The discussion revolves around simplifying radical expressions and understanding when to present answers in square root form versus exponential form. Participants explore the nuances of expressing solutions, particularly in the context of mathematical problems involving exponents and roots.
Participants express differing views on the presentation of answers, with some advocating for square root forms while others prefer exponential forms. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best practices for expressing simplified answers.
Participants highlight the importance of context in determining the appropriate form for answers, indicating that preferences may vary based on the audience or application, such as academic versus practical scenarios.
CSmith said:1.) 8 3/2
=(81/2)3
=(2 squareroot 8)2
(2 square root 2x2x2)3
=(2 square root )3
=2 square root x 2 square root x 2 square root=8 (2 square root)
=16 square root 2
CSmith said:how do i know when the answer should be in square root form like 16 square root 2 or when it is suppose to be in powers like my answer for 32 2/5 when the answer was 2^2.
Jameson said:The final answer to that problem is 4. There's no reason to write it as 2^2.
With square roots, you simplify as much as you can until you are left with a prime number, so you must keep the square root sign or use a decimal approximation, which is not preferred. If you have something like [math]\sqrt{20}[/math] then you can simplify it but there will be a square root in the final answer.