# Simplification problem

1. Nov 29, 2012

### Mdhiggenz

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data

√(1)2+(2t)2+(2t2)2= 1+2t2

I'm a bit confused i'm getting √(1+4t^2+4t^2) don't quite understand how they are getting the above answer.

Thanks

2. Relevant equations

3. The attempt at a solution

2. Nov 29, 2012

### LCKurtz

An algebra mistake:$\sqrt{1+(2t)^2+(2t^2)^2}=\sqrt{1+4t^2+4t^4}$ Does that help?

3. Nov 29, 2012

### Mdhiggenz

No, that was a typo on my part. I originally got the same thing as you. If you factor out a 4t^2

You get √1+4t^2(1+t^2). I dont see how anything can be cancelled due to that pesky 1 term.

4. Nov 29, 2012

### Curious3141

There's no cancellation here. You're merely simplifying the left hand side to get the right hand side.

What is ${(1 + 2t^2)}^2$?

5. Nov 29, 2012

### Mdhiggenz

Haha wow silly me. This has always actually confused me, is there a set formula to condense it the way you did?

Thanks again for the help

6. Nov 29, 2012

### Curious3141

No, just observation of the form $a^2 + 2ab + b^2$. I guess it comes with experience and practice.