Rationalizing the Denominator

[spaceshowfeature1]

I have been having lots of trouble with Rationalizing the Denominator lately. I've done over 50 problems the past hours, and I seem to be making no progress. Do I need to practice less? How can I get better at these types of problems? Where can I find practice problems? (most of the links on my search engine are purple now) I seem to have trouble simplifying the problem after it is done, and simplifying the FOILed conjugate denominator. My final trouble is with fractions that have radicals in both the numerator and denominator in radical form. Should I convert the numbers in exponential form? I also have trouble simplifying those types of problems before I begin, and that ends up making my answer completely wrong. I have almost no more practice problems yet, so links would make me happy. I feel really stupid and sad...

 

[mmm4444bot]

The best way for us to help you is to see your work. (I don't know what kinds of mistakes you're making, so I cannot answer your questions.)

By showing your work, we can identify the sorts of things that you're either doing incorrectly or not doing at all.

There is absolutely no reason to feel stupid! I've tried to learn how to play the piano (three times), but I just can't get it. It doesn't mean I'm stupid. It means that I haven't practiced enough. When it comes to learning math (or any complex system), one size does not fit all. The important thing is to keep trying. If you begin to feel frustrated, take a break. In fact, studies have shown students learn math best when they take lots of breaks. Use a timer; set it for 20 minutes. Work without interruption and concentrate hard, for 20 minutes. Take a 5 minute break. Listen to music. Walk around the block a couple times. Then return, and set the timer for 20 minutes.

You can type out your work here, or you can upload a picture. See the forum guidelines for information. Trust us, you will save yourself a lot of time, if you show your work. :cool:

 

[mmm4444bot]

… My final trouble is with fractions that have radicals in both the numerator and denominator in radical form. Should I convert the numbers in exponential form? I also have trouble simplifying those types of problems before I begin …

Please post an example, of these types of exercises. Members here can then search for online references and problem sets.