document.write( "Question 1177485: If a^(1/2)-a^(-1/2)=1, show that a+a^-1=3 \n" ); document.write( "

Algebra.Com's Answer #806482 by ikleyn(52781) $\"\"$ $\"About$

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document.write( "Start from\r\n" );
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document.write( "    a^(1/2) - a^(-1/2) = 1.\r\n" );
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document.write( "Square both sides.   You will get\r\n" );
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document.write( "    a - 2 + a^(-1) = 1\r\n" );
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document.write( "    a + a^(-1) = 1 + 2 = 3,\r\n" );
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document.write( "which is what has to be proved.\r\n" );
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