Simplifying Radicals

   In this discussion, you will simplify and compare equivalent expressions  written both in radical form and with rational (fractional) exponents.  Read the following instructions in order and view the example  (available for download in your online classroom) to complete this  discussion. Please complete the following problems according to your  assigned number. (Instructors will assign each student their number.) 

question 1

2^1/2 2^1/3

question 2

 √ 3*4 √ 3

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• Simplify each expression using the rules of exponents and examine the steps you are taking.

• Incorporate the following five math vocabulary words into your discussion. Use bold font  to emphasize the words in your writing. Do not write definitions for  the words; use them appropriately in sentences describing the thought  behind your math work.

• Principal root
• Product rule
• Quotient rule
• Reciprocal
• nth root

Refer to Inserting Math Symbols  for guidance with formatting. Be aware with regards to the square root  symbol, you will notice that it only shows the front part of a radical  and not the top bar. Thus, it is impossible to tell how much of an  expression is included in the radical itself unless you use parenthesis.  For example, if we have √12 + 9 it is not enough for us to know if the 9  is under the radical with the 12 or not.  Therefore, we must specify  whether we mean it to say √(12) + 9  or  √(12 + 9), as there is a big  difference between the two. This distinction is important in your  notation.

Another solution is to type the letters “sqrt” in place of the  radical and use parenthesis to indicate how much is included in the  radical as described in the second method above. The example above would  appear as either “sqrt(12) + 9” or  “sqrt(12 + 9)” depending on what we  needed it to say.

Your initial post should be at least 250 words in length. Support  your claims with examples from required material(s) and/or other  scholarly resources, and properly cite any references. Respond to at  least two of your classmates’ posts by Day 7.