How to Simplify Nested Radicals?

In summary, a nested radical is an expression that contains a radical within another radical. Simplifying nested radicals can make expressions easier to work with and reveal relationships between different parts. The steps to simplify a nested radical are identifying the radical within the radical, using the exponent rule, simplifying like terms, and repeating the process. However, not all nested radicals can be simplified and common mistakes include forgetting to simplify like terms, applying the exponent rule incorrectly, and not recognizing that the nested radical cannot be simplified.
  • #1
anemone
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Simplify \(\displaystyle \sqrt{1+a^2+\sqrt{1+a^2+a^4}}\).
 
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  • #2
anemone said:
Simplify \(\displaystyle \sqrt{1+a^2+\sqrt{1+a^2+a^4}}\).
let :
\(\displaystyle \sqrt{1+a^2+\sqrt{1+a^2+a^4}}=\sqrt x +\sqrt y\).
square both side we obtain :
$x+y=1+a^2----(1)$
$xy=\dfrac {a^4+a^2+1}{4}----(2)$
solving for (1)(2) we get :
$x=\dfrac {a^2+a+1}{2}$
$y=\dfrac {a^2-a+1}{2}$
or
$x=\dfrac {a^2-a+1}{2}$
$y=\dfrac {a^2+a+1}{2}$
$\therefore \,\, \sqrt{1+a^2+\sqrt{1+a^2+a^4}}=\sqrt{\dfrac{a^2+a+1}{2}}+\sqrt{\dfrac{a^2-a+1}{2}}$
 

FAQ: How to Simplify Nested Radicals?

What is a nested radical?

A nested radical is an expression that contains a radical within another radical, such as √(√x + 2).

Why do we need to simplify nested radicals?

Simplifying nested radicals can help make expressions easier to work with and can reveal any relationships between different parts of the expression.

What are the steps to simplify a nested radical?

The steps to simplify a nested radical are:

  1. Identify the radical within the radical
  2. Use the exponent rule to rewrite the nested radical
  3. Simplify any like terms or constants within the radical
  4. Repeat the process until the nested radical is simplified

Can all nested radicals be simplified?

No, not all nested radicals can be simplified. Some may be already in their simplest form or may require more advanced mathematical techniques to simplify.

What are some common mistakes made when simplifying nested radicals?

Some common mistakes when simplifying nested radicals include:

  • Forgetting to simplify like terms within the radical
  • Applying the exponent rule incorrectly
  • Not recognizing that the nested radical cannot be simplified

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