .

Example 2

A cube root

Fully simplify the expression. Assume .

Your turn

5 practice questions
Question 1

Write in surd form. Assume is positive.

Check answer
Question 2

Write in surd form. Assume is positive.

Check answer
Question 3

Write in surd form. Assume is positive.

Check answer
Question 4

Write in surd form. Assume is positive.

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Question 5

Write in surd form. Assume is positive.

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