Simple algebra and square root help.

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There is no real square root for negative numbers, as indicated by the example involving the square root of -12. Calculators typically do not provide answers for square roots of negative values unless they are set to handle imaginary numbers. The imaginary unit "i" represents the square root of -1, allowing for expressions like 3.46i as a solution. If students are unfamiliar with imaginary numbers, they may be instructed to state "no solution" or "cannot be evaluated." Understanding this concept is crucial for solving algebraic equations involving negative square roots.
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Homework Statement


is there no square root for a negative number? is there no solution for this?

q=-1 r=2

the square root of 2q - 5r




The Attempt at a Solution




2x-1 - 5x2 = -12

sqaure root of -12?

my calculator doesn't come up with a answer for the square root.
 
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It has been a while but they use small i for imaginary numbers if my recollection is correct. i means the square root of -1. So for the purpose of following standard format your answer could be 3.46(i)
 
With the title being "simple algebra," it's possible that the OP has not encountered imaginary numbers yet. In that case, students are usually directed to write "no solution," or "cannot be evaluated" as their answer.
 
Or perhaps "No Real Solution".
 

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