Struggling with Algebra Radicals: What's the Right Approach?

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    Algebra Radicals
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Homework Help Overview

The original poster is struggling with an algebra problem involving radicals, specifically trying to remove them from the equation. The problem presented is 2x*(4x-1)^-1/2 - 3sqrt(4-x) = 0, with the expectation that the answer should be 12/5.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Problem interpretation, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to manipulate the equation by flipping the negative exponent and combining fractions. They also mention squaring the equation to eliminate the radicals but express uncertainty about their approach. Some participants suggest adding terms to both sides and squaring the equation as a method to progress towards a solution.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, providing hints and suggestions for steps to take. There is a sense of support, with one participant expressing gratitude for the guidance received. The discussion reflects a collaborative effort to clarify the approach without reaching a definitive conclusion.

Contextual Notes

The original poster indicates a desire to learn how to handle similar problems in the future, suggesting a focus on understanding the underlying concepts rather than just finding the solution. There is also a mention of fatigue affecting their initial approach to the problem.

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Homework Statement



This is the problem. I seem to be having a hard time removing the radicals.
The answer should be 12/5. I have no idea how to get there. I am just trying to learn how to handle a situation like this, so I can be prepared in the future.

2x*(4x-1)^-1/2 - 3sqrt(4-x) = 0



The Attempt at a Solution



I've tried flipping the negative exponent into a fraction and then combining it into one fraction. I tried to directly remove the radicals by squaring everything, but somewhere I must be doing something wrong.

Any hints to the procedures on how to solve this?
 
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Add [itex]3(\sqrt{4-x}\,)[/itex] to both sides.

Multiply both sides by [itex]\sqrt{4x-1}\,.[/itex]

Square both sides.

After doing some algebra, you will have a quadratic equation
 
2x*(4x-1)^-1/2 - 3sqrt(4-x) = 0

[itex]\frac{2x}{\sqrt{4x-1}} - 3\sqrt{4-x}=0[/itex]
[itex]\frac{2x}{\sqrt{4x-1}} = 3\sqrt{4-x}[/itex]
Square both sides.
...
 
Just replying to thank you for your swift response! Much appreciated. Yes, that did help me quite a bit. In the future, I will be including more info on how I approached the problem. I was really tired that night.
 

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