SOLUTION: Explain why solutions to equations containing a square root expression may not be check? Please give an example.

Algebra ->  Polynomials-and-rational-expressions -> SOLUTION: Explain why solutions to equations containing a square root expression may not be check? Please give an example.      Log On


   

Question 879551: Explain why solutions to equations containing a square root expression may not be check? Please give an example.
Answer by jim_thompson5910(35256) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Example


sqrt%28x%29+=+-2


%28sqrt%28x%29%29%5E2+=+%28-2%29%5E2


x+=+4


The possible solution is x+=+4, but this is what we get when we check the possible solution.


sqrt%28x%29+=+-2


sqrt%284%29+=+-2


2+=+-2 This is a FALSE equation. So x=4 is NOT the solution.