SOLUTION: I have no idea where to start. How do I start to evaluate this? Do you believe that the following equation could be true? (-1 + or - square root of 5) / -1 = -1 +

Algebra ->  Expressions -> SOLUTION: I have no idea where to start. How do I start to evaluate this? Do you believe that the following equation could be true? (-1 + or - square root of 5) / -1 = -1 +      Log On


   

Question 1993: I have no idea where to start. How do I start to evaluate this?

Do you believe that the following equation could be true?


(-1 + or - square root of 5) / -1 = -1 + or - the square root of 5


Can you explain your conclusion.

Answer by longjonsilver(2297) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
the expressions you quote can be simplified to 1-sqrt%285%29 and 1%2Bsqrt%285%29.
This is the best way to leave answers like this, as they are precise answers. If you need to quote them as a decimal, you will have to round them up, and then the answers are approximate.
Get a calculator and type in 1 - sqrt 5. You should get -1.24 to 2 decimal places. Similarly, 1+sqrt5 gives 3.24 to 2 decimal places.
Jon.