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In the next few examples, we will use the Distributive Property to multiply expressions with square roots.
We will first distribute and then simplify the square roots when possible.
When we worked with polynomials, we multiplied binomials by binomials. Remember, this gave us four products before we combined any like terms. To be sure to get all four products, we organized our work—usually by the FOIL method.
Note that some special products made our work easier when we multiplied binomials earlier. This is true when we multiply square roots, too. The special product formulas we used are shown below.
We will use the special product formulas in the next few examples. We will start with the Binomial Squares formula.
Simplify: ⓐ ⓑ .
Be sure to include the term when squaring a binomial.
Multiply using the binomial square pattern. | |
Simplify. | |
Combine like terms. |
Multiply using the binomial square pattern. | |
Simplify. | |
Combine like terms. |
Simplify: .
Multiply using the binomial square pattern. | |
Simplify. |
In the next two examples, we will find the product of conjugates.
Simplify: .
Multiply using the binomial square pattern. | |
Simplify. |
Simplify: .
Multiply using the binomial square pattern. | |
Simplify. |
Access these online resources for additional instruction and practice with multiplying square roots.
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