Adding like surds
Adding like surds.
- Keep square roots exact unless the question asks for an approximation.
- Use square factors to simplify. Only matching root parts can be added or subtracted.
- To rationalise, multiply top and bottom by the same suitable factor.
Example 1
Simplify fully. Give an exact answer.
Example 2
Simplify fully. Give an exact answer.
Your turn
Question 1 The root parts match, so combine their coefficients. Collect like terms and cancel common factors where possible.
Simplify fully. Give an exact answer.
Check answer
Question 2 The root parts match, so combine their coefficients. Collect like terms and cancel common factors where possible.
Simplify fully. Give an exact answer.
Check answer
Question 3 The root parts match, so combine their coefficients. Collect like terms and cancel common factors where possible.
Simplify fully. Give an exact answer.
Check answer
Question 4 The root parts match, so combine their coefficients. Collect like terms and cancel common factors where possible.
Simplify fully. Give an exact answer.
Check answer
Question 5 The root parts match, so combine their coefficients. Collect like terms and cancel common factors where possible.
Simplify fully. Give an exact answer.
Check answer
Simplify fully. Give an exact answer.
Simplify fully. Give an exact answer.
Simplify fully. Give an exact answer.
Simplify fully. Give an exact answer.
Simplify fully. Give an exact answer.