SOLUTION: Hello I need help figuring out this equation involving radicals. I need to solve the equation and check for extraneious solutions. √a-1-5=1 I get a=-1 but I don't thin

Algebra ->  Radicals -> SOLUTION: Hello I need help figuring out this equation involving radicals. I need to solve the equation and check for extraneious solutions. √a-1-5=1 I get a=-1 but I don't thin      Log On


   

Question 205199: Hello I need help figuring out this equation involving radicals. I need to solve the equation and check for extraneious solutions.
√a-1-5=1
I get a=-1 but I don't think that is right.
Answer by ankor@dixie-net.com(22740) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
√a-1-5=1
Assume the problem is:
sqrt%28a-1%29+-+5 = 1
Add 5 to both sides
sqrt%28a-1%29 = 1 + 5
sqrt%28a-1%29 = 6
Square both sides
a - 1 = 36
:
a = 36 + 1
a = 37
;
:
Check solution in original equation
sqrt%2837-1%29-+5 = 1
sqrt%2836%29-+5 = 1
6 - 5 = 1