Question 323024: Could you help me please with this problem? Thank you. (9)sqrt(50)- (4) sqrt(2). Answer by QH(50) (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
In order to add/subtract radicals you must have like terms. (just like fractions must have the same denominator in order to add or subtract. And just like fractions where the denominator stays the same after adding/subtracting, the same holds true with radicals.)
First, break down the radicals to see if any of the factors are perfect squares. Since 2 is prime, there is nothing you can do with that term. 50 has factors of 25 & 2. 25 is a perfect square and you'll have the 2 left which will give you the 'like terms' you need to complete the operation.
